HOW oft the body seems
A veil that hides the dreams
Of Life's true loveliness—
And thoughts that soothe and bless
Each soul that wanders through
Love's happy fields anew!
The shades of fallen day
Rule here, where passion's sway
Holds slave the lofty aim,
Enkindling the Flame
That leaves but dust
And dead hopes—weakening trust.

Yet, if Affinity
Holds ever true and free,
Then shall body and soul
Into one perfect whole
Bind up the waking thought
And dream that came unsought.
Lo, from their union strange
And sweet, denying change—
Song upon song shall rise
To the peaceful skies,
And sound as some far-off chime
Blown on the lips of Time!