VIA AMOROSA

When we two walk, my love, on the path

The moon makes over the sea,

To the end of the world where sorrow hath

An end that is ecstasy,

Should we not think of the other road

Of wearying dust and stone

Our feet would fare did each but care

To follow the way alone?

When we two slip at night to the skies

And find one star that we keep

As a trysting-place to which our eyes

May lead our souls ere sleep,

Should we not pause for a little space

And think how many must sigh

Because they gaze over starry ways

With no heart-comrade by?

When we two then lie down to our dreams

That deepen still the delight

Of our wandering where stars and streams

Stray in immortal light,

Should we not grieve with the myriads

From East of earth to West

Who lay them down at night but to drown

The longing for some loved breast?

Ah, yes, for life has a thousand gifts,

But love it is gives life.

Who walks thro his world alone e'er lifts

A soul that is sorrow-rife.

But they to whom it is given to tread

The moon-path and not sink

Can ever say the unhappiest way

Earth has is fair to the brink.