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THOMAS HOOD
Had she a sister ?
Had she a brother? Or was there a dearer one Still, and a nearer one
Yet, than all other?
Alas' for the rarity Of Christian charity
Under the sun ' O, it was pitiful* Near a whole city full,
Home she had none.
Sisterly, brotherly, Fatherly, motherly
Feelings had changed' Love, by harsh evidence, Thrown from its eminence; Even God's providence
Seeming estranged.
Where the lamps quiver So far in the river,
With many a light From window and casement, From garret to basement, She stood, with amazement,
Houseless by night.
The bleak wind of March
Made her tremble and shiver But not the dark arch, Or the black flowing river:
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