The Soul of Osiris

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 ;