Nextnightshedied；andherobsequiesIntheFieldofTombs，bytheViarenowned，Hadherhusband’sheed。Histendancespent，IoftenwentAndponderedbyhermound。
Allthatyearandthenextyearwhiled，AndIstillwentthitherwardinthegloam；
ButtheTownforgotherandhernook，AndherhusbandtookAnotherLovetohishome。
AndtherumourflewthatthelamelonechildWhomshewishedforitssafetychildofmine，WastreatedillwhenoffspringcameOfthenew-madedame，Andmarkedamorevigorousline。
AsmartergriefwithinmewroughtThanevenatlossofhersodear；
Deadthebeingwhosesoulmysoulsuffused，Herchildill-used，Ihelplesstointerfere！
OneeveasIstoodatmyspotofthoughtInthewhite-stonedGarth，broodingthusherwrong，Herhusbandneared；andtoshunhisviewByherhallowedmewIwentfromthetombsamongTotheCirqueoftheGladiatorswhichfaced-
ThathaggardmarkofImperialRome，WhosePaganechoesmockthechimeOfourChristiantime：
Itwasvoid，andIinwardclomb。
Scarcenightthesun’sgoldtouchdisplacedFromthevastRotundandtheneighbouringdeadWhenherhusbandfollowed；bowed；half-passed，Withlipupcast；
Then，halting，sullenlysaid：
"Itisnoisedthatyouvisitmyfirstwife’stomb。
Now，IgaveheranhonourednametobearWhileliving，whendead。SoI’veclaimtoaskBywhatrightyoutaskMypatiencebyvigilingthere？
"There’sdecencyevenindeath，Iassume；
Preserveit，sir，andkeepaway；
Forthemotherofmyfirst-bornyouShowmindundue！
——Sir，I’venothingmoretosay。"
AdesperatestrokediscernedIthen-
Godpardon——orpardonnot——thelie；
Shehadsighedthatshewished（lestthechildshouldpineOfslights）’tweremine，SoIsaid："ButthefatherI。
"Thatyouthoughtityoursisthewayofmen；
ButIwonhertrothlongereyourday：
Youlearnthow，indying，shesummonedme？
’Twasinfealty。
——Sir，I’venothingmoretosay，"Savethat，ifyou’llhandmemylittlemaid，I’lltakeher，andrearher，andspareyoutoil。
Thinkitmorethanafriendlyactnonecan；
I’malonelyman，Whileyou’vealargepottoboil。
"Ifnot，andyou’llputittoballorblade-
To-night，to-morrownight，anywhen-
I’llmeetyouhere……Butthinkofit，AndinseasonfitLetmehearfromyouagain。"-
Well，Iwentaway，hoping；butnoughtIheardOfmystrokeforthechild，tilltheregreetedmeAlittlevoicethatonedaycameTomywindow-frameAndbabbledinnocently：
"Myfatherwho’snotmyown，sendswordI’mtostayhere，sir，whereIbelong！"
Nextawritingcame："SincethechildwasthefruitOfyourlawlesssuit，Praytakeher，torightawrong。"
AndIdid。AndIgavethechildmylove，Andthechildlovedme，andestrangedusnone。
Butcompunctionsloomed；forI’dharmedthedeadBywhatI’dsaidForthegoodofthelivingone-
Yetthough，Godwot，Iamsinnerenough，Andunworthythewomanwhodrewmeso，Perhapsthiswrongforherdarling’sgoodSheforgives，orwould，Ifonlyshecouldknow！
THEDANCEATTHEPHOENIX
ToJennycameagentleyouthFrominlandleazeslone，Hislovewasfreshasapple-bloothByParrett，Yeo，orTone。
AnddulyheentreatedherTobehistenderminister，Andcallhimayeherown。
FairJenny’slifehadhardlybeenAlifeofmodesty；
AtCasterbridgeexperiencekeenOfmanyloveshadsheFromscarcelysixteenyearsabove；
AmongthemsundrytroopersofTheKing’s-OwnCavalry。
Buteachwithcharger，sword，andgun，HadbluffedtheBiscaywave；
AndJennyprizedhergentleoneForallthelovehegave。
Shevowedtobe，iftheywerewed，HishonestwifeinheartandheadFrombride-alehourtograve。
Weddedtheywere。Herhusband’strustInJennyknewnobound，AndJennykeptherpureandjust，TillevenmalicefoundNosinorsignofilltobeInonewhowalkedsodecentlyTheduteoushelpmate’sround。
Twosonswereborn，andbloomedtomen，Androamed，andwereasnot：
AlonewasJennyleftagainAserehermindhadsoughtAsolaceindomesticjoys，AnderethevanishedpairofboysWeresenttosunhercot。
Shenumberednearonsixtyyears，Andpassedaselderly，When，inthestreet，withflushoffears，Onedaydiscoveredshe，Fromshineofswordsandthumpofdrum。
Herearlylovesfromwarhadcome，TheKing’s-OwnCavalry。
Sheturnedaside，andbowedherheadAnighSaintPeter’sdoor；
"Alasforchastenedthoughts！"shesaid；
"I’mfadednow，andhoar，Andyetthosenotes——theythrillmethrough，AndthosegayformsmovemeanewAsintheyearsofyore！"……
’TwasChristmas，andthePhoenixInnWaslitwithtaperstall，ForthirtyofthetroopermenHadvowedtogiveaballAs"Theirs"haddone（’twashandeddown）
WhenlyingintheselfsametownEreBuonaparte’sfall。
Thatnightthethrobbing"Soldier’sJoy，"
ThemeasuredtreadandswayOf"Fancy-Lad"and"MaidenCoy，"
ReachedJennyasshelayBesideherspouse；tillspringtidebloodSeemedscouringthroughherlikeafloodThatwhiskedtheyearsaway。
Sherose，andrayed，anddeckedherheadWherethebleachedhairsranthin；
UponhercaptwobowsofredShefixedwithhastypin；
Unhearddescendingtothestreet，Shetrodtheflagswithtune-ledfeet，AndstoodbeforetheInn。
Saveforthedancers’，notasoundDisturbedtheicyair；
NowatchmanonhismidnightroundOrtravellerwasthere；
ButoverAll-Saints’，highandbright，PulsedtothemusicSiriuswhite，TheWainbyBullstakeSquare。
Sheknocked，butfoundherfurtherstrideCheckedbyasergeanttall：
