The Poetry Corner

Mary's Dream

By Louisa May Alcott

The moon had climbed the eastern hill Which rises o'er the sands of Dee, And from its highest summit shed A silver light on tower and tree, When Mary laid her down to sleep (Her thoughts on Sandy far at sea); When soft and low a voice was heard, Saying, 'Mary, weep no more for me.' She from her pillow gently raised Her head, to see who there might be, And saw young Sandy, shivering stand With visage pale and hollow e'e. 'Oh Mary dear, cold is my clay; It lies beneath the stormy sea; Far, far from thee, I sleep in death. Dear Mary, weep no more for me. 'Three stormy nights and stormy days We tossed upon the raging main. And long we strove our bark to save; But all our striving was in vain. E'en then, when terror chilled my blood, My heart was filled with love of thee. The storm is past, and I'm at rest; So, Mary, weep no more for me. 'Oh maiden dear, yourself prepare; We soon shall meet upon that shore Where love is free from doubt and care, And you and I shall part no more.' Loud crew the cock, the shadow fled; No more her Sandy did she see; But soft the passing spirit said, 'Sweet Mary, weep no more for me.'