“Annie Laurie”

The high barn’s lit by many a guttering flare
Of flickering candle, dangerous--(hence forbidden)--
To warm soft straw, whereby the cold floor’s hidden,
On which we soon shall rest without a care.
War is forgotten. Gossip fills the air
Of home, and laughter sounds beyond the midden
Under the stars, where Youth makes Joy unchidden
Of gods or men, and mocks at sorrow there.
But hark! what sudden pure untainted passion
Seizes us now, and stills the garrulous?
A song of old immortal dedication
To Beauty’s service and one woman’s heart.
No tears we show, no sign of flame in us
This hour of stars and music set apart.