The Barrier

I must not gaze at them although  Your eyes are dawning day;

I must not watch you as you go  Your sun-illumined way;

I hear but I must never heed  The fascinating note,

Which, fluting like a river reed,  Comes from your trembing throat;

I must not see upon your face  Love's softly glowing spark;

For there's the barrier of race,  You're fair and I am dark.