Classic Poem

She told her pastor, for she lived alone
(The Ladies kept a blue-bronze vase of flowers
In his snug study at the church down-town
To brighten office-hours):

" We're much too poor to marry, Ted and me;
But one week-end — O God! Am I unclean? ... "
" Tell all , my child. " ... She told ... And (trembling) he
Mentioned the Magdalene.

" I have a daughter, dear; I understand. "
And, rising, a rose he clips:
" This for your golden hair. " ... He pressed her hand
And kissed her frightened lips.