Iii

Now bending like a windy stem I strive, Yet ever onward, step by step, descend. The silence is a threat, the dark alive, And love how far, how far, my journey’s end.

It is the girlhood dream I leave behind, And sweeter vision never witched a maid. Into the threatening shades I wander blind: Ah, Mary, help me now! I am afraid.

Yet with my fears I sway and follow still; The doorway gleams, the pleading magic charms, Step after step, with fluttering breath and will-- Step after step ... at last ... into his arms.