Love Commands

Why do I choose the path she walks,

     When twilight steals upon the dying day?

Ah, well, love knows and love commands,

     I cannot keep away.

Why do I guard her cottage fair

     At night? Pass and repass till day?

Ah, well, love knows and love commands,

     I cannot keep away.

How will it end. God only knows,

     Love but commands, and I obey;

‘Tis vain, I know – I know – but I –

     I cannot keep away!

August 29, 1895

Pub. in The

Camb. Chronicle,

  Jan. 18, ‘96