SLEEP

Not a dream brush your sleep,

Not a thought wake and creep

In upon your spirit's slumber;

Not a memory encumber,

Nor a thievish care unbar

Sleep's portcullis that no star

Nor sentry hath. I'll not speak

With my soul even: no, nor seek

Other happiness for you

When you this happy sleep sleep through.

Let no least desire waver

Between us, nor impatience quaver;

No sudden nearness of me flush

Your veins with welcome.... Hush, hush!

Be still, my thoughts, lest you creep

Unawares into her sleep.