CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY The Charles and Mary Collection From An Annon^rmous Donor 3 1924 031 321 494 The original of tliis bool< is in tine Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924031321494 THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON (AND OTHER POEMS) DEDICATED TO THE NATIONAL SOCIETY, DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. BY LILLIAN ROZELL MESSENGER Author of "Fragments from an Old Inn," "The Vision of Gold," "Columbus," "The Southern Cross," Etc. I^tchmond, Va. The Hermitage Press, Inc. 1906 COPYRIGHT BY LILLIAN ROZELL MESSENGER 1906 CONTENTS. The Heboine of the Hudson 9 The Time Needs Heart 25 Love in Seabch of a Wobd 26 Chaunt of Amebica 27 The One Day 29 The Augonauts 30 Oblivion 36 The Haunted Bow^ee 37 Tbue Kinship 38 TiEED 39 The Poet Chattebton 40 The Poet's Shoet-Comings 41 The Mistletoe 43 BntD OF THE Lonely Lake 44 Love's Loss and Gain 46 Aposteophe to Niagaea 47 Maey Louise Pebouson 48 Count de La Salle: Exploeee of the West 49 Do You Heae Them? 54 Whithbe? 56 A Floweb feom Goat-Isi,and, Niagaba 58 Mount of the Holy Ceoss: Coloeado 61 Unanswered 81 Obit: Fitzhugh Lee 82 In Silence ..,.,. 83 'Poesy, bhzon'd on heaven's immorta.t noon, teads generations on." THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON. (Dedicated to The National D. A. R.) In that mysterious, nameless realm — and half misty night, and day — The great god Thor went forth well pleased of all that smote his sight. Strange murmurs of an Echo-world wing'd music all the way. "What means this wondrous softness, new, That hath no part with might — With power of mine?" he uttered, grave, "'and yonder radiant bow — It seems half sun, half moon, just born!" — Swift front the glowing deep Stole the Water-Spirit, Queen, and plead the great One to bestow A boon to her forever, — one whose glory mortals reap. "And whence, and what wouldst thou, O Queen, and Wanderer from the skies?" "I, — risen from the vast cloud-world, implore thee, Thor divine. Strike once with thy huge Scepter, Paths where mountain summits rise. Then ! my Kingdom (broadest rivers) as thine azure heavens shine, And clasp the seas and wed them !" And, quickly veiled in rainbow-arch. Queen and Water-spirits vanish'd, and the River's way was born: 10 THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON For Thor so willed. And soon adown the stream's wild, wayward march, Rose her retinue, the beautiful, all spirits of mist and morn. And in her leash, led silently, the mist-Queen, scarcely seen, (The grey old Storm-King, — in his belt the arrows of doom conceal'd,) While from ethereal, bubbles gold, On sea-waves, azure-green She scattered sunbeams fitfully, o'er ocean's shining field. Or pearl, or ruby-golden, oft bewitching human eyes. Sprites, and sirens of all upper air. 'Twas thus the River came Majestic, grand, long-born of Time; its advent darkling vies With knowledge vain; it sped by mount, and vale, as wild blue flame. Left Crags, and e'en Niagara, in gloom, and nature's world In God's lone silences sublime, for pathways to the seas, — For sake of men, and larger life, and, where would be unfurl'd, A newer Dawn for nations, and for Truth, and Liberty : — When that great soul, brave Hudson should come forth to this unknown. And give it name, and history, do God's will, and com- mand THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON II High altars built to Freedom's cause; to America its throne, — While sings the river beautiful, his name to sea and land: It boasts no ruin'd grandeur, ancient castles, old Ro- mance, And moonlight of old mem'ries, like dim auras of misty-gold. That veil their desolation, giants slain, — lost murder'd clans. Where a dead Past leaves its trailing, or superstition its fold. But, here, the apotheosis of Time's immortal Dream For mankind's lofty destiny as a vision risen fair — As dawn o'er summer oceans, and afloat upon the stream Are forms of light, of beauty, chimes of glory every- where ! While the phantom of the Red man passeth back to shadow-vales ; And the standard of a newer race unfurls on every height. For, Commerce, Valor, Wisdom, — The Christ-love that never fails. Built home, and town and city, clove forests of iron might. They were heroes, and their mothers, in our new world's wilderness ; They loved this River Beautiful, by lowly homes, and great. 12 THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON And Freedom's stronger towers; for true liberty must bless Her Columbia, her first-born, and this her sun-ward gate! From the white hand of the goddess seemed to fall each wave, and turn To music caught in splendor, past the isles and valleys wild : — Famous men (when Revolution's red'ning fires began to burn) Mighty heroes, bore, here, banners for their country, undefiled. When war's clarion called the people, struck the home, and rived the shore. It smote no sweeter home-place, than Abner Lea's, whose sturdy name Was feared or loved by noblest souls That by Freedom's fiat swore. His country and his daughter loved he more than life and fame. "Echo-fell" his home majestic, like a jewel set in stone, Down Avoca-vale, grew darken'd when the wife, the mother died; Left her fair child Ada Lea, and unto womanhood just grown. Father, sister, this child's idols were; and the river, flowing wide THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON 13 Toward their gates, had been companion where she played, in golden years, With tender loving hearts: — to her, the soul of Nature dear : — Her simple life, as spring-tide morn, untouched by cloud or tears. As a rose, was beauty-woven, full of sunlight trembling near. Yet by legend, song, and story, Abner Lea had early school'd Her heart in faiths heroic, unto truth and wisdom's law, The bed rock of his being— in the faiths his people ruled. And listening daily, yearly, much she heard retold, in awe. How the "Half- Moon" brought brave Hudson ; how the Red men loved the vale. The vasty hills and River, with its isles of Paradise . Loved into life by music! Oftener would her young cheek pale At the tones of war's dread thunder. Where the solemn Catskills rise. She wander'd with her father, chased the deer and wilder game. Rode in forests, hidden by-ways, caught the meshes of the storm. From early morn, to noon, or when the ruddy west, like flame, Touch'd her darker-golden tresses. 'Twas thus her lis- some form 14 THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON Had its Greek-like grace and beauty. Of many suitors she would none — That pure high soul devoted. "Nay, for father I but live" Would she say unto each lover, with war's thunders rushing on. "Unto home, and country, duty, all my life I now shall give." Many homely lessons, truly Ada learned in gentle awe Of "Jan Dobs," and wife, the lowly, as from higher tutors wise, And of "Sleepy Hollow's" wardens; tho' her spirit- vision saw Far beyond their duller seeing, far beyond their veiled eyes. When over Storm-King mountain, up Modena Valley spread. Up the glens where blue field-flowers, in barren acres lonely grew (Like azure clouds just broken), came war's rolling tempests dread. Grim thunders of the battles that red Revolution drew. Ada trembling whispered : "Father ! gird thy sword, nor fear for me. "I've beheld in Dream the grandeur that awaits our soldiers great, "Led by Washington, and Hamilton, and Greene, for Liberty — "These, draw the sword 'gainst tyranny, for, that eter- nal fate. THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON 15 "Decreed of Him, for Freedom, and man's higher life. I read "As plainly as the stars that dip yon silvery waves of night "And crown our hills : for many moons, our people's hearts shall bleed, "But o'er gloomy tides of battle, ever burns the Star of Right ! "Two mighty men have risen as God's seers above this hour. "With prophetic voice and vision now they bid Columbia rise "As the star born of the ages — ^yea, and in their godly power, "These, Washington and Hamilton, of lofty soul and wise, — "As one orb shines refulgent, o'er the darkness of this world, "While our flag for human freedom, through their glory- deed's unfurled." 'Twas so she spoke with tear for tear, while the steely mystic hand Of war yet gently drew him — slowly drew him, from her gaze ! All the meadows, and the highlands, All the lovely Hudson-land, Seemed to claim him, with her soul, and vanish out in purple haze. l6 THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON PART II. Many weary moons she wandered, sighing for a father's love, And a mother's fond caressing, — other love was yet to be. Oft o'er fields and mossy ledges, 'neath gold beeches would she rove. With sister, or companions. Came a day alone and free. She would seek the hill and river-side; while sorrow stirred anew Fiercer longings of her spirit Deeper yearnings undefined: — A maiden-heart's sweet mystery, who e'er yet its mean- ing knew? The fires that light ambitions, hopes, and passions of the mind? Called the wood-bine flowers unto her with a voice like unto rhyme — The rose's crimson heart but glow'd to answer her own heart ! Sang the tender song birds, calling, "hurry forth, for I am thine!" And new dawning of her spirit was of Nature now a part. "I'll see Jan Dobs," said Ada ; "we'll go to Raven-Pass, and e'en To Eagle- Pass, for haply father's troops go there today." THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON 17 None knew of soldiers lurking, nor of robber dens un- seen. As she pass'd with fawn-step lightly to "The Rocks," but, little way From "Echo-fell," as clouds grew dark, she turned to go and lo! Two forms approach in soldier guise : "Be ye the Britons dread ? Protect me while, " But ere she paused, she fell be- neath one's blow. A manly form sprang swiftly near. "Back ! back ! ye beasts !" he said — Like cavalier drew sword and smote — his heel upon the dead." To her: "Guide me, fair one, and I will lead you from this wood; No maiden here must wander !" — "But, sir, these are our lands, our own ! Said Ada with some anger-heat, albeit the angelhood Of her sweet soul flash'd from her eyes, till light about them shone. The while his manly grace superb betrayed his noble race — The soldier courage of great sires ; but no warrior's garb was his : The fiery mind, deep passion, will, lit up that classic face, She quickly read. He whisper'd low,— "What angel may be this?" l8 THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON While they passed in sun and shadow, to her home he feign'd to leave. "Nay, not so," she spake out gently, "bread and wine you must receive!" Spake the sister, "Sir, good welcome! you saved from more than death; Now share our cup and board," she said ; and their hall shone fair that night. "What is your clime? No soldier garb you wear," next Ada saith — "But what, or whence, you are love's guest, and lord, — by holy right !" And he, a-dream, in magic trance, of all he heard, grew still In chastest awe, as one who turns in dreams to find and feel The loving hand unreached — "Your eyes, yourself, make slave my will !" He spake, while eyes of splendor-light did his true soul reveal. "But I must gain the Eagle-Pass ere night, and tomor- row's eve, At set of sun, I hasten here, by your most gracious leave ; This home is surely heavenly gate and guarded by this stream. The. noble River Beautiful, all fairer than any dream.'' Thence he passed, like star of even, waning o'er the rosy deep Of summer dusk, where Music's kiss wakes Silence from her sleep. THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON Ip Ada mused, nor slept; she ne'er beheld her ideal dream before Shrined in such form! "Ah, whence was he? What knight in fair disguise? "Is this some vision drifting far from shadow-realms just o'er The orient's purpling ocean, with its midnight in his eyes? [The dawn of deathless passion, lit her eyes and cheeks all pale,] Did he haunt the grove of muses, in some saintly Grecian isle?" Thought this maiden, while the lightnings of new feel- ings rent the veil Of the holy virgin altars hidden in her soul. Meanwhile, The stranger-hero came, each morn, in days that threw their spell Of magic o'er his heart enthralled ; and now new worlds he saw — A marvel-realm around him fair, and one within, — "Ah, well !— "Should I tell her yet my country, birth, my love?" he sighed in awe. "You ne'er were poltroon, coward, Carlton Grey,'' to himself he said ; "She is my world forever, tho' earth, and sea, were dumb and dead! "What care I now for war-fields? — I will go, will tell her all. "If she loves me madly, truly, for she holds my soul in thrall, 20 THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON "She shall fly with me to sun-lands, where beauty, love and music dwell, "In that fragrant clime unfading, as the pearl within its shell. "Will she scorn me, this proud beauty, when she knows I draw the spear Against her land and kindred? Aye, her heart I first shall gain ! No more I'll wear this armor, and her sweet presence near; The sword I'll draw throughout all time, to shield her life from pain." ********* When morning birds, and skylark, flung out melodies on high. Or when dewy, rosy evening stole from whisp'ring leaf to star. Crept the Hudson, on its bosom broken heavens pass- ing by, Glowing roses of the sunset, jewels from its amber- b'ar, Far off white bridal tangled veils Of water sprites were tost. O'er mossy rocks, and ledges, half in gold-green shadows lost, Carlton Grey and Ada, wandered by the water's violet rim. In converse low, and musical ; caught in the rythmic hymn Of love, Love singeth once, for high immortal souls, to prove They reign, or fall, by golden laws, that skies and planets JEOve. THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON 21 Her passionate young spirit soared aloft on ardent wing Of imagination glowing, and on luminous warm tides Of enthusiasm beautiful, caught up by faiths that bring Faery lights, and tossing down-balls of Dream, that deftly glides. From star to star; for, the glory of her creed in which to live — In her inmost soul was written — that true living is to give. Th' lover begged her for heart-answer to his vows and pleadings true. "All my soul is yours," she whispered ; and he : "You're mine eternally: There is no fame, no crown for me, no heaven that thrones not you, O' pure heart, beautiful ! your love will my existence be, And on the highest height will place my lonely spirit, where Peace-Angels and eternal love of mine shall crown you fair! "O, fly with me, beloved ! flee this land with carnage rife. I leave my army, country, and for any land or sea. For England, or for Italy, and you for my soul's wife, My star of life !" He clasped her strong in love's inten- sity. Yet pleading wildly, madly, while her breaking heart spake low, — "You were my love, my very soul, ere ever I could know 3.2, THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON You came with alien armies of the Old Land to enslave M.y idol, my own country — now Freedom's temple or its grave. "But go, my brave and beautiful — my father ne'er could see His child so wed and live" — "Nay, nay, our country shall be one !" Then she again : "My heart I'll crush ; love's bliss or misery — "Can die! But father, country leave? That were a life undone ! "Claim other flag than yonder stars? Leave my Hudson- land forever? "Disown his cause? (alas! for love!) dishonor home — ah, never ! "Oft a vision looms before me — on my brain it burns ! it burns ! I see new nations, peoples, rising from grey, fiery plains Of Sanguine war — ^the New World proud, — queenly face of glory turns To East-Kings, fading slowly 1 On the highest tower reigns A beauteous one, and in her grasp, great mystic banner new — It waves o'er all its symbol strange of stars and heav'nly blue !" Here the tempest of her feelings broke her calm, as storms will break Some early morn of summer ; while yet deeper thunder- moans THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON 23 Of battle follow nearer — bolts of terror in its wake. Carlton Grey in anguish whisper'd: "See, my life, my life atones "For the holy love I bear you — for your truth and love for me ! "They seek my death, averring, I am a traitor to their cause, "To find love's shrine and worship, and not smite down heresy, "And fight against this Freedom, spoiling Britain's an- cient laws — "Yet naught but death shall sever ?" Nearer hissing bul- lets fly Stray balls crashing thro' the woodland — grey smoke rolling far and high. Tell the armies close in battle: and they seek young Lord Grey's life — The lawless troopers scouting, 'round dark edges of the strife. Alas, for human error-laws and the dark'ning hand of fate! Alas, for holy love when slain on burning spears of hate : The fire that sped like lightening bolt, to strike down Carlton Grey, Hiss'd round and fell, — ah, God! within that dauntless maiden breast ! He caught her form — her dying wail, — ^yet hurled the foe at bay, "Receive my word, oh. Love," she breathed : "My father ! my behest ! 24 THE HEROINE OF THE HUDSON "Tell him our love, give him your faith; he noblest is and wise. "To yonder river bear me on, let it glad once more mine eyes, — "Oh, loved and lost ! behold ! behold ! — and what my soul doth see — "Another River Beautiful ! — Ay, glorious far than ours — "A gleam ! A sail ! sweet music floats from near Eter- nity — "Shall we not fly from dim'ning lands, unto yon gor- geous sunlit bowers ? "From the Beautiful to the Beautiful I go; oh, haste with me, "For Love hath built our mansion-home, close on God's shining sea!" Thus life faded out when young Grey pass'd as deep'ning shadows fell — "Let come death and desolation, now — he breathed for all is well ! "Let come death and desolation, aye — this wave forever- more "Shall bear to me to her sun-ward, far beyond one shin- ing shore ! "For love hath taught, where man hath fail'd, and my very soul can see "New glory-climes, and, fair o'er all, my Bride that is to be." THE TIME NEEDS HEART "THE TIME NEEDS HEART." New science-ships sail in from vasty seas, And touch our shores, and leave the keys Of secret worlds, with giants of high thought — The wise who toiled and wrought — Then pass to other shores of truth : Albeit with every treasure great they bring. The mighty bard, and poets truly sing. With all of mind and science, creed, and art, "The time needs Heart !" Invention stands supreme on summits high. With eager, piercing eye; Above the world, colossal queen, she coils Around her secrets, strands as strong as steel. Yet light as mist from brow to heel, And signs : — "The world is mine !" While greed laughs out, "Nay, mine, not thine !" Still comes the poet's song from vale and height : " 'Tis never might makes right. But love, supreme o'er mind and art; The time needs Heart !" And art speaks out her dream : "The world is mine ; I came of and I give you the divine; In every music-note, star-wave, and flower I the resultant am of mind and power.'' But still, the lonely bard who died for bread. The hapless sculptor by his statue dead. Gave their true souls mayhap for love, not art; "The iron age needs Heart !" 