"GayGranny，whencecomeyou？"hecried；
"Thisisaprivateball。"-
"Noonehasmorerightherethanme！
Ereyouwereborn，man，"answeredshe，"Iknewtheregimentall！"
"Takenotthelady’svisitill！"
Upspokethestewardfree；
"Welacksufficientpartnersstill，So，pritheeletherbe！"
Theyseizedandwhirledher’midthemaze，AndJennyfeltasinthedaysOfherimmodesty。
Hourchasedeachhour，andnightadvanced；
Shespedasshodwithwings；
Eachtimeandeverytimeshedanced-
Reels，jigs，poussettes，andflings：
Theycheeredherasshesoaredandswooped，（She’dlearntereartindancingdroopedFromhopstoslothfulswings）。
ThefavouriteQuick-step"SpeedthePlough"-
（Crosshands，castoff，andwheel）——
"TheTriumph，""Sylph，""TheRow-dow-dow，"
Famed"MajorMalley’sReel，"
"TheDukeofYork’s，""TheFairyDance，"
"TheBridgeofLodi"（broughtfromFrance），Shebeatout，toeandheel。
The"FallofParis"clangeditsclose，AndPeter’schimetoldfour，WhenJenny，bosom-beating，roseToseekhersilentdoor。
Theytiptoedinescortingher，LeststrokeofheelorclinkofspurShouldbreakhergoodman’ssnore。
ThefirethatlatehadburntfellslackWhenloneatlaststoodshe；
Hernine-and-fiftyyearscameback；
ShesankuponherkneeBesidethedurn，andlikeadartAsomethingarrowedthroughherheartInshootsofagony。
Theirfootstepsdiedassheleantthere，LitbythemorningstarHangingabovethemoorland，whereTheagedelm-rowsare；
And，aso’ernight，fromPummeryRidgeToMaemburyRingandStandfastBridgeNolifestirred，nearorfar。
Thoughinnermischiefworkedamain，Shereachedherhusband’sside；
Where，toil-weary，ashehadlainBeneaththepatchworkpiedWhenyestereveshe’dforthwardcrept，Andasunwitting，stillhesleptWhodidinherconfide。
AtearsprangassheturnedandviewedHisfeaturesfreefromguile；
Shekissedhimlong，aswhen，justwooed，Shechosehisdomicile。
ShefeltshecouldhavegivenherlifeTobethesingle-heartedwifeThatshehadbeenerstwhile。
Timeworetosix。HerhusbandroseAndstruckthesteelandstone；
HeglancedatJenny，whosereposeSeemeddeeperthanhisown。
Withdumbdismay，onclosersight，Hegatheredsensethatinthenight，Ormorn，hersoulhadflown。
WhentoldthatsometoomightystrainForonesomany-yearedHadburstherbosom’smaster-vein，Hisdoubtsremainedunstirred。
HisJennyhadnotlefthissideBetwixttheeveandmorning-tide：
——TheKing’ssaidnotaword。
Well！timesarenotastimeswerethen，Norfaironeshalfsofree；
Andtrulytheyweremartialmen，TheKing’s-OwnCavalry。
AndwhentheywentfromCasterbridgeAndvanishedoverMellstockRidge，’Twassaddestmorntosee。
THECASTERBRIDGECAPTAINS
（KHYBERPASS，1842）
ATRADITIONOFJ。B。L-，T。G。B-，ANDJ。L。
ThreecaptainswenttoIndianwars，Andonlyonereturned：
Theirmateofyore，hesinglyworeThelaurelsallhadearned。
AthomehesoughttheancientaisleWherein，untrumpedoffame，Thethreehadsatinpupilage，Andeachhadcarvedhisname。
Thenames，rough-hewn，ofequalsize，Stoodonthepanelstill；
Unequalsince。——"’Twastheirstoaim，Minewasittofulfil！"-
"Whosaveshislifeshallloseit，friends！"
Outspakethepreacherthen，Unweetinghehislistener，whoLookedatthenamesagain。
Thathehadcomeandthey’dbeenstayed，’Twasbutthechanceofwar：
Anotherchance，andthey’dsathere，Andhehadlainafar。
YetsawhesomethinginthelivesOfthosewho’dceasedtoliveThatspheredthemwithamajestyWhichlivingfailedtogive。
TranscendenttriumphinreturnNolongerlithisbrain；
TranscendencerayedthedistanturnWheresleptthefallentwain。
ASIGN-SEEKER
Imarkthemonthsinliveriesdankanddry，Thenoontidesmany-shapedandhued；
Iseethenightfallshadessubtrude，Andhearthemonotonoushoursclangnegligentlyby。
IviewtheeveningbonfiresofthesunOnhillswheremorningrainshavehissed；
TheeyelesscountenanceofthemistPallidlyrisingwhenthesummerdroughtsaredone。
Ihaveseenthelightning-blade，theleapingstar，Thecauldronsoftheseainstorm，Havefelttheearthquake’sliftingarm，Andtroddenwhereabysmalfiresandsnow-conesare。
Ilearntoprophesythehideclipse，Thecomingofeccentricorbs；
Tometethedusttheskyabsorbs，Toweighthesun，andfixthehoureachplanetdips。
Iwitnessfellowearth-mensurgeandstrive；
Assembliesmeet，andthrob，andpart；
Death’ssoothingfinger，sorrow’ssmart；-
Allthevastvariousmoilsthatmeanaworldalive。
ButthatIfainwouldwotofshunsmysense-
Thosesightsofwhicholdprophetstell，Thosesignsthegeneralwordsowell，Vouchsafedtotheirunheed，deniedmylongsuspense。
Ingraveyardgreen，behindhismonumentToglimpseaphantomparent，friend，Wearinghissmile，and"Nottheend！"
Outbreathingsoftly：thatwereblestenlightenment；
Or，ifadeadLove’slips，whomdreamsrevealWhenmidnightimpsofKingDecayDelveslytosolvemebacktoclay，Shouldleavesomeprinttoproveherspirit-kissesreal；
Or，whenEarth’sFrailliebleedingofherStrong，IfsomeRecorder，asinWrit，NeartothewearysceneshouldflitAnddroponeplumeaspledgethatHeaveninscrollsthewrong-
Therearewho，rapttoheightsoftrancedtrust，Thesetokensclaimtofeelandsee，Readradianthintsoftimestobe-
Ofhearttoheartreturningafterdusttodust。
