LATE AT NIGHT DURING A VISIT OF FRIENDS

I

We spent all day fishing and talking.

At last, late at night, I sit at my desk alone,

And rise and walk out in the summery night.

A dark thing hopped near me in the grass.

II

The trees were breathing, the windmill slowly pumped.

Over head the rain clouds that rained on Ortonville

Covered half the stars.

The air was still cool from their rain.

III

It is very late.

I am the only one awake.

Men and women I love are sleeping nearby.

IV

The human face shines as it speaks of things

Near itself, thoughts full of dreams.

The human face shines like a dark sky

As it speaks of those things that oppress the living.