AIV
Alas! the appointed term is sternly set
Inviolable to this our colloquy.
For though you be afar, my Lola, yet
You have been with me, whispering to me.
I bow my head to write, and on the nape
O’ th’ neck I feel your lips. I raise my head
To dream — your mouth achievesitsluscious rape —
I fall back — you are on me — I am dead.
Could it be better? For I surely know
That you will follow me adown the deep
When I lay pen and paper by, and go
Into the ardent avenues of sleep : —
There also we will drink the appeasing wine,
Lola, my Lola, mystic maiden o’ mine!
III
The Hermit