Classic Poem

In the first watch of the night,
One candle all my light,
I saw a Spirit near the door
Standing raised above the floor,
In the air he was, yet standing,
Feet placed flat as on some landing;
So I turned my elbowed chair.
He stood still there, —
Like tarnished silver, dark yet bright,
And edging his crisp hair,
His hands, — whatever parts were bare,
Except the soles of his firm feet,
Passed a line of phosphor light:
Then noiselessly I rose to greet
My visitor as it was meet;
I had no fears;
His lips moved not, yet answered he,
Nor did I hear him through the ears;
Ah, would I could
Repeat again his speech to Thee!
It satisfied and strengthened me,
It was Æolian too, I heard,
But yet I think he spoke no word.