Page:Oxford Book of English Verse 1250-1918.djvu/810

 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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