PS 3515 
 .U45 R3 
 
 1920 .\anbom l^fipmes 
 
 Copy 1 
 
 0t a ^utiurtianite 
 
h- 
 
 
 ©CU 598771 
 
Random Rhymes of a Suburbanite 
 
 COPYRIGHT, 1920 
 BY A. H. HUMPHREY 
 
 n 
 

 Could I be sure that all my friends, 
 
 Whene'er toward me their thought might stray, 
 Would feel the enchantment distance lends, 
 
 I'd be content though far away. 
 But very frequently I find 
 
 That "out of sight is out of mind," 
 So I will ask you to be kind 
 
 And not forget the undersigned. 
 
 A. H. Humphrey 
 
Random Rhymes of a Suburbanite 
 
 CHRISTMAS 1916 
 
 "Peace on earth, good will to men," 
 Might we hear that song again, 
 Joyful, sweet and clear as when 
 Angels sang it o'er the earth 
 To proclaim the Saviour's birth! 
 
 Shepherds stretched on Bethlehem's plain 
 Were the first to hear that strain 
 That announced Messiah's reign. 
 O, that we might hear it, too. 
 And peace be proclaimed anew! 
 
 But, though 'tis not spoken loud. 
 And unheard is by the proud. 
 To the heart that's humbly bowed 
 Jesus speaks His word of love. 
 Gives the peace of heaven above. 
 
 And such hearts with peace are stayed 
 So they meet storms unafraid; 
 Midst the strife are not dismayed; 
 For His loving presence cheers. 
 And His voice dispels their fears. 
 
 Lord ! we humbly pray that we 
 
 All through life may walk with Thee, 
 
 Kept in peace until we see 
 
 All the earth thine own domain, 
 
 Ushered in Thy glorious reign. 
 
RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 Though "Art is long and time is fleeting" 
 Well may we pause for Christmas greeting: 
 This bears a loving thought to you, 
 And speaks my friendship, warm and true. 
 
 S 
 
 DECEMBER 25, 1917 
 
 (Luke 2:8-11) 
 
 Abiding in the field by night, 
 
 Their lonely vigil keeping, 
 Some shepherds saw a glorious sight. 
 
 While other men lay sleeping. 
 
 And, while the shepherds greatly feared, 
 
 (One to another clinging). 
 The angel of the Lord appeared, 
 
 A joyful message bringing. 
 
 Of "Peace on earth, good will to men — " 
 
 Glad news for every nation. 
 For "Christ, the Lord," in Bethlehem 
 
 Is born, and brings salvation. 
 
 Of Christ, who teaches brotherhood, 
 We have been slow in learning; 
 
 And many still call evil good; 
 
 His truth, his Kingdom spurning. 
 
 Lord, send thy message forth again — 
 
 Let all the earth receive it. 
 And emphasize its truth to men. 
 
 Till all who hear believe it. 
 
OF A SUBURBANITE 
 
 "Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done — " 
 While we pray this sincerely, 
 
 Grant that its meaning everyone 
 May apprehend more clearly. 
 
 So teach us all to love our God 
 That we shall love each other; 
 
 That nevermore shall drench the sod 
 Man's blood, shed by a brother. 
 
 DECEMBER 25, 1918 
 
 To proclaim the Saviour's birth 
 Angels sang of "Peace on Earth"; 
 Once again this Christmas tide 
 Let it echo far and wide! 
 Let its music fill the air, 
 Telling all men everywhere, 
 Right has triumphed over might. 
 As the sun dispels the night. 
 
 Joyously the chorus swells; 
 
 Glorious is the news it tells, 
 
 "Peace on Earth," from shore to shore 
 
 Battle sounds are heard no more. 
 
 Loud your grateful anthems raise. 
 
 Hearts and voices join to praise 
 
 Him whose message comes again, 
 
 "Peace on earth, good will to men!" 
 
 For Christmas cheer, I send, this year, 
 These lines to be my greeting; 
 
 And trust ere long, the angels' song 
 All men shall be repeating! 
 
RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 EASTER SONG 
 When wintry winds no longer blow, 
 
 And Spring's sweet breath perfumes the air, 
 When birds are flitting to and fro, 
 
 And green grass springing everywhere, 
 Nature with joy seems animate: 
 
 The buds are swelling on the trees, 
 And shade and sunshine alternate 
 
 As clouds pass, wafted by the breeze. 
 
 Now here and there upon the grass 
 
 A yellow dandelion is seen; 
 In sheltered nooks, up through a mass 
 
 Of withered leaves, sprout shafts of green; 
 Not far away you'll find a place. 
 
 On southern slope, warmed by the sun. 
 Where windflowers sway with dainty grace 
 
 As zephyrs softly kiss each one. 
 
