The nearest dream recedes unrealized

THE nearest dream recedes, unrealized.

      The heaven we chase

      Like the June bee

      Before the school-boy

      Invites the race;

      Stoops to an easy clover—

Dips—evades—teases—deploys;

      Then to the royal clouds

      Lifts his light pinnace

      Heedless of the boy

Staring, bewildered, at the mocking sky.

      Homesick for steadfast honey,

      Ah! the bee flies not

That brews that rare variety.