Suchscopeisgrantednottoliveslikemine……
Ihavelainindeadmen’sbeds，havewalkedThetombsofthosewithwhomI’dtalked，Calledmanyagoneandgoodlyonetoshapeasign，Andpantedforresponse。Butnonereplies；
Nowarningsloom，norwhisperingsToopenoutmylimitings，AndNesciencemutelymuses：Whenamanfallshelies。
MYCICELY
（17-）
"Alive？"——AndIleaptinmywonder，Wasfaintofmyjoyance，AndgrassesandgroveshoneingarmentsOfglorytome。
"Shelives，inaplenteouswell-being，To-dayasaforehand；
Thedeadborethename——thougharareone-
Thenamethatboreshe。"
Shelived……I，afarinthecityOffrenzy-ledfactions，HadsquanderedgreenyearsandmaturerInbowingthekneeToBaalsillusiveandspecious，TillchancehadtherevoicedmeThatoneIlovedvainlyinnonageHadceasedhertobe。
Thepassiontheplanetshadscowledon，Andchangehadletdwindle，Herdeath-rumoursmartlyreliftedTofullapogee。
ImountedasteedinthedawningWithachefulremembrance，AndmadefortheancientWestHighwayTofarExonb’ry。
Passingheaths，andtheHouseofLongSieging，InearedthethinsteepleThattopsthefairfaneofPoore’soldenEpiscopalsee；
And，changinganewmyonbearer，ItraversedthedownlandWhereonthebleakhill-gravesofChieftainsBulgebarrenoftree；
AndstillsadlyonwardIfollowedThatHighwaytheIcen，WhichtrailsitspaleribanddownWessexO’erlynchetandlea。
AlongthroughtheStour-borderedForum，WhereLegionshadwayfared，AndwheretheslowriverupglassesItsgreencanopy，AndbyWeatherburyCastle，andthencefromThroughCasterbridgeheldI
Stillon，toentombhermyvisionSawstretchedpallidly。
Nohighwayman’strotblewthenight-windTomesolife-weary，ButonlythecreakofthegibbetsOrwaggoners’jee。
Triple-rampartedMaidongloomedgraylyAbovemefromsouthward，Andnorththehill-fortressofEggar，AndsquarePummerie。
TheNine-PillaredCromlech，theBride-streams，TheAxe，andtheOtterIpassed，tothegateofthecityWhereExescentsthesea；
Till，spent，inthegraveacrepausing，Ilearnt’twasnotmyLoveTowhomMotherChurchhadjustmurmuredAlastlullaby-
"Then，wheredwellstheCanon’skinswoman，Myfriendofaforetime？"——
（’Twashardtorepressmyheart-heavingsAndnewecstasy。）
"Shewedded。"——"Ah！"——"Weddedbeneathher-
Shekeepsthestage-hostelTenmileshence，besidethegreatHighway-
ThefamedLions-Three。
"Herspousewasherlackey——nooption’Twixtwedlockandworsethings；
Alapseover-sadforaladyOfherpedigree！"
Ishuddered，saidnothing，andwanderedToshadesofgreenlaurel：
TooghastlyhadgrownthosefirsttidingsSobrightsomeofblee！
For，onmyridehither，I’dhaltedAwhileattheLions，Andher——herwhosenamehadonceopenedMyheartasakey——
I’dlookedon，unknowing，andwitnessedHerjestswiththetapsters，Herliquor-firedface，herthickaccentsInnamingherfee。
"OGod，whythisseemingderision！"
Icriedinmyanguish：
"OonceLoved，OfairUnforgotten-
ThatThing——meantitthee！
"Inurnedandatpeace，lostbutsainted，WeregriefIcouldcompass；
Depraved——’tisforChrist’spoordependentAcrueldecree！"
IbackedontheHighway；butpassednotThehostel。WithinthereToomockingtoLove’sre-expressionWasTime’srepartee！
UptrackingwhereLegionshadwayfared，Bycromlechsunstoried，Andlynchets，andsepulturedChieftains，Inself-colloquy，AfeelingstirredinmeandstrengthenedThatSHEwasnotmyLove，Butsheofthegarth，wholayraptinHerlongreverie。
Andthencetillto-dayIpersuademeThatthiswasthetrueone；
ThatDeathstoleintactheryoungdearnessAndinnocency。
Frail-witted，illudedtheycallme；
Imaybe。’TisbetterTodreamthantoownthedebasementOfsweetCicely。
MoreoverIrateitunseemlyToholdthatkindHeavenCouldworksuchdevice——toherruinAndmymisery。
So，lestIdisturbmychoicevision，IshuntheWestHighway，Evennow，whentheknapsringwithrhythmsFromblackbirdandbee；
Andfeelthatwithslumberhalf-consciousSherestsinthechurch-hay，Herspiritunsoiledasinyouth-timeWhenloverswerewe。
HERIMMORTALITY
UponanoonIpilgrimedthroughApasture，milebymile，UntotheplacewhereIlastsawMydeadLove’slivingsmile。
AndsorrowingIlaymedownUpontheheatedsod：
ItseemedasifmybodypressedTheverygroundshetrod。
Ilay，andthought；andinatranceShecameandstoodmeby——
Thesame，eventothemarvellousrayThatusedtolighthereye。
"Youdrawme，andIcometoyou，Myfaithfulone，"shesaid，InvoicethathadthemovingtoneItboreerebreathhadfled。
Shesaid："’TissevenyearssinceIdied：
Fewnowrememberme；
Myhusbandclaspsanotherbride；
Mychildren’slovehasshe。
"Mybrethren，sisters，andmyfriendsCarenottomeetmysprite：
WhoprizedmemostIdidnotknowTillIpasseddownfromsight。"
Isaid："Mydaysarelonelyhere；
Ineedthysmilealway：
I’llusethisnightmyballorblade，Andjointheeeretheday。"
Atremorstirredhertenderlips，Whichpartedtodissuade：
"Thatcannotbe，Ofriend，"shecried；
"Think，IambutaShade！
"AShadebutinitsmindfulonesHasimmortality；
Byliving，meyoukeepalive，Bydyingyouslayme。
"InyouresidesmysinglepowerOfsweetcontinuancehere；
OnyourfidelityIcountThroughmanyacomingyear。"-
Istartedthroughmeatherplight，Sosuddenlyconfessed：
