Classic Poem

In the crowded place
Proudly arrayed—
The look on her face
So little betrayed;
That I watched her passing,
But nothing was said.

In a quiet place
In hodden gray,
They sit at their ease,
Who were young one day!
Would you live and dare it,
Proud Maid, as they?

The loud laugh
Makes for loud crying
Sad the rose
Slow in its dying.
Better its blooms
In the swift wind flying!

In the crowded place
Proudly arrayed.
Would that you were now
In the cold earth laid!
As now, for ever
Be mine, Proud Maid.

And on forever,
If Fates allow
To see you just
As I see you now!
Full-bosomed Maid
With the snow-white brow!