LOVE AND FEAR 
 
The rose of the springtime that bended 
Its delicate head to the breeze 
Is crimson and stately and splendid 
Now summer is here and at ease ; 
Love risen as the sun hath transcended its passion and peace. 
 
In a garden of dark foliage that clusters 
Round your face as a rosebud withdrawn, 
New splendour springs carmine and lustres 
Your cheeks with the coming of dawn, 
Love’s light as an army that musters its plumes—and is gone. 
 
For fear as a fountain, that trembles 
With wind, is arisen, and hides 
The light of your love, and dissembles 
The roar of the passionate tides ; 
Though a flickering flame it resembles, love is, and abides. 
 
49