Love’S Heraldry

I GAVE to thee at parting, dear, a rose, Encrimsoned with the hue of Love’s warm lips, But yet it faded when compared to those Wherefrom my soul unfailing honey sips.

And thou didst plant it in the snowy lawn Which veiled the purer treasures of thy breast, As when we see o’er earth, by winter drawn The white sky-covering in spotless rest.

Warm gules on argent, like a blazoned field, The hues of life and death in red and white— A fair device for any knightly shield, Nor needing motto to proclaim its might.

Henceforth I bear it on my battle crest, Till in thine arms from life’s alarms I rest.