La Pia

Even as theirs, the chance was mine To meet and mate beneath Love's sign, To feel in soul and sense The solemn influence

Which, breathed upon a man or maid, Maketh forever unafraid, Though life with death unite That spirit to affright,--

Which lifts the changèd heart high up, As the priest lifts the changèd cup, Boldens the feet to pace Before God's proving face.

O just a thought beyond the blue The wings of the dove yearned down and through! Even now I hear and hear How near they were, how near!

I murmur not. Rightly disgraced, The weak hand stretched abroad in haste For gifts barely allowed The tacit, strong, and proud.

But therefore was I so intent To watch where Dante onward went With the Roman spirit pure And the grave troubadour,

Because my mind was busy then With the loves that wait those gentle men: Cunizza one; and one Bice, above the sun;

And for the other, more and less Than woman's near-felt tenderness, A million voices dim Praising him, praising him.