IN SOMNO VERITAS.

I dreamed that I sat in my chamber And watched the dancing light Of the blaze upon my hearthstone, And the red brands, glowing bright. I listened to the rustle Of the flames that rose and fell, And I dreamed I heard a whisper, A voice I knew full well. The room no more was lonely, A Presence sweet was there, A girlish figure, standing, Beside my own arm-chair. I dreamed I spoke, and trembling Lest she should prove to be The creature of a vision, I bade her sit by me. Her grave brown eyes she lifted, Her dear hand placed in mine,— The air was sweet with incense Of odorous birch and pine,— And as we watched together Those eager, dancing flames, We talked of days forgotten, And spoke our childish names. I dreamed that heaven seemed nearer, The skies a lovelier blue, Then—was it still a vision?— I dreamed my dream came true!