A Houyhnhnm's Scrapbook/Number 1/The Skeleton

It happened as I had known.
When she came in, the lock
Turned soundlessly. She did not see
Me stand by the oaken clock.

Were I alive I know
No bone alone could move.
Alive, my grin would not be so
Much grimmer than my love.

I stepped toward Annette,
Ankle and hip joint creaking.
Arms pleading, I was not prepared
For the terror of her shrieking.

Cold bones can do no harm.
Why should she be distressed
To have me press my breathless bones
Against her breathing breast?

The heart of me is gone.
The warmth inside the marrow
May linger till the clock strike one
But will be gone tomorrow.