New York Nocturnes, and Other Poems — In the Solitude of the City

Night; and the sound of voices in the street.

Night; and the happy laughter where they meet, The glad boy lover and the trysting girl.

But thou--but thou--I cannot find thee, Sweet!

Night; and far off the lighted pavements roar.

Night; and the dark of sorrow keeps my door.

I reach my hand out trembling in the dark.

Thy hand comes not with comfort any more.

O Silent, Unresponding!

If these fears Lie not, nor other wisdom come with years, No day shall dawn for me without regret, No night go uncompanioned by my tears.