Dismissinglatedistasteforlife，Icraveditsbleakunrest。
"Iwillnotdie，myOneofall！-
TolengthenoutthydaysI’llguardmefromminutestharmsThatmayinvestmyways！"
Shesmiledandwent。SincethenshecomesOftwhenherbirth-moonclimbs，Orattheseasons’ingressesOranniversarytimes；
Butgrowsmygrief。WhenIsurcease，Throughwhomalonelivesshe，CeasesmyLove，herwords，herways，Neveragaintobe！
THEIVY-WIFE
Ilongedtoloveafull-boughedbeechAndbeashighashe：
Istretchedanarmwithinhisreach，Andsignalledunity。
Butwithhisdripheforcedabreach，Andtriedtopoisonme。
IgavethegraspofpartnershipTooneofotherrace——
Aplane：hebarkedhimstripbystripFromupperboughtobase；
Andmetherewith；forgonemygrip，Myarmscouldnotenlace。
InnewaffectionnextIstroveTocollanashIsaw，Andheintrustreceivedmylove；
TillwithmysoftgreenclawIcrampedandboundhimasIwove……
Suchwasmylove：ha-ha！
BythisIgainedhisstrengthandheightWithouthisrivalry。
ButinmytriumphIlostsightOfafterhaps。Soonhe，Beingbark-bound，flagged，snapped，felloutright，Andinhisfallfelledme！
AMEETINGWITHDESPAIR
AseveningshapedIfoundmeonamoorWhichsightcouldscarcesustain：
Theblackleanland，offeaturelesscontour，Waslikeatractinpain。
"Thisscene，likemyownlife，"Isaid，"isoneWheremanygloomsabide；
Tonedbyitsfortunetoadeadlydun-
Lightlessoneveryside。
Iglancedaloftandhalted，pleasure-caughtToseethecontrastthere：
Theray-litcloudsgleamedglory；andIthought，"There’ssolaceeverywhere！"
Thenbitterself-reproachesasIstoodIdealtmesilentlyAsoneperverse——misrepresentingGoodIngracelessmutiny。
Againstthehorizon’sdim-discernedwheelAformrose，strangeofmould：
Thathewashideous，hopeless，IcouldfeelRatherthancouldbehold。
"’Tisadeadspot，whereeventhelightliesspentTodarkness！"croakedtheThing。
"Notifyoulookaloft！"saidI，intentOnmynewreasoning。
"Yea——butawaitawhile！"hecried。"Ho-ho！-
Looknowaloftandsee！"
Ilooked。There，too，satnight：Heaven’sradiantshowHadgone。Thenchuckledhe。
UNKNOWING
When，soulinsoulreflected，Webreathedanaetheredair，WhenweneglectedAllthingselsewhere，AndleftthefriendlyfriendlessTokeepourloveaglow，Wedeemeditendless……
——Wedidnotknow！
When，bymadpassiongoaded，Weplannedtohieaway，But，unforeboded，Thestorm-shaftsgraySoheavilydown-patteredThatnonecouldforthwardgo，Ourlivesseemedshattered……
——Wedidnotknow！
WhenIfoundyou，helplesslying，Andyouwaivedmydeepmisprise，Andsworeme，dying，Inphantom-guiseTowingtomewhengrieving，Andtouchawaymywoe，Wekissed，believing……
——Wedidnotknow！
Butthough，yourpowersoutreckoning，Youholdyoudeadanddumb，Orscornmybeckoning，Andwillnotcome；
AndIsay，"’TweremoodungainlyTostorehermemoryso："
Isayitvainly-
Ifeelandknow！
FRIENDSBEYOND
WilliamDewy，TranterReuben，FarmerLedlowlateatplough，Robert’skin，andJohn’s，andNed’s，AndtheSquire，andLadySusan，lieinMellstockchurchyardnow！
"Gone，"Icallthem，goneforgood，thatgroupoflocalheartsandheads；
Yetatmothycurfew-tide，Andatmidnightwhenthenoon-heatbreathesitbackfromwallsandleads，They’veawayofwhisperingtome——fellow-wightwhoyetabide-
Inthemuted，measurednoteOfarippleunderarchways，oralonecave’sstillicide：
"Wehavetriumphed：thisachievementturnsthebanetoantidote，Unsuccessestosuccess，-Manythought-wornevesandmorrowstoamorrowfreeofthought。
"Nomoreneedwecornandclothing，feelofoldterrestrialstress；
Chilldetractionstirsnosigh；
Fearofdeathhasevenbygoneus：deathgaveallthatwepossess。"
W。D。——"Yemidburnthewoldbass-violthatIsetsuchvallieby。"
Squire。——"Youmayholdthemanseinfee，Youmaywedmyspouse，mychildren’smemoryofmemaydecry。"
Lady。——"Youmayhavemyrichbrocades，mylaces；takeeachhouseholdkey；
Ransackcoffer，desk，bureau；
Quizthefewpoortreasureshidthere，contheletterskeptbyme。"
Far。——"Yemidzellmyfavouriteheifer，yemidletthecharlockgrow，Foulthegrinterns，giveupthrift。"
Wife。——"Ifyebreakmybestbluechina，children，Ishan’tcareorho。"
All。——"We’venowishtohearthetidings，howthepeople’sfortunesshift；
Whatyourdailydoingsare；
Whoarewedded，born，divided；ifyourlivesbeatsloworswift。
"Curiousnottheleastareweifourintentsyoumakeormar，Ifyouquiretoouroldtune，IftheCitystagestillpasses，iftheweirsstillroarafar。"-
Thus，withverygods’composure，freedthosecrosseslateandsoonWhich，inlife，theTrineallow（Why，nonewitteth），andignoringallthathapsbeneaththemoon，WilliamDewy，TranterReuben，FarmerLedlowlateatplough，Robert’skin，andJohn’s，andNed’s，AndtheSquire，andLadySusan，murmurmildlytomenow。
TOOUTERNATURE
ShowtheeasIthoughttheeWhenIearlysoughtthee，Omen-scouting，AllundoubtingLovealonehadwroughtthee-
Wroughttheeformypleasure，PlannedtheeasameasureForexpoundingAndresoundingGladthingsthatmentreasure。
OforbutamomentOfthatoldendowment-
LighttogailySeethydailyIrisedembowment！
Butsuchre-adorningTimeforbidswithscorning-
MakesmeseethingsCeasetobethingsTheywereinmymorning。
