ALIEN.
I dwelt among you, but ye laid
No hand in mine,
I sought your kindness, but ye made
No answering sign.
I called ye, but ye hurried by,
On pleasure bent,
The smiling lip, the kindling eye
For others meant.
My rose I plucked with trembling hand
And brought to you,
But at your feet it withered, and
Ye never knew.
I hungered, thirsted, at your side,
Ye gave no heed;
With plenty ye were satisfied.
Nor felt my need.
·······
I have not gone uncomforted,
Though lonely oft;
The dewy grass has been my bed,
The starlight soft
Above, around my way was shed,
And I have been
By cooling stream and fountain led
In pastures green.
And peace through doubting days and nights
I have attained—
But O if ye had known, what heights
I might have gained!