Underwoods

To Minnie

(With a hand-glass)

A picture-frame for you to fill,

A paltry setting for your face,

A thing that has no worth until

You lend it something of your grace

I send (unhappy I that sing

Laid by awhile upon the shelf)

Because I would not send a thing

Less charming than you are yourself.

And happier than I, alas!

(Dumb thing, I envy its delight)

'Twill wish you well, the looking-glass,

And look you in the face to-night.

1869.