The misery is greater, as I live! br To know her flesh so pure, so keen her sense, br That she does penance now for no offence, br Save against Love. The less can I forgive! br The less can I forgive, though I adore br That cruel lovely pallor which surrounds br Her footsteps; and the low vibrating sounds br That come on me, as from a magic shore. br Low are they, but most subtle to find out br The shrinking soul. Madam, 'tis understood br When women play upon their womanhood; br It means, a Season gone. And yet I doubt br But I am duped. That nun-like look waylays br My fancy. Oh! I do but wait a sign! br Pluck out the eyes of pride! thy mouth to mine! br Never! though I die thirsting.