Harriet Monroe

MY little one, sleep softly

Among the toys and flowers.

Sleep softly, O my first-born son,

Through all the long dark hours.

And if you waken far away

I shall be wandering too.

If far away you run and play

My heart must follow you.

Sleep softly, O my baby,

And smile down in your sleep.

Here are red rose-buds for your bed—

Smile, and I will not weep.

We made our pledge—you did not fear

To go—why then should I?

Though long you sleep, I shall be near;

So hush—we must not cry.

Sleep softly, dear one, softly—

They can not part us now;

Forever rest here on my breast,

My kiss upon your brow.

What though they hide a little grave

With dream-flowers false or true?

What difference? We will just be brave

Together—I and you.