Yes you desire a child—well this I know

And wish him all the things you see in me;

But out of wedlock, should we dare to sow

A precious life yet fatherless to be…

What will you tell him when he comes of age

And asks, “Where is he now? What is he like?

Does he not love me? What’s his Christian name?

Were we not worthy he should share our life?”

Such thoughts strike like an arrow to my heart,

And yours as well, if you but think a while;

Our selfish wants need here be set apart

Serving but ill where love must bless a child.

Hope writhes in pain sometimes on better choice;

What does love gain where reason has no voice?