26 LOVE IN SEARCH OF A WORD Else why this feast of shells each day For men? this weeping in life's sorrow-vale Of tortured souls? Ihe prisoner on his way To double-death? the fury, blood and wail Of war, involving men in God's great image made? Why should one creature be of life afraid? Alas, the age of iron, greed and gain Puts out the torch, the truth and flame Of love and art as on each soul (the poet's page), Of this most wonderous age, Is burned — "The time needs heart !" LOVE IN SEARCH OF A WORD. As th' essence fine, or mystic spirit flame Called life, in silence moves unseen, beneath Dark winter's snowy vaults, rock-ribbed and dire, 'Till spring steals forth and decks th' Eden-plain, — Plants stars of glory 'bove all shades of death, And strikes thro' flow'r and wave and heayens, higher, Than man's deep thought can penetrate to deep: — So love, through error, silence, wrong, and night. Still moves invisible from heart to heart. And world to world, in search of finer light T' illumine words divine, and holy Art ; That shall forbid, or life or joy, to weep ! — And yet — and yet — with all man's searching flight. From height to height, — from bliss to deeps of woe. He finds reply, — from worlds above, below, Through strife, or shocks of Doom, — that blindly move. And answer sole, is what Love tells to Love CHAUNT OF AMERICA 27 CHAUNT OF AMERICA. Great is Columbia, America glorious, As maiden and mother In unity one. First born of storm-throes. Out of far ages, Girdled by war-clouds Rent by hope's stars. Greater the voices Call for her mighty; Rapt are the faces Looking for dawn! Toilers of sorrow, And. forgers of knowledge, Sages of wisdom, Who die for the right. Here's the new world-hope ! Here's the new dawn-song! Here, a new heaven Shall come down to men. First in the portals Of earth's final morning Looms this immortal In valor and song. 28 CHAUNT OF AMERICA Louder the trumpets yet Herald her glory — Speak to the nations Undaunted and free : — Speak of the breaking, Of day never ending, Of freedom, star-girdled, Encircling the world; — Of Toil, and Love's union. To carve the grand highway. Both lofty, celestial, For earth-weary feet : — Of faith, and Love's crowning The war-riven darkness O'er tyranny's ruins That frown on the world. Great is Columbia ! Yet grander the Voices That call to her heroes, To stand for mankind ; And guard for all ages This land of immortals, — This realm of world-valour Columbia victorious ! THE ONE DAY 29 THE ONE DAY. There's a calm dead night, and far away. In the deeps of the human soul Unseen, unknown ; yet on some day When the heart's o'er wrought, the soul a-flame. Comes secret power in rythmic roll Of fires of passion, of beauty and life, — Man knoweth a force that hath no name, — He works without rest, or tire or strife. Just one day only, one it may be He strikes the chord, or carves the line. Out of all rapture and mystery. Catching the gleam, as he carves the Dream, Seeing, and giving but the divine. Once only he smites the anvil fires. And the glowing coals are prophecies; While Dream, and truth unto which he aspires. Are for them alone, who fathom deep Beyond praise of men, his melodies Not born of success, nor gold and fame ; But flash when the Spirit pauses, still. As the beautiful veils the night with flame; And Time is luU'd to a rosy sleep. Lo ! Genius sighs : "Ay, 'tis my will Love once shall see thy power, and name:" Then ages pass: men muse, and say, God veil'd in Song once pass'd our way. 30 THE argonauts; or happiness found THE ARGONAUTS; OR HAPPINESS FOUND. "But lo ! My peaks stand yonder near the sun: And 1 crowd on with those who make the crowd, And loiter but a time to speak aloud My feeble little dream; and it is done." Behold fair lone m life's glad may-time ! Of beauty wov'n of God's own joy and light, — Of beauty matchless, pensive, yet sublime. And luminous with rays from farthest height. To some fair spirit near, unseen she spake: While she would pause on pilgrimage intent, A moment did the radiant joy forsake Her brow, in lofty discontent: "I will go on ! I will have luppiness And e'en confront yon glowing group of worlds But I shall find it; and life's highway press. As broader widening day unfurls. New glory-heights : forever there doth rise A higher and a higher to the soul ! — And like my mountains and Acadian skies, Where never tempest-thunders roll. I'm glad this finite flesh shall winged be ! I'm glad 'tis proven true, and I shall grow Through the grand Desire, one deathless entity. The soul that God shall know: — THE argonauts; or happiness found 31 And his own gardens tend, and still renew. As acom grows to oak — as bud to flow'r : Like tender grass the roots of Being drew Vast life and Cosmic power; To me, each day a resurrection Morn — Undying glory dipping endless seas ! Until my soul all beautiful be grown Supreme in joy and light, and faultless peace. Music, mysterious occult and divine First gave me Truth — ^the perfect Harmony, — This the eternal crowns (though Song of mine Of hope, desire; and nascent lights that be From secret orbs, get tangled in the Dreams My soul and beauteous earth unfold:) Desire! Desire, thro' which th' Godhead streams To fill with light, the Perfect shall behold:— Desire I that riv'd the Cosmic night for birth Of life Desire that giveth man's soul wings. Or shakes the depths of Being till flashes forth New worlds for him, as every orb that sings. . "ni hunt for happiness, that Golden Fleece, Thro' golden gates of joy, thro' Beauty's realm: My flight for these may never, never cease, Nor death nor time my day o'erwhelm!" 32 THE argonauts; or happiness found And so fair lone wander'd on and on, Though nobler Discontent still made a low Solemn music, thro' nights and days alone. As Freedom vast, left heart and soul in woe. Bereft of bliss, she travers'd lovely lands Edens of beauty all, where Powers unseen Quick belt the world with countless threads and bands Of beauty, binding kindred souls, I ween, Of such as look to love and God : — sought fame And Pow'r as 'twere to hush the lasting Why — And sorrow tides from worlds we never name. Nor grasp their portents of Infinity. Then suddenly late eve, on ship-wrecked sands With dead and dying, near moon-smitten waves, (That glow'd like flow'rs o'er gates of hell) with hands Of mercy dropping balm, and love that saves. She nursed a child and mother nigh to death To life and joy — (as it were to scorn her own) — With food and wine brought back the flick'ring breath While tempests died in wailing moan on moan. The twain drank joy of life anew; and waves of bliss She ne'er had felt before thrilled her to see — In deeds of good to woe, full oft there is, A veil withdrawn — a glimpse of God's own Majesty. For, perfect taste of happiness complete Cometh in secret way as blooms a flow'r THE argonauts; or happiness found 33 From dark earth-mold, and lifts to heav'n its sweet Bright miracle divine — born- of One Power. And next there lay, half conscious by the twain. And fell'd and bruis'd by broken spar and wave, A noble youth, a god, one of Apollo's train, Whose smile a Juno, or Phaphian queen, might crave : — "Some envious angel caught his breath," she said. And stealing near she touch'd his brow — dropped words of cheer : A perish'd moon hung low, in purpling mists, grey- red — Left ghosts of beams about the sandy bier ; While white sea-horses leap'd along the blue Black edge of storm — their wild manes all astream, — Then silence; and in quiv'ring lights, she knew This noble youth, as one who chas'd his Dream, He termed the holy Grail, true Happiness. For years agone he journeyed forth alone — The Dream upon his soul — large Freedom's stress. And joy, on pinions these, far upward borne. Food gave she and ministries, and words but meant For godly heed used to Elysian song ; She prayed — she clasp'd him close with hope intent. Her passion pure, made hand and spirit strong. She kissed his brow, if haply so might steal Some life-response — she press'd the lips, and lo I 34 THE argonauts; ok happiness found / Life's trembling flame! Anew the sfenses reel, From deathly shadow-realm, to liv/ng glow ; And fiery bliss sending his soul agaze In matchless eyes, that drink her spirit's flame — That make her own. Love's stars, — in fond amaze. Her loss, and early home and high-born aim. He learns, while life within yet stronger stirs. As lightning veins the cloud surcharg'd with good, To fill the plain and flowerful summer years. Or nature's starved and weary solitude. The dawn stole over flow'r-rim'd land, and sea, Its breath of balm touch'd Love's light wings with rose. As lone's words of soul-felicity. New, endless dawns of life of heaven unclose. "I am not all you deem, — ^I'm Theras, whom Fate and strange gods sent forth to find the grail True Happiness, beyond all touch of doom. That human crown of godhood should not fail," — He breathed in music such as steals the soul; — "There is a Wisdom high, a higher height, — His ways not ours — and I, — I, lost the whole Fair heav'nly secret and true angel light In seeking self to please, knowledge, and fame, I thought thro' these to win the highest crown, — To hold Man's torch far 'bove Promethean flame: But, losing truth, and faith, wrong cast me down: — THE argonauts; or happiness found 35 Love now shall bring new suns and dawns for me, — And thy heart-joy God's uttermost shall prove" : — A golden shaft of morn fell suddenly Around the twain, as if the rays of love Fell soft from golden urns, in essence fine. Of beings immortal : — lone spake low, In trembling joy — "Ah, me ! the wrong was mine ! — No shout of world's loud fame, nor living glow Of Vestal torch, can rule, or fill complete, The awful splendors of the soul divine That waits Eternity; now at Love's feet All light, all realms of joy are mine and thine!" Then on they passed, beyond to higher flight,— To live and glean in Beauty's holy day. Their souls as one celestial orb of light. Revealing bliss, up God's immortal way. 36 OBLIVION OBLIVION. "There is one, one only thing I dread Of fate's peradventure, dark," he said. "And that," I questioned sharp, "is loss Of immortality — of light Thrown on great deeds of human Right, To shine, a burning lifted cross? — Gleaming thro' time, and mortal night, On hoary peaks, that guard man's good. Close to God's eternal solitude?" "Nay ; nay ! but tell me, where are they Who lived, who died for man, aeons away — Yea, one of all who caught the Soul with love. And bade defiance to oblivion? Where are those loved, and great, the first to move Man's life-tents out of chaos? — say on!" "Ay, who says Oblivion? Tell me, O sage of tears — who cometh to deny Immortal day for them, for thee? — Or show to man there is no world of light Beyond this life's continued tragic "Why?" Who says Oblivion, when He can prove It false by starry worlds above — The golden signs that o'er His pages move?" THE HAUNTED BOWER 37 THE HAUNTED BOWER. (Near Niagara Falls.) Where Niagara madly plunges, springs for liberty and life, Earths hymn to God is sounding strong and deep, — Bright glows the Bow of Beauty o'er the waves of beetling strife. As wildest white waters rush and roar. Near by, the fragrrint grassy, and sunny wildwood shore. Where the last glad billows leap, — A leafy bower nestles, in shady beauty all its own. While the sunbeams wander westward for dim gold ; — Haunting mem'ries, fairy visions, and soft echoes steal alone. As starlight with moon-beams their mystic revels hold. When no alien footsteps wander, ever, near. If your soul can listen truly, secret music you may hear, Bove melodies of tuneful wave, and breeze ; Stealing from the phantom Ages, and lost magic harps of old. For this Bower is beauty-haunted ! Leafy trees And creepy branches, sudden sight of pictures oft un- fold' Of lost, departed faces ; and the lyre. And chariot of an idle Singer, touch'd with fire; When he left his song, and dreaming, for the Circe in the wave. Or the world's low wail of sorrow far away ! Thus the starry waves and beauty, and th' phantoms mutely gave. This grove its haunted Bower of today. 