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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


TO PRINCE ORIC (SIX YEARS OLD) by LOUISE CHANDLER MOULTON

Poet Analysis

First Line: DO YOU REMEMBER, CENTURIES GONE BY
Last Line: AND YOU? -- YOUR SMILE IS MY REWARD AGAIN.

DO you remember, centuries gone by,
When you were king, and I, your subject, came
To kiss your hand, and swell the loud acclaim
Wherewith the people greeted you, and cry --
"Long life, and love, and glory, O most high
And puissant lord"? The city was aflame
With torches; banners streamed; and knight and dame
Knelt at your feet -- you smiled your proud reply.

I think you do remember; for I caught
That same elusive smile upon your lips,
When ended was the centuries' eclipse,
And I, my sovereign found, my homage brought:
"Long life, and love, and glory, now as then!"
And you? -- your smile is my reward again.




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