A hope Carol

A night was near, a day was near;

Between a day and night

I heard sweet voices calling clear,

Calling me:

I heard a whirr of wing on wing,

But could not see the sight;

I long to see my birds that sing,--

I long to see.

Below the stars, beyond the moon,

Between the night and day,

I heard a rising falling tune

Calling me:

I long to see the pipes and strings

Whereon such minstrels play;

I long to see each face that sings,--

I long to see.

To-day or may be not to-day,

To-night or not to-night;

All voices that command or pray,

Calling me,

Shall kindle in my soul such fire,

And in my eyes such light,

That I shall see that heart's desire

I long to see.