Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). An American Anthology, 1787–1900. 1900.

By Francis OrreryTicknor

416 A Song for the Asking

A SONG! What songs have died

Upon the earth,

Voices of love and pride—

Of tears and mirth?

Fading as hearts forget,

As shadows flee!

Vain is the voice of song,

And yet—

I sing to thee!

A song! What ocean shell

Were silent long,

If in thy touch might dwell

Its all of song?

A song? Then near my heart

Thy cheek must be,

For, like the shell, it sings—

Sweet Heart—

To thee, of thee!