Oracles

ELVINA Written at Eastbourne. Tune—“ German Evening Hymn.” WAS thy fault to be too tender ? Was thine error to be weak ? Was my kiss the chief offender Pressed upon thy blushing cheek ? Was it sin to press and press thee Till thy burning lips at last Madly kissed me ? How I bless thee, Now, for that superb repast ! All-consuming, all-devouring, All-absorbing, burnt the flame ; Burnt unchecked till, hotly showering, Passion disregarded Shame ! Was it sin—that moonlight madness ? Was our passion so accurst ? Sweetness damned to mother Sadness ? Satisfaction to bring Thirst ? II