Fad’stthou，glow-forsaken，Darkness-overtaken！
Thyfirstsweetness，Radiance，meetness，Noneshallre-awaken。
WhynotsempiternalThouandI？OurvernalBrightnesskeeping，Timeoutleaping；
Passedthehodiernal！
THOUGHTSOFPHENA
ATNEWSOFHERDEATH
NotalineofherwritinghaveI，Notathreadofherhair，Nomarkofherlatetimeasdameinherdwelling，wherebyImaypictureherthere；
AndinvaindoIurgemyunsightToconceivemylostprizeAtherclose，whomIknewwhenherdreamswereupbrimmingwithlight，Andwithlaughterhereyes。
Whatscenesspreadaroundherlastdays，Sad，shining，ordim？
DidhergiftsandcompassionsenrayandenarchhersweetwaysWithanaureatenimb？
Ordidlife-lightdeclinefromheryears，AndmischancescontrolHerfullday-star；unease，orregret，orforebodings，orfearsDisennoblehersoul？
ThusIdobutthephantomretainOfthemaidenofyoreAsmyrelic；yethaplythebestofher——finedinmybrainItmaybethemoreThatnolineofherwritinghaveI，Norathreadofherhair，Nomarkofherlatetimeasdameinherdwelling，wherebyImaypictureherthere。
March1890。
MIDDLE-AGEENTHUSIASMS
ToM。H。
WepassedwhereflagandflowerSignalledajocundthrong；
Wesaid："Goto，thehourIsapt！"——andjoinedthesong；
And，kindling，laughedatlifeandcare，Althoughweknewnolaughlaythere。
WewalkedwhereshybirdsstoodWatchingus，wonder-dumb；
Theirfriendshipmetourmood；
Wecried："We’lloftencome：
We’llcomemorn，noon，eve，everywhen！"-
Wedoubtedweshouldcomeagain。
WejoyedtoseestrangesheensLeapfromquaintleavesinshade；
AsecretlightofgreensThey’dfortheirpleasuremade。
Wesaid："We’llsetsuchsortsasthese！"-
Weknewwithnightthewishwouldcease。
"Sosweettheplace，"wesaid，"Itstacittalessodear，Ourthoughts，whenbreathhassped，Willmeetandminglehere！"……
"Words！"musedwe。"Passedthemortaldoor，Ourthoughtswillreachthisnooknomore。"
INAWOOD
See"THEWOODLANDERS"
Palebeechandpine-treeblue，Setinoneclay，BoughtoboughcannotyouBideoutyourday？
Whentherainsskimandskip，Whymarsweetcomradeship，Blightingwithpoison-dripNeighbourlyspray？
Heart-haltandspirit-lame，City-opprest，UntothiswoodIcameAstoanest；
DreamingthatsylvanpeaceOfferedtheharrowedease——
NatureasoftreleaseFrommen’sunrest。
But，havingenteredin，GreatgrowthsandsmallShowthemtomenakin-
Combatantsall！
Sycamoreshouldersoak，Binestheslimsaplingyoke，Ivy-spunhalterschokeElmsstoutandtall。
Touchesfromash，Owych，Stingyoulikescorn！
You，too，bravehollies，twitchSidelongfromthorn。
EventherankpoplarsbearIllyarival’sair，CankeringinblackdespairIfoverborne。
Since，then，nograceIfindTaughtmeoftrees，TurnIbacktomykind，Worthyasthese。
Thereatleastsmilesabound，Therediscoursetrillsaround，There，nowandthen，arefoundLife-loyalties。
1887：1896。
TOALADY
OFFENDEDBYABOOKOFTHEWRITER’S
Nowthatmypageupcloses，doomed，maybe，Nevertopressthycosycushionsmore，OrwakethyreadyYeasasheretofore，Orstirthygentlevowsoffaithinme：
Knowingthynaturalreceptivity，Ifigurethat，asflambeauxbanisheve，Mysombreimage，warpedbyinsidiousheaveOfthoselessforthright，mustloseplaceinthee。
Sobeit。Ihavebornesuch。LetthydreamsOfmeandminediminishdaybyday，Andyieldtheirspacetoshineofsmuggerthings；
TillIshapetotheebutinfitfulgleams，Andtheninfarandfeeblevisitings，Andthensurcease。Truthwillbetruthalway。
TOANORPHANCHILD
AWHIMSEY
Ah，child，thouartbuthalfthydarlingmother’s；
Herscouldstthouwhollybe，Mylightintheewouldoutglowallinothers；
Shewouldrelivetome。
ButniggardNature’strickofbirthBars，lestsheoverjoy，RenewalofthelovedonearthSavewithalloy。
TheDamehasnoregard，alas，mymaiden，Forloveandlosslikemine-
Nosympathywithmind-sightmemory-laden；
Onlywithfickleeyne。
TohermechanicartistryMydreamsareallunknown，AndwhyIwishthatthoucouldstbeButOne’salone！
NATURE’SQUESTIONING
WhenIlookforthatdawning，pool，Field，flock，andlonelytree，AllseemtogazeatmeLikechastenedchildrensittingsilentinaschool；
Theirfacesdulled，constrained，andworn，Asthoughthemaster’swaysThroughthelongteachingdaysTheirfirstterrestrialzesthadchilledandoverborne。
Andonthemstirs，inlippingsmere（Asifonceclearincall，Butnowscarcebreathedatall）-
"Wewonder，everwonder，whywefindushere！
"HassomeVastImbecility，Mightytobuildandblend，Butimpotenttotend，Framedusinjest，andleftusnowtohazardry？
"OrcomeweofanAutomatonUnconsciousofourpains？……
OrareweliveremainsOfGodheaddyingdownwards，brainandeyenowgone？
"OrisitthatsomehighPlanbetides，Asyetnotunderstood，OfEvilstormedbyGood，WetheForlornHopeoverwhichAchievementstrides？"
Thusthingsaround。NoanswererI……
Meanwhilethewinds，andrains，AndEarth’soldgloomsandpainsArestillthesame，andgladdestLifeDeathneighboursnigh。
THEIMPERCIPIENT
（ATACATHEDRALSERVICE）
ThatfromthisbrightbelievingbandAnoutcastIshouldbe，ThatfaithsbywhichmycomradesstandSeemfantasiestome，Andmirage-miststheirShiningLand，Isadreardestiny。
