How do i love thee?  Let me count the ways.

I love thee to the depth and breadth and height 

My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight

For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.

I love thee to the level of everyday's 

Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light

I love thee freely, as men strive for Right

I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.

I love thee with a passion put to use

In my old griefs, and with my childhood faith.

I love thee with a love i seemed to lose

With my lost saints, --- i love thee with the breath,

Smiles, tears of all my life, --- and if God choose

I shall but love thee better after death.