A Lover's Diary

The Nest

High as the eagle builds his lonely nest

Above the sea, above the paths of man,

And makes the elements his barbican,

That none may break the mother-eagle's rest;

So build I far above all human eyes

My nest of love; Heaven's face alone bends down

To give it sunlight, starlight; while is blown

A wind upon it out of Paradise.

None shall affright, no harm may come to her,

Whom I have set there in that lofty home:

Love's eye is sleepless; I could feel the stir

E'en of God's cohorts, if they chanced to come.

I am her shield; I would that I might prove

How dear I hold the lady of my love.