Poems (Hooper)/In Vain
For works with similar titles, see In Vain.
IN VAIN.
Clasp closer arms, press closer lips, In last and vain caressing!For nevermore that pallid cheek Will crimson 'neath your pressing.For these vain words and vainer tears She waited yester-even;She waits you now—but in the far Resplendent halls of heaven.
With patient eyes fixed on the door, She waited, hoping ever,Till Death's dark wall rose cold between Her gaze and you forever.She heard your footsteps in the breeze, And in the wild bee's humming:The last breath that she shaped to words Said softly, "Is he coming?"
Now silenced lies the gentlest heart That ever sod did cover; Safe—never to be wrung again By you, O fickle lover!Your wrongs to her knew never end Till earth's last bonds were riven;Your memory rose cold between Her parting soul and heaven.
Now vain your false and tardy grief; Vain your remorseful weeping;For she, whom only you deceived, Lies hushed in dreamless sleeping.Go—not beside that peaceful form Should lying words be spoken!Go, pray to God, "Be merciful As she whose heart I've broken!"