He told a homely tale

All crumpled was the cheek

No other kiss had known

Than flake of snow, divided with

The Redbreast of the Barn —

If Mother — in the Grave —

Or Father — on the Sea —

Or Father in the Firmament —

Or Brethren, had he —

If Commonwealth below,

Or Commonwealth above

Have missed a Barefoot Citizen —

I've ransomed it — alive —