227 
 
 
 
 
 
EN SOURDINE 
 
CALM in the twilight of the lofty boughs 
Pierce we our love with silence as we drowse ;   
 
Melt we our souls, hearts, senses in this shrine, 
Vague languor of arbutus and of pine !   
 
Half-close your eyes, your arms upon your breast ;   
Banish for ever every interest !   
 
The cradling breeze shall woo us, soft and sweet, 
Ruffling the waves of velvet at your feet. 
 
When solemn night of swart oaks shall prevail 
Voice our despair, musical nightingale !