• r FROM THE LIBRARY OF REV. LOUIS FITZGERALD BENSON, D. D. BEQUEATHED BY HIM TO THE LIBRARY OF PRINCETON THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY ^7 S *=. EXPORT BOOKSELLERS I 1 32. GAY STREET. I ■ *M _V^BATH>V \ T . ,™ , __ T ,v^w._ LAYS AND LYffltOS SEP 22 1936 > ^ ^ OF THE BLESSED LIFE, CONSISTING OF LIGHT FROM THE CROSS, AND ©1JJW |J0UttS. BY MARIANNE FARN1NGHAM. "Is it not strange the darkest hour That ever dawned en sinful earth Should touch the heart with softer power For comfort than an angel'a mirth ? That to the Caosa the mourner's eye should turn, Sooner than where the stars of Christmas burn ?" i\ KBLZ. TENTH EDITION. cConbon : JAMES CLARKE & CO., 13, FLEET STREET. 1873. Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2013 http://archive.org/details/blesOOhear AUTHOR'S PREFACE TO FIRST EDITION. With a fervent "God-speed" this lowly warbler of the valley spreads wing, singing loving lays, though its songs may not excel in strength, nor its plumage possess beauty enough to win praise from impartial ears and eyes. But if you, dear Reader, favour it so highly as to allow it to become a welcome guest in your happy home, — if in the twilight, or by the glowing fire, surrounded by loving ones, amid mirth and joy, or alone with the yearnings of your own spirit, it bring to you tender thoughts, as from a sister who presses the same steep hill-side as yourself, with the same aims, and hopes, and fears ; and journeying, as she trusts you are also, to our "Father's house," — if it but make "the Blessed Life" more alluring to one undecided, or more pleasant and satisiymg, even amid its difficulties, to one disciple of Jesus — then surely a portion oi time redeemed from other mental engagements will not have been thus occupied in vain ; and the writer will rejoice greatly, feeling amply rewarded for ail the toils of her congenial task. She knows how faltering and imperfect are her best efforts, — that her experience must of necessity fall far short of that of some who may peruse these pages, and who have lived many years amid the scenes and lessons she only begins to understand ; yet she ventures this public expression of her feelings in the hope that others may sympathize with them. MABIANNE FARNINGHAM. Decemler, 1SG1. PUBLISHER'S PBEFACE TO FIFTH EDITION. Four large editions of this book have been sold within the space of four years; and now that a fifth edition is demanded, the Publisher feels constrained to take advantage of the opportunity afforded to unite with the gifted Author in warm acknowledgments to the Christian public for the generous welcome that has thus been given to the work. Its success has far exceeded the most sanguine anticipations ; though certainly no person familiar with its contents will hesitate to admit that even yet the circulation of the volume has greatly fallen short of its manifest merits, whether regarded in its poetical or its religious aspects. There is much consolation in the assurance that a spiritual blessing has gone with the book in various directions. Since its first issue, a multitude of communications have been received expressive of the delight and benefit imparted by the perusal of the poems. They have often ministered pleasure to the social and family circle, and have carried the sunshine of hope into the abodes of many lonely and afflicted ones, causing them to think lightly of present sufferings in anticipation of the ht pleasures for evermore." In the confident conviction that thousands of other homes will be similarly cheered and blessed by these Lays and Lyrics, this new and revised edition is sent forth, commended to all whose hearts yearn after the beautiful and the true, and who "hold and are held " by that Cross whose influence alone enables mankind to use this world as not abusing it, and to look forward without dismay to the world that is to come. London, November, 18GG. CONTENTS. LIGHT FROM THE CROSS THE FUTURE THE CONVERT ruth's RESOLVE "JESUS WEPT ' "WHAT ARE THE WILD WAVES SAYING?"... THE PAST " BLESS US, AND MAKE US BLESSINGS" ... "I WILL COME AGAIN" "NEITHER THIRST ANY MORE*' "JEHOVAH JIREH" ".CAST ME NOT AWAY FROM thy presence" THE MOUNT OF OLIVES THE LANGUAGE OF THE CROSS THE SAVIOUR'S ASSURANCE ... " WHAT rS MAN, THAT THOU ART MINDFUL HIM?" AUTUMN WINDS our advocate longing for rome morning thoughts "he that watereth shall be watered also himself" the pleasant service the best choice ... the grateful retrospect ALONE "GO IN PEACH" THE NIGHT LAMP PAGs 11 25 28 31 34 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 47 47 48 49 50 51 52 52 53 54 56 57 VI CONTENT?,. "HE RESTORETH MY SOUL THE PLEASANT PATH THE HALLOWED SPOT COME TO THE CROSS WALK .,„ LET US TELL JESUS ... ... THE VOICE OF THE TREES .,. I AM HOME ... "GOD BE MERCIFUL UNTO US AND BLESS US" A DAY TOIL AND BE STRONG THE BEST FRIEND ... ... THE GLORIFIED REDEEMER OUR ISLAND HOME ... "GIVE US THIS DAY OUR DAILY bread"... THE UNKNOWN FUTURE WHO ARE AROUND THE THRONE? ... NOT UNTO US THE CALL OF SAMUEL SATURDAY EVENING... THE NIGHT COMETH ... ... "BEHOLD, A DOOR WAS OPENED IN HEAVEN " SUMMER-TIME "HOW WILT THOU DO IN THE SWELLING OF JORDAN?" "I WILL FEAR NO EVIL, FOR TWOTJ ART WITH ME "LOOKING UNTO JESUS " THE APPEAL ... THE RESPONSE ... ... MORNING "ALL RIGHT" "AND THERE WAS VERY GREAT gladness" THE COUNTLESS MULTITUDE THE u: MINISTERING SPIRITS FORGET NOT GOD 5CHE STILL SMALL VOICE CONTEXTS. Til the unchanging ... the hope set before us the useful ... "rejoice in the lord" ... the hour of evening prayeti a glimpse of heaven fireside poetry call to worship ... rest in tee ark ... speak kindly tarry with us "j sat under his shadow with great coming up from the wilderness looking up ... *' hold thou me up, and i shall re s "the lord hath need of thee " LIGHT THE W1FE*S FAREWELL ''LORD, TEACH US TO PRAY " THE GREAT PHYSICIAN THE CLOSING SCJ ONE MORE IN HEAVEN THE STORY OF THE CROSS ... LET US PRAY SONGS IN THE NIGHT THE SPIRIT'S LIGHT "LET ME LANGUISH INTO LIFE " ... AN APPEAL TO THE UN DEC IDE 3) A SABBATH SCENE ... HEAVEN THE RESOLVE "FOR TO ME TO LIVE IS CHRIST, AND TO DIE IS GAIN" "AND HE WAS NOT. FOR GOD TOOK HIM THE CHRISTIAN'S HOME LABOUR AND LOVE ... ABIDE WITH US Vlll CONTENTS. PAGH PHASES OF LIFE 142 pictures of life 143 my mission here ... ... 153 "who is on the lord's side?" 154 HOLY LIVING AND DYING 155 A CROWN FOR THE FAITHFUL ... ... ... 156 THE HEART'S RESPONSE TO THE SAVIOUR 157 THE UNSEEN PRESENCE ... ... ... ... 158 THE LANGUAGE OF THE EYE ... 159 "RETURN UNTO THY REST, O MY soul" ... ... 100 THE UNIVERSAL FRIEND ... ... 161 THE HEAVENLY STOREHOUSE 1G2 anywhere with jesus ... ... 163 the hope that maketh not ashamed 104 the christian's lot ... ... ... ... 105 " we shall be changed" ... icg be patient ... ... 107 "yet there is room" ... ... ... ... 108 "i will draw all men unto me " 169 the fear-storm ... ... ... 170 the dying christian 171 sunshine after rain 172 "MY SOUL TH1RSTETH FOR THEE " 173 AUTUMNAL SCENES ... 174 LORD AND SAVIOUR, HEAR US ... ... ... 176 THE father's BLESSING ... 177 GUIDE ME, MY FATHER ... ... ... ... 178 SIN AND GRACE ... ... ... 179 OUR HEAVENLY HOME ... ... 180 THE CHRISTIAN'S PRESENT REST 181 "HE SATISFIETH THE LONGING SOUL" 182 THE DYING ... ... ... ... ... 183 "ABIDING UNDER THE SHADOW OF THE ALMIGHTY" 184 NONE BUT JESUS ... ... ... 185 SPRING-TIME ... 186 PRAY FOR THY LOVED ONES 187 THE LOVE OF JESUS 188 CONTENTS. IX PAGa ONLY A STEP 189 "THERE SHALL BE NO NIGHT THERE" 190 RAIN AT EVENTIDE 191 LOVE-DRAWINGS 192 FRAY WHEN THE DAYLIGHT FADETH 193 A HAPPY NEW YEAR 194 CHRISTIANS OF ALL SECTS, UNITE! 195 THE DAY'S REJOICING 197 NEED 198 GUIDANCE ... ... ... ... ... ... 198 THE FOUNTAIN OF LIFE ... ... 199 IMMORTALITY 200 THE NEGLECTED FRIEND 201 FLOWERS ... ... ... ... ... ... 202 44 pray without ceasing "... ... ... ... 203 44 o lord, revive thy work " ... 204 for jesus' sake ... ... ... ... ... 205 god's acre ... ... ... ... ... ... 207 the shelter ... ... ... ... ... 208 WALKING BY FAITH 209 44 HE KNOWETH THE WAY THAT I TAKE " ... 210 PREPARE THE LIVING FOR LIFE ... ... ... 211 THE saviour's prophecy ... ... ... ... 212 " I WILL NOT LEAVE Y'OU COMFORTLESS, I WILL COME TO YOU"... ... ... ... ... 213 PRAY FOR THE UNCONVERTED ... ... ... 214 FALLING LEAVES 215 THE APPROACH TO GOD ... ... ... ... 210 44 THOU VISITEST THE EARTH " ... ... ... 217 THE HUSHED STORM ... ... ... ... 218 god's LOAF ... ... ... ... ... ... 219 THE WISH OF THE WEARY ... ... 220 LEANING-TRUSTS ... ... 221 THE WEARY HEART 222 COME WITH US ... ... ... 223 A NOVEMBER LAY ... ... ... 224 PREPARE THE DYING FOR DEATH 225 CONTEXTS. PACE AND SHE ANSWERED " JT JS WELL " ... , c . 226 ** TO BE WITH CHRIST, WHICH IS EAR BETTER**... 227 THE TRIES AND TRUE ... ... ... ... 228 SPARE USEFUL LIVES ... ... ... ... 22U LORD, REMEMBER ME- ... ... ... ... 230 'THOU. LORD, HAST MADJK ME GLAD" ... ... 231 THE UNTRODDEN RATH ,.. ... ... ... 232 FADING AWAY ... ... ... ... ... 234 TALK ... ... ... ... 235 suffering and glory ... ... ... ... 236 why standest thou here idle? ... ... 237 jesus only ... ... ... ... ... ... 238 answers to the saviour's prayer ... ... 239 " thy way, o god, ts in the sanctuary" ... 210 new year's day 241 rise and pray ... ... ... ... ... 242 be not discouraged ... ... ... ... 243 "they despised the pleasant land" ... ... 244 " wye all do fade as a leaf" ... ... ... 245 i would not live alway... ... ... ... 240 for ever with the lord ... ... ... 248 by the sea... ... ... ... ... ... 249 . <* ... .*. ... 256 LAYS AND LYEICS, ETC. &ight frxim the Crass. O for an angel's power of mind and thought I The earth-bound soul can only weakly seem To tell of that with such deep meaning fraught, That augels stand astonished at the theme. Light from the Cross ! — 0, may it gild my page, Irradiate my mind, and nerve my hand To write of things which still from age to age Will form the songs they sing in spirit land. IIow deep the darkness thai, with gloomy wings, Sat brooding o'er the world ere this light shone-, Throwing more mystery o'er hidden things, Shrouding the soul that sat and sighed alone 1 Glory to God ! for now, athwart the skies, Light from the Cross of Calvary has come, To shed its blessed beams upon our eyes, And thus illuminate the pathway home. 12 Softly its rays shone on the history Of man's first sin against his holy God, Unfolding on the scene the mystery Of his redemption through a Saviour's blood, Lighting the fearful sentences of death On the closed gates of long-lost Paradise, And upward urging the aspiring breath To a far better Eden in the slriiM. Light from the Cross upon God's broken law ! The trembling soul shrank from its Maker's look, Until, with heavenly-lighted eyes, it saw Hope for the sinner in the Holy Book. Mount Sinai's top was covered with the cloud Of the Eternal's anger, till on high, " Look unto Calvary !" was proclaimed aloud, And sunbeams spread o'er all the brightening sky. And we, who break it still, who work and strive But to increase our own unrighteousness, When fainting 'neath our burden, may revive, As closer to that lighted Cross we press : For " Christ fulfilled the law," and we may cling To that fulfilment as our perfect good ; Beneath His holiness our sins may fling, And see our natures pardoned and renewed. Light from the Cross irradiates the time Of types and shadows, with their misty air ; Throws over it a glory all sublime, That ere it shone was never witnessed there : The olden service, and the sacrifice Of bulls and goats, and offerings for sin, Wore but the shadows of that wondrous price Paid on the Cross our rebel souls to win. 13 The lamb, without a blemish, that was laid On Israel's sacred altar, and the fire That kindled when their offerings were made, And bore to heaven their penitent desire, Were only simple types of II im who came To be the " Lamb of God," and take away The world's dark heritage of sin and shame — Our sacrifice, whose power can ne'er decay. And so when we have sinned, and wildly weep, Not to these outward rites our spirits turn ; When God's just wrath shall round about us sweep, Our worn hearts for a purer offering yearn. The lamp of Calvary will guide us where He lives — the spotless Lamb who once was slain 3 His blood is sprinkled on us in our prayer, And we are washed and pure from every stain. Light from the Cross has slione on prophecy, That dark, uncertain page of baffling power ; And man may read it now with kindling eye, And list the oracles all dumb before. Strange beauty gilds the sacred words inspired, Lessons Divine are radiant with its beams ; Man sees what ancient prophets long desired, And sings of Calvary by way-side streams. How sweet Isaiah's words of eloquence, And Jeremiah's pathos to us, now That light has elevated human sense, And glory touched the aching, dust-soiled brow ! Christ came to preach good tidings to the meek, To loose the captives, broken hearts to bind, To comfort Zion's mourners, and to seek The lost and wretched whom none else could find. u All ! coma tne throngs whom thus the prophets taught. Who heard and marvelled, but believed them not, Within the Gospel's radiance have been brought, They had not then the wondrous words forgot : The holy cities where our fathers praised, And fields and valleys, would all vocal be, And from Judaea's mountain-tops be raised One long glad hymn of Christian melody. Light from the Cross upon the promises ! How sweet their life-words to the sickened soul ! Healing, and solace, and support in these Are found, grief's surging billows to control : They who have sat beneath the Cross may take And bind them ever to the grateful heart, Their own blest heritage for Jesus' sake, To calm the terror and allay the smart. There was a weary, way-worn, wandering man, Who groped amid the darkness of the earth, "Who read with eye-sight dim the Gospel plan, Nor understood its beauty or its worth ; But when he knelt before the holy Cross, And saw that weary ones might sweetly rc3t, How did he call all other treasures loss, And clasp the promise to his throbbing breast ! Light from the Cross upon the history Of falling nations and a changing world, Explaining brightly the deep mystery — Some peoples raised, and some to ruin hurled. Where'er this light has dawned, the hand of Gocl Is seen disposing the intricacies, Bringing a brighter period with His nod, When all shall know the Saviour — all be iiia. 15 And now it melts the Greenland heart of ioe, Softens the fierce will of the African, Throws beauty round the Indian's wild device, And crowns with heavenly flowers the Mexican* And war and pestilence, where'er they go, But pioneer the blessed time of peace, When every tribe shall our Jehovah know, And powers destructive in His mild reign ceas8u Light from the Cross upon that spotless Life That trod, in human flesh, this vale of tears, Turning to harmony the din of strife, Staying with love earth's agony and fears ! A stranger 'midst His own, He suffered here, Till, on the Cross uplifted, there was given Conviction to His murderers ; while fear Seized those who crucified the King of Heaven 5 Light on the miracles the Saviour wrought, Light on the healing touch of that kind hand, On all the blessings, with such mercy fraught. He scattered broadcast on the thirsty land ! The wondering crowd were fain to own that He Must be Messiah — such His matchless power — Who made the lame to walk, the blind to see, And raised the dead from its unlighted hour. He fed the weary, hungry multitude ; — Light from the Cross proves Him the living bread: Among His people, poor, despised, He stood ; — Light from the Cross proves Him their glorious bead 8 He healed the sick as they around Him pressed: — This light shows Him the healer of our souls : He soothed the raging tempest- waves to rest 5— And He cur passion and our sin controls. 16 Light from the Cross falls on our mission here, Lights np the path of duty for our feet, Turns to sublimity this lower sphere, And makes our daily labour light and sweet. It quickens to activity the nerve That sluggish lies in hearts too faint and cold, The " Well done, faithful servant," to deserve, In that blest city where the streets are gold. The missionary sees it, and is strong To labour on, though death is all around ; The pastor hails it, and can raise a song, Though cares and sorrows in his lot abound ; It falls upon the teacher's darkened room, And more than mortal strength at once is given j It warms and cheers the suffering martyr's gloom, And lights his spirit with a ray of heaven. Light from the Cross upon the miseries That crowd around the way-worn pilgrim here, Hope for the wretched in his poverties, Joy for the sufferer in his lowest sphere ! O ! 'twere enough to make the angels weep, To watch the outcasts in their great distress, Deep shadows brooding o'er them as they sleep ; But even here this light has made it less. Hundreds of ragged little ones, who bear Faintly indeed the stamp of childhood's joy, Were watching willingly each lurking snare, Waiting to find from Satan some employ : But there were Christian hearts and active feet, Which trod the darkened haunts of wretchedness, And brought them from their places of retreat, Intent, like Jesus Christ, to aid and bless. 1? And now, throughout our happy Christian land, What groups of sweet young faces may be seen. Singing with joy of Jesus as they stand, With bright intelligence of eye and mien ; Learning deep lessons how to live and die, To play their parts as in God's holy sight ; While prayers are breathed that they beyond the sky May praise Him ever for this blessed light ! Light from the Cross npon the cottagers That toil from morn till night for dally bread ! A lot of hunger is too often theirs, Of sleepless tossing on their rough, hard bed ; But lignt lias power to reach their humble home, Power the intensest darkness to dispel, To lead to Calvary all those who roam, And make them own at last, God doeth well ! Through the dark alleys, with a silent prayer, Aurelia wends her dim, intricate way : Daughter of Luxury ! what doth she there ? See, many a rough voice urges her to stay ! She brings them light their darksome way to cheer. She tells them softiy of the Saviour's love — ]Tow 'twas the poor He loved and sought while her«, And that He pities them, though now above. She leaves the Bible there, and so each night The poor man sits upon his wooden chair, While shines around his home the Gospel light, And the rude walls are vocal with his prayer. 0! blessings on that true, warm woman's. heart. That in her love and trust did what she could : And praise to Him who did His light impart, And fill her spirit with such gratitude! B IS Light from the Cross sometimes, with holy "beam* Has fallen upon the drunkard's sodden mind, Awaking him from his delirious dream, His true position in the world to find ; And the wine-cup is quickly dashed aside, For higher impulses attend him now ; He is a man again with manly pride, And the dark blot is fading from his brow. There was a man in whose black, kindling eye The fever-fires of passion wildly burned - } His was the harsh rebuke, the rude reply, The haughty spirit that his fellows spurned : But once, when the sweet Sabbath bell was nuiffr He lingered near the Cross a little while ; And now the words of love are on his tongue. The lion is a lamb, with patient smile. Another, too, there was, who lightly spoke The holy name of the Almighty God, Who in the minds of others oft 9woke A wish to tread the sinful paths he treu. But a strong hand was on him, and lie knelt Beside the Cross, until its brilliant light Fell on his spirit, and the scoffer felt Hnmbied and penitent in Jesus' sight. Thrice-blessed, holy light! where'er it shines Its sacred influence at once is known ; It moulds the hardest heart, until it twines In lowly, reverent love around the throne. So noiseless, yet so infinite its sway, It spreads like lucent sunbeams o'er the earth t And joyfully the hearts of men obey, And waken to a more exalted birth. 19 All that is good, or great, or high, or pure, Springs from that one great fountain at the Cross; That is the only good that will endure When other gains are proved but constant loss! Thar nerves the painter's hand and guides his dreams; The poet and the sculptor own its power : God is the source of art, and Calvary's beams Give it a glory never seen before. For science flourishes amid its light, And literature attains a higher tone, And courtesy, and kindness, with delight, Will ever make the Christian land their own. Our country's greatness from this light proceeds; The Gospel makes it noble, good, and free, And yet within its sod arc but the seeds ; — What will the great and glorious harvest be ? I hear the indistinct slow Future's tramp, Marching along the beaten way of Time ; In its broad hands it bears the Gospel lamp, And on its lofty brow God's seal sublime ! What shall the destiny of nations be — What the grand future of this rising world, — When Jesus' Gospel shall .have set them free, And He the banner of His Cross unfurled ? Ah! who can paint that glorious time of good, When the dark corners of the earth shall come And join their hearts and hands in brotherhood, All pilgrims to the universal home? When war shall never raise its clanging noise, Nor hands be lifted but to clasp and bless : Good-will and peace prevail — earth's greatest joyd-* And warm kind hearts of brethren, in distress ? 11 2 Where, then, shall ignorance be ? 0, man may seefc, But never find it, in that happy hour : And vice will triumph not above the weak ; It shall be conquered by a higher power : And superstition, with its wearing rust, And enmity, with its sly, creeping tread, Will then give room to perfect love and trust, Calling down blessings on each other's head. Light from the Cross shall be the world's great weal; All moral benefits from thence have sprung ; And its unfolding changes shall reveal How God His blessings round the Cross has flung. The Saviour teaches morals to mankind ; The lofty character proceeds from Him ; And he who copies Jesus in his mind Will have an excellence years cannot dim. And in the good time coming man will be A nobler creature, because more like God, For the rich light of Christianity Shall be diffused as sunshine all abroad. And this shall be the secret of the change : — The great predictions shall have been fulfilled; "Man kneels before his Maker, glad t' exchange His best performances for Christ's blood spilled. And nations, in one concert grand and deep, Will learn calm lessons at the Holiest' s feet ; Their hearts in Calvary's streams will seek to steep^ And bring to heaven the praises that are meet. Here only perfect holiness is found : Before the Cross man ceases thus to strive, Lies in abasement on the blood-washed ground, Grateful his all from Jesus to derive. 