3. Two Pursuits

A voice said, ‘Follow, follow’: and I rose
   And followed far into the dreamy night,
   Turning my back upon the pleasant light.
It led me where the bluest water flows,
And would not let me drink: where the corn grows
   I dared not pause, but went uncheered by sight
   Or touch: until at length in evil plight
It left me, wearied out with many woes.
Some time I sat as one bereft of sense:
   But soon another voice from very far
      Called, ‘Follow, follow’: and I rose again.
   Now on my night has dawned a blessed star:
      Kind steady hands my singking steps sustain,
And will not leave me till I shall go hence.

Christina Rosetti

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