Classic Poem

I ENVY every flower that blows
Beside the pathway where she goes,
———And every bird that sings to her,
———And every breeze that brings to her
The fragrance of the rose.

I envy every poet's rhyme
That moves her heart at eventime,
———And every tree that wears for her
———Its brightest bloom, and bears for her
The fruitage of its prime.

I envy every Southern night
That paves her path with moonbeams white,
———And silvers all the leaves for her,
———And in their shadow weaves for her
A dream of dear delight.

I envy none whose love requires
Of her a gift, a task that tires:
———I only long to live to her,
———I only ask to give to her
All that her heart desires.