21 Iright from the Cross upon the followers Of Christ, the Spotless One ! Sometimes 'tis dim; While earth-clouds float above these lives of theirs They are not perfect followers of Him. Not conquered quite as yet is Satan's power : Faith, Hope, and Charity are not quite strong ; They falter sometimes in the trying hour. And grieve the God to whom they all belong. But, with the full refulgence of that light, Full holiness will deck the Christian's brow; lie will be beautiful in Jesus' sight, If in His righteousness alone he bow. And deeper are the lessons Christ will teach, The longer they remain in His blest school, And higher the attainments they will reach, While He who is all tenderness shall rule. The perfect Christian is the perfect man ; Morality and excellence must be With those who know and feel the Gospel plan : Whom God has honoured, Jesus has set free. All gentleness, and purity, and love, Call this their birth-place, where the streams that flow Are preparations for that state above Which shall no sin or darkness ever know ! A child is playing 'mid the bright, gay flowers, A maiden dreams in the sweet twilight dim, A youth is singing through the sunny hours, And manhood's voice swells high the holy hymn. Why are they all so happy ? 'Tis that they Have gathered silently around the Cross, And, therefore, joys that cannot fade away Are theirs, e'en in this world of grief and loss. 22 Light from the Cross ! How bright the mercy-seat Is to the timid soul approaching now ! How passing dear the place at Jesus' feet, Where she can look to Calvary and bow ; Where hopes all heaven-born fill the expanding mind, And love eternal satisfies the heart ; Where its weak tendrils fondly are entwined Around the Highest, never more to part ! So when our yearning spirits ciy for peace, And we are left with all our griefs alone, Within that sacred place the storm will cease, And we gain access to the blood-washed throne. No sword of vengeance drives the soul away, But Jesus welcomes with His beaming smile, When in our wretchedness we turn to pray, And bask in that blest sunlight for a while. And when with undimmed power that light shall shino, Those who are bound in Christian unity Shall love as brethren in those rays divine, Shall hope and suffer all in charity, Shall quell the Hashing glance, the selfish thought^ And cultivate the loving word and deed, In characters with such high goodness fraught That all men shall confess them Christ's indeed. And then our grand cathedrals will not be Closed to God's servants of another name j Nor those who love each other disagree, Their hopes, their fears, their interests the same. The party spirit will not then distress Those who kneel down at the same throne of grace j But lips that coldly sneered will warmly bless, All longing eagerly for Jesus' face. 23 O happy period ! Blessed, lioly light ! "Would that our eyes might see, our ears might hear, Ita kindling rays dispel the gloomy night ; Would that "the good time coming" might be near! Our eyes are straining for it evermore ; I >:\v hearts have ceased not for its dawn to pray! O that the hours of darkness were but o'er ! O fchi reign of light would not delay ! from the Cross dawns on afflictions night ; Dreams — angel-dreams float oft amid the pain, . the rod that rests upon us I Helping the spirit rise and trust again : For in God's characters of love we read What tender, useful offices are theirs, IIow trials are God's children's greatest need, How "loving-kindness" sends their deepest cares. Yon lonely sufferer, whose friends have passed On long before her to the Great Unseen, Is not unhappy, though she is the last Of a large joyous circle that has been ; For there is glory round about her bed, And she can see, e'en with her aged eyes, The light of Calvary above her head, Wooing her gently to her native skies. Light from the Cross illumines scenes of joy, Gives to our pleasure all its richest glow, • esta the holy themes our thoughts employ, Lends rays of heaven to these fleet hours below; Guides ever higher to that land of love, Where crystal waters and green pastures be; And fills the heart that yearns for things above With quiet hopes of immortality. 24 Light from the Cross upon the vale of death: No longer is it heralded by gloom; For when its icy hand has stayed the breath, Light from the Cross will radiate on the tomb 3 And cheerfully toward that home serene The trusting soul will speed upon its way, Till, basking in God's light — no veil between — Darkness and doubt and death will flee away. So dies the Christian ! Shadows only come Across the valley which he needs must tread 5 There is no terror frighting him from home ; He will be there when others say " He's dead ! * He does not fear the narrow resting-place, 'Tis but the lighted threshold of his heaven j Angels are round him with the torch of grace- Soon the full blaze cf glory will be given. Light from the Cross will not grow dim above 5 The shining robe, the gold an harp, will be But tokens of fclie Saviour's deathless love, Who hung on Calvary to set us free. And through eternity the swelling song Will celebrate the wonders of that light That beamed our chequered earthly path along, And brought us safely where there's no more night. Praise for the blessed light of Calvary ! ! when our tongues are loosed, a noble hymn Shall praise Him for the glory constantly, That e'en these earth-damps cannoc shade or dim. Till then, whate'er of trial's power may come, Let us ne'er leave this blessed, holy place; — Beneath the Cross of Christ shall be our home, Till we behold the Saviour face 10 face. •l r o The Future. " lie shall choose our inheritance' for us."— Psalm xlvii. 4 The lofty elms were waving to and fro, And making solemn music. The brown leaves Foil softly on the greensward. The pal 3 stars Locked on the sleeping earth, and smiled. The hush Was deep and all unbroken, save the fall Of a light footstep. For, with measured tread. Beneath the spreading branches, one there walked In whose strong frame, and flashing eye, and brow High and unwrinkled, were the buoyancy And strength of youth. He stood with halting feet On manhood's threshold. He had just awoke To see life as it is ; with purposes, And impulses, to make it something great And worthy of its Donor. And he sought To make his future course, and chose and dreamed Of paths that he would like to tread; and yet, Round all there gathered something like a mist And dark uncertainty : there seemed to be A doubt, and dread, and danger with the joy. Whichever way he looked. And then he thought Of One who in His mighty hand holds all The destiny of nations, yet loves well To be the Guide of youth. The young man bared His head, and, glancing up to the high heavens, Said, " Father, choose for me!" Years passed away. The strong athletic frame was called to bend 26 Beneath the weight of labour. And the scroll Of his life's duties opened gradually. He had a mission here. For him fond ties Of close affection were not made. He saw Families gather round his friends, and heard Sweet epithets of tender love ; bat they Were not for him. He might have chosen them 5 But He who knowetli what is best for us Withheld them all, and gave him wealth. And so He fed the hungry, clothed the shivering form, And lived and laboured as God's servants should. And he was very happy. Those whom he Had blessed called blessings down on him. And peaco, That peace that passeth knowledge, filled his heart And satisfied its yearnings. And at last, When the call came to bring him home, he said, " Goodness and mercy follow all my days, And I shall dwell within the house of God For ever." There was yet another — one On whose fair forehead was a wreath of thought And earnest meditation. Future years Lay spread before her. What the rolling tide Might toss upon the sands of life, and what Her path might be, she could not tell ; and as She sat before her window, and looked out On the dim earth, she wished it might be hers To scan that hidden landscape. But it passed — That wild, impatient wish. She raised her eye, Bright with the light of youth and hope, toward heaven. The deep, deep azure made her think of Him 27 Whose great white throne is there. His mighty love Ead made ber childhood beautiful. And He, She knew, would bless her now. And so she prayed, 11 Choose Thou my lot for me." There pressed around Friends with warm, loving hearts, who laid sweet flowera Along her sunny path. Bright smiles there were To welcome her where'er she went. And ties, Fond, close, and sweet, bound her young heart to home And dear old England. But, at last, there camo One dear) r than the rest, noble and good ; And tl -streams mingled, and were oxz. They watched the unseen guiding hand, and soon It led them from the old home-scenes, to where The dark-browed chieftain waited for the joy Of God's salvation. It would be wrong To say she shed no tears of parting. But She knew the way He chose for her would be The path of safety and of happiness ! And so she went with him who had become Her earthly all ; and soon she left the home So many loves had lighted, and became The inmate of a lowly cot, beneath A scorching sun, far from the happy scenes Of cloudless childhood. Was she happy there P Ah, yes ! for all the ease and rest and joy Of her old fatherland, she would not leave The spot where God has sent her. Every day Had bronght its meed of happiness, — and closed With songs as glad and grateful as went up From the home circle in the far-oil* land. Yes ! surely it is better far that lie Choose cur inheritance. We may be led 23 Through paths we imaged not. But peace and joy Go always where He leads. We need not fear The shadows in the distance. Let us place Our hand within our Father's, and commit Our way to Him. The Romanists had gathered in The chapel wide and high ; And solemnly the organ's peal Went up. as to the sky : The burning candles threw a glare On pictured saints around, While all the congregation knelt In silence on the ground. The white-robed priests were chanting word© In dialect unknown, And so the ignorant were forced To worship all alone ; They listened to the music's swell, And gazed upon the cross ; And "use is second nature," so They thought not on their loss. But one, the fairest of them all, Who formed that gorgeous scene, A pale and thoughtful-looking girl, Whose years were just eighteen ; Her quiet brow was very sad, She had an anxious look ; And every now and then she touched A little hidden book. 29 She knelt as all the others did, And to the altar turned, Ami bent her head in lowliness, While clouds of incense burned ; Yet. when they rose and left the place, She said with bitterness — " 0, what a mockery it is Tj worship God like this!" And when she gained her father's houso Her silent room she sought, And closed the door most carefully, As if for quiet thought - 3 And, having softly gone into A little secret nook, She quickly from her pocket drew The wondrous little book. For many days she had perused Its pages o'*er and o'er ; And now she conned it carefully, As she had done before : And, as she read, fresh beauty seemed To beam upon her sight, And silently her heart-thought rose — " Thy Word it giveth light." She saw that Christ, and lie alone, Could peace and pardon give — Could teach the fallen sinner how In light and joy to live : She saw how those who loved His name Must choose the better part — With earth and all its vain delights Should be prepared to part. 30 She felt that all the false, dark creeds That had deceived her youth Must be forsaken by her now, For they were not the truth ; That even parents, friends, and home Were not her " all in all," And might not keep her where she was* If Christ should onward call. And, though 'twas very hard, she felt That they could all be given For the assurance of His love And one sure hope of heaven. But, though she read the sacred "Word, She could not trust in Him ; And all her views of that best Friend Were incomplete and dim. So, many earnest hours she spent Upon her knees in prayer ; And supplications deep and strong Kose on the midnight air ; She had no earthly teacher, but Her cries went up to God, And soon the Saviour's smile beamed fortli Upon the path she trod. But the profession of her faith Provoked her father's ire, And frowning priests were ushered in To talk of naming fire ; Those, too, whom she had fondly loved Now passed her coldly by, Or spoke such angry, bitter words, She almost wished to die. 31 Yet stedfast 'midst it all she stood, ^2(\ by nor pleading love Won many proud, mistaken hearts To seek for peace above ! In that bright world before the throno, Calmly she resteth now; The palm of victory in her hand, The crown upon her brow. ButVs Essolus. Freshly the morning air, with scented breath, Came o'er the mountain tops. The yellow corn Was ripening for harvest, and the sun Shone oat in splendour, as if glad to chase Famine away from Judah. Everything Looked lovely to the exiled Xaomi : She saw it all, but at her aching heart Was such accumulated sorrow, that Her spirit sank within her, and she turned From the fair scene to muse upon her woe. Into the land of Moab she had come, Leaning upon her husband. He was strong, And princely in his manhood ; and his eyes Had bent upon her with such looks of love As they kept journeying, that she scarcely felt The weariness of travel. By their side, In the exuberance of laughing youth, Their two fair sons had walked. But where were they 82 Now that she was returning ? The dark grave Shrouded her best-beloved and beautiful : And, with an aching, empty heart, she rose To recommence her journey. But there was Another trial to be borne. She called The youthful, weeping widows, whom she loved With all a mother's tenderness, who shared So deeply in their grief, and bade them go Back to their childhood's home. Yet for a while She stayed to bless them. They had been so kind And tender to her sons, and to herself ! Fervently she besought the Lord to bless them, And, with a voice choked in its utterance, prayed That other husbands might bind up their hearts, And give them rest. And then " they lifted up Their voices, and they wept." They would not go, And leave her in her solitude ; but she, With stedfast heart of pure unselfishness, In firm low tones, and words unfaltering, Bade them depart to their ancestral homes. Orpah returned.. But Buth, the gentle Buth, Clave to her yet more closely, and her arms Tightened around Naomi, till the tears Gathered within her eyes, and her white lips Quivered with feeling as she said, " Go back Unto thy people !" But the youthful head Sank on her breast again, and she replied — u Entreat me not to leave thee ! I have lived So long in happiness by thy dear side, So much of loving tenderness received, I would for ever near to thee abide, My mother ! Cherish me within thy heart, And bid me not depart ! " Where'er thou goest, lee thy daughter pro, And lodge where'er thou liest down to rest j Thine is the only God I wish to know, And thine the people that I love the best; Where'er thou diest, I will pray to die, — Where thou art buried, lie ! " ! for the sake of those we both have loveu, For the sweet memories of the happy past, Let me not in thy sorrow be removed, Let me stay with thee even to the lasi ; I cannot bear alone this early woe — ! bid me not to go ! "He who so cheered me with his manly love, Is smiling on me while I ask thee now : O ! thou who lov'dst him, bid me not remove, But stay and chase the anguish from thy brow. Bid me stand by thee in thy hours of pain : Permit me to remain." Naomi pressed her to her heart, and spake No other words. And they both journeyed on Unto the land of Judah. Ruth saw not What there awaited her : but yet she felt The joy of those who do a noble deed. God blessed her, as lie will all those who strive To make another linppy ! 6i M fc$SUS WGpU n John xi. 35. His sandalled feet were travel- st a med, His journey had been long, And faintly on His staff He leaned, The weariest of the throng. But all-forgetful of Himself Was that kind, heavenly breast ; Working for those He should redeem,— The Saviour might not rest. Grief was around the sepulchre ;— ■ » The little loving band Were drawing nigh to Bethany, And missed the greeting hand : The ever-ready smile of love, The tender, thoughtful care, Came not as they were wont to do, For Lazarus was not there. The sisters tremblingly drew near, Swayed by their mighty grief, And many followers, gathering round, Strove to impart relief; But Mary, in her agony, Tressed to the Saviour's side, And said, " Lord, if Thou hadst been here^ My brother had not died." ■66 He looked upon the stricken form With His all-pitying eye, — Then at the friends who late had said, " Lord, let us also die !" And over the Redeemer's soul A flood of anguish swept : His spirit groaned beneath the load Of grief; — and " Jesus wept." He did not weep when, fierce and strong, His enemies drew near; The " Crucify Him !" of the crowd Drew not a single tear. The cruel scorn, the bitter taunt, His fervent spirit bore ; Not for Himself that face Divine Its mournful aspect wore. Why now these tears ? He knew a word Could bring the absent breath — That Lazarus might smile again, For He could conquer death. He knew that He would waken him, From this his transient sleep, And that the life-tide would flow back- Then why did Jesus weep ? He wept for sympathy with those Who bore the sufferer's part. For human sorrow has such power To touch that mighty heart. The "World's Salvation'' could not eea Grief upon those He loved — Woe in the eyes that turned to Him— And He remain unmoved. c 2 36 Jesus ; we thank Thee for Thy tear3 j For. when our hearts are sad, We know Thou wilt not turn away, But make the mourner glad. And when our broken spirits faint, And sorrows o'er us sweep, Remind us, all-tender Friend, That Thou in love didst weep. u What a^je the Wild Waues Saying 01f •* The floods have lifted up, O Lord, the floods have lifted up their voice; the floods lift up their waves." — Psalm xciii. 3. The voice of God is in the waves that wildly o'er us sweep, The rough dark watercourses of affliction's mighty deep ; They speak to us in thrilling tones of that Eternal Power Who " in the hollow of His hand" retains them every hour. i: What are the wild waves saying ?" Let us listen as they roll, While their deep language solemnly finds entrance to the soul. Ah ! they have swept our friends away ! How rapidly they fled before their rushing might into the region of the dead ! How vain our frantic eagerness to hold them as they fly ! Yet from the moving waters there is sent a kind reply :— Blest are the dead who die in Christ, for they shall resting be, When the earth melts "with fervent heat" and there is "no more sea." Again the water-floods rise high, and from our loosened grasp nave swept the life-long treasures which we held with fondest clasp, — The comforts of our home fireside, the dazzling light of fame, The favour of our fellow-men, the honour of our name ; And when we ask the reason why, the tempest wild replies, " He speaks, and at His high command the stormy billows rise." And yet again, with fearful force, the angry waters rush, And now the spirit is subdued, and (here is solemn hush ; The pulse is low, the cheek is pale, and faintly comes the breath, And nature sinks in terror from the hov'ring shade of death. But sweetly comes the Master's voice, M 'Tis I — be not afraid !" Ye waters, "peace, be still;" for "here shall your proud waves be stayed." "What arc the wild waves saying ?" From the throne of God above, Laden, they flow to us below, with messages of love ; Yet, when the storms are beating and our spirits quake with fear, 'Tis sweet to look above and see the " B,ock of Ages" near, To hear our God say, " Hitherto, but now no further 001710,*' To feel the waves are bearing us yet nearer to our home. The fast. O ! sweet are the thoughts of the too-fleeting past, Life's glorious sunshine, too brilliant to last; Like soft-breathing harp-notes they gush through the mind, These thoughts of those seasons now far, far behind. When my spirit grows faint 'neath the hot, scorching beam, 'Tis pleasant to lave it in memory's stream, And yet 'tis a feeling of exquisite pain — This yearning to live it all over again ! The flower-clad greensward where gaily I roved, The song of the streamlet my spirit so loved, Those seats by the fire-side whence joyous am 1 free Rose the song and the laughter — so thrilling to me; 88 The eyes that smiled on me, the dear lips that blessed, The voices that cheered me, the kind hands that pressed,- The thoughts of those pleasures remain with me yet; They are past, they are past — but I cannot forget. And the future looks gloomy and lonely ; — yet stay ! What was it so deepened the joy of my way ? 'Twas the presence and smile of my Heavenly Friend, And He is unchanging — His love will ne'er end. So I'll hope, and press onward. The future may bring Less sunshine than gladdened the days of life's spring? But I cannot be wretched, wherever I roam, With the love of my Father, the sight of my home ! 11 Bless us, and make tis Blessings." Softly through the fragrant air Hises oft this earnest prayer, Beaching to that throne above, Unto Him whose name is love : — Bless us, Father, as we bow; Breathe thy peace-words o'er us noTrj Make us happy, pure, and good, Full of love and gratitude. Make us blessings ! Grant that wo Christ-like in our aims may be; Making glad the weary heart, Pointing to the better part. 89 Love and save us ; make us shiao In Thine image, Lord Divine! Help us while we linger here, Meeten for a higher snhere, "I will jcame again*" John xiv. 3. All desolate, and trembling, and faint-hearted, O'er life's rough hills we roam, Mourning that Christ our Saviour has departed Unto His glorious home ! For here the closest and the best communion Seems incomplete and dim : Our spirits scarcely realize the union Between our souls and Him. For, though He cheers the path that is so dreary With messages of love, The strife and tumult make us very weary— We long to rest above. And 0! how sweet the promise He has give.r>. That He will come again — That this strong veil that parts us shall be rivea, And ended all our pain ! Jesus is gone before and is preparing Seats in that " better land," That we His bliss and glory may be sharing. There — at our God's right hand. 40 " A little while" there is for us to linger ; A little work to do ; " A little while" to watch that pointing finger That leads the desert through. And then, His love in His owu accents telling, Jesus will come again, And tako us with Him to that peaceful dwelling, For ever to remain. Friend above all others ! we are sighing To see and feel Thee here ; Joyful beyond expression will be dying, If it but bring Thee near. "Hsither Thirst ant} mate" Rev. vii. 16. No thirst for love ! " The heart's deep well" in heaven Is filled with holy, satisfying love ; Such friendship as earth dreamed not of is given j Affection is the atmosphere above. No thirst for knowledge ! There the Highest teaches, And none are ignorant within His school ; Each favoured student truths sublimest reaches, And O ! how kindly does that Teacher rule ! No thirst for honour ! Crowns of life immortal Already wreathe the conqueror's stainless brow, All who have passed within that blessed portal Far, far excel the haughtiest monarch now J 41 Ko thirst for happiness ! The ratidomed spirit Bathes ever in unutterable joy! Those who have gained that blissful shore inherit Deep, lasting gladness, nothing can destroy. No thirst ! no thirst ! Earth's cisterns, dry and broken, Shall tempt the faint, parched pilgrim there no more ; Life's gushing fountain, with its wealth unspoken, Pours freely, constantly, its deep flood o'er. O! while we tread earth's way, 'mid scenes distressing, And groans too often from our faint hearts burst, How sweet to feel our aching f ^et are pressing On to that land where there is no more thirst ! *'Tiik Lord will provide," though the way that we tread Is so gloomy and rough that we sicken and faint ; Though the tempest and terror brood over our head, There's an ear that attends to the lightest complaint. 