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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


DEAR LITTLE HAND by LEWIS MORRIS (1833-1907)

First Line: DEAR LITTLE HAND THAT CLASPS MY OWN
Last Line: DREAD MYSTICAL LIFE!
Subject(s): CHILDREN; CHILDHOOD;

DEAR little hand that clasps my own,
Embrowned with toil and seamed, with strife;
Pink little fingers not yet grown
To the poor strength of after-life, --
Dear little hand!

Dear little eyes which smile on mine
With the first peep of morning light;
Now April-wet with tears, or fine
With dews of pity, or laughing bright.
Dear little eyes!

Dear little voice, whose broken speech
All eloquent utterance can transcend;
Sweet childish wisdom strong to reach
A holier deep than love or friend:
Dear little voice!

Dear little life! my care to keep
From every spot and stain of sin;
Sweet soul foredoomed, for joy or pain,
To struggle and -- which? to fail or win?
Dread mystical life!



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