Page:Pieces People Ask For.djvu/181

Rh Like flowers in the night—reach me those violets— It is a flame a single look will kindle, But not an ocean quench. Fostered by dreams, excited by each thought,-, Love is a star from heaven, that points the way And leads us to its home—a little spot In earth's dry desert, where the soul may rest— A grain of gold in the dull sand of life— A foretaste of Elysium; but when Weary of this world's woes, the immortal gods Flew to the skies, with all their richest gifts, Love staid behind, self-exiled for man's sake! Ing. I never yet heard aught so beautiful! But still I comprehend it not. Par. Nor I. For I have never felt it ; yet I know A song my mother sang, an ancient song, That plainly speaks of love, at least to me. How goes it? Stay— [Slowly, as trying to recollect.

[Hesitating as if unable to continue. Ing. Go on. Par. I know no more. Ing. (Impatiently.) Try—try! Par. I cannot now; but at some other time I may remember. Ing. (Somewhat authoritatively.) Now, go on, I say. Par. (Springing up in alarm.) Not now, I want more roses for my wreath! Yonder they grow, I will fetch them for myself. Take care of all my flowers and the wreath! [Throws the flowers into Ingomar's lap and runs off.