94 The Lord will provide" in the day of our need, Though the cisterns of earth may be broken and dry, Though a dearth should come over the land where we feed And desolate sorrow and danger be nigh. " The Lord will provide" when our friends have all flown, And the lips that have blessed us are silent and cold ; When we journey in darkness, un cheered and alone, There's a Friend whose kind hand will not loosen its hold. 42 * The Lord will provide," when the evening of life Throws its shadows of gloom o'er the narrowing way, When heart and flesh tremble and fail in the strife, And nature is sinking in solemn decay. " The Lord will provide" when the depths of the grave, With their darkness and nearness and dread, shall appalg When death shall have stricken the arm that would save, And vanquished and weak in the conflict we fall. " The Lord will provide," then, wherever we go ; Let us trust to His goodness and cling to His side, And fearlessly travel life's road, since we know That all will be well — for " the Lord will provide." u $ast me not awatj from Th$ Ifrtesetice" Psalm li. 11. God, in mercy look on me; My spirit knows not where to flee ; Yet in its grief I come to Thee — O, cast me not away ! Thou seest me full of woe and sin, With fears without and guilt within ; Yet only Thou canst make me clean-— 0, cast me not away ! My sinfulness must Thee offend, 1 feel I grieve Thee without end; And yet Thou art my only Friend— 0, cast me not away ! 43 Unbounded mercy, Lord, is Thine, Unbounded misery is mine ; Yet in Thy depth of love Divine — 0, cast me not away ! Around Thy cross my arms I fling, Unto Thy gracious sceptre cling, Thou ever pitiest suffering — 0, cast me not away ! I long to see Thy smiling face, I long to feel Thy kind embrace, My Father, in Thy boundless grace— 0, cast me not away ! Weary, and wretched, and defiled, Yet am I still Thy loving child, And art not Thou my Father mild ? — 0, cast me not away ! 0, bind me ever to Thy side, And let me in Thy shadow hide, And always at Thy feet abide — 0, cast me not away ! The WKxxxnt of 01iws. •'And he went as he was wont to the Mount of Olives.'*- Luke xxii. 39. More than earthly light and glory Rested on th? mountain brow, Hallowed by such sacred footprints, That a halo gilds it now — Such a Saviour On its flowery sod to bow ! 44 There the tears of love and kindness Fell from those all-tender eyes ; There the fervent supplications From those lips were heard to rise— God-like breathings, Wafted to the upper skies ! ! to rest where lie once rested, Press the turf His feet have pressed Gaze upon those scenes so sacred, Were to be supremely blessed ! On the mountain Where the Saviour knelt to rest ! But to be with Him it needs not We to Olivet repair ! Where our spirits turn toward Him In their longings — He is there, And will bless us 'Mid the hallowed scenes of prayer. The language of the $ross« " Bring thy sins and sorrows here." Life's burdens are pressing on thee, As thou toilest o'er the sod ; Thou hast learnt some bitter lessons In the way thy feet have trod : Thy portion is mixed with sorrow, Thy cup has brimmed with woe, And a dark cloud hangeth o'er thee Where'er thy footsteps gc. 45 And weighing upon thy spirit Is the heavy load of sin ; Its mark is on thy forehead. And its deep, dire curse within : And thy heart is well-nigh broken, O'erwhelmed by its rushing tide ; Thou art bowed by its sad confusion, But knowest not where to hide. Yet cheer thee, desolate-hearted, A haven of rest is near, And a voice of music entreats thee To cast thy burden here. It is far too large and heavy For thy sinking heart to bear ; O, drop it, thou heavy-laden, With the soothing breath of prayer. 0, faint one, do not tarry In the wild unceasing strife; Come to the Cross ! I'll give thee Forgiveness, joy, and life. 'Twill soothe the crushing sorrow Within thy bleeding breast ; Wayworn, and sad, and weary, Come to the Cross and rest. The Sauiaitr's Assurance* "All power is given unto me in heaven and earth."— Matt, xxviii. 19. Cheer thee, sufferer, cheer thee 5 For the weary couch of pain No longer than He pleases Shall thv sinking form retain. 46 All power is with thy Saviour, And His hand is nerved by love $ He tenderly prepares thee For thy home with Him above. Faint not amid temptations, Thou who art sorely tried ; There is a blessed shadow Where thy spirit may abide. A loving Friend permits it, He can see that it is best 5 All power to Him is given — He will give the weary rest. Thou who with loving labour Yield' st thy services to Him, Success is in His keeping, He can fill thy cup to brim. O, fear not for the future, But betake thyself to prayer, That a crown of bright rejoicing May soon be thine to w r ear. If we are friends of Jesus, We need not fear the strife That with hasty feet attends ua All our journeyings through life* Nay, e'en the waves of Jordan, In that last and trying hour, Will not fill our souls with terror. For the Saviour has all power. 47 "What is Ulan, that Thau an mindful of him?" Psalm viii. 1. Seraphs at Thy footstool bend ; Strains from golden lyres ascend ; Myriads of immortals kneel, Rendering homage that they feel. Nature praises Thee, its God ; Flowers are smiling from the sod ; Birds are singing as they fly ; All things join the harmony. Sun, and moon, and twinkling star Tell how great Thy glories are ; And the green earth at Thy feet Joins the chorus full and sweet. Since Thy works all praise Thee thus, Father, why such love to us ? Help us, Highest, every hour To adore Thy matchless power. Autumn Winds* The " sad Autumn winds!" How they mournfully sign, As now they are sweeping with eagerness by ! How wild are the voices they bear on the gale ! How startling the music that moves through the vale ! 43 The " sad Autumn winds ! " They are mourning that death Passes swift through the land on the Winter's chill breatb, That the leaves and the flowers of the Summer must fade, And all beautiful things in the cold earth be laid. The " sad Autumn winds !" 3 the shadows they fling To my heart can a thousand remembrances bring Of friends who have left me to journey alone, Who will hear never more their deep murmuring tone. The "sad Autumn winds!" They will not blow in heaven! There Spring and its flowers are eternally given ; And those I have loved so will meet me again* For ever in beauty and peace to remain. 0ur ^duocatjs. * e If u.ny z^an sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jeans Cfcrlii the righteous." — 1 John ii. 1. " We have an Advocate !" Before the throne He pleads, who, dying, gave Himself for us j Who paid His life to win us for His own, And loves the deathless souls He purchased thns: He is our Advocate who has been slain, And surely Jesus cannot plead in vain. " We have an Advocate !" Our weight of sin Does not exclude us from the Saviour's sight; For they were sinneis that He died to win, And those whom He has saved are His delight O, the immortal love of that kind Friend ! lie will be faithful until life shall end. 49 * We have an Advocate !" 0, raise a song Oflofty praise to Jesus' healing name ; Eternal honours will we give ere long, And through the vaults of heav^v 11' » pra;ne proclaim. Save us, Redeemer, in Thy mighty lov.„, Plead for us till we dwell with Thee above ! hanging for Ijame* Father, how wearily, Sadly, and drearily Time passeth on ! ! how my aching heart Yearns from it all to part — Longs to be gone ! Th.'.*., where I waiting stand, I j not my fatherland — Is not my home. Only a pilgrim here, Over the desert drear Sadly I roam : Wistfully turn my eyes Up to my native skies — Up towards heave::. When may I come to Thee > When shall these shackles bo Suddenly riven ? D 50 /[ere darkly grows my life. Laden with sin and strife. Burdened with griei. There all is holy peace, There love will never cease- Joy is not grief. Is not the angel-song Sung by the happy throng Wafted to me ? And from the sapphire hall Surely sweet voices call, " Come and be free! 1 ' Father, Thou hearest me Raising my heart to Thee — Longing for home : Graciously speak to me, Bid me from earth be free e Bid me to come. Horning Thoughts. " Cause me to hear thy loving-kindness in the inrTnin2. n ««» Psalm cxliii. 8. When night disappears and the daylight is dawnuig, And peaceful repose has my spirit refreshed, O God of the darkness ! my cry in the morning Shall still be to Thee, who hast given me rest. Each day with its duties and moments of sadness, I need Thee, Father, to lighten my way, To turn e'en the dread and the grief into gladness, To cheer with Thy kindness the newly-born day. 51 O, speak to mo words of Thy mercy on waking. To nerve me to labour, or sorrow, or strife, That so 'neath Thy smile I may always be taking" The steps that will lead through the pathway of !;fo. And so will my journey be happiness giving ; So will my constant thought turn unto Thee : And that I always to Thee may be living — Thou who art mighty, 0, speak unto me ! "lie that wateteth shall he watered also himself." Proverbs xi. 25. Live not to thyself alone, Thou who stand' st before the throne; Selfishness should ne'er be thine, Who kast breathed the life divine. If thy God has blessed thee thus, Give thy blessing unto us ; Let us share thy happy lot ; Freely give — withhold it not. Let the drops of kindness fall From thy spirit on us all, And upon thy blooming flowers God will send the copious showers. Know thou canst not live alone, Others' souls the power must own ; Nu'er thy drops of grace withhold j God will bless a hundred-fold. d2 The Ifteasant Seruicc* O! lightly on His servant's head Our Master's kind commands are laid; Love guides the firm directing hand, And wisdom has the service planned. He sympathizes with ns still, And gives us strength to do His will ; Knows we are weak and He is strong, Nor will the o'erwhelming toil prolong. ! pleasant is the work He sends, Since He will call His servants friend3 5 Will bless us as we onward go, And make our cup to overflow. Then, Master, let us ever be Devoted only unto Thee, Obeying all Thy righteous laws, Living and dying in Thy cau^o\ The Best Choice. 'Tis not for treasures of goid, With all they buy to be mine; Riches too great to be told, In a casket of jewels to shine. Tis not a laurel of fame To bind in a wreath for my browj For honours to wait on my name, While mortals admiringly bow. >3 Tis not for friends to abound And lure me with flattery's smile, To press in their eagerness round, The tedious hours to beguile. No ! 'tis to God to retreat, And share fu His mercy divine; To sit at the dear Master's feet — Such choice in its wisdom be mine. The Grateful Introspect. * Because thou hast beer, my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice."— Psalm lxiii. 7. All that my life has seen, All that my lot has been, Darkness or light ; Seasons of deep distress, Days of pure happiness, All have been right. Difficult paths there were; Many a lurking snare Comi^assed me round ; Yet, on this happy day, Kneeling to praise and praj' Still am I found. And I am fain to ovm Not Vy myself alone Have I thus stood : Thou hast befriended me, Ulessed and defended m*>— Thou art so good. 54 Thou arfc my Father- God | Every new step I trod Thou wast my Guide, Loving me evermore, Blessing me o'er and o'er, Still at my side. What shall I render Thee Who hast so tenderly Led me alway ? Father, I'll trust Thee still. Waiting Thy holy will, Through the new day., Under the shadowing Of Thy Almighty wing I will rejoice. 0, through the future be All Thou hast been to me • This is my choice. Alone, alone! Life's seasons are declining % Surely the sunset draweth very nigh! Weary and sad I chant my low repining, "While none to pity or to scorn is by. Alone, alone ! Thick darkness gathers rourd me 5 My spirit trembles in the dreadful shade ; 0, bitter is the sorrow that has bound me, Crushing the weight that on my heart is laid. S5 Alone, alone ! This fiery, deep emotion Looks all in vain to find some fitting shrine ; This yearning heart, this passionate devotion, — ■ There's nothing here ronnd which it can entwine. Alone, alone ! In many a happy dwelling Bright swimming eyes into each other gaze, And rosy lips most thrilling tales are telling ; While I am weeping out the long, long days. Alone, alone ! The choral song is flowing From many a heart all radiant with love-light, And beaming faces are with raptnre glowing ; While I am desolate this cheerless night. Alone, alone ! God, how passing dreary To lonely hearts life's journey may become ! Is there no haven for the sad and weary ? For wretched ones is there no tranquil home ? Alone, alone ! O Thou who lov'st me ever, I almost feel Thee bending o'er me now; Hast Thou been watching all this vain endeavour At human shrines this deep full heart to bow ? Alone, alone ! Holiest, receive me ; All this wild creature-love forgive, forgive ; rardon the heart that must so often grieve Thee ; Love me, my Saviour, or I cannot live. "So in l 5 cacc." Luke vii. 50. holy, blessed Saviour ! Now and ever Speak to our fainting, trembling spirits thus : Those words which from our hearts all fears will sever, In Thy great tenderness, breathe over us. Speak them whene'er our halting fa«* may linger At the first % step of the untrodden way ; When dimly we can see Thy guiding finger, 0, speak these tranquillizing words, we pray. Speak them whene'er, in silent reverence bending, We seek to hold sweet intercourse with Thee. Prepare us life's engagements to be tending, With spirits from the world's defilement free. Speak them whene'er with kindred hearts we gather, 'Mid greeting tones and thrilling looks of love ; Give us Thy presence, then, heavenly Father, And bless us with these peace-words from above. And whisper them at last, Saviour tender, In the dim twilight of this life's decline j Calmly and trustingly we then will render To Thy dear hands the spirits that arc Thine, 57 The Bight &. " We have also a more sure word of prophecy ; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day-star arise in your hearts." —2 Peter i. 19. Datck is my journeying ; Storm-clouds their shadows fling : Star of my God ! Thanks that thy blessed light Shines through the shades of night Over the sod ! Gloom spreadeth over me, Solemnly, silently, Sunless and dark ; But thou art shining here, Making it disappear, Guiding my bark ! Dangers are all around, Torrents and crags abound, Yet I am safe ! Storms are not tossing me Over the blackened sea, Like a dead waif J Nc ! I am pressing still, On, up the narrow r hill, Still toward home. Soon will its towers be secu, Soon shall I enter in, Never to roam : Surely the future span Cannot be darker than Paths I have trod. Thanks that thy blessed light Shines through the shades of night, Lantern of God ! "tie testoxMh. rot} Sottl." As I walk through the path where my Father is guiding, How oft do I quit my firm hold of His hand ! How I wander from mercies which He is providing, To roam by myself through the dangerous land ! How oft the cool waters of life's crystal river Flow on in their sweetness untasted by me ! How seldom are thoughts of the bountiful Giver Suggested by all the kind gifts that I see ! And yet, when I leave Him, and mourn it in sadness, With pardoning love " He restoreth my soul ; " He breathes the soft words that suffuse me with gladness— ■ The words that can tempests of passion control. O ! sweet is the thought that He never will leave me, Tnough faithless too often my heart is to Him : O heart of deep love ! would I never might grieve Thee Till these eyes with the death-film were dreary and dim ! 59 The Ifleasant ffath. •Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.' Yes, a pleasant way is the way to God : The flowers are springing about the sod, The San of Righteousness shineth still, And the fountain of life sends its little rill ; And still, as the travellers wend along, Hise the sweet notes of the pilgrim's song. There are shady bowers where the weary rest, And comforting words for the sad opprest, Joy for the mourning in Z ion's way, Gladness of heart through the long bright day ; And sweetly over the pilgrims rise The balmy zephyrs from Paradise. Then come with the buoyant step and heart ; From the grovelling pleasures of earth depart. Holier joys are awaiting thee, Perfect in immortality ! Come with us through the pleasant way, Nor longer 'mid fading treasures stay. The I:} allotted $pat "The place whereon thou standest is holy ground.** Joy to thee, Christian ! Thy dwelling is holy ! He who is holiest standeth by thee j Ground He has trodden is consecrate wholly; Sacred indeed must, thy dwelling-place h«. GO Joy to thee, Christian ! God is beside thee Nothing can touch thee to injure thee now Sinners may scoff, and thy foes may deride thee, But thy Father can make all these enemies bow. Christian, be careful J The ground thou art treading Must only be trodden with reverent feet ; Think of the light which the Highest is shedding ; Lowliness deep for His worship is meet. Bow thee then, Christian, and watch the bush burning: Listen ! 'tis God who is speaking to thee ! ! when to the world and its duties returning, Pray that thy life from its sin may be free. Bame to the Cross* Co*£ ! while thy youthful feet are lightly bounding Through the soft path where fragrant flowerets spring ; While the green hills and valleys are resounding With the rich song thy lips in gladness sing. Come ! while 1 ho low and tender words of blessing Fall like sweet notes of music on thine ear ; While those who love thee to thy side are pressing, And thy free heart knows not the pang of fear. Come ! while the future looks all bright with pleasure, And the fair sun shines in a cloudless sky ; While sorrow has not robbed thee of ja, treasure, Nor from thy happy spirit forced a sigh. Gl Come to the cross of Jesus in thy gladness, It has a charm to make thee happier still ; Come ! in the darkest season of thy sadness, When thickening sorrows shall thy faint heart fill. Come! while thy life is overcast with sorrow, And o'er thee threatening clouds are hanging Low ; While with deep terror watching for the morrow, Lest it should bring thee deeper, bitterer woe. Come ! while the evening shades are round thee falling, And day is drawing to an early close ; When soft, low voices are thy spirit calling, And thou art hastening to thy long repose. Come ! when the fairest lights of earth are fading In the mysterious darkness of the grave, When death thy chilly brow and cheek is shading, And thou art called to breast cold Jordan's wave. Come ! in all seasons to the cross of Jesus And learn the thrilling story of His love ; 'Twill cheer and sanctify, refresh and ease IIS, Fit us for life on earth and rest above. IValh. Walk in the morn, when the birds' rich notes Triumphantly burst from their tiny throats ; Walk in the midst, of the bustling day, When busy scenes are around thy way; Walk in the calm, sweet sunset hour, When the world seems like a shady bower. 62 Walk in the country — the whispering leaveSj The fragrant meadows, the golden sheaves, The clear blue sky, and the flower-clad sod, Will ever tell of the love of God. Go ! learn sweet lessons by walking there, Amid nature's pictures so sweet and fan. Walk by the side of the mighty sea, As it rolls in its glory, so wild and free : Its bounding billows and restless waves, And the hidden depths of its darkened caves, Have voices to speak of that God to thee, In whose mighty hand is the wild, wild sea. Walk in the city, and kindly scan The speaking face of thy fellow-man ; Thou wilt see the traces of world-wide care j Each has his burden of grief to bear : But a brother's eye appeals to thee, And a brother's heart needs sympathy. Walk, yes, walk, and ever raise Thy heart to heaven in songs of praise — Praise, that this world is so fair and bright- Praise, that thou livest in such delight — Praise, that the brightest joys here given Are dark to the bliss of thy home in heaves I h&t us tjelt fresus* "And went and told Jesus." — Matt. xiv. 12. Ah ! it was well for those woe-stricken friends To tell the Saviour of their crushing grief; To go to Him whose sympathy ne'er ends, And supplicate His pity and relief. G3 And 'twill be well for us to go to Ilini With all that makes this life of ours grow dim. Let us tell Jesus — when the friends we loved, Too well, perchance, for things of mortal birth, By death, or change, or exile are removed, And far less bright becomes our home on earth a Let us tell Jesus, for His tender love All human friendship is so far above. Let us tell Jesus — when life's weight of care, With all its toils and duties, seems too great For weak and fragile ones like us to bear, No arm but His can fit us for the weight ; And, when it wearies us, how sweet to rest And lose it all on the Beloved's breast! Let us tell Jesus — when around our way- Darkness and difficulties seem to stand, And, fearful lest our feet should go astray, We need some kindly voice, some guiding hand; O, we could follow if He would but lead, And He is always near in time of need. Let us tell Jesus — when the shadows corny And tell us eventids is drawing nigh : If He but wait to bid us welcome home, We will not tremble, will not fear to dio-. Let us tell Jesus all chat may betide, Till we shall dwell lor ever by His sido. 64 The Voice at the Trees. Who has not felt that there are sounds of music in the trees ? Who does not love those wild wood-notes struck by the fitful brecfej ? Whose spirit has not thrilled with awe amid the mighty rush Or melted into tenderness beneath the sudden hush ? They are God's temples, and they all speak solemnly of II im, Throughout the day's majestic reign, or in the twilight dim. 'Tis well to gather 'neath their roof, and 'mid their organ-peal, To breathe the deep emotion which our burdened spirits feel. 'Tis well to listen for God's voice upon our bended knees, — To take, as from His kindly hand, the teaching of the trees. Along a shaded avenue, one calm, still summer's day, A pale and thoughtful-looking boy was resting from his play, When suddenly it seemed as if he felt an angel's wing, And his young heart was strangely stirred by the unwonted thing. The leaves were whispering to him that God was very near, And so he knelt and prayed, "Speak, Lord, and let Thy servant hcar. ,, Men told him he had wildly dreamed in that mysterious time, And that his fragile frame would sink beneath a burning clime ; But with mild eye and voice he woos the dark-browed group to heaven; lie's working out the mission that beneath the trees was given. Night's pall hung o'er the sleeping earth, and autumn's mournful sighs Swept through the shivering branches, and awoke their piercing ciies. A quick impatient step trod o'er the leaves that lay in death, And burning thoughts came rushing up with that short laboured breath ; And as the youth walked madly on, he said, with flashing eye, "These trees, what mighty power they have — but what a worm am 1 ?'