WhythusmysoulshouldbeconsignedToinfelicity，WhyalwaysImustfeelasblindTosightsmybrethrensee，Whyjoysthey’vefoundIcannotfind，Abidesamystery。
SinceheartofmineknowsnotthateaseWhichtheyknow；sinceitbeThatHewhobreathesAll’sWelltotheseBreathesnoAll’s-Welltome，MylackmightmovetheirsympathiesAndChristiancharity！
IamlikeagazerwhoshouldmarkAninlandcompanyStandingupfingered，with，"Hark！hark！
Thegloriousdistantsea！"
Andfeel，"Alas，’tisbutyondarkAndwind-sweptpinetome！"
YetIwouldbearmyshortcomingsWithmeettranquillity，ButforthechargethatblessedthingsI’dlieferhaveunbe。
O，dothabirddeprivedofwingsGoearth-boundwilfully！
***
Enough。AsyetdisquietclingsAboutus。Restshallwe。
ATANINN
WhenweasstrangerssoughtTheircateringcare，VeiledsmilesbespoketheirthoughtOfwhatwewere。
TheywarmedastheyopinedUsmorethanfriends-
ThatwehadallresignedForlove’sdearends。
AndthatswiftsympathyWithlivingloveWhichquickstheworld——maybeThespheresabove，Madethemourministers，Movedthemtosay，"Ah，God，thatblissliketheirsWouldflushourday！"
AndwewereleftaloneAsLove’sownpair；
Yetneverthelove-lightshoneBetweenusthere！
ButthatwhichchilledthebreathOfafternoon，AndpalsieduntodeathThepane-fly’stune。
Thekisstheirzealforetold，Andnowdeemedcome，Camenot：withinhisholdLovelingered-numb。
WhycastheonourportAbloomnotours？
WhyshapedusforhissportInafter-hours？
AsweseemedwewerenotThatdayafar，AndnowweseemnotwhatWeachingare。
Oseveringseaandland，Olawsofmen，Eredeath，onceletusstandAswestoodthen！
THESLOWNATURE
（ANINCIDENTOFFROOMVALLEY）
"Thyhusband——poor，poorHeart！——isdead——
Dead，outbyMorefordRise；
Abullescapedthebarton-shed，Goredhim，andtherehelies！"-
"Ha，ha——goaway！’Tisatale，methink，ThoujokerKit！"laughedshe。
"I’veknowntheemanyayear，KitTwink，Andeverhastthoufooledme！"-
"But，MistressDamon——IcanswearThygoodmanJohnisdead！
Andsoonth’ltheartheirfeetwhobearHisbodytohisbed。"
Sounwontedlysadwasthemerryman’sface-
Thatfacewhichhadlongdeceived-
Thatshegazedandgazed；andthencouldtraceThetruththere；andshebelieved。
Shelaidahandonthedresser-ledge，AndscannedfarEgdon-side；
Andstood；andyouheardthewind-sweptsedgeAndtheripplingFroom；tillshecried：
"Omychamber’suntidied，unmademybedThoughthedayhasbeguntowear！
’Whataslovenlyhussif！’itwillbesaid，Whentheyallgoupmystair！"
Shedisappeared；andthejokerstoodDepressedbyhisneighbour’sdoom，AndamazedthatawifestrucktowidowhoodThoughtfirstofherunkemptroom。
Butafortnightthenceshecouldtakenofood，Andshepinedinaslowdecay；
WhileKitsoonlosthismournfulmoodAndlaughedinhisancientway。
1894。
INAEWELEAZENEARWEATHERBURY
TheyearshavegatheredgraylySinceIdanceduponthisleazeWithonewhokindledgailyLove’sfitfulecstasies！
Butdespitethetermasteacher，IremainwhatIwasthenIneachessentialfeatureOfthefantasiesofmen。
YetInotethelittlechiselOfnever-nappingTime，DefacingghastandgrizzelTheblazonofmyprime。
Whenatnighthethinksmesleeping，IfeelhimboringslyWithinmybones，andheapingQuaintestpainsforby-and-by。
Still，I’dgotheworldwithBeauty，Iwouldlaughwithherandsing，IwouldshundivinestdutyToresumeherworshipping。
Butshe’dscornmybraveendeavour，ShewouldnotbalmthebreezeBymurmuring"Thineforever！"
Asshediduponthisleaze。
1890。
THEFIREATTRANTERSWEATLEY’S
Theyhadlongmeto’Zundays——hertrueloveandshe-
Andatjunketings，maypoles，andflings；
Butshebodewi’athirtoveruncle，andheSworebynoonandbynightthathergoodmanshouldbeNaibourSweatley——agafferoftweakatthekneeFromtakingo’sommatmorecheerfulthantea-
Whotranted，andmovedpeople’sthings。
Shecried，"Opraypityme！"Noughtwouldhehear；
Thenwithwildrainyeyessheobeyed。
ShechidwhenherLovewasforclinkingoffwi’her。
Thepa’sonwastold，astheseasondrewnearTothrowoverpu’pitthenamesofthepeairAsfittingonefleshtobemade。
Thewedding-daydawnedandthemorningdrewon；
Thecouplestoodbridegroomandbride；
Theeveningwaspassed，andwhenmidnighthadgoneThefolkshornedout，"GodsavetheKing，"andanonThetwohome-alonggloomilyhied。
TheloverTimTankensmournedheart-sickanddrearTobethusofhisdarlingdeprived：
Heroamedinthedarkath’artfield，mound，andmere，And，a’mostwithoutknowingit，foundhimselfnearThehouseofthetranter，andnowofhisDear，Wherethelantern-lightshowed’emarrived。
Thebridesoughthercham’ersocalmandsopaleThataNorthernhadthoughtherresigned；
Buttoeyesthathadseenherintide-timesofweal，Likethewhitecloudo’smoke，theredbattle-field’svail，Thatlookspak’ofhavocbehind。
Thebridegroomyetlaiteredabeakertodrain，Thenreeledtothelinhayformore，Whenthecandle-snoffkindledsomechafffromhisgrain-
Flamesspread，andredvlankers，wi’mightandwi’main，Androundbeams，thatch，andchimley-tunroar。
YoungTimawayyond，raftedupbythelight，Throughbrimbleandunderwoodtears，Tillhecomestotheorchet，whencroopingthererightInthelewthofacodlin-tree，biveringwi’fright，Wi’on’yhernight-railtoscreenherfromsight，HislonesomeyoungBarbreeappears。
