Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). A Victorian Anthology, 1837–1895. 1895.

Thomas Ashe 1836–89

Marian

PASSING feet pause, as they pass,

By this little slab of slate.

People, if they go this way,

By the linchen’d wicket gate,

At each other look and say,

“Pity, pity! sad it was!”

Here have fallen as many tears

As the months in her short years.

Seven and ten brief sunny springs;

Scarce so many winter snows:

Here the little speedwell keeps

Watch beside the pale dog-rose;

On this hillock, while she sleeps

Underneath, the red-breast sings.

Wedded on an April day!

In the Autumn laid away!