"Let me clasp you awhile to my heart, little one."
A Baby's Birthday.
Let me clasp you awhile to my heart, little one; I will shelter you safe from all harm; I have longed for this, the rapturous bliss, Of a baby's encircling arms.
Let me think just a moment that she has come back— My own little baby that's dead; Let me close my eyes and smother the cries That would tell it is you instead.
Just a little while—you will ease my pain, As none but a baby can— For so did she, who tarried with me Just one year's meagre span.
Let me clasp you awhile to my heart, little one; I will brush the hot tears aside, And smile again, as I did on her— My own little darling who died.
