Page:Poems Blake.djvu/27

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THE TWO GUESTS.
Outside December's frozen gates
A blithe new-comer stands and waits;

While one, with gray beard on his chin,
Sits robed in pilgrim garb within.

One bright with hope and life's fresh grace,
With youth's glad sunshine on his face;

One grave and sad with sombre air,
Which knows the weight of grief and care.

One sadly waits, till time shall spell
The message of his mute farewell;

The other, friendly heart and hand
Shall hail with welcome through the land.

——

O Parting Guest! Pause yet awhile
And teach thy pallid lips to smile,