To Edith [Bertrand Russell]

TO Edith

Through the long years

I sought peace.

I found ecstasy, I found anguish,

I found madness,

I found loneliness,

I found the solitary pain

that gnaws the heart,

But peace I did not find.

Now, old and near my end,

I have known you,

And, knowing you,

I have found both ecstasy and peace.

I know rest.

After so many lonely years,

I know what life and love may be.

Now, if I sleep,

I shall sleep fulfilled.