The Recall

The night was dark when she went away, and they slept.

The night is dark now, and I call for her,
"Come back, my darling; the world is asleep,
 and no one would know if you came for a moment
 while stars are gazing at stars."

She went away when the trees were in bud
and the spring was young.

Now the flowers are in high bloom and I call,
"Come back, my darling. The children gather 
 and scatter flowers in reckless sport.
 And if you come and take the little blossom
 no one will miss it."

Those that used to play are playing still,
so spendthrift is life.

I listen to their chatter and call,
"Come back, my darling, for mother's heart
 is full to the brim with love,
 and if you come to snatch only one little
 kiss from her no one will grudge it."