Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). An American Anthology, 1787–1900. 1900.

By George ParsonsLathrop

1067 South-Wind

SOFT-THROATED South, breathing of summer’s ease

(Sweet breath, whereof the violet ’s life is made!)

Through lips moist-warm, as thou hadst lately stayed

’Mong rosebuds, wooing to the cheeks of these

Loth blushes faint and maidenly,—rich breeze,

Still doth thy honeyed blowing bring a shade

Of sad foreboding. In thy hand is laid

The power to build or blight the fruit of trees,

The deep, cool grass, and field of thick-combed grain.

Even so my Love may bring me joy or woe,

Both measureless, but either counted gain

Since given by her. For pain and pleasure flow

Like tides upon us of the selfsame sea:

Tears are the gems of joy and misery.