The Scarlet Thread

The sun rose dimly thro' the pallid rain, Dear Heart--and have we strength to face the day? The times and life alike are old and grey, All worn with long monotonies of pain. Lo--we are working out the curse of Cain, Who never felt the fire of passion's sway. Ah--show us crimson in some tragic way That we may live!--Fate laughed in her disdain. A thread of scarlet clashed upon mine eyes Hung for a moment and was swept behind, And blankly I beheld the hopeless skies For day by contrast now is grimmest night-- Remembering light as do the newly blind I pray for death to hide the bitter sight.