Hercwoldlittlefigurehalf-nakedheviewsPlayedaboutbythefrolicsomebreeze，Herlight-trippingtotties，hertenlittletooes，Allbareandbesprinkledwi’Fall’schillydews，Whilehergreatgalliedeyes，throughherhairhangingloose，Sheenedasstarsthroughatardleo’trees。
Sheeyeden；and，aswhenaweir-hatchisdrawn，Hertears，pennedbyterrorafore，Witharushingofsobsinashowerwerestrawn，Tillherpowertopour’emseemedwastedandgoneFromthehefto’misfortuneshebore。
"OTim，myOWNTimImustcall’ee——Iwill！
Alltheworldha’turnedroundonmeso！
Canyouhelpherwholoved’ee，thoughactingsoill？
Canyoupityhermisery——feelforherstill？
WhenworsethanherbodysoquiveringandchillIsherheartinitswintero’woe！
"IthinkImidalmostha’borneit，"shesaid，"Hadmygriefsonebyonecometohand；
ButO，tobeslavetothikhusbirdforbread，Andthen，upontopo’that，driventowed，Andthen，upontopo’that，burntouto’bed，Ismorethanmynatercanstand！"
Tim’ssoullikealion’ithinenoutsprung-
（Timhadagreatsoulwhenhisfeelingswerewrung）——
"Feelfor’ee，dearBarbree？"hecried；
Andhiswarmworking-jacketaboutherheflung，Madeaback，horsedherup，tillbehindhimsheclungLikeachielonagipsy，herfigureuphungBythesleevesthataroundherhetied。
Overpiggeries，andmixens，andapples，andhay，Theylumperedstraightintothenight；
Andfindingbylongwhereahalter-pathlay，AtdawnreachedTim’shouse，on’yseenontheirwayByanaibourortwowhowereupwi’theday；
Buttheygatherednocluetothesight。
ThentenderTimTankenshesearchedhereandthereForsomegarmenttoclotheherfairskin；
Butthoughhehadbreechesandwaistcoatstospare，HehadnothingquiteseemlyforBarbreetowear，Who，halfshrammedtodeath，stoodandcriedonachairAtthecaddleshefoundherselfin。
Therewasonethingtodo，andthatonethinghedid，Helenthersomecloutsofhisown，Andshetook’emperforce；andwhilein’emsheslid，Timturnedtothewinder，asmodestybid，Thinking，"OthatthepictermydutykeepshidTothesighto’myeyesmidbeshown！"
Inthetallethestowedher；therehuddiedshelay，Shorteningsleeves，legs，andtailstoherlimbs；
Butmosto’thetimeinamortalbadway，Wellknowingthatthere’dbethediveltopayIf’twerefoundthat，insteado’theelements’prey，ShewaslivinginlodgingsatTim’s。
"Where’sthetranter？"saidmenandboys；"wherecanerbe？"
"Where’sthetranter？"saidBarbreealone。
"Whereone’thisthetranter？"saideverybod-y：
Theysiftedthedustofhisperishedroof-tree，Andalltheycouldfindwasabone。
Thentheunclecried，"Lord，prayhavemercyonme！"
Andinterrorbegantorepent。
Butbefore’twascomplete，andtillsureshewasfree，Barbreedrewupherloft-ladder，tightturnedherkey-
Timbringingupbreakfastanddinnerandtea-
Tillthenewsofherhidinggotvent。
Thenfollowedthecustom-keptrout，shout，andflareOfaskimmington-ridethroughthenaibourhood，ereFolkhadproofo’woldSweatley’sdecay。
Whereupondecentpeopleallstoodinastare，SayingTimandhislodgershouldriskit，andpair：
Sohetookhertochurch。An’somelaughingladsthereCriedtoTim，"AfterSweatley！"Shesaid，"IdeclareIstandasamaidento-day！"
Written1866；printed1875。
HEIRESSANDARCHITECT
FORA。W。B。
ShesoughttheStudios，beckoningtohersideAnarch-designer，forsheplannedtobuild。
Hewasofwisecontrivance，deeplyskilledIneveryintervolveofhighandwide-
Wellfittobeherguide。
"Whateveritbe，"
Respondedhe，Withcold，clearvoice，andcold，clearview，"IntrueaccordwithprudentfashioningsForsuchvicissitudesaslivingbrings，Andthwartingnotthelawofstablethings，ThatwillIdo。"
"Shapeme，"shesaid，"highhallswithtraceryAndopenogive-work，thatscentandhueOfbuds，andtravellingbees，maycomeinthrough，Thenoteofbirds，andsingingsofthesea，Forthesearemuchtome。"
"Anidlewhim！"
BrokeforthfromhimWhomnoughtcouldwarmtogallantries：
"Cedeallthesebudsandbirds，thezephyr’scall，Andscents，andhues，andthingsthatfalterall，Andchooseasbestthecloseandsurlywall，Forwintersfreeze。"
"Thenframe，"shecried，"widefrontsofcrystalglass，ThatImayshowmylaughterandmylight-
Lightlikethesun’sbyday，thestars’bynight-
Tillrivalheart-queens，envying，wail，’Alas，Herglory！’astheypass。"
"Omaidmisled！"
Hesternlysaid，Whosefacileforesightpiercedherdire；
"Whereshallabidethesoulwhen，sickofglee，Itshrinks，andhides，andpraysnoeyemaysee？
Thosehousethembestwhohouseforsecrecy，Foryouwilltire。"
"Alittlechamber，then，withswananddoveRangedthickly，andengrailedwithraredeviceOfredsandpurples，foraParadiseWhereinmyLovemaygreetme，ImyLove，Whenheshallknowthereof？"
"This，too，isill，"
Heansweredstill，Themanwhoswayedherlikeashade。
"AnhourwillcomewhensightofsuchsweetnookWouldbringabitternesstoosharptobrook，Whenbrightereyeshavewonawayhislook；
Foryouwillfade。"
Thensaidshefaintly："O，contrivesomeway-
Somenarrowwindingturret，quitemineown，ToreachaloftwhereImaygrievealone！
Itisaslightthing；hencedonot，Ipray，Thislastdearfancyslay！"
"SuchwindingwaysFitnotyourdays，"
Saidhe，themanofmeasuringeye；
