In Bondage

Philip Bourke Marston

1850 to 1887

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Oh, I have waited long for you, my sweet, 
In these cold dungeons far from light or day; 
And wondered if your eyes were blue or gray, 
And how your face would look, my face to meet. 
Yet his stern vengeance cannot be complete. 
Who holds me here as pris'ner in his sway; 
And, as a panther lurks about his prey. 
Lurks he about us now, with noiseless feet. 

Oh, kiss me once upon the lips, and bow 
The solemn beauty of your face to mine; 
Laugh as you laughed of old; but why turn pale, 
And why does such sweet, rising music fail? 
Ah, he hath fill'd the cup to overflow, 
And I must drink your tears for my last wine.