Poems (Larcom)/Sleep-Song
SLEEP-SONG.
HUSH the homeless baby's crying, Tender Sleep! Every folded violet May the outer storm forget. Those wet lids with kisses drying, Through them creep.
Soothe the soul that lies thought-weary, Murmurous Sleep; Like a hidden brooklet's song, Rippling gorgeous woods among, Tinkling down the mountains dreary, White and steep.
Breathe thy balm upon the lonely, Gentle Sleep; As the twilight breezes bless With sweet scents the wilderness: Ah, let warm, white dove-wings only Round them sweep!
O'er the aged pour thy blessing, Holy Sleep; Like a soft and ripening rain, Falling on the yellow grain: For the glare of suns oppressing, Pitying weep!
On thy still seas met together, Charmed Sleep; Hear them swell a drowsy hymning, Swans to silvery music swimming, Floating with unruffled feather O'er the deep.