* There came a whisper low, but deep, in that most fearful hour ; It told him that to wisdom's page belongs the highest power ; It pointed him to science, and he trod its hill-side o'er, And men were taught and nations blest through the wild forest lore. A man with stern and frowning face, and dark and sullen mien, Stood caring nothing for the storms of that wild wintry scene ; Yet something in those branches soothed the tempest in his breast, And made him long for pardon, and for happiness and rest. All faltering were the steps he took to his deserted home, From which with harsh and angry words he had been wont to roam, A timid face looked up to him : it was enough — his heart Beat against hers with love once more, and healed the torturing smart. Their sacrifice of praise that night with deepest joy was fraught, For the sweet happiness the trees had in their lessons taught. Another trod with measured step along the leafy aisle ; A calm repose was at his heart, and on his lips a smile. Prosperity athwart his course had thrown its brilliant light, And every passing day appeared to bring him fresh delight. Yet, as he mused beneath the trees, and saw that even they Were no exception to the rule of general decay, His heart uprose in earnestness to Him who dwells on high ; "Lord, to Thy other blessings add a readiness to die." Ah ! 'twas a necessary prayer, for soon there came a blow That hushed that manly, throbbing heart, and laid the strong one low. Yes ! priceless are the lessons which the dear old forests teach : Let us go forth beneath the shade, and listen while they preach ; And let us garner all their lore into our heart's recess, Assured that He who speaks through them will every sentence bless. They teach us far from earth's damp sod aspiringly to rise, To let our hands, and heads, and hearts turn upward to the skies ; For He who takes such care of them, with rain, and sun, and air, Will bless the hearts that trust in Him with far more tender care. Let us go forth into the fields amid the scented breeze, A.sldng our Father oft to send sweet lessons through the trees. GG I am Viame ! The last words of a dying Christian. I am home ! I've arrived at my sweet home at last, And the cold swelling waves of the river are past ; My eyes are unclosing that late were so dim ; ! where is my Saviour ? I long to see Him. 1 am home ! I am home ! All my trials are o'er ; I shall labour, and suffer, and sorrow no more ; I shall slake my hot thirst at the clear crystal fount, And peacefully rest on the heavenly mount. I am home ! I am home ! ! the wonderful light—- The radiant beauty that bursts on my sight ! And there are the streets and the temples of gold — I've heard of them oft, but the half was not told ! I am home ! I am home ! An angelical band Has a welcome for me in my dear fatherland ! This robe and this crown are they really for me ? And are they the friends of my youth that I see P I am home ! I am home ! and again I am young ; O ! give me a harp that its notes may be strung ; ! teach me the music that floats through the air : 1 dreamed not that heaven was so brilliant, so fair ! I am home ! I am home ! and my Jesus is here — O ! spirits immortal, make room for me near; He loved me, He led me : ! now let me come And lie at His feet — I am home ! I am home ! G7 14 God be Iftcrciful unto us, and Bkss us/ 1 At the birth of early morning, When a gay song greets the dawning j When the noontide sun is shining, And the toiler is repining ; When the busy daylight closes, And the weary head reposes ; When the moon her watch is keeping, And the world beneath is sleeping, And the night's dark fold shall press us, God be merciful, and bless us ! When our friends are kindly smiling, All the pleasant hours beguiling ; When they one by one are leaving, Dying, changing, or deceiving ; When the sky is bright above us, And all nature seems to love us ; When the clouds are darkly lowering, Heavy drops of sorrow showering, And the woes of life oppress us, God be merciful, and bless us ! When along our path we're singing, And the flowers, are freshly springing, And our feet are lightly going, Where the water-brooks are flowing ; When temptations throng around us, Danger and distress surround us ; When our hearts with griof are wailing. And our mortal strength is failing : When disease and death possess us, God be merciful, and bless us ! ' e2 C8 & ®atj. Only a day — one little day ! — Full half its hours were wasted 5 We trifled in its morning prime, Forgetting how it hasted. The day had passed full oft before, Nor brought us much of sorrow, And at its close we had not grieved. For soon would come " to-morrow. 19 Only a day — we ate and laughed, And talked about the weather, Lounged easily upon our chairs, And played and sang together; Then worked or read a little while. According to our liking, And scarcely thought upon the hours That one by one were striking. Only a day — but near our home A hundred might be dying ; And many, many hundreds more In misery were sighing ; Starvation came to some that day, And suicide to others, And ignorance and vice enchained More of our poorer brothers. Only a day — but 'twas the last That ever came to many ; They shrieked aloud for helping Lriciidlb But were not heard by any. C9 Some dyed in deeper, blacker crime Hearts that were well-nigh bursting, And drank a poisoned draught, to see If it would quench their thirsting. Only a day — we might have helped To stem the raging waters ; We might have blessed and comforted Earth's wretched sons and daughters. But surely through a few short days Such things might be neglected ; And so we laughed and chatted en — What more could be expected ? Toil and ho Strong ! Toil and be strong ! Within thy happy dwelling How weariness and sadness o'er thee creep ! How, when the vesper song is softly swelling, Thou lov'st to steal away from all, and weep ! How silently the dreaded shroud of weakness Is wrapping in its subtle folds thy strength ! How does thy spirit bow itself in meekness, Until thou'rt prostrate on the earth at length ! Yet reuse thyself, if thou wouldst soon be stronger ; It is in labour strength and power lie ; Arise and work, struggle a little longer, Not till God bids thee is the time to die. Toil and be strong ! There's work enough before V-.^e: Stir the weak limbs, and nerve the fainting heart j For He whose searching eye is ever o'er thee Requires of each that he do well his part. 70 The Best Friend. Beautiful words from the lips of One Who is ever His people's cheering- Sun ! Calmly they float o'er the troubled mind As the zephyr's breezes, the summer's wind. Easing the soul of its weight of care, Hushing complaints in a holy prayer. For they speak of a deathless love to me — Of a better than human sympathy — Of a friendship ever unchanged by years, That deeper groweth 'mid grief and tears — Of a godlike, infinite tenderness, That when all is faded lives to bless. And sorrow itself becomes almost fair, With such a companion as He to share ; Loneliness cannot be sad and drear With the angel-form of His presence near ; And blessed indeed must affliction be That meets with such loving sympathy. The pilgrim's walk through the vale of life Is ever darkened by sin and strife ; But ! 'tis precious to have a Friend Who will love and bless to the journey's end- To feel that the aching head may rest, And be gently soothed on the Healer's breast. Holiest ! 0, be this Friend to us ; Sympathize, comfort, and bless us thus ; And till this toilsome life is o'er Help us to love Thee and praise Thee more ; Spare us to meet Thee at home in heaven, Where closer union with Thee is given. 71 The Glorified Redeemer, O, for a single glimpse of Him upon the throne of light, If it were not too radiant for weak and mortal sight ! O, for a moment nearer Him within that world above, To see those flaming eyes dissolve in deep and God-like love ! How bright must heaven be that e'er is lighted up by Him, The halo of whose shining brow no mists of earth may dim, Whose beaming glance illuminates each fair and golden street, And rests upon th' adoring head bowed lowly at His feet ! 'Tis meet that many crowns should be upon His regal head, He before whom such myriads their highest honours spread; He who is Lord and King of nature, providence, and grace, And worshipped by the happy ones within that holy place. 0, that I too might join them there, and share the glory now! With love ineffable I'd place my crown upon His brow ! Yet, no ; that honour were too great : if I might gain His seat, I'd bow among the lowliest, and cast it at His feet. Our Island Ijjamu* God's blessing upon thee, dear land of my birth, The brightest and fairest green spot of the earth ; The hearts of thy children are clinging to theo In fond recollections, wherever they be. ■79 What beauty there is in the blue of thy skies — On the tips of thy hills that so gracefully rise — In the fields and the meadows, and streamlets that glide— The tint of the sunset — the swell of the tide ! And thou hast much wealth in thy noble of soul, Who labour all evil to stem and control, Who are willing to die for the weal of their land, And lovingly, prayerfully, guarding thee stand. England ! God bless thee, and make thee to shine The fairest of earth, with these blessings of thine ; And still may thy children, wherever they roam, Keep warm in their hearts this affection for home. " &iue us this ®atj our ®ailt> Bread*" Matt. vi. 11. Give us "the bread that perisheth" God ! Thine are the air, the sunshine, and the shower : Without Thy blessing fruitless is the sod, And vain all efforts are without Thy power: 'Tis by Thy hand Thy children, Lord, are fed ; 0, " give us day by day our daily bread !" Give us the bread of love ! Hearts hungering Lie unconcealed beneath Thy pitying eye ; Thou seest the tendrils longing still to cling, Thou know'st the yearning thought, the hidden sigh Thou art the source of all affection — give The bread that makes it such a joy to live T6 Civo us the tread that is our spirits' need — The kindling thought, the images sublime — The power in nature glorious truths to read, And throw a halo round the things of time, The mighty intellect, the expanding mind, Give us, Thou who art for ever kind ! And 0, give us Thyself — Thou Bread of Life! For Thou alone hast power to satisfy ; Nought else can strengthen for the toil and strife; Without it we grow weak, and faint, and die. Father ! by Thee Thy children must be fed : O, " give us day by day our daily bread 1" The Hatoawn Future. ••What I do thou knowest not now, but thou shalt know hereafter. John xiii. 7. The things that are so painful here, When earth's thick mist shall disappear, Will 'mid our brightest blessings shine, And show the Giver's love divine. That future will a cause reveal For every sorrow that we feel ; But here we cannot understand The love that guides the Smiter's hand. But patience yet a " little while," And He who seems to frown will smile; In that " hereafter " of relief Our hearts will bless 11 im for the £iief. 74 XVha are $«mnd the Throne? Who are around the throne ? Not those Who never knew a sorrow, Who had no fears, nor pain, nor strife, Nor tremblings for the morrow ; Not those upon whose flower-clad path Earth's sun was ever shining ; Who never saw their precious things In death's embrace reclining ! Who are around the throne ? Ah, those Who oft were faint and weary, To whom the world and all its scenes Were dangerous and dreary ; Whose hearts beneath a deep, deep grief, Unblessed, unhelped, were aching ; Who trod the path the Saviour trod, When friends were all forsaking. "Who are around the throne ? The tried, Who were by trouble driven, For sorrow is the royal road That leadeth unto heaven. O ! welcome then the painful cros;:, With all its grief and anguish, If there's a home above for me, When 'neath its weight I languish 75 Hot unto lis. Not unto us, Lord most high, For we should fall wert Thou not nigh t Our boasting would be all in vain ; If Thou forsake we must be slain. If ours should be the lighter sin, Thou dost restrain the thoughts within i Not in our weakness can we live ; The needful strength is Thine to give. Thou knowest best how, day by day, We pass the dangerous hours away ; And if the precipice be past, Thine is the glory first and last ! Not unto us, Lord, when death Quiets the pulse and steals the breath; Thine shall the endless glory be, For Thou alone canst set us free. The Call xxf Samuel. Night stole on Shiloh ! All the weary train Of worshippers went out of God's high hous© To rest. The crimson sunset threw a flood Of liquid glory o'er the ark of God, Dwelling between the cherubim. The gold That overlay it richly did not seem So beautiful as the deep glow that spread Over the mercy-seat behind the veil ! 76 Dim and mysterious grew the sacred aisles, And silent were the foot-falls of the priest, And his loved boy-attendant — he who was So early set apart for God. The lamp Had not gone out when he lay down to sleep In childish confidence. Awhile he thought Of his loved mother in that far-off home, How she had parted his fair clustering curls With her own fingers— how the tears had gushed Into her eyes at the last look, and how Her pallid lips had quivered as they pressed Fond kisses on his own. And then he dreamed He was again in his own childhood's home, Playing amid the trees. Softly there came Stealing upon his slumbers a low voice — " Samuel! Samuel!" And the boy arose, Shook off the weariness that wrapp'd him round; And, pushing back his air with his white hand, Ean unto Eli — " Here am I !" It must Have been a dream ! And so he went again As Eli bade him. Yet again that voice, In its low accents — " Samuel ! Samuel !'* Thrice did he hear it, and the boy looked grieved That Eli should deny it. " Thou didst call," He said, " and here am I !" And then the priest Perceived that God had called him ; and he laid His aged hand upon him as he said, " Go, and lie down ; and if He call again, c Speak, Lord, for Thy servant heareth,' thou shalt sry/ ! 'twas a solemn thing for that young boy Waiting for God amid those holy courts, 77 Listening for -what Omnipotence might say! Again He came, and, as at other times, He stood and called ; and the young spirit went Forth to his God in that close intercourse ! The morning came. A shade of sadness lay On Samuel's countenance, and his young heart Was heavy at the tidings he had heard ; He shrank from meeting Eli, and went out To open the Lord's house with trembling step. ! it is sad to have to speak the words That wound a heart we love ! Yet when it is A message from our God, we must not fear To do His bidding. Samuel hid his face Against that bursting heart, and told him all ; And the old stricken man bowed down his head In silent resignation — " 'Tis the Lord ! Let Him do all that secmeth good to Him." Saturday E tuning* The shades of evening softly fall, x\nd silence reigns around ; Saviour, as these last hours pass by, We would with Thee be found! Thy hand has led us safely through The week's vicissitude; And now we lift our hearts to Thefl, For Thou art kind and smod. 78 We thank Thee for Thy mercies past, For life, and strength, and health ; Thy love is all our stay, God ! Thy smile is all onr wealth. We thank Thee for the Sabbath day ; O may its moments be Some foretaste of that blissful rest We hope to spend with Thee ! Keep Thou our thoughts, that in Thy house We serve the God we love ; And let us join the songs they sing Around Thy throne above. O ! spread Thy sheltering wing around, Till all these Sabbaths cease, And we are safely landed where There is eternal peace. The Bight €ometh. Thou'rt happy, little child, among the sunshine and the flowers, Thy tiny feet are dancing through the cheerful morning hours ; Thou'rt laughing as they tell thee of a lamp to light thy way, Thou think' st thou wilt not need it through the long, long summei day; Thou seest not the shadows which the night ere long will cast, But, little one, they'll hang above thy drooping head at last. Thou'rt dreaming, thoughtful youth, of many happy hours in store, Thou paint' st the future very bright with learning's wealthy lore, 79 Thy brilliant eye is gazing on the steep ascent to fame, Thou'st vowed to gain its lofty height, and carve thereon thy name; Thy lip is curled in scorn to those who talk of night to thee; It is not yet the noontide hour — yet short thy day may be. Thou thinkest not of sorrow's night, thou of gentle brow! It cannot come while those dear eyes smile tenderly as now ; A cloudless sun shines o'er the home his love so sweet has made; Thou'rt clinging to thy noble oak, and resting in its shade : But joy like thine is very short ; ! kneel before 'tis gone ; Pray for a lamp to light thee through the night that Cometh on. And thou who'rt strong and healthy, in the height of manhood's prime, Dream'st not how silently the hours are bringing evening-time; Yet there are gathering shadows slowly creeping o'er thy way, And whispers floating through the air speak of a closing clay. Thou'rt prudent in thy worldly aims — hast thou provision made For the dark season coming on, when day and life shall fade ? Servant of God ! Strange that to thee the night seems distant still, When thoughts of its approaching should thine inmost spirit fdl ; O ! wake thy dormant energies, and let the startling tale Spread through this world of carelessness on each careering gale. Tell mortals that the night of death is quickly coming on ; They'll need the Gospel's light indeed when life's faint sun is gone. Ah, yes ! the long, dark, rayless night is coming to us all ; Around our homes, upon our hearts, its deepening shadows fall. "0 Sun of Righteousness, arise with healing on Thy wings," When /er our trembling, shrinking forms its blackened shroud it fling3. And ,vhen the heavy hand of death falls on our failing sight — ! take us to the cloudless land where there is no more night ! 80 "Behold, a Boor was opened in Ijeawn," Rev. iv. 1. What is within the door ? 0, for a dream Of that eternal city ! How the heart Prays but for one short glance, in which to see Glimpses of all its glory ! And the thought That soars e'en to its portal fails at last, For to our straining eyes that guarding door Is not yet open. But the favour' d John Has left his record, and on that we base Our expectations while we linger here Waiting the signal to ascend to God. Within that door there is the great white throne, Its emerald rainbow round it. Golden streets, And founts of crystal water ; jasper walls, And gates of pearl, and paths of precious stones ; And there are numbers which no man could couus, Of holy, happy spirits, patriarchs, And prophets— men who waited long, and bore Their witness for their God. And there are some Who lived and suffered silently, unknown Upon the earth. And some who came From hot and scorching countries, on whose brow? Jesus has placed His mark. Some, too, there are Whose infant tongues just lisped His praise below : And some familiar to our hearts, who went From our embraces at the welcome call Of the sweet voice they longed for. Harps of gold And palms of victory are in the hands That grow not weary now ; and crowns of gold Are theirs to cast before the Saviour's feet, 81 Who gave Ilimself for them. And through the air, Borne on their wings of light, the angels pass ; And all with one accord join in the song Of swelling Hallelujahs. O ! the joys Of heaven tongue may not utter. Yet, mete inks, Were the door opened now, I would not gaze On all these glories, but would cast myself Low at His fpet whom I so oft displease : For it were heaven indeed to see Him smile Upon me — to throw off the weariness And sin of earth, and feel that I were His For all eternity ! Sununer-time. The summer-time, the summer-time, how beautiful it seems! The sun is glancing everywhere its strong and radiant beams , There's sunshine in the cotter's home, where everything is neat, And sunshine m the palaces, and sunshine in the street. The lark pours from its tiny throat its thrilling hymn at morn, Uprising from its lowly nest among the waving corn ; The nightingale is warbling forth its witching vesper song, As twilight breathes away the day, that never is too long. The flowers are sweetly smiling in the valley, on the hill ; The weeping willows stoop to kiss the little laughing rill j There is a balmy fragrance in the scarcely-moving air, The very wind is music, and there's beauty everywhere. The little children skip and play beneath the shady trees, Their sunny curls are blow:: about by every passing breeze ; The labourer goes forth to toil, or rests at noon to dine, And murmurs gratefully, " Biess God ! the harvest is bu :i:.e. : * F 82 Yes, let us all bless God indeed, and wipe the heated brow ; 'Ti3 God that sends the summer-time, and we will praise Him now : He clothes the world in beauty, makes our earthly home sublime, While gladness fills our swelling hearts — bless God for summer-time ! $ow win than &a in the Swelling o.f fordan? Jer. xii. 5. When sickness shall thy spirit bow, And anguish rack thy heart and brow ; When faintly throbs the pulse of life, And flesh is failing in the strife, And shorter grows the laboured breath — How wilt thou bear th' approach of death ? When those who love thee disappear, And new strange sounds steal on the ear 5 When the weak brain begins tp swim, And earth with all its joy grows dim, And death is calling thee away — How wilt thou bear that trying day ? When Jordan's darkening waters swell, And every billow tolls thy knell ; When o'er thee creeps an icy chill, And dread thy sinking heart shall fill — While higher mounts the o'erwhelming wav^— And thou art dying — who will save ? 83 I trill feat na Etril, for Thou art with me. Psalm xziii. 4. Thougii on the yielding shore I tread, And tempests lower above my head, Though the fierce tide is rising high — Yet I am not afraid to die : For Thou art with me — Thou whose power Can shield me in the tiying hour ; And to Thy mighty hand I'll cling, When the cold waves around me spring. Speak to me in the swelling tide, And in the rock's great shadow hide ; ! let me feel that Thou art nigh, And then I will not fear to die. But when to Jordan's banks I come, And see from thence my shining home, Fearless I'll breast the rising wave, Since Thou art with me, and wilt save. hoo-Kmg xmta fosus, Heb. xii. 2. "Looking to Jesus ! " At the opening year Sorrow and dread press on my sinking heart The present is but dark, and still I fear The future will but bring the sufferer's part. Weak is the spirit to endure alone — Jesus, I raise my eyes unto Thy throne ! F2 84 " Ixx>kin^ to Jesus ! " On this New Year's dav Sad memories a gloomy shadow fling ; Hopes that were bright have passed to swif: decay ; Hearts that have blessed me with their cherishing, And joys that were too great for earth, are gone — Saviour, I need Thee as I journey on. " Looking to Jesus ! " Duties cluster roun^ And calls to labour everywhere 1 hear ; Yet am I weak, and faint, and strengthless found;, Unfitted for the struggle that is near. Almighty Helper, let me lean on Thee ; Strength to the strengthless Thou dost love to be 2 " Looking to Jesus ! " Ever while I live I would be looking, Saviour, unto Thee ; All that Thy helpless child is needing give, Till from this earth the longing soul is free. ! stay with me till life itself shall end ; Loving Redeemer, ever be my Friend! The appeal. "Lovest thou me ? "—John xxi. 1?. Lovest thou Me ? I have lived a life Clouded by suffering, woe, and strife j Have prayed whole nights on the cold, damp sod, And rough and steep were the paths I trod ; My life and death were My love to thee, Cheerfully given— and lovest thou Me ? 