I used to rush into strange dreams at night: dreams ... whereamidst unusual scenes ... I still againand again met Mr. Rochester;... and then thesense of being in his arms, hearing his voice, meetinghis eye, touching his hand and cheek, loving him, beingloved by him—the hope of passing a lifetime at his side,would be renewed, with all its first force and fire.
Gather ye rosebuds while ye may, Old Time is still a-flying: And this same flower that smiles to-day To-morrow will be dying.
The glorious Lamp of Heaven, the Sun, The higher he's a-getting, The sooner will his race be run, And nearer he's to setting.
That age is best which is the first, When youth and blood are warmer; But being spent, the worse, and worst Times still succeed the former.
Then be not coy, but use your time; And while ye may, go marry: For having lost but once your prime, You may for ever tarry.
ANTHEA—
Now is the time when all the lights wax dim, And thou, Anthea, must withdraw from him Who was thy servant. Dearest, bury me Under the holy-oak or gospel tree;... Or, for mine honour, lay me in that tomb In which thy sacred relics shall have room: For my embalming, sweetest, there will be No spices wanting when I'm laid by t