DE PROFUNDIS

Wintertime nighs; But my bereavement-pain It cannot bring again: Twice no one dies.

Flower-petals flee; But, since it once hath been, No more that severing scene Can harrow me.

Birds faint in dread: I shall not lose old strength In the lone frost's black length: Strength long since fled!

Leaves freeze to dun; But friends can not turn cold This season as of old For him with none.

Tempests may scath; But love can not make smart Again this year his heart Who no heart hath.

Black is night's cope; But death will not appal One who, past doubtings all, Waits in unhope.