"Desire of Sleep" by Edward R. Sill (1841-1887)

It is not death I mean,
Nor even forgetfulness,
But beautiful human sleep,
Dreamless, and still, and deep,
Where I would hide and glean
Some heavenly balm to bless.

I would not die; I long
To live, to see my days
Bud once again, and bloom,
And make amidst them room
For thoughts like birds of song,
Out-winging happy ways.

I would not even forget:
Only, a little while--
Just now--I cannot bear
Remembrance with despair;
The years are coming yet
When I shall look, and smile.

Not now--oh, not to-night!
Too clear on midnight's deep
Come voice and hand and touch;
The heart aches overmuch--
Hush sounds! shut out the light!
A little I must sleep.