To Mary Helen

Temples to the Sky

I cannot build thee temples to the sky

Or palaces of gold and amethyst,

In timeless realms a greater destiny

Anoints thy flame-white soul by godhead kissed

And all my hanging sorrows are as nought

To that which in thee touched my growing days.

I witnessed thy heroic battle fought

Against the foe who on the body preys

And honour thee in flowers we have grown,

In gardens of exceeding loveliness

And know thee kindred spirit as my own,

No day shall pass without thy smile's impress.

Reveal immortal one the way of light,

My grief to joy transform, to dawn my night.