And So Did I

Before the fire, that winter's night

   None seemed so sweet as she,

With winning smile, and dark eyes bright,

   And playful repartee.

The dancing light - as round it flashed -

   To her seemed drawing nigh,

Her slender waist pressed unabashed;

   Thus guided, so did I.

It softly touched her cheeks aflame.

   I scarce repressed a sigh.

It touched her lips. Dared I the same?

   Too tempting; so did I.

Her ruby lips, half pouting, seemed

   My boldness to decry.

Pa's step was heard. The flame scarce gleamed,

   Went out - and so did I.

Isaac Joslyn Cox

Index to poems in the collection by Isaac Joslyn Cox