Poems (Blagden)/Alice
For works with similar titles, see Alice.
ALICE.
I.
In her golden chamber— Golden with the sun—Where the roses clamber Breathless, one by one;
II.
(O'er her casement creeping With their lavish grace, Through her lattice peeping At her happy face,)
III.
Sitteth fairest Alice Bending calmly there; Roses, bear no malice, Ye are not so fair.
IV.
Bending o'er her missal, Alice sitteth there; Shamrock, rose, and thistle, Carved in jewels rare,
V.
Clasp the velvet cover, With a rare device; Scrolls are blazoned over Gold and azure dyes.
VI.
Argent angels flying, Peacock's eyes and wings, Martyrs bravely dying, Quaint and lovely things.
VII.
Rubies red, and glowing Pearls and emerald sheaves—Sapphire rivers flowing, Glitter through the leaves.
VIII.
I, a page, a servant, Alice as a queenAt my love so fervent Smiles, with pride serene.
IX.
All my love, my passion— All myself I give, True to ancient fashion, Loving while I live.
X.
Claiming nought from Alice, Knowing love is vain; Wine poured from a chalice Flows not back again.
XI.
True love is a treasure Sacred and divine; Without stint or measure Cast upon a shrine.
XII.
Alice is an altar Flaming with my love, Where my prayers I falter As to heaven above.
XIII.
Kneeling low before her, livery pulse and breath Asks but to adore her, Faithful unto death.