A night was near, a day was near;
         Between a day and night
I heard sweet voices calling clear,
                 Calling me:
I heard a whirr of wing on wing,
         But could not see the sight;
I long to see my birds that sing,--
                 I long to see.

Below the stars, beyond the moon,
         Between the night and day,
I heard a rising falling tune
                 Calling me:
I long to see the pipes and strings
         Whereon such minstrels play;
I long to see each face that sings,--
                 I long to see.

To-day or may be not to-day,
         To-night or not to-night;
All voices that command or pray,
                 Calling me,
Shall kindle in my soul such fire,
         And in my eyes such light,
That I shall see that heart's desire
                 I long to see.