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

By MargaretDeland

1294 Love’s Wisdom

HOW long I ’ve loved thee, and how well—

I dare not tell!

Because, if thou shouldst once divine

This love of mine,

Or did but once my tongue confess

My heart’s distress,

Far, far too plainly thou wouldst see

My slavery,

And, guessing what Love’s wit should hide,

Rest satisfied!

So, though I worship at thy feet,

I ’ll be discreet—

And all my love shall not be told,

Lest thou be cold,

And, knowing I was always thine,

Scorn to be mine.

So am I dumb, to rescue thee

From tyranny—

And, by my silence, I do prove

Wisdom and Love!