Page:The poems of Emma Lazarus volume 1.djvu/320

306 Vacant and still, save for the swaying branches Of bush and tree. Tis a wild, threatening night. A sultry breeze is blowing, and the sky Hangs black above Vesuvius. Yonder cloud Hath lightnings in it. Ah, a blinding bolt Dims the volcano s pillared fire. Enough. [He closes the casement and returns to MARIA. Hark, how the thunder rolls ! My child, you tremble Like the blown leaves without.

I am oppressed By the same stormy influence. Thou knowest I dread the thunder.

Thou, who art safely housed, Why shouldst thou dread it? Try to sleep, my darling; Forget the terror of the tempest; morn Will break again in sunshine.

Father, say You love me and you trust me once again, Before I bid good-night.