HOW DO I LOVE THEE?

I love thee with a love whose faith,
Is changeless as the stars of the night.
My love is stronger far than death.
My love is pure as morning light.
I ask not if thou lovest me,
It is enough do me thou art;
The noblest, dearest, best to thee.
I yield the treasure of my heart.

Hold fast to dreams,
For if dreams die,
Life is a broken winged bird,
That cannot fly.
The long day waves, the slow moon climb:
The deep moon rounds with many voices
Come on my friends.

ALFRED FERNANDES
St. Thomas Mount, Chennai