62 
THE SOUL OF OSIRIS. 
They are all caught in this immense desire 
Deeper than heaven, tameless as the fire. 
All catch the fear—the fear of Her—as well, 
And dare not—even afraid, I must aspire. 
 
A spirit walking in a dream, I went 
To the high throne—they shook the firmament 
With foolish cheers.  I knelt before the queen 
And wept in silence.  Then, as it had been 
An angel’s voice and touch, her face she bent, 
Lifted and kissed me—oh !  her lips were keen ! 
 
Her voice was softer than a virgin’s eyes : 
“ Go !  my true knight :  for thither, thither lies 
The only road for thee ;  thou hast a prayer 
Wafted each hour—my spirit will be there ! ” 
Too late I knew what subtle Paradise 
Her dreams and prayers portend :  too fresh, too fair ! 
 
I turned more wretched than myself knew yet. 
I told my nameless pain I should forget 
Its shadow as it passed.  The king did start, 
Gripped my strong hands, and held me to his heart, 
And could not speak a moment.  Then he set 
A curb of sorrow and subdued its dart. 
 
“ Go !  and the blessing of high God attend 
Thy path, and lead thee to the doubtful end. 
No tongue that secret ever may reveal. 
Thy soul is God-like and thy frame is steel ;