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1876–1944

XXIX

Helen Hay Whitney

The pattern of the earth, so wonderful, Is, more than myrtle, very dear to me. Across the avenue of limes I see A little mist by ghosts made magical,

Tossing across the hills, more beautiful Than the deep eyes of amber women, free Of shame and of disdain, on some far sea Swept by trade-winds the sun makes lyrical.

There is no air the mind may not recall, Blown from the violet-beds of Greece; and all The moons who drop their shattered petals here Live from the days which hid Semiramis.

Breezes upon my lips are subtly dear, Because they bear the burden of her kiss.

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XXIX · Helen Hay Whitney · Poetry Cove