Till Death

Must in silence I remain
In meek manners, muzzled pain?
Wed and bound, shan’t speak again
Till death?

Shall I lie in manly arms
And wake to his morn alarm?
Unequal halves, my sheets warm
Till death?

Worst of all, must all joy cease?
Wild girlhood’s last release
For a matron’s solemn peace
Till death?

This made woman still a girl
Watching summer leaves unfurl
Yellow, brown, as edges curl
Till death

Colorless in mourning’s veil
Delivered, unopened mail
Counting ev’ry cruel exhale
Till death!

Heaven! Claim me as your child!
Far better angel than bride!
Take me, Virgil, be my guide
Till death!

Open gates and joyous song
To but one Lord I belong!
Take me, Virgil, tisn’t long
Till death!