38 TRUE KINSHIP So, oft, may we discover in lifes battle-tempest din Just where the billow pauses, and the roar of Doom may cease. The secret haunted bower, by Love and music folded in, And glowing o'er the breakers, bows of Peace. TRUE KINSHIP. I kiss the early flow'rs in May — Oh, how like baby's breath are they ! Pansy, violet, lilacs pale, And snowdrops trembling in the gale. Then, kissing baby's lips, I say. Just like flowers at blush of day ! I greet the tender May-blue skies, And mamma says, ''oh, baby's eyes I" I look into those eyes, and all The magic gleams of April fall Across their heaven of mystic light. That kist some stars beyond our sight ! So babe, and flow'rs such kindred be In sweets divine, and mystery; The mamma laughing, cries in mirth, "Now which is heaven and which earth? And who will tell us whert the line Is drawn 'tween earth, and the divine, When baby's eyes, and smile, and laughter Lead on the soul to God's Hereafter ? 39 TIRED. O just to be lying in soft, sweet grasses Where woodlands low in the sunset gleam, Where the fragrant breeze in whisper passes. And the clouds as a dream Bend over the sleep of the azure air And day's gold ships all stranded there. To think no more of toil and losses. Of work for the world that's never done, To dream no more of crowns for crosses. Nor fight for truth and love as one; Nor strive to straighten the crooked ways Where the Sphinx yet waits, and the human slays. O, to rest, and rest, as the silence dying Into music breaks that the spirit hears; As the sea to the light is softly sighing — (Soft as love's smile seen through tears) And hear no beat of waves that go From the world's dark din of traffic and woe. Just to forget the old earth's sorrow. Its grandeur or gloom, its glory and sin ; To open calm eyes on a new Tomorrow That never lets wrong or tumult in ; While from sea to sea in the starlight clear The Prince of Peace to the soul draws near. 40 THE POET CHATTERTON O, just to be lying for a little hour Where Beauty, and Rest, would make life seem As folded leaves of a sweet rose-flow'r ! While reveal'd is the dream, (The soul's long dream) that in earth and sky Is proof of its own divinity. THE POET CHATTERTON. In realms remote, in times unknown, Across dim worlds she tireless flew As beautiful as God could make — Song, sped, and unto mortals drew ! And, hearing far-off ceaseless moan, That held the night and morn awake. She whisper'd down celestial groves : "The sea! the sea is calling me — My worshippers are also Love's. On earth souls die for melody !" Once, twice, and thrice she touched the sea, 'Tween flights of ages struck one lyre; From clime to clime her victr'ies won ; While limning night with heavenly fire She left her throne — Eolian skies — She touch'd the soul of Chatterton And look'd on man through his fine eyes. THE POET S SHORTCOMINGS 4I THE POET'S SHORTCOMINGS. (An Early Poem.) A sadness will o'er my spirit steal, A sorrow my heart can ne'er reveal, And I know by the quivering soul within — Shrinking from blasts of a bitter world, And the touch of sin, And the herd's rude gaze, that their noisy ways Were never the paths my soul should win Where the clink of gold, and their greetings cold Is all the music they give to men ; Ah, no, my spirit ne'er was made To clash with the strife of a bitter life. To buy and sell, And gain as well. As the worldling buys and gains ; And meet the scorn of the plebeian born Who flares in a gilded tinsel pride. And only a heartless greed to hide. And false as the world to which he clings. And the gold that gilds his fortune's wings. A sadness will o'er my spirit steal, A sorrow my heart can ne'er reveal. Though birds are calling the brooks away, And these laugh back in a gladsome play; The bee in the rose Is taking his doze. And living a life of fragrance there The sky bends lovingly down to see Another sky in the lake as fair, 442 THE POET S SHORTCOMINGS Where breeze, and wave, and murm'rous cave, And forests with winged symphonies Are sending forth strange melodies And a miserere grand ; I dwell with these, And love the life of this wonder-land And dream that they my kindred are. And feel with them, I too, was ne'er made, To clash with the strife Of a bitter life. Just now as the sunbeam broke the cloud, Once its cold grey shroud: A hope was born in my heart forlorn. That may lend life wings from its murmurings To mount afar to its ideal worlds. Where this life's banner ne'er unfurls Its steely folds where terrors hide : Oh, I know, by the Ideal, life's heavenly bride, From Nature's truth ; for all lofty use ; From spirits of Love, and a mother's wiles Whose angel-hands, and hopes, and smiles Hedged in life with walls of flowers — Cheer'd with song youth's roseate bowers. And bound up the bruised feet that tried The thorny paths which her love would hide — Yes, I know by these and a world within I never was made to wed with sin. And the stern dark strife Of a bitter life. THE MISTLETOE 43 THE MISTLETOE. In a glowing morn of pink-pearl hue, Threaded with gossamer gold, and rays Of glad spring light, the tender dew In beauty trembled on leaf-hid spravs. Where the stately rose and lily, and flowers (Kiss'd by the lips of dancing Hours) Of every tint, their beauty shed; And these with the fairies seemed to scorn The lowly dew, in the silence born. As the brooding eerie twilight fled ; The queen of the fays and flowers said : "You are naught with the cold and fickle light ; You cling to the grass, as it were my crown. Or the lily's heart — away with you !" And all this while seemed the gentle dew To whisper low in the sweet low grass : "Oh, what shall I be if I gain yon height Of glad green hills, where trees look down In majesty on flower and wave, Where bird and cloudlet love to pass? Shall I die alone where none may see The shadows and grass that cover me?" — 'Twas so, when the mystic evening gave Its spells of silence and love for all, Some spirit of beauty quick bore away The plaintive dew to the great oak tall. And turned it to pearls of lasting light. To gleam above, where star-beams play. In purest glory day and night. 44 BIRD OF THE LONELY LAKE This is the mistletoe, saintly and white. As the white, glad snow of the Christmas day. So like the song, oft left and forgot In the noisy world's tumult and din, When it soars beyond where hate is not. And opens the portals to let Love in, — High in the realms o'er scorn and wrong. That never can still God's truth in song. BIRD OF THE LONELY LAKE. Bird of the lonely lake ! As you perch on the rocks alone, In the cold, gray waste of waters deep, That over some misery moan, or weep. And over hid sorrows break, — Now, you look but a part of the stone; — But nor bird nor stone are you, Out there in the cold mist gray; Dull clouds flock by, and strange black wings Silent sail, like phantom things From land of Weir, as their dusky hue Makes strokes of night cross the day. In the spectral mists out there. Amid rocks and moaning waves. You seem but myself, just gone away From strife and woe of a noisy day, — Like wave and skies both bleak and bare, Save for the wind that raves. BIRD OF THE LONELY LAKE 45 Bird of the lonely lake ! Out there on the solemn deep, If you be but myself, oh, learn, I pray. Some song of God, that will ever stay. In spite of cold, and storms that break, — Some joy, that will ever keep ! If myself you be, oh, leave On lone wastes, and silence, there. All sorrow-tone, and quickly bring Touch of dawn, on a golden wing — Notes divine that no soul may grieve — Song, sweeter and higher than prayer. 46 love's loss and gain LOVE'S LOSS AND GAIN. A little plot of garden around I had, of all this old world round ! Just given of love, and made for love, And beautiful, — just large enough For love's white feet tip-toe to stand In my heart's dewy morning land. And sip the honey sweet and rare Nestled on two red rose-lips there. This flowery plot was all to me ! — Just large enough for love's white feet (I wish'd no more of land or sea). To bring my soul his message sweet. Ah, well-a-day ! the cruel day ! They envied me, and the rosy shade That love's fair feet and dew-lips made In my garden close, — ^then swept away My little world! Ah, well-a-day I A mother's heart I must believe. Is something God will not forget. And He will let those dear feet yet Lead down the vales of morn and eve To one unfading Paradise So dimly seen by tearful eyes; And find some large and radiant place. Where Love shall lift love's glorious face. APOSTROPHE TO NIAGARA FALLS 47 APOSTROPHE TO NIAGARA FALLS. Niagara! in beauty pow'r and tone And terrible for majesty — whence came — Yea?, whence and whither thou? Wert thou once held In leash by One who made our soul to thrill In joy and awe before thy loveliness And shrink in fear, as if thy glowing folds Of heavn'ly robes fell to the solemn voice Of music infinite? Wert thou first born In some far rain-bow-realms of wind-blown space Anear the birth of morn? the roots of Life? — Flung out as Song to soothe the ear of Chaos ? Now have I heard pure tones too grand for flights Of human harps ! Thy crushed bewildered waves Leap fearfully for light, and glowing crowns, And liberty! while wooing every nymph To hail thy lovely Iris Island near, All beautiful enough to wake and call The Tenth Muse to its shade, from far Egean Seas — Ionian Isles ! Niagara ! thou art God's disapason true, — earth's hymn of Time Sung to Eternity! In freedom, lone, As old Olympian gods that dwelt of yore To human faith; naught may interpret thee Save Silence and thy own Creator known. 