Classic Poem

I WOULD I were an Amulet,
Possessed of some strange charm
Against all ill, that might beset
Thy soul to bring thee harm.

For then close-pressed, to thy sweet breast,
Throughout the live-long day;
I should be blest, in peaceful rest,
Close to thy heart, alway.

And through the night, no dream should fright
The moist embrace of sleep;
No cloud should blight, thy bosom white,
Such vigil I would keep.

And I should grow, at last, to know,
That I was dear to thee,
In love's pure glow, thy breasts of snow
Would meet, and cover me.

And when at last, the touch of death
Should softly close thine eyes,
There would I soothe thy latest breath
And mourn thy parting sighs.

And I, because thou held'st me dear,
Still on thy breast would stay,
And in thy grave, forever near,
Would guard thy sacred clay.