Noon
He would have looked old enough for a grandfather in a few years , if I had gone on trying to realize the hope he expressed , that I would abstain from the performance of all household tasks . And I should have looked quite as old as he , I suspect , for I believe that the consciousness of neglected duties is one of the heaviest burdens which can be borne . '' 'T IS Morn : -- the sea breeze seems to bring Joy , health , and freshness on its wing ; Bright flowers , to me all strange and new , Are glittering in the early dew , And perfumes rise from every grove , As incense to the clouds that move Like spirits o'er yon welkin clear , -- _ But I am sad -- thou are not here ! _ 'T is Noon : -- a calm , unbroken sleep Is on the blue waves of the deep ; A soft haze , like a fairy dream , Is floating over wood and stream ; And many a broad magnolia flower , Within its shadowy woodland bower , Is gleaming like a lovely star , -- But I am sad -- _ thou art afar ! _ 'T is Eve : -- on earth the sunset skies Are painting their own Eden dyes ; The stars come down and trembling glow , Like blossoms in the waves below ; And like an unseen sprite , the breeze Seems lingering midst these orange trees , Breathing its music round the spot , -- But I am sad -- _ I see thee not ! _ 'T is Midnight : -- with a soothing spell The far-off tones of ocean swell -- Soft as a mother 's cadence mild , Low bending o'er her sleeping child ; And on each wandering breeze are heard The rich notes of the mocking bird , In many a wild and wondrous lay , -- But I am sad -- _ thou art away ! _ I sink in dreams : -- low , sweet , and clear , Thy own dear voice is in my ear : -- Around my cheek thy tresses twine -- Thy own loved hand is clasped in mine , Thy own soft lip to mine is pressed -- Thy head is pillowed on my breast ; Oh , I have all my heart holds dear , _ And I am happy -- thou art here !