On a Grey Thread/Episode
Episode
I have robbed the garrulous streets,Thieved a fair girl from their blight,I have stolen her for a sacrificeThat I shall make to this mysteried night.
I have brought her, laughing,To my quietly sinister garden.For what will be done thereI ask no man's pardon.
I brush the rouge from her cheeks,Clean the black kohl from the rimsOf her eyes; loose her hair;Uncover the glimmering, shy limbs.
I break wild roses, scatter them over her.The thorns between us sting like love's pain.Her flesh, bitter and salt to my tongue,I taste with endless kisses and taste again.
At dawn I leave herAsleep in my wakening garden.(For what was done thereI ask no man's pardon.)