THE CONSUMMATION
Reading edition
Looks royal, songs for heaven meet, Thou wishest, thinking on his worth Whose faintest image is more sweet Than all thy dearest loves on earth. The royal look is marred with years, The song celestial is made Into a litany of tears, Into a blossom of the shade. Thou art fordone: thine heart is rent To praise who hath no fear nor shame. Yet when thine utmost life is spent Thou hast not even said his name: But peace, the triumph is not ripe. Canst thou not sleep a little space, Or dream upon the oaten pipe Till there appear the wishéd face? Then well sufficing shall arise From thy quiet heart that was so wrung, A look in those translated eyes, A word in that diviner tongue. 1918.