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1874–1950

PROTESTATIONS

Arthur Stringer

If I tire of you, beautiful woman, I know that the fault is mine; Yet not all mine the failure And not all mine the loss!

In loveliness still you walk; But I have walked with sorrow! I have threaded narrows, And I have passed through perils

That you know nothing of! And I in my grief have gazed In eyes that were not yours; And my emptier hours have known

The sigh of kindlier bosoms, The kiss of kindlier mouths! Yet the end of all is written, And nothing, O rose-leaf woman,

You ever may dream or do Henceforth can bring me anguish Or crown my days with joy! Three tears, O stately woman,

You said could float your soul, So little a thing it seemed! Yet all that's left of life I'd give to know your love,

I'd give to show my love, And feel your kiss again!

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PROTESTATIONS · Arthur Stringer · Poetry Cove