* * *

I do not know which is the sweeter, your laughter or your
sadness. When you laugh you make me glad, but when you are sad
I want to share in your sadness and soothe it. I think I am
nearer to you in your sorrowful moods.

* * * * *

Today I met you by accident at the turn of the lane. Nothing
told me that you were coming--not even the wind, that should
have known. I was sad, and then all at once I saw you, and
wondered how I could have been sad. You walked past me with a
smile, as if you had tossed me a rose. I stood and watched you
out of sight. That meeting was the purple gift the day gave
me.

* * * * *

Today I tried to write a poem to you, Una, but I could not
find words fine enough, as a lover could find no raiment
dainty enough for his bride. The old words other men have used
in singing to their loves seemed too worn and common for you.
I wanted only new words, crystal clear or coloured only by the
iris of the light, not words that have been steeped and
stained with all the hues of other men's thoughts. So I burned
the verses that were so unworthy of you.

* * * * *

Una, some day you will love. You will watch for him; you will
blush at his coming, be sad at his going. Oh, I cannot think
of it!

* * * * *

Today I saw you when you did not see me. I was walking on the
shore, and as I came around a rock you were sitting on the
other side. I drew back a little and looked at you. Your hands
were clasped over your knees; your hat had fallen back, and
the sea wind was ruffling your hair. Your face was lifted to
the sky, your lips were parted, your eyes were full of light.
You seemed to be listening to something that made you happy. I
crept gently away, that I might not mar your dream. Of what
were you thinking, Una?

* * * * *

I must leave you soon. Sometimes I think I cannot bear it. Oh,
Una, how selfish it is of me to wish that you might love me!
Yet I do wish it, although I have nothing to offer you but a
great love and all my willing work of hand and brain. If you
loved me, I fear I should be weak enough to do you the wrong
of wooing you.