Page:Maryland, my Maryland, and other poems - Randall - 1908.pdf/108

 Through many lands I sought to find
 * Some idol nobler than the Past;

No more a pilgrim pale and blind,
 * I’ve found thee, loveliest, at last!

At last, I scan thy warm, white brow,
 * At last, the Mecca planets rise—

The wizard charm is on me now—
 * Speak to me, darling, with thine eyes!

And with thine eyes, beloved, speak
 * The subtle thought that keeps me strong,

The sacred hope that fires my cheek
 * In combat with the base and wrong.

Better the everlasting night
 * Than glittering with the world’s disguise,

But while the Heaven is in their light,
 * Speak to me, darling, with thine eyes!

My days are dark, and still I think
 * To claim thee in this globe of ours—

Brimming the swart Vesuvian brink
 * Volcanic brows are fringed with flowers;

Together, by eternal meads
 * That broaden up to healthier skies,

My heart shall answer with its deeds
 * What thou art speaking with thine eyes!