85 Lcvc.-t thou Me ? I have led thee far Through the meads where the living waters are, Have made thy journey with mercy bright, Have kept thee safe through the darksome night, Have made thy spirit from bondage free, Have blessed thee ever — and lovest thou Me ? Lovest thou Me ? I am ever near, With the watchful eye and the listening ear ; Thy faintest sigh and thy softest prayer Are heard, and then I am with thee there ; Comfort and peace I have breathed o'er thee In the day of storm — and lovest thou Me ? Lovest thou Me ? My blood has bought .Toys with eternal richness fraught — A better home in the far-off land, A seat of rest at My Father's hand ; Immortal life I have sought for thee, A fadeless crown — and lovest thou Me ? Lovest thou Me ? When at last in heaven The robe and the harp to My friends are given, ; Mid all that is holy, and bright, and fair, And immortal, wilt thou be absent there ? Will they shout the chorus of victory While thou art silent — nor lovest thou Me F Lovest thou Me ? I know thy heart Will oft grow cold, and from Me depart ; I know thou wilt grieve thy Friend — and yet I love thee still, and will not forget. By all the depth of My love for thee, Let thy spirit answer — lovest thou Me r 86 The Eesjmnse, : Ten, Lord ; thou knowest that I love thee."— John xxi. xX Loving Saviour ! Thou canst see How my spirit thirsts for Thee ; How I am unsatisfied When I wander from Thy side ; How the dearest joys of earth, Hours of thoughtfulness or mirth, Cannot bring me happiness, Unless Thou remain and bless. Ail that Thou hast done for me Binds my heart in love to Thee ; And Thy messages of love Make me long to dwell above. Thou hast washed me in Thy blood, Thou art guiding me to God, Pleading for me at His throne ; Saviour, I am all Thine own ! Yet my weak and faithless heart Ever prone is to depart, Unless Thou wilt keep me near, Walking in Thy holy fear. 0, permit me ?:ot to stray From Thy holy, narrow way ; Take my hand, and let it bo Clinging to 21 one else but Thee. Dear Redeemer ! love me still 3 Bend my spirit to Thy frill ; 87 Lot me be Thy loving child, While I tread this desert wild 3 Lead me to that shining home, Where temptations never come } Folded in Thy arms I'll be Ever, ever loving Thee ! Morning* Ix the east the sun is shining On the golden grain ; Hark, the voice of duty calling Bids us rise again ! Angels o'er us have been watching Through the silent night ; Let us turn our thoughts to heaven, Blessing God for light. And with undiminished ardour Let us forward go; Hands, and head, and heart be working While we stay below. Let us find some task completed, Something nobly done, That shall earn a night's reposing At the set of sun ! 88 jm Eight. The late Capt. R. Petley, a few days before his death, said to a friend who was with him, "It is all right— the covenant is sure." " All right ! " And why ? That a life well spent Has brought an evening of calm content ? That the faithful walls of the memory Are hung with pictures of charity ? That thoughts of righteous deeds well done Have thrown a joy round the setting sun ? No ; for the holiest deeds alone For the sins of a moment could not atone ! " All right !" And why ? That to him was given The boon of wealth from the King of Heaven ? That partial judges have graced his name With the laurel- wreath of a well-earned fame P That loving eyes will bedew his bier With grateful hearts and affection's tear ? No ? for these are neglected all When disease and death with their voices call. " All right" that the promise of God is sure, The love of the Saviour will still endure ; That his failing eyes o'er the water's foam Can see the lights in his shining home ; That the angels with eager arms are nigh ; That the veteran is not afraid to die ! that we, when our lives are past, May say from the heart, "All right ! " at last. 8 Father, abide with us ! The storm-clouds gather In gioomy vengeance o'er the sinking head. Go with us through our pilgrimage, dear Father ; Cheer with Thy smile the thorny paths we tread. Shepherd, abide with us ! Our souls are thirsting For life's pure waters that around Thee How; Pity the spirits that with woe are bursting ; O ! lead us where the heavenly pastures grow. U2 Saviour, abide with us ! We have been clinging To fragile reeds that droop and pass away ; But now our souls, their clasping tendrils flinging Around Thy strength, ask Thee to be their stay . Jesus, abide with us ! Our hearts are weary, And those who blessed us with their love are gone ; Thou'rt always kind to the distressed and drear}' — Love us, Jesus ! as we journey on. Guardian, abide with us ! Earth's ties are breaking, And the chill desert winds have o'er us blown ; Yet we will weep not o'er the world's forsaking, If it will cause us to be Thine alone. Master, abide with us ! 0, be Thou ever Along life's pathway, in Thy mercy, nigh : Let nothing force our hearts from Thee to sever ; Help us to live — help us at last to die 1 Tins life of ours is very beautiful : Fresh, fragrant now'rets spring along its way, Blushing assent while we their beauties cull 5 Its sky is radiant with the sun-lit ray ; And love and smiles wait on the dutiful — All have a share. ! life is beautiful. And life is precious — it has links of gold, Binding us ever with their magic might ; And it has wealth that never can be told, Lodged within noble hearts that love the right And tireless strivings in the cause of good, And strong affections for the brotherhood. 143 Life too is earnest — there are noble deeds To be impressed upon its passing hour ; Balm to be poured into the heart that bleeds, And given to the nerveless arm more power 3 M Excelsior " to be graven on the brow, And on the hand that is to labour — " Now I" And life is solemn— for it ends so so r n : All that we love the best will fade away ; But written in the blazing light of 1100:1, There is a promise of a holier day, When life will be immortal, and the soul Dwell where the everlasting ages roll. Then life should be sublime — 0, for the art To clothe it in its true sublimity ! The unflinching courage — the aspiring heart — * The lofty purpose — and the single eye ! Author of life ! Thy own high lessons give, And teach, 0, ever teach us how to live. Morn in the City ! Busy London bridge Was not yet trodden by the restless feet Of its vast multitudes. The faint, grey dawn Bested on quiet homes and sleeping eyes, And weary toiling ones, to whom the light Comes all too soon for aching limbs and heart. Yet there were some astir. Two little boys, Whose fresh and rosy cheeks and rustic garb Bespoke them from the country, came and stood In one of the recesses. In their hands Were cages, prisoning some fluttering birds. The stern oppressor Poverty had taught 144 Their young hearts some sad lessons, and they camo On this grey morning many weary miles Hoping to sell the songsters, and obtain Bread for themselves and parents ; to take back Joy to their sad and humble home. They talked Cheeringly to each other, and their thoughts Were busy speculating on success, Like older venturers. They did not see, Until he stood before them, a tall man, Dark-browed and stately in his mien, looking Intently on the prisoned birds. There was A something in his aspect which o'erawed The boys, and half afraid, they slank away As conscious of wrong- doing. In his hand He held a worn valise ; a wide, dark cloak Mantled his stalwart form ; and he appeared Weary and travel- stained. His lofty brow Was knit as if by suffering, and his eye And lip told to the gazer their own tale Of calm endurance. Yet his powerful frame Shook slightly as he asked, in broken tone3 And foreign accent, " Here, my little boys, How much for one of these ?" And then the boy3 Summoned their courage and went near to him . " A shilling, sir." He smiled, and from his purso Drew forth the coin, and eagerly his hand Received the trembling bird. The country lada Looked wonderingly to see what he would do. With gentle, tender touch his fingers paesed Over the ruffled feathers, then he pressed 145 His lips a moment to the sofc round Lead, And loosed his hand, and with a bounding joy The bird careered above his head, and new In its glad liberty away ! The man Stood watching, with emotion in his face, Long as his eye could follow. Then he turned And bought another of the staring boys, And sent it forth into the free, glad air ; And so, till all were gone ! And then with joy, A strange, deep joy, upon his countenance, He turned to go away. But as he met The astonished gaze of one who watched him there, He stared a moment, while the warm blood rushed Swift to his forehead, and revealed the tide Of feeling at his heart. He said, w I have Just been released from a dark dungeon's walls, And I can feel for prisoners !" # * # # # • A room Within a lordly mansion. The bright fire Sent forth its ruddy glow. The soft lamps lit Most beautifully the lofty pictured walls, And marble statuettes, and costly gems. Fragrant exotics scented the warm air, And all around in its rare beauty told Of wealth, and tastes refined. A lady sat In careless elegance beside the blaze, Reading a book. And o'er her face there ff^le A look of interest, as if the words Had in them power to move that beaut iim And noble one. K 146 All silently the door Swung back upon its hinges, and a child Of fairy loveliness came in, whispering With voice as sweet as silvery lute, " Mamma." The lady did not speak, nor even raise Her eyes, but laid her fingers 'mid the curls — The light-brown curls that lay around the neck Of the fair little one, as if the touch Brought quite enough of joy. The graceful head Nestled against her robe, and looking up She watched those kindling eyes, as rapidly They passed from line to line ; and not a sound Disturbed the silence. When the chapter's end Was gained, and the rich book was laid aside, The lady folded the child to her with A mother's tenderness, and asked, " And now, What is it, Lily, darling ? " The bright eyes Were dreamy for a moment, and the brow Grew thoughtful ; then, with low, soft utterance, " I've heard a pretty story, dear mamma, About the Saviour ; how some mothers brought Their children to Him once, and Jesus' friends, Who knew not all about Him, said that He Could not attend to little ones, and bade Them go away. But Jesus said, ' 0, let The children come !' And then He smiled, and laid His hands upon their heads, and blessed them, so That they were always happy ! And, mamma, I want to see the Saviour, and be blest — Take me to Jesus, please V* A thrill of pain Shot through the heart to which the child was presse: 147 The mother "had been passing tender : all Her love could do to brighten the young life Of this, her only child, had been well done ; But she knew not the Saviour, so her lips Had spoken not of Him ; and this request, Uttered so earnestly, awoke a wish That she were not a stranger to the Lord. But soon she stayed the yearning heart, and said, " I cannot lead you to Him as they did, But we will pray that He may bless you still." There was a silent prayer, and then the words Spoken by her, and echoed by her child, Went as an evening sacrifice to Him — The Great Eternal. And the choirs of heaven Had joyous music, for the blessing came Both for the mother and the child, and they Were sealed for heaven. • *<•*** The] e was a scene of woo And dread despair ! Upon a bed there lay A form that had been very beautiful ; Nay, even now the features were all young And fair and delicately formed. But every limb writhed in intensest pain ; The brow was knit in anguish, and the eye Glared with a wild, unnatural light, and spoke Such tales of suffering as made the spirit shrink. Disease had stricken that ill-fated girl, And all attempts to soothe the racking pain Were useless. So, her loving friends stood by ; Helpless, except to weep. 0, it was sad To hear the shrieks that woke the startled air, And see the little form in its agony Of pain. e2 148 But 'twas the spirit's fever that Awoke the mournful wail. She knew, too late, That the fair morning of her youth had passed In idle playfulness. Life had not been The earnest hallowed thing God meant it should. She had not sought in happy days of health His love and friendship, who alone can be The great Physician and the able Friend. There came the night Of darkness to her spirit, and she cried For mercy ; but despair alone replied. At length drew near, with calm, pale brow, and eyes Filled with the tears of svmpathy, and prayer In his full heart, a servant sent from God. He knelt, and 'mid her shrieks he spoke the words Of life and peace ! Long days and nights he stayed, As would his Master, wearying not, though yet No sunshine gladdened him. And the wild heart Still heaved with its deep anguish. Then he told How Christ had calmed the sea, healed the possessed, And loved the worst of sinners. And his prayers Arose to heaven' u high portal, and at length The tarrying blessing came ! Peace, blessed peace, Fell on the troubled spirit, and, with trust In the Redeemer's merit, soon she died. But had the young and gay seen T.er, me thinks They would not leave the " one thing needful" till Life's evening hour came on I 149 Life and its pictures ! Some are dressed in hues Of sombre aspect ! Some are bright and fair, With joy's sweet sunshine! But we all can tell That the great Artist doeth all things well. The sun is setting in the distant west, The skies are bathed as if in liquid gold, As through the tree-tops comes a whispered strain Of softened music-tones ; and stealing, too, Upon the trembling air, the murmurings Of flowing streamlets, or the sighing sea, Blend with soft human voices. Strange it is What influence the glorious sunset has Upon our spirits. At the morning's dawn, Or 'neath the noontide beam, we mix among The busy scenes of life, and murmur not ; Nay, feel that 'tis a happiness to live And labour with oar fellows. But at eve, Though the same scenes surround us, how there comes Stealing across our souls a yearning thought, That makes us long to shut earth out, and bring Ileaven only in ! Ah ! it is then w r e pine For intercourse with those, the shining ones, Who long have breathed the holy atmosphere Of the bright spirit-land ! We are athirst For something deeper, holier than earth, Although its loves and friendships are so dear. Surely these hearts of ours are made more pure By the soft twilight hours, and thus we learn To love it so ! And yet there is a kind Of sadness in its beauty ; for we know 150 The day, with all its happiness, has passed Away for ever. O'er our onward path Its snn no more may shine, its golden hours Xo more bring opportunities to speak The kindly word, perform the God-like deed. " Passing away " must aye be said. But ah ! There are far sadder sunsets than the close Of day. There sat a pale and wasted girl Within a darkened room. Her classic head Had silver threads amid the raven hair, Though youth had not yet passed. Her marble brow Bore marks of lofty and impassioned thought. She had bent all her intellect *to win The meed of fame ; whole days and nights She toiled unweariedly with rapid pen Or glowing pencil ; and there came at last A slight reward for all her care. ]\Ien praised The eloquent heart-thoughts, that wondrously Had power to thrill their spirits ; and they called Her " gifted," and spoke flatteringly about Her " hallowed mission here." And so she stayed And basked herself awhile in the bright sun, And thought that it would always shine. But then It quickly set, and in its place there came The withering simoom of calumny ; And those she loved the best looked coldly on And half believed the slander. Aud they tore The wreath of laurels from her throbbing head, And bound it with the piercing thorns of hate And harsh suspicion, and her life henceforth Was nought but sunless night. 151 There oft was seen Walking the thronged and busy thoroughfares Of the great city, one who looked as if Life were all sun to him. And when his friends Said, " "lis a pleasant day," he felt the words Had a far deeper meaning, and his heart Would answer, " Yes, it is to me ; the sun Of bright prosperity shines round my path." His sun was icealth ; and very soon it had A setting time. For sudden changes came : His riches melted from his grasp away, And eventide of dark adversity Came on. A young wife sits behind the flowers That, with their rich, rare beauty and perfume, Embower the open window. The blue eyes, Whose very depths reflect the loving heart's Deep gladness, ever and anon look down The half-deserted walk, and try to catch The first short glimpse of him she loves — How well ! She looks, too, round the pleasant room ; So many tokens of his love are there ! And as her heart recalls the words, the looks, That were far dearer than the gifts themselves, N"o wonder she exclaims, with trembling lips, ■ What shall I render to the Lord for all ? Truly, indeed, the lines have fallen to me En pleasant places * " Brighter grew those eyes, the full lips were wreathed with smiles ; for all ! [or ear had caught the well-known sound — -the step 'hat had such power to stir the gushing heart. 152 O ! there was far more welcome in that glance Than words could frame ! Love's language would indeed Be poor and weak and incomplete, were they Its only messengers ! But see ! what means That look so full of weariness and pain, That e'en her smile can cheer not ? It is caused By heat, perhaps, or over-weariness ; And so he lies upon the couch, and she Kneels close beside him, whispering low words Of tenderness, and passing her soft hand Lingeringly, gently o'er his heated brow, With love's own thrilling touch. It fills his heart Full to o'erflowing with a grateful joy, But cannot move the pain. And so they call The old physician ; and his silvery head Is sadly shaken, for he feels his skill Can never cool alone that heated brain. And through the long, long days, and longer nights, That fragile form watches beside the bed, Tending his every wish, though but expressed By look : her only food and rest, to stoop And press her pallid lips upon that hand So clammy, but so dear ! And who has power To tell her that her young life's glorious sun Is setting ? None, until that princely form Lies marble-like before her, and she feels Dense darkness all around ! ###### Ah ! thus it is The sunsets close about us ! Happy they Who joy to bask beneath the glorious rays Of Christ, the Sun of Righteousness ! No shades 153 Of evening dim His radiant smile ; and those "Who once have welcomed Him upon life's way Need fear no darkness. May our yearning hearts Be ever lighted by His mighty love ! I^D fftisskm %ere, " What is it ? " asked a youth on whom the light of genius shone ; "Who had a form of strength and health and vigour for his own ; "Who had a power to move and guide the intellects of men, A mighty influence o'er all who came within his ken : " Work," was the answer, fc with thy might ; thy God requires of thee That all thy powers at His command shall ever ready be." " What is it ? " asked a fragile girl; and o'er her eyes there stole A thickening mist that seemed to shut the light out from her soul ; And all her life was marked by hours of agonizing pain, And none was near to soothe and cheer, and bring the smile again ; " To suffer," was the answer, and she calmly took the cup, And from a chastening Father's hand drank all its bitters up. 11 "What is it ? " asked another, and he seemed to have a life Of waiting for the answer. His was not the battle's strife ; He was not called to labour, nor to suffer, as are some ; Calmly and tranquilly his years would pass away or come. He only had to live and meet the little ills of time — "With patience and contentment try to make his life sublime. " My mission ? " 'tis to do whate'er my heavenly Father sends, To fulfil the present duty with the present strength He lends. It may not be just what I wish, but then, since He knows best, ! let me strive to do His will, and leave with Him the rest ; Assured that if He gives a life of labour or of pain, So it be sanctified by Him, I cannot live in vain. 154 " Who is on the Lord's $ixLe V Exodus xxxii. 26. Happy child, with the cloudless brow And sorrowless spirit — say, art thou ? Wilt thou come with thy wreath of budding flowers, And give to the Highest the sunny hours ? More beautiful still will thy childhood be If thou bring' st it to Him on bended knee. Art thou, young man in thy healthful prime ? Wilt yield to thy God the fresh morning-time ? Wilt thou come ere the flashing eye grow dim, Wilt bring thy talents and strength to Him ? Come ! and a valiant soldier be, For the Lord hath need of such as thee. Mother, art thou, with thy deathless love, Stamped with the impress from above ? Hast thou thyself to the Holiest given ? Dost thou press on in the way to heaven ? Come ! and thy priceless treasures bring In their youth and beauty to Z ion's King! Art thou, man of maturer years, With firm step treading this vale of tears P Say, wilt thou bring the thought refined, The unflinching arm, the unbending mind — The glory and strength of thy manhood's pride P O, come and enlist on Jehovah's side ! 155 And way-worn pilgrim ! say, art thou, With thy faltering step and thy farrowed brow P Thy feet are trembling by Jordan's wave, Thou art not far frcm the opening grave j tottering aged one, decide, And join at once the Almighty's side. come ! there is work for you. all to do, And the Captain's strength shall bear you through. Take then the helmet, the shield, the sword ; Pass on to the banners of Christ our Lord. Look up, for immortal crowns are there ! Flock round the standard, and " win and wear" Jjohj &itriag and %ing. " Whether we live or die, we are the Lord's." — Rom. xiv. 8. O ! to adopt this language is to make our life sublime, To fling a sacred halo round the sin-stained things of time ; To make earth beautiful and pure, with Heaven's own rapture fraught, And holiness to stamp on word, on action, and on thought. And 'tis to clothe with radiant garb the messenger of death, To throw a beauty o'er the scene when yielding up the breath ; To exult that when earth's cherished joys grow shadowy and dim, The soul shall bask in quenchless light, and live for aye with Him. One breathed them as, in manhood, on a bed of pain he lay, Intently listening for the voice to call or bid him stay; Tic lived — and Jesus' image was so stamped on heart and brow, His holy life led many at the Saviour's feet to bow. 156 Another, with the dew of youth, whispered, "I am the Lord's," While yet around her heart were thrown life's tender silken cords ; She died — in His kind arms the Saviour bore away His own, And, clothed with immortality, she lives before His throne. Kests there an eye upon these lines that has not turned to heaven ? Throbs there a heart that has not yet its all to Jesus given ? Go consecrate thyself to Him, and say, " Lord, I am thine; " And o'er thy life, and at thy death, a fadeless sun shall shine. Ji grown for the Faithful* "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."