4t8 MARY LOUISE FERGUSON MARY LOUISE FERGUSON. Between the sunshine and the breeze That idly steals my window in, And, framed of gold, without, — within. Thy portrait smiles on me Louise ! It makes fair holiday for me, Thy face that sun, and moonlight sees Within my room, and silently Weaves charms, and spells, an' felicity. That take my spirit as they please. Warm moonbeams flit between the trees Anear my gaze, and kiss thy face; The stars, peer shyly in, Louise And see thine eyes are more divine, Than their deep skies of summer shine ! More beauteous thou, than star-lit space — Mysterious more, — ^thy human grace ! In weary hours, and ill at ease, Through lone days, wrecked by darker moods. When all my soul's rich argosies, Were nearly lost on tempest — seas, — Thy angel face, O sweet Louise, Smiled on me from the solitudes Of pain, and silence, saying — "Peace, Love's holiness shall never cease; The soul alone that gives — receives. And Heaven is his, who most believes." COUNT DE LA SALLE 49 COUNT DE LA SALLE: EXPLORER OF THE WEST. "Thy soul was like a star — and dwelt apart — Thou heard'st a voice whose sound was like the sea !" In la belle France, — ^Adventure's quick'ning Age, A noble youth in wild-eyed wonder knelt At shrines of science — of knowledge, held By ancient priest and monk — base Ignorance Might ne'er despoil. The father sometime wise Ambitious, proud, would have his son reach high For fame, or state-hood crown, e'en to France's Topmost pinnacle: the dear old Aunt Who gave him life's heart-side, and tender views Of the Beautiful, and true, alike would see Him no whit less a king in thought and power. These with the good old monk Rafel were guide And inspiration to this dream-fed youth The growing soul, who waited that Dawn-rise Now quick'ning men, and smiting full the world. — The fiery mind and heart of young La Salle — Had these not fed on all the wonder-work Of Columbus brave, and of those heroes sent Of Spain, of Portugal, of glorious France, To conquer Chaos, to win new climes for men? Champlain, (who sailed and wrested northern bounds Of the New World from Red men, wild, unknown, — With dazzling splendors of their lakes and seas, — ) The battle fields and hero-death of brave Montcalm, and other warriors swept on wings 50 COUNT DE LA SALLE Of gory war, from strife to fame and death, — Had nerved La Salle, the more to strike for France, To win and plant her flag for man, and church, Whose voice might bear new song to newer lands. — "Is mind less now than lead their day of fame Of world-wide work? Of Caesar's day, or Rome's? — In this small acorn at my feet — is not The giant oak enfolded there, that waits On time, on Opportunity full-fledged? — So — God, of Genius, calleth forth His own To prove himself!" — ^Thus mused this valiant youth Of tender soul and thought profound. He toiled With fierce delight; of ease, of joy, made he Bon-fires that lit the days and nights and fired Anew his Dream; in order, law, made firm And discipline, as tho' the fields of war Waited his steps, and not Pierian springs At which his young mind drank the founts of life : Th' good Rafel no flaw of Purpose brook'd In wisdom's building-stones. The annals old Of France, to La Salle were as stars that led To greater glory-paths, for workers true. E'en stories of the mystic maiden brave Fair Jean d'Arc, was as eternal sign. Or hand of scorn, that pointed thro' all time, And wrote : Achieve ! Achieve ! Avenge her wrong Through Heaven's right. For man's true cause, for France And her undying good preeminent, — To place his king as Earth's most brilliant orb. The dauntless, young La Salle, like some winged steed That dared Empyrean heights, resolved with brave Glad men to sail the desert of new seas, ^ COUNT DE LA SALLE 51 New-born to time, where that strange virgin world America, reposed in twilight dim Of silence, ay, in Beauty's dawn, (now near Her marriage iiiorn to mankind) and revealed With valor, and with glory, God's fair work. 'Twas he, — La Salle renown'd, pluck'd this new land (And more than crown or kingdom) gave his king: For his prophetic soul was dowered, wise, And fed by Dreams and spirit force, and pow'r, God grants to souls who do His work eterne, — Thro' visions saw this promised land of men. Last — ^mighty seas he cross'd and knelt in awe By Mississippi's tide ; and tropic lands Named he, for France and king. The grandeur vast Of Nature's lavish world, in forests great New pillars seemed, for holding earth and heaven, And lofty streams, and water-falls that break The realms of silence, with their thunders dread. As rhythmic as the hammer-stroke of Thor, Or sighs of Saturn ere grey dawn of Time, — When all the world was lonely with its night These smote him with such joy of faith made true Till Life's full mystic rim was nigh to break And touch the unseen shores of God. Once more This leader-warrior, dreamer true, became. In Nature's love, in Beauty, and fine sight, The Poet of his youth. And Pan was no Crude figment of the Greeks Ideal and brain. This presence, holy beauty, — always near. Was as a wreath of Dawn that seeks to crown S2 COUNT DE LA SALLE Some giant peak, grown sad with starry night. And faith, breathed to his heart, o'er gulfs of gloom, Of silence, that his new land, should for earth Be greater far than any Iliad sung Of noblest wise men old, of ancient Greece Who wrought for war, for art, or fame sublime, — That giants here, should be the sons of Toil Of deathless Thought, th' giants of love, and peace. Grown sons of light, and God. His dream made true 1 I One bright space, and keen exultant joy Was his when he might pause and turn his gaze From star-strewn heights sublime, where seemed to rest His heaven-born dream — to watch the smaller streams And rivers beautiful, that find their ways Thro' gorge, and glen, or shyly pass along Through woodlands deep, knowing where flowers pure Of ev'ry hue and clime, would wait thro' days And shady eves, their murmrous cheer and kiss, And songs of love, while nymphs would steal to gaze Into their starry eyes. Beauty to him (Life's early bride) in this new France he loved Could touch with strength divine and life renew : With mystic wing she guides the god-like soul ! Here, I-da-ho loomed mount of silver light; And Arkansaw, — in Nature's beauty crown' d — The horn of plenty in her virgin arms, — With list'ning ear, to catch the song of dawn : Colorado — goldlined, — and Oregon ; Missouri, too, of giant thews and bands To bind the world; and California vast COUNT DE LA SALLE S3 With gold and silver zones — coUossal mounts And giant trees to swathe the mountains brow Or laugh the vales to scorn; and other clans Of unrobed States, in Nature's primal strength Gave forth their wealth to man's sure master-mind, That bids the Chaos wear a crown of light — And wreathes her flowers at his behest, and law. — Th' amazed mind gazed on Pacific seas And cried ; Where be thy Maker and his throne ? And when La Salle, God's leaf of Purpose turned That other men should read his newer work, The task was done — ^Through wrongs of cruel man He passed to rest, to higher heights, where time, And angels that do haste 'tween suns and worlds Would glad his vis'on with sight of rolling years. Of scenes come true; that men behold to-day. — In this fair western land of earth's New world. Where Freedom plants her oriflame of good. Her standards of new states ; of wealth and pow'r Ay, source of such gigantic strength and life. To feed the waning force of other lands Far over seas, with bread and wine, and oil. With power; and truth, and love Columbia holds Received of Heav'n, when justice crowneth right. — These states we celebrate carved from the vast Young virgin world he saw, then bravely died : — These he the Dreams of great La Salle come true! And now Oh, Seers, the voice of wisdom saith, — Ye sons of Freedom! guard; guard, well the gates Of more than pearl, that close your gorgeous paths 54 DO VOU HEAR THEM That lead to this new Home, for restless man. Thrust back and slay, the dragons vile, of greed ! Of gain, which now would strike its sure strong walls. Till all the fiends of Lust, of Pow'r insane Would crush its heav'n-built walls in miry clay — Would crush man's liberty in deadly slime, — Blot out the smiles of joy, and blind with tears E'en Pity's tender eyes; and give the cup Of Death to man's last Hope. DO YOU HEAR THEM? Do you hear them, O, my brothers, from the dark lands and far lands? In the clatter and the rushing of wheels — mighty wheels ! Of noisy million mills, where the smitten day but but reels ; Where all night the factory fires make of earth strange star-lands ; Of the plains lying dim, 'neath a low brazen sky. That glows in darkness dread, as a furnace flaring high. Do you hear the iron hissing in the beds of molten fire? It burnt the lives of hundreds out long, long ago ! — Through the scourging days of summer, year to year, but to expire. For they feel too sad and weary, for weeping, in their woe. DO YOU HEAK THEM 55 Do you hear the children crying in the grimy noisome night-time, Deep down in the