Christina Rossetti, selected poems Contents
- Author(s)
To Lalla, reading my verses topsy turvy
Darling little Cousin,
With your thoughtful look
Reading topsy-turvy
From a printed book
English hieroglyphics,
More mysterious
To you than Egyptian
Ones would be to us;
Leave off for a minute
Studying, and say
What is the impression
That those marks convey.
Only solemn silence
And a wondering smile:
But your eyes are lifted
Unto mine the while.
In their gaze so steady
I can surely trace
That a happy spirit
Lighteth up your face;
Tender happy spirit,
Innocent and pure,
Teaching more than science
And than learning more.
How should I give answer
To that asking look?
Darling little Cousin,
Go back to your book.
Read on: if you knew it,
You have cause to boast:
You are much the wiser
Though I know the most.
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