Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). A Victorian Anthology, 1837–1895. 1895.

Selwyn Image b. c.1850

Her Confirmation

WHEN my Clorinda walks in white

Unto her Confirmation Rite,

What sinless dove can show to heaven

A purer sight?

Beneath a lawn, translucent crown

Her lovely curls conceal their brown;

Her wanton eyes are fastened, even,

Demurely down.

And that delicious mouth of rose

No words, no smile, may discompose:

All of her feels the approaching awe,

And silent grows.

Come, then, Thou noiseless Spirit, and rest

Here, where she waits Thee for her Guest:

Pass not, but sweetly onward draw,

Till heaven’s possessed!