Poems and Essays

by Joseph Howe

 

TO SUSAN ANN.

 
Though but a few short days have flown
    Since down your cheek the tear drops strayed,
And round your neck my arm was thrown,
    And fond “goodbyes” were ling’ring said; [Page 102]

And though ’twill not be long till I
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    Shall bound again to your embrace;
When joy shall light your hazel eye,
     And banish sorrow’s ev’ry trace.

At morn your look of love I miss—
    Your voice’s music all day long;
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At eve your chaste and balmy kiss—
    The touching music of your song.

The silent pressure of your hand,
    Your spotless bosom’s gentle swell—
And wanting these, I long to stand
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    Once more with their magic spell.

The Oak its branches flings on high,
    The lovely River rolls and shines,
The morning breezes softly sigh
    Among the stately forest Pines.
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The Birds are pouring forth their lays,
    The wild Rose scents the balmy air,
And the bright Sun’s unclouded rays
    Are shedding beauty everywhere.

Tho’ grand the scenes, I tread the while,
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    And fair the flowers o’er which I roam,
I long to meet your placid smile
    And sigh for Home—my happy Home. [Page 103]