To Aurelia, with a pearl necklace

Aurelia, think not to refuse

Or scorn my gift, although

These jewels must their lustre lose

Upon thy neck of snow.

But, if thine eyes should glance aside

And deign to mark their shine,

Deem them as emblems of the pride

That fills this heart of mine.

And if, for mine unworthy sake,

The pearls neglected be,

Still keep them; and the bauble make

Into a rosary.

And when, perchance, desiring grace,

In prayer thy spirit pleads,

String thou thy kisses in their place

And I will tell the beads.