***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 candlelight. 
   I love thee freely, as men strive for Right; 
   I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise. 

   I love thee with the passion put to use
   In my old griefs, and with my childhood's 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. ***