Classic Poem

I hear upon the chamber-stair
Her footsteps light,
Falling like music on the air
At morn and night.

And oft upon the parlor-floor
Ingrained with flowers
I hear the step I've heard before
In happier hours;

And, in the chair that's vacant now,
Oft think I see
The sainted one with radiant brow
Who visits me.

Yet when I rise, and turn to greet
That angel fair,
She disappears, with smile that's sweet,
Upon the air.

And yet her footsteps oft I hear
At morn and eve;
And in her whispers, seeming near,
I still believe,

Nor yield the faith I've cherished long,
Heartfelt and true,
But, with a hope that still grows strong,
My faith renew.

In woman's smile, in woman's tear,
And heart when given,
Star-like there glows a love sincere
That's born of heaven.