The Poetry Corner

To R. L. S. - A Child

By William Ernest Henley

A child, Curious and innocent, Slips from his Nurse, and rejoicing Loses himself in the Fair. Thro' the jostle and din Wandering, he revels, Dreaming, desiring, possessing; Till, of a sudden Tired and afraid, he beholds The sordid assemblage Just as it is; and he runs With a sob to his Nurse (Lighting at last on him), And in her motherly bosom Cries him to sleep. Thus thro' the World, Seeing and feeling and knowing, Goes Man:till at last, Tired of experience, he turns To the friendly and comforting breast Of the old nurse, Death. 1876