Witnesses

You say I do not love you!— Tell me why,

When I have gazed a little on your face,

And then gone forth into the world of men,

A beauty, neither of the Earth or Sky,

A glamour, that transforms each common place,

Attends my spirit then?

You say I do not love you!— Yet I know

When I have heard you speak and dwelt upon

Your words awhile, my heart has gone away

Filled with strange music, very soft and low,

A dim companion, touching with sweet tone

The discords of the day.

You say I do not love you!— Yet it seems,

When I have kissed your hand and said farewell,

A fragrance, sweeter than did flower yet bloom,

Accompanies my soul and fills, with dreams,

The sad and sordid streets, where people dwell,

Dreams of spring's wild perfume.