Had I a secret plan by which,
   In pressing a small button, I
Could wreck this world entire - would not
   That button, with a snake's bright eye,
Flutter my bird-like finger down,
   Till I, bewitched and uncontrolled,
Must press with sudden impulse, and -
   Good-bye, my pretty world!

If Dinah knew how great my love is,
   My worship of her small white face,
Which deserts of grim silence hide,
   And many a waste of commonplace -
Would she not serve me some mad trick,
   To test my passion's utmost power,
And break that silent world of love
   In one weak foolish hour?