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1865–1940

XI

Laurence Alma-Tadema

Without, you seem forgotten. Am I sad Or happy? None can tell. The lonely days Recur, and draw me on the beaten ways Of all who strive and toil. The things I had

Remain; all daily happenings, good or bad, Fall as they did: success and loss, delays That sweeten victory: the balance sways Unceasingly, makes heavy, or makes glad.

And this is life, such as the world demands. Within,‘ tis otherwise; for in the far Depths where my soul recoiled sits, there are No echoes of such wisdom; there my hands

Are folded, and in yours: I seek your eyes, Your voice, your smile.... Within,‘ tis otherwise.

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XI · Laurence Alma-Tadema · Poetry Cove