Compensation

LADY, I see you every day-- More than your other lovers do; I sit beside you at the Play, And in the Park I ride with you. Through picture shows with you I roam With you I shop and dance and dine; I know the hours when you're 'at home' To no one else's knock but mine. And yet so near and yet so far, I scarce dare look at you, for fear I should remark, 'How sweet you are, How charming, and how very dear!' I dare not touch that hand of yours, Or lend my voice a tender tone; I know my state of grace endures By fasting and by prayer alone. But, in my lonely dreamlit nights, I kiss your hands, your lips, your eyes; For absence grants me all the rights Your presence evermore denies.