THE LIFE-BOND
“The last brotherhood is of pain.”—Hindoo Saying.
“The last brotherhood is of pain.”—Hindoo Saying.
You think my mouth is over-sternFor woman-grace and tenderness;You wonder if my lips could learnThe trick of love word and caress;You sadden when you meet my eyes;You say they are too still and deep,Like water where a shadow liesSome secret thing to hide and keep.My face no smooth, soft beauty owns,Unlined and happy as a flower;My voice has lack of laughing tonesTo charm you in a care-free hour—But I have lived! I do not needYour play-day love, that only seeksIt’s own light joy, nor stays to heedThe message which the shadow speaks.Death-darkening eyes have looked in mineAnd gone the braver for that glance;And hearts sore-pressed have sought a sign,Then turned to meet the fighting chance;And hands that fought to hold the breachHave caught fresh weapons from my hands;And lips that knew but stranger speechHave learned how love may understand.Joy with you, friend, and happiness!You do not need me now, but whenLife wills your hour of pain and stressTurn back—and find me waiting then.