A NEW SONG TO AN OLD TUNE—FROM VICTOR HUGO
Reading edition
If a pleasant lawn there grow By the showers caressed, Where in all the seasons blow Flowers gaily dressed, Where by handfuls one may win Lilies, woodbine, jessamine, I will make a path therein For thy feet to rest.
If there live in honour’s sway An all-loving breast Whose devotion cannot stray, Never gloom-oppressed— If this noble breast still wake For a worthy motive’s sake, There a pillow I will make For thy head to rest.
If there be a dream of love, Dream that God has blest, Yielding daily treasure-trove Of delightful zest, With the scent of roses filled, With the soul’s communion thrilled, There, oh! there a nest I’ll build For thy heart to rest.