"Imustevenfashionasmyruledeclares，Towit：Givespace（sincelifeendsunawares）
Tohaleacoffinedcorpseadownthestairs；
Foryouwilldie。"
1867。
THETWOMEN
Thereweretwoyouthsofequalage，Wit，station，strength，andparentage；
Theystudiedattheselfsameschools，Andshapedtheirthoughtsbycommonrules。
Oneponderedonthelifeofman，Hishopes，hisending，andbeganToratetheMarket’ssordidwarAssomethingscarceworthlivingfor。
"I’llbracetohigheraims，"saidhe，"I’llfurtherTruthandPurity；
TherebytomendthemortallotAndsweetensorrow。ThriveInot，"Winningtheirhearts，mykindwillgiveEnoughthatImaylowlylive，AndhousemyLoveinsomedimdell，Forpleasingthemandtheirssowell。"
Idlyattired，withfeatureswan，Insecretswifthelabouredon：
SuchpressofpowerhadbroughtmuchgoldAppliedtothingsofmeanermould。
SometimeshewishedhisaimshadbeenTogathergainslikeothermen；
ThenthankedhisGodhe’dtracedhistrackToofarforwishtodraghimback。
HelookedfromhisloftonedayTowherehisslightedgardenlay；
Nettlesandhemlockhideachlawn，Andeveryflowerwasstarvedandgone。
Hefaintedinhisheart，whereonHerose，andsoughthisplightedone，Resolvedtolooseherbondwithal，Lestsheshouldperishinhisfall。
Hemetherwithacarelessair，Asthoughhe’dceasedtofindherfair，Andsaid："Trueloveisdusttome；
Icannotkiss：Itireofthee！"
（Thatshemightscornhimwashefain，Toputhersooneroutofpain；
Forincensedlovebreathesquickanddies，Whenfamishedlovea-lingeringlies。）
Oncedone，hissoulwassobetossed，Itfoundnomoretheforceitlost：
Hopewashisonlydrinkandfood，Andhopeextinct，decayensued。
And，livinglongsocloselypenned，Hehadnotkeptasinglefriend；
Hedwindledthinasphantomsbe，Anddroopedtodeathinpoverty……
MeantimehisschoolmatehadgoneoutTojointhefortune-findingrout；
Helikedthewinningsofthemart，Butweariedoftheworkingpart。
Heturnedtoseekaprivylair，Neglectingnoteofgarbandhair，AnddaybydayreclinedandthoughtHowhemightlivebydoingnought。
"Iplanavaluedscheme，"hesaidTosome。"Butlendmeofyourbread，Andwhenthevastresultloomsnigh，InprofityoushallstandasI。"
YettheytookcounseltorestrainTheirkindnesstilltheysawthegain；
And，sincehissubstancenowhadrun，Herosetodowhatmightbedone。
HewentuntohisLovebynight，Andsaid："MyLove，Ifaintinfight：
Deservingasthoudostacrown，Mycaresshallneverdragtheedown。"
（HehaddescriedamaidwhoselineWouldhandheronmuchcornandwine，AndheldherfarinworthaboveOnewhocouldonlyprayandlove。）
ButthisFairreadhim；whencehefailedTodothedeedsoblithelyhailed；
Hesawhisprojectswhollymarred，Andgloomandwantoppressedhimhard；
Till，livingtosomeananend，Wherebyhe’dlosthiseveryfriend，Heperishedinapaupersty，Hismatethedyingpaupernigh。
Andmoralists，reflecting，said，As"dusttodust"inburialreadWasechoedfromeachcoffin-lid，"Thesemenwerelikeinalltheydid。"
1866。
LINES
SpokenbyMissADAREHANattheLyceumTheatre，July23，1890，ataperformanceonbehalfofLadyJeune’sHolidayFundforCityChildren。
Beforeweparttoalienthoughtsandaims，Permittheonebriefwordtheoccasionclaims：-
Whenmummingandgraveprojectsareallied，PerhapsanEpilogueisjustified。
Ourunder-purposehas，intruth，to-dayCommandedmostourmusings；leasttheplay：
Apurposefutilebutforyourgood-willSwiftlyresponsivetothecryofill：
Apurposealltoolimited！——toaidFrailhumanflowerets，sickliedbytheshade，Inwinningsomeshortspellofuplandbreeze，Orstrengtheningsunlightonthelevelleas。
Whohasnotmarked，wherethefullcheekshouldbe，Incipientlinesoflankflaccidity，Lymphaticpallorwherethepinkshouldglow，Andwherethethroboftransport，pulseslow？-
MosttragicalofshapesfromPoletoLine，Owonderingchild，unwittingTime’sdesign，WhyshouldArtaddtoNature’squandary，Andworsenillbythusimmuringthee？-
Thatracesdodespiteuntotheirown，ThatMightsupernaldoindeedcondoneWrongsindividualforthegeneralease，Instancetheproofinvictimssuchasthese。
Launchedintothoroughfarestoothrongedbefore，Motheredbythosewhoseprotestis"Nomore！"
Vitalizedwithoutoption：whoshallsayThatdidLifehangonchoosing——YeaorNay-
Theyhadnotscorneditwithsuchpenalty，AndnothingnessimploredofDestiny？
AndyetbehindthehorizonsmilesereneThedown，thecornland，andthestretchinggreen-
Space——thechild’sheaven：sceneswhichatleastensureSomepalliativeforilltheycannotcure。
Dearfriends——nowmovedbythispoorshowofoursTomakeyourownlongjoyinbudsandbowersForonebriefwhilethejoyofinfanteyes，Changingtheirurbanmurktoparadise-
Youhaveourthanks！——mayyourrewardincludeMorethanourthanks，farmore：theirgratitude。
"ILOOKINTOMYGLASS"
Ilookintomyglass，Andviewmywastingskin，Andsay，"WouldGoditcametopassMyhearthadshrunkasthin！"
Forthen，I，undistrestByheartsgrowncoldtome，CouldlonelywaitmyendlessrestWithequanimity。
ButTime，tomakemegrieve；
Partsteals，letspartabide；
AndshakesthisfragileframeateveWiththrobbingsofnoontide。
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