Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). A Victorian Anthology, 1837–1895. 1895.
Thomas Hood 17991845Ruth
Hood-ThoS
Clasp’d by the golden light of morn,
Like the sweetheart of the sun,
Who many a glowing kiss had won.
Deeply ripen’d;—such a blush
In the midst of brown was born,
Like red poppies grown with corn.
Which were blackest none could tell,
But long lashes veil’d a light
That had else been all too bright.
Made her tressy forehead dim;
Thus she stood amid the stooks,
Praising God with sweetest looks:
Where I reap thou shouldst but glean,
Lay thy sheaf adown and come,
Share my harvest and my home.