White Stains

DÉDICACE You crown me king and queen. There is a name For whose soft sound I would abandon all This pomp. I liefer would have had you call Some soft sweet title of belovéd shame. Gold coronets be seemly, but bright flame I choose for diadem ; I would let fall All crowns, all kingdoms, for one rhythmical Caress of thine, one kiss my soul to tame. You crown me king and queen ; I crown thee lover ! I bid thee hasten, nay, I plead with thee, Come in the thick dear darkness to my bed. Heed not my sighs, but eagerly uncover, As our mouths mingle, my sweet infamy, And rob thy lover of his maidenhead.