Xi

Oh, my beloved! though I live A thousand years upon the earth, And though each pleasure take its birth From me; though it be mine to give all Rapture, every thrill and joy Known unto gods; though I destroy All ills, and overcome e'en death Within the vapour of a breath, That from thy lips passed into mine, Fire-tipped, of earth, yet all divine Would be contained more ecstasy, To chain the soul eternally With fetters woven of thy kiss— Than in Mahomet's realms of bliss— Nay more—of Heaven I ask but this.