Dreams

SURELY I heard a voice-surely my name Was breathed in tones familiar to my heart! I listened-and the low wind stealing came, In darkness and in silence to depart. Surely I saw a form, a proud bright form, Standing beside my couch! I raised mine eyes: 'Twas but a dim cloud, herald of a storm, That floated through the grey and twilight skies. Surely the brightness of the summer hour Hath suddenly burst upon the circling gloom! I dream; 'twas but the perfume of a flower, Which the breeze wafted through the silent room. Surely a hand clasped mine with greetings fond! A name is murmured by my lips with pain; Woe for that sound-woe for love's broken bond. I start-I wake-I am alone again!