sunless and godless mines afar? Day nor night of any year, brings ever them a bright time; They have never seen a rainbow; scarcely know what flowers are ! Have you heard the prisoners shudder, in irons in bleak snows? Their life-blood marks each foot-step and the silence of their woes ; They are human, too ! — once human — once had mothers, Had fair childhood — sweet sisters, tender brothers. These are calling to your mercy, to your joy — and sun- light For one taste of each to touch their broken famished lives — A cup of water in the desert — in their low scorching night ; Weary children — smitten fathers — cursing wives, That can never see aught truly, with their prison-faded eyes. One human touch, would tell them, love once ansv/ered human moan, — Love, in a mother's tear-drop, in her song, or merest tone. In the faintest kiss of childhood, that made morning in the world, When the sky around, above them, were but their dreams unfurled. S6 WHITHER And flowers, were the whispers of the night unto the day, An' their heavenly father's door, was but a little step away. Now, they never have a day to change for all the cease- less roar. Of labor's iron din — for one song of mighty sea, — For its rainbows on the shore, and the sunset's mys- tery. Or to feel the grasses waving 'neath weary aching feet. Or hear the kiss of waters, when the music rivers meet. Some pity, then, O brothers ! for their sins, their woe, unrest, — What were you ! without the bliss that hides the savage in your breast? WHITHER? What will you do the rest of the way If the lonely pine and sandy beach, Where brooding winds and sea waves play, Can every tender memory reach And silence thought and speech to tears. For the dear departed years Forever gone away ? WHITHER 57 Oh, what will you do if yon myrtle bloom And red pomegranate in garden ways, And mimosa sweet (that leaves no room For rainbows to cast their glory rays). If these can shiver your heart and weep, Casting your joy to a burial deep 'Till the angels know not the place — And make life pine for the vanished face And the love that would not stay? Yea, what will you do when the very stars And waves that woe them to under world Will make you long to cross the bars Of gold-paved night, with sails unfurl'd. To radiant seas? Yea, if this be so. What can you sing but a song of woe For the Now, or the Faraway? Nay, this I'll do — I will lay me hold Of the peace of Truth — catch ships that sail From the land of souls, whose tides enfold Endless music, and no heart wail ; Ai^d lay strong hold on God's own Peace That comes for me from shoreless seas. And steals through Nature's glory-dream — Knits up Life's ravel'd garment seam. And will never pass away. 58 A FLOWER FKOM GOAT-ISLAND A FLOWER FROM GOAT-ISLAND; NIAGARA. What had you to do being born There alone in the beautiful Isle? White tempest of waters, and th' morn— ^ Did they kiss you to life with a smile? — And promise of rain-bows to girdle your bower alway, In bride veils of star-smitten spray? O, royal little flower, heart-red With your own like sun in the west, On your rock-altar, vine and moss-spread, 'Mid waves of th' Rapids, rose-diamonds for crest, — You whisper to winds and waters, sweet, peace as th' azure above. And to sunbeams, and starlight, give love. In grandeur you bloom royal flower — Gem of God's page for love-litten eyes. That see you and praise, as a ray of the Power Who flung out Niagara, patterned the skies I — While we, for His glory, an' Name are born just To Be, Is a message you give us of life's mystery. " Give all to love ; Obey thy heart ; Friends, kindred, days. Estate, good fame, plans, credit, and the Muse, — Nothing refuse. " Tis a brave master ; Let it have scope : Follow it utterly, Hope beyond hope : High and more high It dives into noon With wing unspent. Untold intent ; But it is a god, Knows its own path And outlets of the sky." MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS 6l ROMANCE OF THE "MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS." In lost years flown down the Ages, — in the wake of purest morn That smote our new America (young strong and glad and free, From its battle with the giants, and old Saturn) there was born, In the lily land of romance, dreamful star-eyed Italy — A child of love and wisdom; as for holy purpose plan'd Was he given to the parents, waiting God's law and His will.— "He'll bear the word of holy Writ, — and religion's high command," Said his mother, and yon new world with his fame or power fill ; "Fill earth's-night with a glory kin to that which shone on high When David saw and heard a speech beyond his harp to sing, — Kin to light that fell thro' darkness unto man from Sinai ! The same that swept through morning for th' empyrean to ring With the hosts, and angel anthemns, telling where the Christ-Child lay."— 62 MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS "His name's Jean Paul," said the father" for those saintly men of old For John the loved one and holy:" — and the mother whisper'd "yea "His stars of truth shall brighten, earthly highways to unfold." Through mother-love and constant care that little Roma gave, And sages secret wisdom and their vital truths sown deep, Paul grew to noblest manhood. — Roma beautiful and grave. Like a star of love above him, o'er his days would vigil keep For she nursed high dreams prophetic, only to her spirit known; Held in tearful prayer and worship, since the morning it was said That her cousin Jean "took Orders" — These cousins two, had grown From infancy together — in fond ties of home-life wed. — She whispered in her weeping — bows of hope above each tear — "I will flee the convent's portal — I will seek the ship by night I will work and wander with him — all this toil and hardship bear Though he see me not, nor know me in my nun-like role and plight." MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS 63 Roma's spirit worshiped Beauty ; yea her own brow wore its wreath, And its mysteries full sparkled in her twilight starry eyes; All her nature, every motion, subtle music seemed to breathe; Her soul, her voice were woven of love's passionate warm sighs; Jean had taught the little maiden much, of ancient lore he knew, — Such the schools and fathers offered : though all nature was his store. His founts and wells of wisdom (from which his being drew — Ever mind and spirit leaping to their cries of More, and More, Of the verities eternal ; — God's thought gleaming everywhere ; — One Cause — creative forces, which no mind may analyze, Which enwreath both earth and heav'n : his faith would oft declare — "Growth of Mind's the Maker's mandate, — Freedom's true eternal prize." His was the nature sensitive (as a cloud that fills with dawn When the flowers sparkling waken to the fragrant kiss of dews;) He wove his song in silence, to the Muses loom withdrawn On heights where none dare meet him — But the new world he would chose 64 MOUNT or THE HOLY CROSS First to plant the holy standard of the Cross, and serve mankind; Be messenger of forces, which to Greek and Roman bore Proud, masterful dominion, — or scale heaven so to find The fountain fires of Knowledge, and of beauty's death- less glow. — "What means Promeathean fable, — stolen fire of un- known height? — Save Man list'ning to the Voices — calling spirit to arise ! While .Ignorance, darkest vulture eats his heart and slays his light. Clips the soul a-soaring upward — plucks the stars from out his skies" — Thus cried Jean Paul when musing lonely by the evening sea : — "O for freedom 1 work and freedom ! my heart's sole supreme desire," Said he in burning rapture; — "the boundless air eter- nally Is my home, and not the palace; marble fane, nor soar- ing spire. — "The truths that I have worshipped living deep within my heart. Gorgeous flowers of God's own garden reaching up to kiss the sun — These may touch the Future's splendor, — they shall glow above the mart, ^'And the dens of sordid Traffic, with their souls of men undone. MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS 6S May I spread the holy wisdom that flowed on from Galli- lee, Whose light divine has riven, every darkness to sub- due- Aye the proof that man's immortal is, that he hath pow'r to see Truth's hid and living forces, — his ovirn one-ness with the True ! "O Italy! farewell, thy name, my Italy! hath charm; For beauty hovered near thee at thy birth, and all the loves And the Graces held thee dreaming in th' rosy air and warm, And kiss'd thy life to melody, as gentle as sweet doves- • Wooing by the sunburnt seas, — and all thy Romance — all thy woe. Shall stir the hearts of Nations, for the wrongs that severed thee! And thy stars will lift earth-darkness, as thy Art and fiery glow Of truth from beauty's altars, shall make men god-like and free. "Thy name is Love, and passion ! — ah, what is that to me? — Roma, is love the purest — (may God send her angel peace) — To His cause my life is given, and far o'er yon Western seas. Where Nature's grander Epic utters forth His world- decrees ; 66 MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS I, shall toil and build, and labor, — I will find the golden strands ; There shall rise for man true temples, in the sunset- glory lands : I shall find the western Portal, where God left His mighty shield Of azure-silvered-ocean, by earth's gateway oif the New. — There shall flow a wiser people ; every hallowed fruitful field. Shall praise in peace and plenty, — man's full life to him be true." Roma knew since life's first dawning, Jean her only bliss, her joy. Oft he whispered: "Roma, listen; we know not what knowledge is. Could I gather songbirds music, — paint Nature true without alloy. Twine the notes of low winds stealing, — name one star, shining in bliss — Pierce one secret of yon ocean ; tell why roses bloom to fall ;— Ah ! more yet, — the mystery, why, to sorrow Love is thrall— And joy and hate, the nearest, to its holy raptures sleep : — This were wisdom glorious, worth eternity to reap. Thou art formed for love and beauty; wait, believe, — an' thou wilt know: Thou'lt hear true Voices calling. — I — I, seek the silver strands MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS 67 Of the New World's western ocean: Thou wilt never know my woe, To leave thee, — mother — father thus: but the secret Voice commands — It calls me from the future; and the Vision looms liie one That smote God's waiting angel in th' Apocalyptic sun.'' Roma loved Paul madlj-, purely; in that mystery en- wrought Her soul seemed hers no longer, — she was Roma thence, no more. But merged in his existence, he became her mind and thought ; Still, nursing vows, to follow to the farthest Western shore. To toil in secret near him, every cross and danger share. Better die in hope's high battle, than in dungeons of de- spair ! And when storm-clouds hid the even', swept the stars to chaos-night, Roma stole from home and convent ; with the Sisters five, would sail — On the ship to leave at dawning : secret was her hope ; her flight; — "Better lost in depths of ocean, than to perish in heart- wail", Sighed she, — "for ev'ry cross, and torture shines there a higher height." 