Page:Famous Single Poems (1924).djvu/142

 And soften in the old familiar way, For who could war with dumb, unconscious clay? So I might rest, forgiven of all to-night.

Oh, friends! I pray to-night, Keep not your kisses for my dead, cold brow: The way is lonely, let me feel them now. Think gently of me; I am travelworn; My faltering feet are pierced with many a thorn. Forgive, oh, hearts estranged, forgive, I plead! When dreamless rest is mine I shall not need The tenderness for which I long to-night. Arabella Eugenia Smith.