Maiden

My dream kaleidoscope Changed still again, and framed love’s dearest hope— The trinity of home; and life was good And all its deepest meaning understood.

[Sits lost in a dream. Behind scenes a voice sings a lullaby, ‘Beautiful Land of Nod.’ CUPID in ecstasy tiptoes about and clasps his hands in delight.]

Another scene! a matron in her prime, I saw myself glide peacefully with time Into the quiet middle years, content With simple joys the dear home circle lent. My sons and daughters made my diadem; I saw my happy youth renewed in them. The pain of growing old lost all its sting, For Love stood near—in Winter, as in Spring.

[CUPID tiptoes to door and makes a signal. MAIDEN starts up dramatically.]

’Twas but a dream! I woke all suddenly. The world had changed! And now life means to me My art—the stage—excitement and the crowd— The glare of many foot-lights—and the loud Applause of men, as I cry in rage, ‘Give me the dagger!’ or creep down the stage In that sleep-walking scene. Oh, art like mine Will send the chills down every listener’s spine! And when I choose, salt tears shall freely flow As in the moonlight I cry, ‘Romeo! Romeo! Oh, wherefore art thou, Romeo?’ Ay, ’tis done My dream of home life.