68 MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS PART II. DEPASTURE. With Stern, proud hearts heroic, Jean Paul's noble band sail'd on — The godly men, and captains, — soldiers brave and women braye ; And Paul as Seer above all looming; — like a star of Bethlehem, Was guide for men, with wisdom dowered, of truth and power to save The weakling heart which perishes, other hearts quick in despair. While they sailed and sailed, a-weary, ways, where seas and heav'ns meet: Each one his Dream divining, as far o'er the sunset's lair ; — Paul ever heard one Voice within, call unto souls of men. Last, from weeks of storm of peril, and the goodly ships found rest By California's gateway, and where beauty's garment- hem Touch'd gleaming mount and valley, trailed in gold dust of the west. They knelt with prayer and anthem, in the evening's diadem Of burning stars. The braver bands marched on and to find the old MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS 69 Sad ruins of one "Mission"' left by brave churchmen long ago — (These slain by plague, or savages, their horrors, never told) Here Paul and brave ones labored until home and church arose; Toil upheld her horn of Plenty, — and from dawn to evening's glow, Strew'd fields and meadows sweet with corn, and wine, an' twining-rose. They pass'd the great Sequoias — giants old that lordly rise Bove the forests green deep slumber, where the day surprised look'd on; Down her blue vales tossing sunbeams for hid flowers' starry eyes; And people praying, praising, God and Nature all as one. And each soul plumed in wonder, for the glory, round them lay — Eager each soul for the Conflict, winning Fate's long battle day. All the people gazed exalted, happy, quicken'd souls, in awe, Touching this rim of Wonderworld, the new, beyond all dream, Land of miracle and promise, to each glad heart that saw, Fresh Edens glow in blazing light, soft mystic gleam on gleam, 6i sky and sea, that Italy would ne'r surpass; mean- time, 70 MOUNT OF THE HOLY CKOSS Jean Paul the hymn all grateful wove, to chant on holi- day, When Silence full of melody, touch'd earth in heav'nly chime : O, mother Earth ! my mother, thee, I love, forevermore. With thy skies as dream-veils woven; — Whither sky-lark, and great anthems, an' the eagle proud may soar r With thy fields and meadows calling for the holy kiss , of day. As the mystic flame burns cloven, — O'er heights of truth and beauty, which no Doom may cast away: Since I see thy grasses sighing in thy rythmic winds that blow — And deeper power stealing from the seas — Which give clearer voice, and vision, while from mind, and nature flow. Subtler chains that ever bind life, in ecstatic harmonies. In the Melody creation, links in golden mysteries. All thy hills of iron strengthen, all thy corn and flowers, bless ; And thy "bands of Beauty" feed me; Thy sunlight and thy twilight, touch the soul as love's caress ; — Thy mountains are a glory where great thoughts un- fold their wings ; While thy truths, and music link me. In the spiral chain of Being, to the farthest orb that sings I ********* MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS ^\ But, time came when Paul summons'd forth th' faithful band and said, "We now have reared one altar here, to Heaven, for Mankind's good : "A few braves with me farther go, — northward, — wild lands shall wed With peace, and law, through order, and His mercies. understood "His fatherhood thro' Christ, and Love; thence shrines- and cities rise, "To works of Toil, — Religion, — and truth — blending harmonies." Score by score men answered bravely, as true men an' heroes do, — Strong, and grave, in glowing rapture, — grand in pur- pose, love and power. — In, three days, — ere the waning of morn's star in violet-. blue. These would leave their new-found Mission. . . . Th' last day at starry hour, Jean Paul alone by tangled pines — bent low by the vagrant brook (Where a mellow tree down leaning, held its weight of golden fruit To kiss of sun and shadow,) would commune with heart and soul He felt quick throes of Fate now stir his life through branch and root. And thought, and Purpose, shaken by its mystic-writ- ten scroll That dimmed his nearing future, with dark portents and alarm 72 MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS Was that a wild bird fluttered in the silver-leafy nook? — Strange object saw he crouching there (like crumpled root of tree O'er-clad with vines) — near stealing; still much startled, bold, he spake, Yet kindly grave, like music cross'd : "Tell me true who may this be? — Fair maiden! (such was she) — now flee you hence, let th' cloister's charm Give peace and saintly power, — His angel guard you for his sake.'' She let her filmy veil half-fall, aside, — but dimly seen. Were the glowing eyes, — madonna face, that lit the dusky air, Yet hid her pallid faintness and her lissome trembling, form While she scarcely spake for weeping: "O my kindred loved, forbear ! — 'Forgive ! — you know not ? — all my vows, when naught may come between — Your life and mine forever, though fate hurls her storm on storm ! . . . . — You stand aghast? art angered? — ^know you not this voice? these eyes? — Mutely gazed Jean Paul in wonder; all a-tremble, lost in dread. In wilder sorrow spake, — "You Roma? once loved Roma, and there lies Our Italy, and oceans 'tween us, deep as the Un- known ! — MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS 73 "Nay, — listen — hear my story: while I followed in dis- guise, On the vessel sailing with you, I but sought to spare you pain Haply sorrow then, tho' had you loved me back with soul emprise. You had heard my heart's blood falling in the dark as low red rain All that a soul hath giveth it for its god, and you are mine — — Through love, and you, — immortal, I ! — now my life you cannot kill — I go ! — remember cousin, where your star burns, my stars shine — Undiinmed, aglow forever. — " Quick his soul and mind and will. Seemed to quiver in white flaming, — then flash out a meteor spark. O'er the vibrant gath'ring chaos, — saw one face light all the dark. PART III. THE ARRIVAL. Twice four months and twenty had Jean Paul and com- rades brave And sisters of the Mission travelled far in toil and stress ; Ere they neared the giant mountain ; — lit new fires and built the home. 74 MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS A goodly spot and noble 'twas (with spire and pennon- waive, — ) Chose they; like gardens climbing out from dusky wil- derness Of vine and tangled forest. — Soon, their broad new acres own All their wiser skilful labor. . . . While th' sisters, and women wrought With thread, and gentle teachings, and their fine indus- tral arts Which love's sacred altars offered, of the mind and deepmost thought: Day and night, in hardships loyal — sublime in faith their hearts; — The sisters all, and people gave full reverence, faith, and love To Roma, as Madonna pure, — swift in thought and holy deeds For God — for church, — weal human ; and ever youth, and age each strove To win her cause, her favor, and to catch her music- tone In song, or adoration oft, in "Aves,"' trembling sweet; In vigil with the sick one, or in the little chapel lone. As she knelt with saint, or erring, — haloes touching brow and feet. While for Paul : — his daily contact with the Real, and living facts. Of new worlds, of all Being; — gave deeper ideas of God's laws, — True views of man's infinite mission, — sole freedom for his acts. MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS 7$ iFuU faith and crowning glory in obeying Love, the Cause He had ceased to struggle; reeling off dim tangled strands of fate; He saw life freed of dogma, — in quick'ning truth and broader line Than taught all ancient Sages. For to him, the Real, but cast As a golden shield, upheld, infinite rays of truth's sun- shine Glowing from the Ideal always, though the clouded soul be late To hail its morning Vision, in noon bursts of glory past. Thus the Yea, of being, freed him; — to his soul, and God, made known ; Next the loyal loving Roma, — unto these, the All-con- fessed ; Life's tide was at its fullness ! Doubt, night, — and su- perstition flown To oblivion forever — When day perished in the west. Its smothered gold star-sprinkled, Paul besaught lov'd Roma, where The chapel fountain whispered forth its woodland secrets sweet. Lent tuneful harps of music; for oftimes in joy and prayer The brave girl here would wander, when the Silence seemed to meet As an angel veil'd, her spirit, — tost in problems, wild and strange. ^(i MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS She knew one love, — and, trusted: — but would coming time, or Change, As burning swords not quiver, o'er bright gateways of her world? .... Her musings tearful, vanished, as dim