Asleep

"Come closer," she said, "my sister, For I can not see your face. The day grows dim, and the shadows grim, Are gathering on apace. I am glad that the night is coming: I am weary, and want to rest. What! do you weep, that I fall asleep Leaning upon your breast?

"Oh, Sister, I am so tired: How tired you can not know. And a jarring pain, in my weary brain, Beats like a cruel blow. I think it will all have vanished, After I sleep awhile. How sweetly I rest, lying here on your breast. In the warmth of your loving smile.

"Such a beautiful dream, my sister, I dreamed while I slept last night. I thought he was true: and he came with you, And kissed me in love's delight. And he said--. But I am so weary, I will sleep ere I tell the rest." But the sister wept, for the maiden slept In the sleep of death, on her breast.

1869