Dread

DREAD

Scarlet, ruinous roses,

Unfolding under the sea . . .

Though far in the deep, and slow of growth,

They call to me, call to me.

Day-long I serve my father's need;

I do the housework duly;

Dusk . . . nor the idle stars I heed;

I say my night-prayers, truly.

Scarlet, poisonous roses,

Unfolded under the sea . . .

Far off, slow, and of tangled growth,

They call to me, cling to me.