— Rev. ii. 10. How oft come floating o'er me dreams of that "better land," Faint echoes of sweet music from that bright immortal band, Soft murmurings of still waters, thrones of pure and dazzling white, And radiant of glory, too, so beautiful and bright — Of beloved ones now joining with that fair and glorious throng, And well-remembered voicc-s that mingle with this song. And I wish, 0, how I wish, I could lay me down and die, So that my unimprisoned soul might spread her wings and fly ; Nor rest until she find a home within that happy place, And help to swell the praise of Him who saves us by His grace. But, ah, amid those rapturous songs I heard the word " Prepare !" Not yet the golden crown is thine ; the cross thou still must bear ! But I am faint and weary. Is there very much to do — Many trials to encounter as my journey I pursue — Much self-denying labour, many thorns strewn o'er the way, Many storms to overshadow the brightness of my day ? Is it wrong to wish to go at once, and stay no longer here, Where the past is full of sadness, and the future looks so drear f 157 O, yas ! how can I shrink from icy burdens or my rod, When so many more, and heavier, were borne by Christ my God ? When He for our salvation, all my errors to atone, Lone and dreary, faint and weary, trod the winepress all alone ? Despised, forsaken by His friends, yet He was faithful still, His steadfast soul unshrinking to do His Father's will. And shall I, for whom He did all this, e'er falter as 1 go, — Prove faithless to my faithful friend — forsake my God ? 0, no ! But watch and pray with earnestness, and strive to enter heaven, Thinking ever that the crown to the conqu'ring one is given ; And may I feel at last, when resigning up my breath, That the coronal i3 mine, and I've been " taithful unto death." Th£ part's ifospMiStf ta the StivianT. " Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.*' —Matt. xi. 23. Saviour, v:e long for rest ! for we have been Constantly toiling through the long, hot day, And now have grown quite weaiy of each scene, And faint beneath the blinding, scorching ray ; We heard Thy invitation, and would be With those who come and seek for rest in Thee. Saviour, what is Thy rest ? Is it to lie Securely folded in Thy shielding arms, And, like a child, to slumber tranquilly, Fearless of earth, and all its dire alarms ; In verdant pastures by still waters laid, And rest in perfect peace beneath Thy shade ? 158 Saviour, give us Thy rest ! let us now Be overshadowed by Thy sheltering wing ; Place Thy kind hand upon our burning brow, And Thy deep peace around our spirits fling: Amd lay Thy wearied ones upon Thy breast — Thou dear Redeemer, give us perfect rest. "My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest,'--* Exodus xxxiii. 14. There are sweet impulses that float unbidden About the Christian's brow; There are deep joys with sources that are hidden From his dim eyesight now. He hears soft music, as of water gushing, Which murmurs words of love ; He feels it the wild waves of passion hushing, And raising him above. His brow is soothed amidst its painful throbbing By hands that are unseen ; His heart is cured of all its grief and sobbing, And rests in joy serene. He walks through dangers, but around him ever Are everlasting arms, From whose strong grasp no power of earth can sever, With all its wild alarms. 159 He knowsno-: whence it comes — this presence holy— But feels that it is near, To bless, and guard, and influence him wholly, And life's dark hours to cheer. And yet sometimes there is a sacred feeling That 'tis his Father's breast On which he leans, and finds such blessed healing, Such calm, unruffled rest. And the remembrance of these words floats o'er him, This promise firm and true ; And the fulfilment of it is before him — The rest and presence too. So he with confidence his way is pressing ; For deep,, unshadowed love Allures him onward to the land of blessing — His own bright home above. The language of the Etje, "And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. . . And Peter went out and wept bitterly." — Luke xxii. 61, 62. Ah ! there's a magic power in looks that baffles all control, To trouble the deep waters of the least impulsive soul ! Who has not wept in bitterness o'er the remembered look Of scorn, reproach, or hatred, that from life its sunshine took ? How much of yearning tenderness one hasty glance may tell! What passion-throbbings for the lost — the loved, perchance too well I One look with memories of the past the aching heart may fill, Or with a sickening despair the shrinking spirit thrill ! 160 No wonder Peter wept, for to the language of that eye, So sorrowful, so tender, tears must be the best reply ! Reproach, but all forgiving love, did that one look contain : What heart so hardened in its sin but must have throbbed with pain ? But, holy Saviour, 0, how oft do we deny Thee thus ! And do those eyes look ever down so pityingly on us ! Lord, let us meet that tender glance, and, Peter-like, will we Weep that we could have been so base to such a friend as Thee. u Betum unto, thtj &est, my. $(xu\." Psalm cxvi. 7. Return ; the night is dark and drear, And thou art sad and lone ; The weariness of grief cries out In deep and mournful tone ; Thou hast no resting-place, my soul, Like that which thou hast left j Return, return, ere life itself Is of all joy bereft. Return ; the aching void within Can never here be filled : Return ; the spirit' 3 hunger-cry Can never here be stilled : Thou'rt like a dove on billows' crest, With weary, way-worn wing ; %j, tlee unto thy home and ark, Thou restless, yearning thing. 1C1 Kcturn unto thy rest, my soul ; There's welcome for thee there ; No tempest's moan, no sorrow's cry, There rends the startled air : Then shait thou cling in holy peace To Jesus' loving breast ; O, weary, way-worn, suffering soul, Return unto thy rest. The Unitrersal Friend, " I have compassion on the multitude." — Matt. xv. 32. Three days with Jesus in the wilderness The multitude had been. Yet no complaint Came from the parched and hungry lips that crai'k The Saviour's words. It was not needed thorp : His loving eye noted the paling cheek ; And the large, mighty heart swelled with its love For the wan sufferers. Said He, " I have Compassion on the multitude !" He blessed With His own hands the bread, and as they ate Looked on them yearningly. Long years have passed, But still there is a multitude on whom The Saviour has compassion ! Other eyes Pass haughtily their crowded den ; they spurn The wretched, hungry outcasts, as they long For bread, and light, and blessed purity • For man's proud heart sometimes forgets to be Compassionate ! But there are holy eyes Upon them as they crouch : the dazzling crowns And seraphs' wings may not draw off that gaze. L 102 And now — as when on earth — the blessed words Fall gently from the Saviour's lips — " I have Compassion en the multitude !" 0! ye Who are His own disciples, tell them so. Go to them, for His sake, and bid them hope j Seek 'mid their desolation, and impart Joy to the wretched in your Master's words ; For He will feed them, and a better time Shall dawn upon their darkness. T1W5 Hjeavenlt} Storehouse, " 'Tis sweet, as year by year we lose Friends out of sight, by faith to muse How grows in Paradise our store." Yes, there our store is growing! One by one The links in love's fond chain are broken here; But in that heavenly home the vacant seats Are quickly filling ! This drear world may be More drear and desolate, as sink the lamps Of sweet affection; but they brightly shine, As did the star of Bethlehem, and guide Our wavering feet where they and Jesus are ! " Our store in Paradise I" How the faint heart, Weary and weak below, loves to recount The swelling numbers ! They are there whose lips Have pressed our brow ere it had learned to ache Beneath the world's great burden. Surely all Have some fond treasure there ! A mother's love In all its deathlessness — a sister's lovo 1G3 In its deep tenderness — a manly form Whose strong arm cleared the rugged, thorny way, And made the passage beautiful ; all these, And more, are safely landed. They have learned mg of the redeemed — have swept their lyres, And east their crowns, and gazed upon the face Of the triumphant Saviour ! Ah! our friends Are far beyond us in the heavenly lore ! mg on ! Across our path The shadows lengthen; in the gloaming west Our sun is setting; and a peaceful calm Steals o'er our spirits. Loved ones, can it be We shall rejoin you soon ? Father Divine, Let us not fear when night enwraps us close ; But, 'mid the darkness, guide us to those shores Where dwell our friends in Paradise ! JfrnyvchetQ with fastis, ANYWHERE with Jesus, says the Christian heart; Let Ilim take )ne where He will, so we do not part : Always sitting at His feet, there's no cause for fears; Anywhere with Jesus in the vale of tears. Anywhere with Jesus, though lie leadeth me Where the paths are rough and long, where the dangers be* Though He taketh from me all I love below, there with Jesus I will gladly go. i 2 164 .A iiywhere with Jesns in the summer's heat ; Anywhere with Jesus through the winter's sleet > Anywhere with Jesus while the bright sun shines ; Anywhere with Jesus when the day declines. Anywhere with Jesus, though He please to bring Into trial's fiercest fire — into suffering ■ Should He bid me work or wait, or only bear for Hira, Anywhere w r ith Jesus still shall be my hymn. Anywhere with Jesus, though it be the tomb, With its frighting terrors, with its dreaded gloom ; Though it be the weariness of a long-drawn life, Fainting with the constant toil, drooping in the strife. Anywhere with Jesus, for it cannot be Dreary, dark, or desolate where He is with me. lie will love me always — every need supply ; Anywhere with Jesus, should I live or die. The fjops that Iftafcuth not Jtehamud, Is it hope for love ? For a wealth of friends ? For the joy that to life its beauty lends ? For the precious ties of the hearth and home ? For the heart's bright sunshine w r here'er we roam? Ah, no ; for the spirit may lose its tone, And a change pass over our loved — our own ; And the empty heart o'er its wreck may sigh That the hope of love can fade and die. 1G5 Is it hope ^ov fame f ior the laurel wreath, And conscious pride in the .heart beneath P For a lofty step and a noble name ? Is this shameless hope a hope for fame P O, the world's applause is but empty air, And the flatterer kneels when all else is fair ; But the dark, dark night and beclouded day Will drive from the path fame's light away. Is it hope for riches ? For wealth untold ? For the miser's hoard ? For the precious gold P For a life amid ease and luxury, With poverty's shadow ne'er coming nigh P 0, no; for this hope is a broken reed, It will fail the heart in its deepest need ; And the groaning spirit will sink with woe When such earthly props from the weak grasp go ! But the hope of the Gospel is better far Than the highest hopes of worldlings are ; It will fail us not through the march of time ; It will cheer us yet in the changeless clime, "lis the hope of a true and a deathless love ; 'Tis the hope of a cloudless home above ; 'Tis the hope that a fadeless crown be given ; "lis a hope from God, and the hope for heaven. The Christian's hot The Christian's lot may not be high or great, His earthly friends may all be poor or low ; Yet guarding angels ever round him wait, And with their wings ward off the fearful foe. 166 And, folded in the everlasting arms, His inward soul is filled with deathless peace; Religion cheers him with its heavenly charms, And in his heart the world's allurements cease. O ! it is well to be a Christian here ; What must it be within that world above, Where sorrow will for ever disappear And nought remain but endless joy and love ! " We shall Ixe changed." 1 Cor. xv. 52. c We shall be changed ! O, deep, mysterious story, Too great for finite minds to comprehend ! We shall be changed from grace to perfect glory When this frail mortal life of ours shall end. ;< We shall be changed ! " God's mandate will be spoken T" arc-use with power Divine the slumbering clay ; earth's remaining ties shall all be broken, And the freed spirit gladly soar away. • We shall be changed ! " For then no more corruption, V>y eyes that gaze on Jesus, shall be seen ; Lnd we shall worship without interruption, No "heaven of brass," no "parting veil" between! \\ e shall be changed ! " From the unshackled spirit The film of ignorance and sin shall fall; Viid the light heart no longer will inherit The cares and griefs which kept it here in thrall. 107 " We shall be changed ! " 0, when the call is given, May we be ready — waiting to obey ! May we be changed from earthly life to heaven — From sin to holiness, from night to day ! Be Patient. Be patient, Christian ! Jesus teaches thee This lesson, oft so difficult to learn; Check for His sake impetuosity, And for "the mind of Jesus" strive and yearn. O, wild and restless, with thy anxious care, Press to the Saviour's side ; and rest thee there. Be patient, Christian ! Bear as Jesus bore With ignorance and sin on every side; "Work as He worked, until, His pure life o'er, Working for thee, unmurmuringly He died. And though there be no visible success, Be patient still, for He at last will bless. Be patient, Christian, under trials here ; 'Mid slighted love, and wrong unmerited, Submissive wait, and every grief severe Shall be, through God, a blessing on thy head. Start not ! for He, through all the raging storm, Will shelter in His arms thy shrinking form. Be patient, Christian, though the hand of death Shall sweep away thy loving, faithful few ; Stay the rebellious thought, the impatient br Thy blinding tears hide Jesus* love from view. Trust, and look up ! Behold how tenderly The " Man of Sorrows " looketh down on t^»e. 168 Be patient, Christian, while thy sufferings last ; Endure w a little while " the pain and smart ; Wish not too eagerly that all were past, And thou reposing weary head and heart. Wait till thy Father calls, His time is best : Be patient, Christian, He will give thee rest. u fjet th^tje is ftaam*" Luke xiv. 22. Sinner ! Jesus passeth by, Kind compassion in His eye ; Lovingly He looks on thee. Wouldst thou ever happy be, Hear Him sweetly whisper, " Come, In my arms there is yet room." Art thou guilty ? Bearest thou Sin's dark stain upon thy brow, Sinking with the weight of guilt ? 'Twa-s for thee His blood was spilt, And the Saviour's voice says, " Come, In the fountain there is room." Seest thou the pilgrim band Travelling to Immanuel's land ? Join them, they are truly blest ; Join them, and thou shalt have rest. They God's children are — then come, In His churches there is room. 169 Ah ! and there is room in heaven \ Golden harps will there be given ; Waving palms of victory, Which the Saviour won for thee. Then no longer from Him roam ; Come at once to Jesus, come ! "t will draw all Mm unto Me." John xii. 32. Thou drawest us, Saviour, with Thine everlasting love, From these dark, dismal climes away, to cloudless scenes above ; From Sodom's ashen apples, unto fruit of endless joy, To pleasures that will never fade, to sweets that will not cloy ; To holy, heavenly scenes that fill the heart with happiness, Thou drawest us, Saviour, who around Thy footstool press. Thou drawest us, Saviour, by Thy word of love and peace, That sweetly tells of joy sublime that death will but increase ; Thou drawest us by sorrow's might, in lowliness of heart, To cling unto Thy precious love, and choose that better part ; Thou drawest us most sweetly by the still small voice of love, To plume our earth-tied wings and soar on to Thy home above. Thou drawest us, Saviour, when the aching heart within Broods sadly o'er its deepened stains of agony and sin ; Thou drawest us when those we love depart, or change, or die : No coldness gathers in Thy heart, or dims Thy loving eye. Thou drawent us when hopes are crushed, and gloomy clouds arise Thou drawest us to fix our hearts beyond the azure ^kies. 170 Thou drawest us, dear Saviour! O, 'tis sweet to come to Thee, The ever-flowing Fount of Love, the changeless and the free, To rest our weary, aching hearts upon Thy pitying breast, And in the everlasting arms from every grief to rest ! Draw us still closer, Holy Friend, until, life's warfare past, We bring our ransomed spirits at Thy sacred feet to cast. Th£ Fjear-storm* Hast ever seen the fear-storm ? How arourwd the gloomy heaven It flings a pall of blackness from which all joy is driven; How wrathfully it gathers, in its wild, destroying power, O'er shrinking heads that bend where'er its clouds of terror lower i How fails the strongest, bravest heart before the hopeless night ! How longs the trembling spirit for a glimmering ray of light ! Hast ever heard the fear-storm ? 0, how deep its thunders are, As through the future's cavern it comes rolling from afar ! How docs it shake the earth beneath the traveller's faltering feet, And bring its wild, terrific sounds above his head to meet ! How beat the din and discord on his heated, weary brain ! How longs he for a mightier power to bring sweet peace a^ain ! Hast ever felt the fear-storm ? Did it ever beat on thee, And crush the bounding spirit's joy, and bend the feeble knee ? And has it wrapped thee all around with its relentless band, And chilled the life-blood at thy heart and paralysed thy hand ? And hast thou longed, and, longing, hast thou turned aside to pray, That some bright Sun would rise and chase the fear-storm from thy way ? 171 Ay, thou hast known the storm of fear — perchance the sickening drtod Is on thy restless spirit now. O ! whither hast thou fied ? There is a Rock of safety, and there is a Sun of light ; There is a Voice almighty that can turn to day thy night. 0, while the fear-storm rageth, to that Saviour-friend draw nigh, And rest beneath His perfect peace, until it passeth by. The fttjinfr Christian* Fading are earth's pleasant things, With its fair imaginings ; Those best loved have passed away Into bright, unfading day ; And I yearn for deeper lovo: Jesus, welcome me above. Pleasures seem but trifles now; Holy hands have soothed my brow ; Forms of light are floating near; Heavenly sounds my spirit cheer: Dear Redeemer, be Thou nigh, And I will not fear to die. Ah ! this change is surely death — Fainter, shorter grows my breath; Shadows steal aci [ght ; Darkness deepens — give me light I Saviour, Thou hast died before; Aid me till this strife is o'er. 172 See, my strength begins to fail : I have entered death's dark v^le ; Rough and cold is Jordan's wave ; Strong the arm that now can save. Yet I calmly trust in Thee — Highest, Holiest, be with me. Yonder is my shining home ; Angels beckon me to come. Ah ! there are no shadows now, Glory shines around my brow ! Friends on earth, farewell, farewell I Christ is here, and all is welL Sunshine after Eairj* Thank God for the blessed sunshine That cometh after rain ; For the golden sheen is on the lea, And the skies are bright again. The merry birds are singing ; And flowers of brilliant hue Look up, as 'twere in thankfulness, To the heaven's radiant blue. Thank God for the blessed sunshine ! Hark! hark to the shout and song That are sweetly swelling upward As the white corn waves along. 173 F r we look on : rvest. On the plan And the hymn of prai.-- 1 ..: . ng h . I air. Thank God for I Far I kindly hand thai And :" B For u Uii} Saul Thirstetb far Thes, m ban. 1. Abot] - I - parched and dry, My spirir for the Fount of I Cries in ite . _ ny : Amid the dearth, and wo-;. My G I . I I . ". Beai ogway, N r make my jonrney bh My i ia a In whom all pleasures mc •. 174 The gay and happy cannot halt Upon their gladsome way, To throw across my cheerless night The sunshine of their day; But Thou, God, Thou lovest well With suffering ones to stay. Thou heal'st the spirit's agony, Thou soothest the distressed ; And Thou wilt draw the weary to Repose upon Thy breast : They cannot be alone or sad Whom Thy great love hath blest. I thirst for Thee, my God ! 0, pour ' Into my empty heart Thy mighty, satisfying love, To stay its yearning smart ; " I shall be soMsfied when I Am with Thee where Thou art." ^uttumial Scents. Softly upon the sodden ground the faded leaflets lay, And softly through a cottage home, warmed by affection's ray, Arose the vesper song of praise from voices sweet and low, A humble, heartfelt incense to the God who loved them so. For summer wanderings were o'er, and absent ones had come To kneel around that gladsome hearth, to dwell in love at home ; And hearts and eyes were uttering, as rose the evening rhyme : " Bless God for sparing us to see this welcome autumn-time !" 175 There walked, with silent step, a youth beneath the branches bare, Whose spirit listened for a voice that Boated in the air : The stars seemed holy to him then, for every step he trod Bore written characters of truth fresh from the pen of God ; And deeply through his kirtdling soul arose the vow to heaven — " Lord, I will give myself to Thee, who all to me hast given ; Grant that my life, like this blest hour, may with Thy love be bo And I will bless Thee evermore for this autumnal thought.'' Upon the well-trod pavement fell the first white flakes of snow ; A mother called her little ones, and spoke in accents low Of hungry, houseless children, whose young hearts were aching yet many a long-felt sorrow that they never could forget. She told bhem how the Saviour loves to see the cheerful gift, And smiles upon the hands that strive from grief's dark depths to lift : And forth, with kinder, warmer hearts, the ehildren passed away, To practise the sweet lesson they had learnt that autumn day. Long months upon a bed of pain a fragile girl had lain, And patiently had borae her meed of weariness and pain; Bat when the flowerets faded, and her spirit weaker grew, The angels from the better land around her bedside drew. Light, such as earth could never yield, shone on her heart and browj Darkness will never come again ; she is with Jesus now. All tedious, but for His deep love, would seem the summ< r hours, Bat autumn brought her perfect peace — she faded with the flowers l autumn scenes are looming o'er our way : We know not how to its will pass this season of decay ! The aul umn winds may seem for as all mournfully to sigh. And ere the year has passed away we or oar friends may die. love Is infinite; and we may safely hido In those kind arm< of mercy where no danger can betide; For then, if Iif3 be long or short, the autumn hours will brii •■* A deeper joy thar ever comes amid the flowers i»f spr 176 fccml and Samcrnr, heat us I When the choral song is pealing, When the gathered crowd is kneeling, And the blended prayer is stealing, Lord and Savionr, hear us ! That our hearts to Thee uplifted, May of every sin be sifted, And our spirits heavenward drifted, Lord and Saviour, hear us When in secret sadness pining, At Thy sacred feet reclining, Panting for Thy love's bright shining, Lord and Saviour, hear us ! For a spirit meek and lowly, Loving right and goodness solely, Like Thyself, Thou high and holy, Lord and Saviour, hear us ' When life's duties are before us, And the world's strong din is o'er us, Deadening the heavenly chorus, Lord and Saviour, hear us I For Thy smile above us gleaming, And a life for ever beaming Piety, not merely seeming, Lord and Saviour, hear as i 177 When the few last hours are flying, And the fragile frame is dying, Hear the spirit's feeble crying — Lord and Saviour, hear us ! For a life that is not fleeting In the land of holy meeting, Thee and all our dear ones greeting, Lord and Saviour, hear us ! The Father's Bkssing, •Bless me, even me also, O my Father." — Gen. xxvii. 