(Part One published May 1962)

Gentle Sir

Part Two: Beloved

Beloved, when I see the precious wine

Of youth's gay madrigals carelessly spilled And no grape growing on the withered vine Wherewith the cup of old age may be filled:

I am persuaded that we hold our days too dearly. Passion is brief, so why should life be long? The songs of Love would echo much more clearly If each mad singer perished with his song!

I must explore the tender accident

Which brought me all unknowing to your eyes And found in them the answer and consent Awakening an exquisite surprise. Being uncompassed and adrift at seaAthirst for love and starving for its crustWith only gulls and gales for company, When suddenly I felt a forward thrust

That sped me to the shore. Debarking there, I saw you striding naked in the sun, Bright as a God and surely far more fair, As all the golden world about me spun. Quickly, before this magic memory slips Away, bend to me, bless me with your lips!

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