Lady Mine.

I do see you, Lady Mine,
In that half-awaking time,
When the peeping moonbeams find
Access thro' my lacy blind;
And they fill my little room
With a pearly glimm'ring gloom.

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Then you come in thoughts to me
Like a sweet reality;
Not a timid sheltered maid,
Primrose-like, 'neath leafy shade,
But who has with sorrow slept,
Known Earth's griefs, and for them wept.

And the knowledge leaves you kind;
The' you've felt the bitter wind,
You thought always, when it blew,
Of those sheltered less than you.
And your voice is soft and sweet,
Slow to rate, and swift to greet.

You've for friend the cunning sprite
Humour, with his rogue's delight.
You love flowers, tender things,
Babies' smiles, a bird that sings,
Reading, and the many tasks
That a little household asks.

In your women thoughts so wise
Life-love shining in your eyes,
Round my heart you do entwine
And I love you, Lady Mine!

—F.H.J.