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Lucian B. Watkins, "Only a Little Curl" (1908)

213
ONLY A LITTLE CURL 
WRITTEN FOR A LADY FRIEND 
While a Soldier on the U. S. A. Transport, "Logan” 
En Route to P. I. 

 
 Only a little curl of darkest hue!
Only these silken strands that are but few,
Cut from amid companions where they grew
     A woman's glory.
Bright glossy curl! dear little silken tress!
Fond memento! no king can e'er possess
A greater gift; nor ever words express
     A sweeter story.

Ah! I received thee from the faltering hand
Of one I knew in far and distant land,
When distant journey was the stern command
     To "boys in blue." 
Only a little curl, was my request —
"I know not whether it be wise or best."
She said, "but with this token may there rest
     A friendship true."

Published in Voices of Solitude 1907
Also published in McGirt's Magazine, January 1908

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  1. Lucian B. Watkins: Author Page (Biography and Links to Poems) Amardeep Singh