In the early hours of dawn,
When the lamps begin to flicker
In the strange grey light,
When pain reaches a peak,
When the pulse becomes faint
And every breath is laboured,
When warmth gives way to cold
And the body begins to cry,
When pallor spreads on the face
And the brow begins to glisten,
When flesh quivers in protest
And the soul is impatient,
When supporting arms fall loose
And faces appear blurred,
Then —
Then clear and definite,
I see that lost face once more.
Lips part in a smile,
My arms lift in joy
And I am embraced.