38. My Father ! many, many prayers My heart has breathed to Thee ; But this, when other words were weak, Has sought Thee constantly ; Whate'er tnou shalt deny, give Thy blessing unto me. I ask Thee not that fame or power May make me high or great : Or e'en that other joys than these Around my path may wait ; Or any earthly sphere or boon, My spirit may elate. No ! Father, no ! I turn from all, And only ask Thee now That Thy rich blessing ever be Around me as I bow, Thy precious peace within my heart. Thy light upon my brow. M 178 Srnl me as Thine, and own me, Lord, Wherever I may go ; Let all who know and love me here More of my Father know ; And grant that nought but love from mine To other hearts may flow. Make me a blessing. Thou canst light The eye with heavenly fire ; And Thou this lisping tongue of mine With life-words canst inspire. O, bless my mission everywhere ; Grant me my heart's desire ! O. that some spirit to Thy love May through my prayers awako~ Some drooping sufferer cheerfully 'ihe sacred pathway take. Make me a blessing, God of love ! Bless me, for Jesus' sake. {£md£ m&j my Father. Guide me, my Father ! Thickly falls the night Around my head ! My heart is weary for the blessed light; The path I tread May be the dark, drear vista of the tomb, For it is hidden in the gathering gloom. Guide me, my Father! Other arms are weak To lean upon ! The strong and mighty Comforter I seek; All else is gone ! 179 O, for the everlasting arms to be In my deep weakness closely wrapped round me ? Guide me, my Father! Aching heart and heal Yearn for Thy breast — Throb for the kindly hand, which erst has led, To give me rest : And o'er my boding, trembling spirit flir.g The holy shade of Thy protecting wing. Guide me, my Father, or my feet will stray From Thee, my God — Will, faltering, leave the strait and thorn- strewed wa Which Jesus trod ; I would be with Him where the holy meet; 0, Friend Omnipotent, gu'de Thou my feet! Guide me, my Father ! Take my outstretched hand And lead me on, Until the mists and pitfalls of this land Are ever gone ; Until my spirit is at rest with Thee, From these dark griefs and dangers ever free. Sin and Grace, '.'here sin abounded, grace did much more abound "—Rom. v What has sin done ? Ask the battle-slain, Or the burning lava en S i lom's plain ; List to the shriek of the widowed heart ; See the eye of the martyr start. It has rolled o'er the streets in a mighty flood, And deluged proud cities with noble blood. m2 180 What has sin done ? Hear the stifled mean Of the wretched outcast, sad and lone ; See the darkened stain on the youthful brow, Not bright, and fair, and cloudless now : See the vice and squalor in wretched homes, And the breaking hearts beneath lofty domes. But grace is given. What has it done ? It has cheered the lone, forsaken one ; It has raised the fallen to life and light ; It has made the darkened pathway bright : 'Tis peopling heaven with the saved and fres, And scattering joy from sea to sea. Thanks unto God for His precious gift, Thanks unto Jesus, who thus doth lift Our sin-stained earth from its depth of woe, Who healeth the breaches of sin below ; Where sin hath abounded may grace abound — May sin-stained souls at the Cross be found 3 0nr Ij^awnly. 3j)Mtti3* There are partings here, and the bright eyes dim, As we sing in sadness our farewell hymn ; But courage ! our Father's house is fair, And hearts are not wrung by partings there. There is sickness here, and the throbbing head Tosses in pain on the sleepless bed ; Look upward ! our Father's house is near, And sickness may never venture there. 181 There is labour here, and the weary one Sighs that the toil is not yet done ; But a voice from home fills the balmy air — The weary ones all are resting there. Our Father's house ! It will not be filled Ere His voice of welcome our heart has thrilled. There is room for us in that mansion i'air, Nor long will our seats be vacant there. At home with Jesus ! 0, let us press On to that heaven of blessedness ! May all we love, when our lives are past, Meet in our Father's house at last ! The Christian's Ifresent Hest. " We which have believed do enter into rest."— Heb. iv. o. How rage the storms of life around our dwelling! How noisily the tempest comcth on ! How mournfully the wind its sighs is swelling ! Can there be rest until these storms are gone ? How rapidly life's labours cluster round us! How the frame bends beneath its weight of toil ! How has the weariness of working bound us ! Can there be rest apoi) this curse-marked soil ? Yes, even now and here is sometimes given A glimpse, a taste of that eternal rest Which is awaiting us at home in heaven — Which we shall take on the Beloved's breast! 182 !7ot the full sweetnes ; of that blest reposing But a faint earnest of what is to be, That floats above us when the day is closing, And leaves the spirit from its sorrow free. It is the soul unto its life-source breathing — It is the Saviour's holy word of peace ; 'Tis when His light the aching brow is wreathing, Earth's gloomy weariness and sorrow cease. 0, precious, precious rest ! And if its sweetness Is to the weary one so precious here, What will it be, when, robed in heavenly meetness, By the still waters we in heaven appear ! u ¥\z satisfteth the longing sauV Psalm cvii. 9. The spirit's wailing Reaches God's throne ; and, there prevailing, He sends it from the sunny skies The heavenly bread that satisfies ; A.nd the free soul, in its deep, bounding gladness, Forgets its sadness. All-wise and tender That heart of love ! He best can render The bread, the wine the heart doth crave; And He the heated brow can lave Tn the clear streams of His love's wasteless fountain From Calvary's mountain. 183 O, the wild thirsting! Oft the sad heart amid its bursting lias gone to Him in all its care, And breathed the low, sweet breath of prayer ; And the bright blessings from the Father thronging Have stilled the longing. Thus, 'mid our weakness, Father, we come to Thee in meekness ; Our empty hearts before Thee lie ; 0, satisfy us, or we die ; Throw round us bonds of love no change can sever — Be with us ever ! The %ing. The dying are around us everywhere ! No form so beautiful, but in the heart That yet so fondly clings to all things fair, There is a whisper, " Soon I must depart.'* And every spot the willing feet have pressed Is not our fatherland — is not our rest. Bright eyes that beam upon us soon will close, And quenched for ever be the merry breath ; The graceful limbs will lie in deep repose, The voice of music will be hushed in death ; Silent and cold the heart — all sufferings o'er — The blue-veined temples throb with pain no moro: O ! when that marble form before us lies, If memory of our own unkindness tells — If dark and sad remembrances arise. If recollection the deep sorrow swells— 184 How gladly would we all our treasures give For time to cry in agony, " Forgive ! " If we have planted thorns within that breast, If bitter words were spoken in that ear, If scorn or carelessness disturbed the rest, If deeds of ours have forced the burning tear, If we have filled that heart with keen distress — God pity us in our deep wretchedness ! If we regarded not that pleading eye, Nor spoke the low, sweet, healing word of love, Nor sought in tenderness to stay the sigh, Nor bade the drooping spirit soar above ; If we withheld the meed of love's relief, 'Twill be the worst to bear of all our grief. The dying are around us everywhere ; 0, to remember it each day we live, To act, and speak, and look with kindly care, The ready sympathy and aid to give, To check the careless tone and hasty breath — So have no vain regrettings after death ! Abiding under the shadow of the ^Imighttj. Psalm zci. 1. Under the shadow when noon-tide is shining ; Under the shadow when day is declining ; Under the shadow when sorrow is pressing : Under the shadow when laden with blessing ; 185 Under the shadow when loneliness sadd >ns ; Under the shadow when company gladdens ; Under the shadow when joy has departed; Under the shadow when blithe and light-hearted > Under the shadow when sickness has bound us ; Under the shadow when health is around as ; Under the shadow if smiling or sighing; Under the shadow if living or dying ; Under Thy shadow, bountiful Father ! Under Thy shadow Thy weary ones gather ; Under Thy shadow harm comes to us never j Under Thy shadow may we be for ever! Hane httt fastis* None but Jesus ! Every light Fades before the gloom of night, But this one bright star alone, Guiding ever to the throne ! Other joys, and loves, and friends Change before the life-tide ends ; But the Saviour cannot die : None but Christ can satisfy. None but Jesus 'mid the rush Of the world's wide whirl and crush; He alone can still the heart When Lhe throbs of anguish start; He alone can stay the fear When the trial hovcreth near; He alone can succour give : None but Jesus while we live! ISO N'.ne bnt Jesns can supply Grace to live and grace to die; None but He prepare for heaven ; lie alone life's crown has given. When the waves of conscience roll O'er the startled, guilty soul, Only Jesus' precious blood Can obtain us peace with God. None but Jesus when the breath Stops before the hand of death ; Through the darkness dense and deep, O, may Jesus near us keep ! None but Jesus in the land Where the white-robed ransomed stand ; May our place with them be given, None but Christ to praise in heaven I Spring-time. Beautiful Spring-time ! We hail thee now With the chaplet of flowers upon thy brow, With thy carpet of velvet so rich and fair, With the floating clouds and the balmy air. With the joyous warbling of each gay bird, And the budding tree-tops by zephyrs stiriN i Beautiful Spring-time! Thou seem'st to fl Gladness and health upon everything, Yet with the sighs of thy gentle breast A lesson full solemn thou whisperest — That even the light of thy sunniest day Silently, silently fadeth away. 187 Beautiful Spring-time ! If we might be Joyous, and useful, and pure as thee, We should not shrink from the fading time, Sure of a home in a fadeless clime. God of the seasons ! 0, safely bring Our hearts to the land where 'tis always spring. I?ra;j for thy. hoved Ones* Pray in the morning, when first thy thought Turns to them with affection fraught ; In the midst of thy duties throughout the day, When all thou canst do is to think and pray ; In the soft, sweet hour when the shadows fall, And the twilight deepens, then pray for all. Pray when the glance of the beaming eye Tells its sweet language so lovingly, When the flood of affection shall o'er thee sweep, And thy feelings for words grow far too deep, Breathe the emotion in fervent prayer, And a purer bliss shall enfold thee there. Pray for thy loved ones when far apart From the kind, warm hand, the gentle heart; Think of that One who is ever near; And ask that ye each may to Him be dear ; And thy spirit -yearnings for human love W T ill be more than stayed by that Friend above. Yes, pray — for the friendships and loves of earth Are but fragile flowers of exotic birth ; 188 It needs that a stronger than mortal hand Guide and protect in the wintry land ; Pray that God's blessing may still be giver- Pray that ye meet and love on in h TI113 kw of Hsns* " Having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end." — John xiii. 1. O, love of Jesus ; measureless and deep, How far it is beyond our highest thought' Tender and pitiful whene'er we weep, And ever with sweet consolation fraught. O, heart of Jesus ! what can equal Thee, With perfect love, unchanging, boundless, free ? Ah! Thou hast loved Thine own ! For Thou hast been Along the path we wearily now tread, And Thou hast " borne our sorrows," and hast seen The spirit's anguish and the faint heart's dread ; And from our souls there cannot come a groan Which finds no echo, Jesus, in Thine own ! And though Thou dost not take us to Thy home, . Far from the world's wild wickedness and woe. Yet that Thou seest us every day we roam, And lov'st us, is enough for us to know ; For Thou who changest not wilt be our Friend, Guiding and loving till our journey's end. 189 0nhj a Step* Only a step to take ; Lead me for Jesus' sake ? Guide of my life ! Ouward I still must go Through this dark vale below, Clouded with strife. Only a step I see What is awaiting me On through the way. Dense is the atmosphere, Danger perchance is near, Still as I stray. Only a step, and then How shall I cross the fen Through the dark night P Only a step, but God All through the way I trod Gave me His light. Only a step ; and lie Ever is leading me ; Therefore I sing. On His kind arm I'll lean. Through every future 3cene, Close to Him cling. Only a step may be Left of the path for me Where I may roawi ; Roon will the morning break- Only a step to take On to my home. 190 "Then* shali he no flight ihet&. n Eev. xxii. 5. No night in heaven ! There the sun's declining Will not disperse the happy company ; The hands and hearts that have been intertwining Are severed not in that society : No passing hours sound there the parting knell j Lips blanch not there while faltering farewell. No night of darkness ! There will be no groping With sickening spirit o'er the uncertain way ; No heart grow weary with its vain, vain hoping That day will break and shadows ilee away ; No moan of anguish for delaying light In that sweet resting-place where all is bright. No night of terror ! There no tempest-flashes Burst in their fury o'er a trembling world : No earthquake's might, no awful thunder's crashea, No weeping o'er fair things to ruin hurled ; No scenes to rend the heart with wild despair ! No pestilence to walk in darkness there. No night of dying ! There they grow not weary Of tedious hours of sickness and of pain ; No .steps to take along the " valley " dreary : Those dark, dark times will not return again* The eyes will never more grow weak and dim That God has once unclosed to look on Him. 101 No night in heaven ! There, in lovingkind se*fl, God smiles, and that is all the light they need : that it shone upon our painful blindness ! that that glory were for us indeed ! Dear Saviour, guide us by Thy shining light rill we are safe where there is no more night. ! Earn at Ewnttxte, >w gently fulls the rain ! How softly sink the thirsty earth these heaven-sent draughts ! . will the pencilled flowers spring up anew : Laugh in their bright beauty ! There will come i .ranee and health for every drop. How fresh The green young leaves will be for giving it A momentary resting-place ! And birds sing more sweetly for the grateful shower. san but think of that unwearied hand at •'" watereth the earth " in its deep need, ;: Making it soft with showers." And in our hearts iving, thankful thoughts of Him who gives r, and sun, and love to fructify ;' is God-blessed world of oars. But ah ! the rain M ty fall upon some roofs 'neath which are hearts ing and sorrowful ! We thank thee, Lord, be up- springing fount of joy and love ■'. • bin our spirits. Give to those who thirst . - from the same deep well ; and cheer the s:tc A - Thou hast blessed the sod — with drops of tove n Thy large heart of tenderness. May those weep o'er blighted hopes and faded loves 192 See that their tear-drops watered heavenly flowem To beautify their paths i And if to-night, Homeless and friendless, in the chilly street There wander shrinking sufferers, Saviour, speak. And to the shelter of Thy bosom draw The wretched, lonely ones. That blessed wing ! That secret place of the Most High ! 0, take Beneath its sacred shadow us and those Dearer than life and love ! Father of all, This night, and ever, hide us from the storm, Till we are safely housed, far, far beyond The rain-cloud and the darkness — safe with Thee I " With lovingkindness have I drawn thee."— Jer. xxn. 8. Yes ! it is even so ! O, loving Friend, I, weary, wandered far away from Thee, Almost contented my whole life to spend 'Mid fading joys that lead to misery ; Thy hand spread blessings for my daily lot, And yet, amid them all, I loved Thee not ! My weak, vain heart could feast on meaner charms — Could drink the world's poor "broken cisterns" dry. I flew for rest and peace to other arms, Nor stayed to wonder who was standing nigh, Until in mercy, measureless and free, Thy lovingkindness drew me unto Thee I 193 There was no earthquake's might, no thunder's roar, Xo stern command to strike with terror's power; No flashing, fiery sword was hanging o'er, Xo fierce avengers thronged around that hour ; Xo dreadful terrors sent my soul to meet, And drag me trembling, cowering, to Thy feet. A smiling eye looked tenderly on me, A still small voice came sweetly o'er my soul ; That look, that voice, I knew they were from Thee, And to Thine open arms I gently stole ; O Father, Friend, I bless Thee for that hour : Thy lovingkindness was resistless power ! And now I ask Thee, if my changing neart Should wander from Thy resting-place again, O, draw me back to that far better part — Thy lovingkindness cannot speak in vain. Thine, only Thine, for ever I would be ; ! " draw me, and I will run after Thee." J?raij when the ®a#%ht Facletlu Pray when the daylight fadcth, for perchance on silent wings The angels float about thee then and breathe of holy things ; The calm upon thy spirit, that with twilight's hour is given, 0, has it not a mission from the brighter scenes in heaven ? Pray when the daylight fadeth, that the freshly-gathered sin Be wiped by Jesus' hands away ere darker hours begin; That He in tenderness may cleanse the earth-stain from thy brow, \m\ wrap the mantle of His love closely around {.heo new. N 194 Pray when the daylight fadeth : after all its restless care 'Tis well to cairn the trembling soul with soothing words of prayer ; To stay the spirit's yearnings with the Saviour's deathless love, And 'mid the shadows catch a glimpse of a better world above. Pray when the daylight fadeth, that the sombre hours of night May bring a deeper peace to thee than e'en the gladsome light. Pray that, when life's last eventide shall fall upon thy way, A radiant messenger may lead thee forth to endless day. Jt Ijappij Hew fear. I wish you, dear reader, a happy new year, Amid all that is hopeful, and bright, and dear ; 'Mid scenes about which thy spirit dreams, Where the star of affection brightly beams ; And numberless blessings be richly given By the bountiful hand of the God of Heaven. It may be, dear reader, that thou art one Toiling from morn till the setting sun, Or one of the noble of our land, Holding the paper with jewelled hand; But the rich and the poor need happiness, And I pray that our Father alike may bless. [f thou art young, may the coming year Be made more bright for thy sojourn here ; May loftier aims, and a holier strife, Dignify ever thy buoyant life, And place thee, whatever may be thy birth, With the leally good and great of earth. 195 Or, if thou art now in thy manhood's prime, May a purer glory illuine thy time ; Aud thy fearless heart, aud thy lofty brow, Learn at the feet of thy God to bow ; And long ere the flashing eye grow dim, ft] ay all that thou art be alone for Him. Or, if thou art aged and weak become, God guide thee gently towards thy homo, Gather thee tenderly to His breast, In the home where the weary ones may rest, Where the bloom of youth is renewed again, And the air ne'er echoes with sounds of pain. God bless you all with a title clear To the land where 'tis ever a happy year ; And then, should this, with its joy and mirth, Be the last we are spared to spend on earth, We'll joyfully welcome the summons given To meet dear friends in our home — in heaven ! Christians ot all Sects, Unite Christians ! listen to the voices Echoing on either hand ; Look around you — clouds are breaking — Light is spreading o'er the land. Happier, holier days are coming, They will sweetly dawn at length; Christians ! only be united — Union ever will be strength. Speed the day of Gospel light — Christians of all sects, unite! 196 Lay aside all party feeling, Hating only what is wrong ; Aim to elevate the masses Who in darkness suffered long ; Urge them in your love and kindness To embrace the brotherhood : Help, and hinder not each other, Never check the cause of good ; Know ye not that right is might P In love's enterprise unite ! Christians ! ever work together In the Gospel harvest-field, Fighting on]y against evil, With a power that will not yield. Following one glorious Leader, Striving for one victory, Surely ye should love each other— Surely ye should brethren be. O ! it were a glorious sight If ye would but all unite ! Yonder, looming in the distance, Is your one oft-longed-for home; And the universal Father Ever onward bids you come. Why not now commence the greeting d, may we but feel Thee near, ppier than earth could . iaLc v. Ill be tl 234 Fading Jiwag. Alas ! the sweet flowerets are fading away. The autumn winds blanch them with mournful decay; A few weeks they lingered to gladden the earth, In their loveliness seeming to smile on our mirth ; But the cold days are come, the beautiful things Lie where the wind its sad cadences sings. Sadness creeps over our reveries now, Shadows autumnal now rest on our brow ; For we know that the flowers are not dying alone : " Fading away" is the heart? s mournful tone. All we love best in this cold world of ours Fadeth away like the beautiful flowers. Leaving earth in its winter more barren and drear, How quickly they pass to a happier sphere, The friends that have smiled in our sweet summer-time, And deepening the gloom that now darkens our clime ! O, it is sad that they too should decay, And yet they are constantly fading away. The pleasures that tended the days of life's spring, That over its pathway such fragrance would fling, How soon did they fade 'neath the chill breath of years ! They lived not in soil that was watered by tears, But silently, rapidly, glided away, Unheeding the voice that would urge them to stay. And we, too, are fading — life's weakness comes on, And youth's buoyant energies quickly are gone j And eyes lose their brightness, the limbs lose their strength; And the flashing thought ceases to dazzle at length ; And the haughty step falters too oft on its way — yes ! like the. flowers, we are fading away. Fading away — ever fading away! 