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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


CECILE: 1 by ROBERT UNDERWOOD JOHNSON

First Line: WHAT DO I SEE IN CECILE'S EYES
Last Line: THAT LOVE AND DUTY ARE BUT ONE.

WHAT do I see in Cecile's eyes
More than the first divine surprise?
The olden dignity of Spain
Made gentle by remembered pain;
The mountain-courage of Savoy;
Rich vintage of Italian joy;
The poised serenity of France,
Gift of a high inheritance;
And, best of all, -- from what deep spring? --
Such sympathy with suffering
As takes from sorrow half the sting.

Surely to these soft eyes 'twas given
To bring authentic word from Heaven --
For thus their sweet suggestions run:
That Love and Duty are but one.



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