(With A Hand-Glass)

A picture-frame for you to fill, A paltry setting for your face, A thing that has no worth until You lend it something of your grace,

I send (unhappy I that sing Laid by a while upon the shelf) Because I would not send a thing Less charming than you are yourself.

And happier than I, alas! (Dumb thing, I envy its delight) 'Twill wish you well, the looking-glass, And look you in the face to-night.

1869.