'Tis well there's a country that knows no decay, "Where sweet amaranthines diffuse then- perfume, And aye wear the beauty of spring's youthfal bloom. 0, for that wreath of unwithcring flowers ! O, that that land in its beauty were ours ! Talk When the fountain of gladness within thy heart Is sending its waters high, Wreathing the lip with its pleasant smiles, And kindling the speaking eye ; When sorrow its icy hand has laid, Depressing the buoyant heart, Clouding the face with its look of pain, Bringing affliction's dart — Talk, for the blessings of sympathy Will be in the answering tone, And a deeper delight encircle thee Than solitude e'er has known. Let not thy heart be a sealed book, But reveal to the loving eye That which inspireth the radiant smile. Or causes the rising sigh. Yes, talk — for a greater, more sacred gift Than language was never given ; Bat see that it copy, as best it may, Its spirit and tone from heaven. See that its words are all words of love, That its meaning is kind and fair ; See that it rises in songs of praise, Or whispers the sound of prayer. Suffering and &lartj t "For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are noJ worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed iT ~ as."— Rom. viii. 18. " Not worthy," even when the fainting heart Lies crushed and bleeding 'neath the heaviest rod ; When called from every earthly joy to part, And tread the thorniest path man ever trod ! " Not worthy," though the whole short life were spent In prescient dread of evils yet to be ; Though light were never with our darkness blent, And the pent spirit never light and free ! " Not worthy," though for long and weary years Each step were o'er the grave of some dead joy, And the long way we tread hedged in by fears, And cares and groans our sad and sole employ! O, no ! These sufferings of the present time Arc nothing to the glory which remains Within that sorrowlcss and sinless clime Where the calm heart is freed from all its paina That glory is too bright for So shadowless, so perfect, and so high — When the bright "Morning Star," with fadi I Shines ever sweetly on the kindling i And those who suffered here shall there sit down By the still waters of the Saviour's love, And cast at His dear feet the golden crown, And dwell for ever in that peace above. ! let us take the sorrows for awhile, And in the darkest night still upward gaze To that blest haven where our Father's Will lure us soon to swell the song of praise. /.} statist tlmu hen i&U1 Ciikistiax workman, art thou sleeping r Hear'st thou not the wide world's Hear'st thou not the wailing cry ^ That ascends to God on high ? Rise, and make thy earth-home better ; Strike the strong and iron fetter From thy brother's aching hand — ■ From his brow the burning brand ! Canst not stay sin's vast undoing Of the good thou art | Hope and labour, sir' conquer, i 233 Christian, surely thou wilt never Live without a grand endeavour To enhance thy country's fame- Rise, and publish Jesus' name. For the greatest greatness given Is an heirship into heaven ; Is an interest in the love Of the Infinite above. Eise and labour, then, my brother : Let us, loving one another, Lead the wanderer to God Through the path the Master trod. itesus 0nltj* The young man started early on his rough but upward way, And sought memorials of these who passed from earth away ; Said he, " My life shall copy all the greatest and the best Who, in their pilgrimage sublime, earth's wilderness have pressed. J9 But ah ! they were not faultless ; he was soon obliged to own That those who would be truly great must copy Christ alone. Another sought to tread the paths that were most smooth and fair, And studied every human chart with deep and patient care. Alas ! he found that dangers lurked at every step he took, d turned for deeper lessons to the pages of the Book. lie saw that only those who in the Saviour's footsteps go Walk where the living pastures arc, and the still waters flow. 239 Another, pale and strengthlcss, lay npon the bed of death, More languidly her eyelids drooped, more feebly came her breath; Those who had travelled with her through the flowery vales of life Might go with her no farther through thifl path of awe and strife. "Yet I am not alone/' she said. " The way grows chill and dim; But * Jesus only' stays with me, and I am safe in Him." Yes, blessed, holy Jesus ! we shall go to all beside, Uni il convinced our only home is at Thy bleeding - More closely bind our hearts to Thee — loosen these human ties, And ever to the Lamb of God turn our too-wandt Then take us to that world above where there are no more tears, And " Jesus only" shall be praised through never-ending years. ^nsxxers to. ttu3 Saviour's Fraijer* "I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil." — John xvii. 15. There was a shroud of sadness on a pale and youthful brow, . agony that caused her form to bow ; That unfilled heart awoke at last to its deep sense of need, .angered for the love which human hearts so well can feed. " 0, for but one to love me !" was her wild, despairing cry ; And one with smiling features and flattering lip drew nigh. Xought in his mien proclaimed to her how h • tare — What Btay g, youthful heart? ] pray ■ arms crossed o'er his throbbing heart stood or. i od's years— terrible that eyes like I me escap'i e seemed, and that th 2-10 There was tlie tempter by his side still urging him to go, And his weak spirit shrank from the alternative of woe : But. ah ! it passed — that bitter hour of trial and despair. Nobly he triumphed, for for him was breathed the Saviour's prayer There was another — weak and frail; she had been used to cling. All her long life, with tightened clasp, round some preserving thin; And when the last was taken, there arose a bitter cry : " I am too weak to stand alone ; O, if I could but die ! " And yet the fragile one fell not, for angel hands were spread, And more than angel blessings came to the unsheltered head. There was a heavenly power to clear the sin-polluted air ; There was a shelter from the storm — there was the Saviour's prayi ! there is evil constantly, above, beneath, around j Life is a cup in which excessive bitterness is found. Its battle-sounds are ringing, and its danger presscth near, Sin and temptation hover o'er, yet let not Christians fear. There is a Friend who, 'mid it all, unstained, unscathed, has A Friend whose mighty, loving heart remembers us for good. Let us walk softly through the path His friendship makes so & 'r : Let us bless God if for our hearts arose the Saviour's prayer. "Tii;} Wat}, Soil, is in tlue Sanely Psalm Ixxvii. ;3. ly the Sabbath morning dawned on the o'er-wearied i feeling reigned around, and hushed all boisterous mil any mourned with aching hearts the roughness of the w:y, lighingly they gathered in the house of God to pray. 241 Sad looks there wore on many brows, and np the sacred aisle Few came wit'.i light and happy stops, few wore the heart-lit Bmiloj And yet some earnest, trusting ones before the altar trod, To bathe within the streams that cheer the city of our God. And sweetly, as 'twere music from the heavenly world, there stole The Saviour'.: precious words of peace upon the weary soul ; The drooping spirit rose and clung more firmly unto Him, And looked toward that better land which grief can never dim. And faith grew stronger, deeper then, and hopes became more bright 3 As the inheritance above half burst upon their sight ; And songs of praise from grateful hearts poured softly o'er the way : Their thanks wore for the house of God and for the Sabbath day. ! when life's burdens on our hearts are pressing heavily, God of the sanctuary, may we always look to Thee ! O, meet us in Thine own blest house, and light us as we go With holy thoughts and brilliant hopes, to cheer the path beloir. Vlexv gear's ®aij« Twas ushered in by prayer ! There knelt ]p many a consecrated room Watchers and worshippers who felt How deep the silent midnight gloom! And heavenward through the softened av Rose solemn thoughts of secret prayer. A few hours passed, and thousands trod Our English temples' well-worn ai Listing the soothing words of God, And basking in the Saviour's smiles ; Q 242 Gaining new comfort for the way, From the sweet Sabbath new year's day. And afterwards God's family Gathered around His table spread, And Jesus 'mid them silently Blessed His disciples as they fed ; And hearts were warmed by His deep love P And eyes gazed longingly above. The evening passed, but ere they slept What high resolves arose to heaven ! How many prayed, and loved, and wept ! How many praised for sins forgiven ! Not loud, but deeply solemn words Declared their lives henceforth the Lord's. O, thanks that this important day Came on the Sabbath of our rest ! And as the year shall glide away, " God bless us, and we shall be blest !° So sacredly did it begin, May we ne'er darken it by sin ! Itisu and #ray. When thy home is far before thee, And the dark clouds gather o'er thee 5 When the scenes are all distressing, And the ills of life are pressing, Christian, rise and pray. 213 When thou'rt well-nigh broken-hearted, Wlien tliy loved ones have departed, When thou'rt very sad and lonely, AnJ art left with tt Jesus only," Mourner, rise and pray. When, oppressed with pain and a: Thou shale lie, and shrink, and languish, Dreading every fresh to-morrow, it bring increasing sorrow, Sufferer, rise and pray. :he pleasant flowers are blooming, All the joyous path perfuming, And the sun is shining brightly, And the hours are passing lightly, Gay one, rise and pray. When thy life away is flying, And in weakness thou art dying ; When the unseen is before thee, And the swell of death is o'er thee, Lift thy heart, and pray. Be not WtiscMXxag&d< Be not discouraged ! In the dai I Are hidden lamps, Shedding above, around, the blessed light. Amid the damps. Thou may'st not see the smiles that beckon But ever onward go, nor fearful be ! Q2 Bo not discouraged ! For the true, bravo heart Will seldom fail ; Who has the stern resolve to bear his part Will yet prevail. If thou hast barriers to success, push on, Till from thy smooth path they shall all be gone, Be not discouraged ! Keep within thy breast Hope's brilliant beam : Trust in thyself and God, and leave the rest, Nor idly dream ; But, looking ever on the sunny side, Trust and go forward ; for God will provide, Be not discouraged, whatsoe'er thy lot; For God is near. Still cheerily look up, and falter not, But persevere. Be but courageous now, and all shall be Blessed by thy Father, and made well for theo. " Th£# di3spi$.e4 the Pleasant &o.ncL tf Psalm cvi. 24. There is a land all beautiful Where fadeless flowerets bloom, And sighs and sobs ne'er cleave the air, All laden with perfume ; But many turn despisingly. And choose a living tomb. 245 are celestial music-strains, • living waters How, There fche transported pilgrim band Unbroken rest may know. Yet there arc som I would rather havo The grief and toil below. There constant pleasure dwells beni ath The lofty, dazzling dome ; And smiles of gladness wreathe the lips Of happy ones at home ; Yet clinging to their misery Arc some who rather roam ! Father, may the pleasant land To us attractive be ; And may we love it more and more, Until its joys we see — Till we are welcomed to our home, For ever safe with Thee ! " Wa all «a fade as a &ua£'' Isaiah Ixiv. 6. are fading! Storms have beatc:. Above, around ; h its mournful s< I The sodden ground ps to its cold, damp bosom those who fallj 1. as the leaves drop, vec arc fading ah ! 246 We all are fading ! Beautiful and bright Though, some may bloom, Beneath the verdure is the chilling blight; And to the tomb Those who, so late, were joyous in the spring- The loved, the lovely — all are gathering. We all are fading ! As the piercing blast Sweeps wildly by, Perchance the summer of our life is past ; And to the sky The mournful requiem rises from the sod. And we are dropping by the will of God. We all are fading ! But beyond the skies, Where seraphs sing, Those of the Lord's transplanting shall arise T' eternal spring ; And, though all fading, may we gather where God smiles, and all is beautiful and fair I wxmUl nat Uw akvatj* I would not live alway — though earth will entwine Too closely its cords round this frail heart of mine Though the joys and the friends that enrich it are dc And bountiful blessings are showered on me here, My spirit oft yearns for a holier clime, Where life and its pleasures are pure — arc sul 247 I would not live alway — this is not my h Where sorrow and sin will so frequently come — "Where shadows may darken the sunniest day, And dangers oft lurk in the loveliest way — Where its scenes leave a void that no pleasure can fill, And the thirsty soul tarries unsatisfied still. I would not live alway — my fair fatherland Allures me still on to its calm, peaceful strand ; The friends in its mansions are equally dear With those that I love who are lingering here. I long to dwell with them for ever in heaven, Where the harp, and the crown, and the white robe are given. I would not live alway — my Jesus is there, Whom I long to behold 'mid the holy and fair ; I only half know Him, the glass is so dim Through which my weak eyesight is peering at 1 But, 0! in that cloudless, that oft -longed-for place, ptnred I ever will gaze on His face ! I would not live alway— and yet while I stay [ cheerfully toil through the difficult Wi Live and labour for Him whose ineffable love Is training me now for the glory above ! So when death with its strife and its shadows comes on, My Father may welcome His child with " Well done !" 118 For ever with the &ont« Inot for an hour or two, Catching a distant view, Distant and dim ; Sot for a little space, Gazing on Jesus' face- Ever with Him ! Xot with a wandering heart, Prone from JJis side to part, Weary and lone; Leaving His sheltering fold, While my heart's love grows eold- Ever His own ! Not to displease Him so, As every step I go, Slighting His love ; But all my heart to give. And in His smile to liv .'. Ever above ! from the happy seat At t h e E c u ( e mer' s f e e t a to be driven; gain e world's grief and pain- in Heaven! 210 Ever to sweetly rest On the Beloved's breast* Close to His Near to Him still to be, Through an eternity, There to abide ! Ever with II im I love, Ever at home above, Happy and ft ee. Father! Thou nearest prayer; Jesus ! 0, take me there, with Thee ! By tlue Sen. What a motley group of faces Gather near the wondrous sea — Calm and scornful, gay and laughing, Full of joy or misery ! See the young all smiles and gladness, And the old all full of care ; he althful happy, While the suffering breathe g- prayer. s, fl iwingj ' : ng, Soils the deep a Son i . Now the pearly spray is breaking' On the weedy, shell-strewn strand. O ! the booming cf the waters. Chorus infinite and grand ! And our hearts within are swelling; Tears unbidden dim the eye, As we gaze upon the beauty Of the azure sea and sky. As we list the glorious main, Filling all earth's lofty dome, And the wind so wildly sweeping Over crested wave and foam. 0, Thou mighty One above us, Thou canst read the wordless thought : Ever make all nature's grandeur With Thine own pure teachings fraught. " Tlws Earth, &a*d, is full oi Tlnj Psalm cxix. 04. High to Thy throne, God, above the skies The sins of feeble nations daily rise, , Thy pure commands Thy weakest creatures spurn, And from Thee turn. And yet the flowers smile on, and day by day The path is beautiful through which they stray j Thy mercies slacken not, although, they raise In o song of praise ! 251 Thou giv'st Thy children still their daily bread ; Through dark and dubious ways Thy hand has led j Founts of Thy love gush by the steep hill-side, With full, fresh tide ! Thou giv'st warm love, with precious household ties ; The sounds of mirth from happy hearths arise ; Yet they return the Giver of all Good Xo gratitude ! 0, Thou who weariest not — the Merciful— "Who mak'st all things so rich and beautiful — When shall Thy children bring, on bended knee, Heart-praise to Thee ? lie cognition in Jjjeawn* Some think that on that brighter shore, toward which our worn feet tend, We shall not recognize the loved with whom we used to blend ; We shall not meet the speaking eye, nor clasp the fervent hand, Of those whom we have loved so well within this colder land. Cut, if earth's love were all we had to fill the spirit's need, Alas for these fond hearts of ours ! alas for love indeed ! But there's a voice within our souls, when these frail tics are riven, That calms the throb of agony with precious words from heaven ; That checks tlic wild despairing cry, and leads the aching heart To twine its tendrils round that home where we no more shall part. ! could we call it home indeed if, though all We might not love amid its scenes, nor know eacl e? 252 Bat love must be immortal 3 and its restless yearnings hero But the commencement of the joy within that perfect sphere. Love is the atmosphere of heaven, and every ransomed one Will be our friend and brother there, when conflict here is done. But surely we shall love those best who, on our way to God, Joined hands, and hearts, and interests, and blessed the path wc trod. Those who have passed away from us forget us not above ; They are not here to cheer us, but we have not lost their love. A mother's lip, a sister's smile, will welcome when we go As fondly as of yore, when they were toiling too below. 0, we shall know their greeting, and our pastors, teachers, there, And love them, as we could not here, for all their kindly care. Let us love on, then, evermore, and always cherish well Thoughts of that happy meeting-place where we shall shortly dwell ; Where voices we have heard below will swell the blissful song ; Where parents, friends, and all we love, will join the white-robed throng ; Where, in unclouded happiness, we all shall lowly bend, And worship Jesus perfectly — our best and dearest Friend. " Thau bnowest nxxt what a $fa$ matj Wmg forth/' Frov. xxvii. 1. " Thou knowest not !" The dense, dark cloud above Hideth its secrets close from mortal eye j It may be full of deep and gentle love; It may bring justice from the fiery sky j Deep mystery hangs o'er us every hour; Uncertainty broods in the clouds that lower. 2.33 u A d::y may bring" — ah ! what ? The hopes we reared May melt, like frost-work in the sun, away; Or the deep grief may come not as we feared ; Or disappointment's pain may pass away : A single day may be with imports fraught Too mighty even for our feel! 3 thought. The mighty man be stricken in his pride ; The imprisoned soul be suddenly set free ; The loved, the loving, from our rent hearts glide On from our keeping, to eternity. And darkness fall upon the narrow way ; And hearts be broken in a little day. Thou whose eyes can penetrate the gloom, We cling to Thee in all our helplessness. Fit us for happy life, o'er the dark tomb : Be Thou with us in pleasure or distress. The morrow, in its deep, deep mystery, O Thou who doest well, we leave to Thee. "Mtxi il lis Man, but Baralibas." John xviii. 40. " Not this man." Eager Lands outstretch to grasp the failing hand, To pluck the flowers that fade and droop upon the barren land, To clasp to beating, hungry hearts the mocking, ashen food, Yet fling with heedless folly far the highest, truest good. u Not this man," though he bring with Him such high, immortal joys, But fading pleasures, fleeting gifts, and worthless, foolish toys. 254 " Not this man." Some would vainly climb ambition's dazzling height™ Nor heed the dense deep darkness that enshrouds the coming nights. " Not this man." Some are choosing wealth to fill the hearts that yearn, And from the Man of Sorrows in their scornfnlness will turn. " Not this man," " Pleasure's cup for me," the million wildly cries ; '■' Not this man, but Barabbas," still the shouts that reach the skies. All ! these are rollers all ! They steal the peace, the purity, God's stamp upon the noble brow — the manhood bold and free ! They take what nothing can restore, and leave bereaved and lone, With aching head and bleeding heart, the bound despairing one. There is no light, no joy, no hope for those who madly choose The robber for their portion, and the Saviour- Friend refuse. " Not this man !" He has love to give to every empty heart; The sorrowful may cling to Him ; He bears the sufferer's part ; And He will bless the eager soul with immortality, Will fill the life with joyous wealth — will make it gain to die. " Not this man !" Hast thou then no grief — no sin to be forgiven- No thirsting after happiness — no longing after heaven ? " Not this man ! " Stay awhile, and see —can any love so well ? Hast thou a shelter in the storm, a home in which to dwell, Where sin and sorrow enter not ? And can that heart of thine Be satisfied with joy or love not holy or divine ? Jesus of Nazareth waiteth now thy answer to receive — O., weary, heavy-laden one, cling unto Him and live. 255 Thanksgiving. hank Thee. Father, who hast made as live, be free current bounding through our veins, For the wild ecstasy which life can give — The joy of being, even 'mid our pains ; W • thank Thee for our reason's eager light, The soul within us wonderful and bright. We thank Thee for the beauties of the world, The mysteries of air, and sea, and sod, Which Thou in Thy great goodness hast unfurled . we may see, and hear, and think of God, And learn the unspoken lore of forest-trees, And earnest whispers borne on passing breeze. hank Thee, Father, for the brotherhood — The warmth, of tender heart and grasping hand, The kindly nature seeking others' good — The free glad blessings of the household band, The love that overflows from speaking eyes, And thrills us with its eloquent replies. We thank Thee for the discipline of life, The hours of pain, and darkness, and despair; The inner sorrow and the spirit strife That wrung from the sad heart a speechless prayer. The trials have been blessings, and their spell Has brought us nearer Thee who doest well! We thank Thee, Father, for Thy deathless love, That follows us each onward step we take; But most we bless Thee for the bliss above, When from the last long sleep we shall awake. Father, when these earth-cords shall be riven, May our thanksgivings fill the courts of heaven! :/ if /l I 25o Farcurdl. Farewell, farewell ! It lias been feebly spo"k^-> By lips that paled ; And hearts have been bereaved and spirits broken. And hope has failed, As suddenly upon the ear there fell The withering blight of that dread word, Farewell ! Farewell, farewell ! From loved ones that were dying Oft has it come, And filled our hearts with mourning and with sighing, And in our home Shrouded the day in darkness and despair — Stolen the joy that smiled and blossomed there. Farewell, farewell ! It is not heard in heaven, Our home of rest ! There meeting?, but no partings, will be given j All will be blast ! O that we all within that oourne may dwell Where; lips ne'er falter, whispering Farewell J ;