Impressions: A Book of Verse/To Helen with a Hand Glass

by Lilla Cabot Perry

 

TO HELEN WITH A HAND GLASS

WOULDST know the face that ever comes between
The world and me,
The face that from the hour when first 't was seen
I ever see?
Look in this glass! But ne'er for thee will shine
The spirit's fire
That lights up eyes and lips when thoughts divine
That face inspire.

If to all others it is beautiful
I cannot tell;
That of my life it is not part but whole
I know too well!