The Poetry Corner

The Disciples

By Theodosia Garrison

A great king made a feast for Love, And golden was the board and gold The hundred, wondrous gauds thereof; Soft lights like roses fell above Rare dishes exquisite and fine; In jeweled goblets shone the wine-- A great king made a feast for Love. Yet Love as gladly and full-fed hath fared Upon a broken crust that two have shared; And from scant wine as glorious dreams drawn up Seeing two lovers kissed above the cup. A great king made for Love's delight A temple wonderful wherein Served jeweled priest and acolyte; There fell no darkness day or night Since there his highest altar shone With flaming gems as some white sun, A temple made for Love's delight. Yet Love hath found a temple as complete In some bare attic where two lovers meet; And made his altar by one candle's flame Seeing two lovers burned it in his name.