HOUSEHOLD GODS
Tue Scene is af the hearth of Crassus, where is a
Little bronze altar dedicated to the Lares and
Penates, A pale flame rises from the burning
sandal-wood, on which CRASSUS throws densoin
and musk. He is standing in deep dejection.
Crassus.
MOKE without fire!
No thrill of tongues licks up
The offerings in the cup.
Dead falls desire.
Black smoke thou art,
© altar-flame, that dost dismember,
Devour the hearth, to leave no ember
To warm this heart.
I see her still—
Adela dancing here
Till dim gods did appear
To work our will.
"