A Voice from the Nile, and Other Poems/A Proem

by James Thomson (B.V.)

For works with similar titles, see Proem.

A PROEM.

"Carouse in the Past."
Robert Browning's Saul.

━━0━━

We will drink anew of old pleasures;
   In the golden chalice of song
We will pour out the wine-like treasures
   Of memories hidden long.

Old memories, hidden but cherished,
   In a heart-nook deep and calm;
They have not faded and perished
   Like the old friends they embalm.

We will call them forth from their darkness
   As we call forth a rare old wine
Which the long rich years have mellowed
   Till the flavour is divine.

In a glorious intoxication
   Will we revel while such drink may last;
And dead to the leaden-houred Present,
   Live in golden hours of the Past.
1854.