TO J. S. B.
Reading edition
On seeing her December 25th, 1904, after two years' travel.
Take, fair maid, these simple lines From my pen; Think of strollings 'neath the pines, Which have been— Long and lonesome were the days We were apart, But may Love, now, have her sways,— Bind heart to heart! O'er main to isle and back to land Have I been; Beheld on either hand A maiden queen: But none with captivating charms Like thine; None to nestle in her arms, Love of mine! Charms unto thee God gave To banish strife; To glorify and save One sweet life— Take this, dear, before we part From this bliss; 'Tis but love flowing from my heart, Thine to kiss!