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Poems (Allen)/At the Gate

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4385923Poems — At the GateElizabeth Chase Allen
AT THE GATE.
FAINT and trembling, tired and late, I approach the bolted gate; And with humbleness sincere, Knock, and crave admittance here,—Worn with wanderings long and sore:         Open the door!
Asking neither alms nor food, Only rest and quietude; Hear, I pray, my humble plaint,—Never soul so tired and faint Craved compassion here before:         Open the door!
O, how soft the couch will be, Folded down so peacefully, Pillows fair and dainty-white, Shaded from the tiresome light, By dim angels hovering o'er:         Open the door!
Never on an earthly bed Was so dainty drapery spread, Spangled bright with buds and bees, Broidered with anemones;—Hear me, Angel, I implore:         Open the door!
Once I longed for Wealth and Place, Happiness, and Love's sweet grace,—Now there lives within my breast Only this one wish,—for Rest,—Only Rest,—I ask no more:         Open the door!