evening lay im- pearl'd On shoals of opal-roses — Paul drew near, and clasped her hands In pure sweet sad intensity, — in thought an' passion caimn and deep. . . . "I've all confessed, oh, loved one ! and you hold the soul of life. — We break the last of fetters now : we will wed as God decrees ; We are freed — thro' Love the mighty — oh ! I would that from all lands We may strike vile superstition ! — sever bands of hate, of strife — Lead the world to its high birth-right, as His light'ning powers leap. "God has giv'n me these gifts Roma, — faith, insight, and truth and love; "And tho' I be a dream flown down, through realms of Dream afar. On the brink of each day tremble I, of new Revela- tions — dread, For beauty pow'r and mystery, as yon trackless, fade- less, star O'er gulfs of space"; while stray beams slipped their fairy leash above And touched her brow like seraph's, — Roma closer drew and said: MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS ^^ "Have you no fears, beloved, for th' great Future's long delay. Of stormful doubt, of warfare, 'gainst your purpose, — work divine? — The bitter toilsome battle with monster race-beliefs that slay? No help from church, or nations, — only curse or hate, or rage?" .... "No curse fear I, you, faithful, — all your life is cast in mine, Hence completeness, — ^trust, and Roma! ay, we yet shall teach the age This : God hid himself in th' soul first ; to prove him- self He made Man free, — at once eternal, with his harmony, and laws We are free; yet thro' Love's fetters all spirit — freedom must attain — This liberty, — ^links forging true, in th' grand infinite Cause." .... She pressed his hand and whispered — in her eyes new splendors played With tender light of spirit fires, — "ah, love, the vulture pain, Gnaws daily at my heart and hope, with warnings dread, and slow; — If I leave you ? "Nay," he uttered, "I shall pass death's portal first — You will seek and find my volume, of our Truth's Re- vealing's new. 78 MOUNT OF THE HOLY CKOSS Of Life's hidden spirit forces (well writ) whose light shall burst Strong fetters of grim Error, — send it forth to all men true — All mankind, thro' press and pulpit": " — Nay, oh, loved one, should I go ("Since this anguish warns me daily) how climb you the steeps alone? The calvarys, cross-planted?" — "Ah, picture not such woe .... "You would behold me, loved one, as you touched ce- lestial spheres, (I could bide this plane, no, never) — 'bove where the heav'ns shone, — See my soul, a star wait for you, supreme, o'er flight of years ! . . . . — Now haste within my Roma, th' holy night grows strangely chill — Seek in gentle peace and slumber, rest from toiling thought, and fears," Thus they parted, one in spirit: — while the bells below th' hill Struck hour of prayer and curfew-time : and earth grew dark and still. — Three days darkly followed after, stormy-wing'd and charged with fate: When fiery-demon fever, Roma's life, smote: dread alarm Filled the hearts of all the Mission. — In the wane of midnight late MOUNT OF THE HOLY CROSS 79 Came her nurses softly weeping, — sought Paul and th' sisters two — Sisters Miarie, and lola, — who with mother-care and charm And devotion, watched the maiden from their old lands to the new. — Long they saw the fitfiul life flame of this loved one waning low — A waif of dying melody, above their voiceless woe. — Silence fell; for trooping angels swept the gloaming full of light, And threading all with music, passed her soul from earthly sight. Half-way up the giant mountain, and some miles above the marge Of belts of woodland guarding round th' mission's stony lines. Where the deep wild fissure snow-filled shone white year unto year — Which quaking earth had riven, in primeval time of yore; And fiery zeal of fathers crossed, and deepened more and more; They named this mount of Holy Cross ; for Roma gave them charge. At foot of this to place her bier; when death closed her fair eyes, And here in grass-plot, the holiest, neath softly sighing pines, They made fair place of resting, curtained by pale sum- mer skies, 80 MOUNT or THE HOLY CROSS For the coffined form of Roma, — her pure spirit now flown to where Prayer of love, nor tear of, sorrow, smite the heart, — and all is peace. Thus with saintly word, and chauntings, in the holy evening air. They bore her blest, to resting, — — "Now will there never cease Toi be this sign Memorial of endless love and sacrifice," Sighed Paul, bowed low in anguish — "every «ye of earth that sees In ages yet to follow, this great portent gleaming white Will gaze on it, Christ-symbol, as some message from the skies : It will pierce man's spirit, moving him to soul and power, of Right; For men must yet believe in Love, till harmony, and light Shall fill our world ! — O vanish'd one, in this faith of thine, my own. Is Heaven ever nearest me !" — And the stars above him shone So near in warm rays passionate, as if far seraphic eyes Would share their dazzling glory, an' cheer thro' mists of paradise.'' UNANSWERED 8l UNANSWERED. I know not why there seers were of old, Nor why there prophets be; I cannot tell why Spirit doth withhold The truths I love so, veil'd in mystery. I know not why Beauty, like threads of gold, Veins all Material — all the greys Of Actual and Fact — illumes all ways Where the soul walks with God; I must believe Immortal intimations hearts receive. And that faith makes the day splendid. I know not where's the realm of Bliss conceal'd — (Mind cannot limn so fair a place) ; I reck not where the Pages be reveal'd — And where love's august face Will answer human wail and destiny; I can but wait the Vision — watch and see The cloud-veils from all heights withdrawn; I only know I must work, and wait the Dawn, For the long, long night ended! 82 THE FACE OF MY DEAD THE FACE OF MY DEAD. (Obit: Fitzhugh Lee, April 28, 1905.) 'Twas the call of May, as the joy of spring Made the joy of the world ! And the heavenly twain would tribute bring — Even Memory and Love, as they wept above Where our flags were furled O'er Lee at rest. The golden spears Of the glorious sun Cross'd and defied the lance of Death ; While a veiled form, with sob, and sigh. And her muffled tears. Her haloe'd brow, and bated breath, And pleading glance, and heav'nly eye. Whispered low, to the twain, as one. She bade them pass ; and we knew while she spake 'Twas the! beautiful South — ^the mother of Lee, Though she only said To Love, and to all : "For his dear sake Let me look alone, on the face of my dead — 'Twill glow as a star to the uttermost Sea.'' AND OTHER POEMS 83 IN SILENCE. Could we but limn the images All beautiful, that throng the ceaseless brain, And woo the soul none other human sees, — Th' Visions in youth, in age, that wing again Through all the grand years' flight ; - We then would thrill the dazzled heart and sight Forever with untold delight And yet, how glows the canvas great, and fair, — The vision highest, best, is never there ! If we could hymn the finest melodies That stir the soul from life's hush'd other side. From the Unseen, Unknown, their mysteries Too fine for men to hear, or glide To earthly harps, and lays. Then we might fill the earth with joy and praise! But in our sweetest song, our saddest tone — The secret grandest, best, is never known. Could we Love's highest, fullest bliss express. Not in heart-wonder die, earth then might be Like Heaven ; while loves within the deeds that bless,- ( Bless, and hush lips of sorrow's strife, — ) Pass by unseen of souls we daily see : — Haply, unknown, to father, child or wife ; So in earth's sweet light and joy, where others trod The bloomy heights ; or, vales of woe, — And past the tomb's dim night, we mutely go, (Like phantoms of silence to and fro) And caf ry, alone, our best to God ! PRESS COMMENT CRITICISM FROM NOTED MEN AND WOMEN The Smilhern Gross, and Other Foems. By Lillian Rozell Mes- senger. Author of " Threads of Fate," " Fragments from, an Old Inn," " The Vision of Bold," etc. Folio, cloth, beveled boards, IS pages, $1.00, Distinguished characteristics — sucli as wild grace of thought, imasination at once bold and delicate, passionate purity of feeling. * * • A web of many colored thought's, fine and firm, with no shoddy of false sentiment. The sug- gestive quality is a notable charm — charm of mystery — hidden sweetness — the folded heart of a rose. — Mary E. Bi-yan. "The Southern Cross and Other Poems," by Lillian Eozell Messenger, presents much stately blank yerse. "Hippo- mennes, or Love's Sacrifice," the longest piece in it, abounds in such strong expressions throughout its sounding periods as "athwart his noble eye's splendors serene," "quick bitterness," "the fires and bloom of living hope," "the mangled soul," stronger in fact than congruous in many cases, a kind of mixed strength In the metaphors. — Brooklyn Daily Eagle. " Fragments from an Old Inn" and " The Vision of Gold." By lAllian Rozell Messenger. "Lillian Eozell Messenger has written some of the saddest and lovliest verses in the EnsUsh language." — Memphis Ledger. PBESS COMMENT "Thoughts brilliant and abundant as stars at night under Southern skies." — Louisville Courier-Journal. "They are the depths of life and heights of divinity." — • Chattanooga Times. "Her muse is distinctively tropical, passionately delighting in all beautiful and brilliant forms of Nature." — Borne Journal, N. T. "Shows a poetic power of a rare kind. * * • Upon every page may be found lines of beauty, strength and originality. The sentiment in all the poems is pure, ennobling, helpful." — Joaquin Miller. Prop. James Wood Davidson says : "Your poems deserve success ; and that thought should be dearer to you than any amount of popularity anywhere. They are elegantly gotten up, and richly deserve it. The art is altogether too high for the masses ; the thoughts far too high for this age of matter and machinery. * * * These thoughts and feelings are true delicate, pure, poetical, and unselfish," etc., etc., etc.