"Let me clasp you awhile to my heart, little one."
A Baby's Birthday.
Let me clasp you awhile to my heart, little one;I will shelter you safe from all harm;I have longed for this, the rapturous bliss,Of a baby's encircling arms.
Let me think just a moment that she has come back—My own little baby that's dead;Let me close my eyes and smother the criesThat would tell it is you instead.
Just a little while—you will ease my pain,As none but a baby can—For so did she, who tarried with meJust one year's meagre span.
Let me clasp you awhile to my heart, little one;I will brush the hot tears aside,And smile again, as I did on her—My own little darling who died.