 Clumps of the liverwort's pale blooms 
 
 Adorn the edges of the wood. 
 While ferns unroll their graceful plumes 
 
 Near mossy stumps, where once there stood 
 The forest monarchs, long since gone. 
 
 Beyond the wood a pasture green 
 Slopes to the brook — smooth as a lawn — 
 
 Its velvet robe befits a queen. 
 
 Earth slumbered long through Winter's night, 
 
 But now with wakening life is thrilled. 
 The streamlet's murmur breathes delight, 
 
 The world with Easter joy is filled. 
 From tree, and grass, and flower, and bird. 
 
 From hill and dale, meadow and wood, 
 One song of joyous praise is heard, 
 
 And all proclaim that God is good. 
 
OF A SUBURBANITE 
 
 Let all men join in nature's song, 
 
 And children's praise the chorus swell; 
 Let worshipers the churches throng, 
 
 And organ's note and deep-toned bell 
 Join in the anthems that ascend 
 
 To Him who triumphed o'er the grave: 
 Let his dominion have no end ! 
 
 O'er all the earth his banner wave? 
 
 A PARABLE OF SPRING 
 
 The reign of Winter now is done, 
 The earth revives, warmed by the sun. 
 The snow that covered all the ground 
 Has disappeared — no ice is found — 
 The grass, so brown when last 'twas seen. 
 Is turning now to vivid green; 
 The leafless trees, so bare and gray. 
 While still they owned old Winter's sway, 
 Are changing now — their buds have swelled, 
 In Winter's grip no longer held. 
 The earth was hard, and cold, and dead, 
 But now it gives beneath your tread — 
 The air, that not long since was chill, 
 Now, warm and fragrant, sends a thrill 
 Through all your being — earth is rife 
 With promise of returning life. 
 
 Since night and darkness pass away. 
 
 Their gloom displaced by light of day — 
 
 Since Winter's cold and death-like grasp, 
 
 That holds all nature in its clasp 
 
 Through dreary months, must cease to cling — 
 
 Must loose its hold — when comes the Spring- 
 
8 RANDOM RYHMBS 
 
 So, Death himself, so grim and cold, 
 That spares not, either young or old, 
 But lays his blighting hand on all, 
 The rich and poor, the great and small, 
 Must yield some day to One, whose might 
 Can rend the tomb — e'en Death can smite — 
 Whose power turns darkness into day, 
 And frees the earth from Winter's sway, 
 Whose word gives peace, and quells all strife, 
 Whose promise is — Eternal Life! 
 
 EASTER 1911 
 
 No message new I bring to you 
 
 Upon this Easter Day, 
 But join again the glad refrain. 
 
 As men and angels say, 
 With joyful voice, "Rejoice! — rejoice! 
 
 Our Lord is risen to-day." 
 
 Yes, Jesus lives and peace He gives, 
 
 Deep — like a river's flow; 
 Strength He imparts to weary hearts, 
 
 As those who love him know; 
 He lifts their life above the strife 
 
 And turmoil here below. 
 
 Never alone He leaves His own; 
 
 He keeps them day and night. 
 Lightens their cares, their burdens shares, 
 
 Makes all their pathway bright; 
 While he is near no doubt nor fear 
 
 Can e'er obscure the light. 
 
OF A SUBURBANITE 
 
 May the joy of Easter fill 
 All your mind and soul, and still, 
 When the day has gone, remain 
 With you till it comes again! 
 Peace abiding and complete 
 Fill your life with music sweet, 
 Give you strength for every day — 
 Cheer and brighten all your way! 
 
 ^ 
 
 EASTER 1915 
 
 Hark! The Easter chimes are pealing; 
 
 Far and wide they fill the air; 
 Christ has risen, the grave unsealing: 
 
 Speed the message everywhere! 
 
 Listen! Now their music ringing. 
 
 Swells to the horizon's rim; 
 Choirs in earth and heaven, singing, 
 
 Join the glorious Easter hymn. 
 
 At His birth came angels, winging 
 Down to earth, to sound His fame; 
 
 Now, again the glad news bringing, 
 Angel messengers proclaim, 
 
 "He is risen!" O message cheering! 
 
 Echo it so all may hear! 
 Since He lives. Death, without fearing, 
 
 We can meet, if He be near. 
 
 Ever near thee. Lord, abiding. 
 
 Where Thou leadest would we come, 
 
 Though the path be rough, confiding 
 In Thy power to bring us home. 
 
10 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 So our Master walk before us, 
 
 E'en the power of Death we'll brave, 
 
 And, unfaltering, sing in chorus, 
 
 "Where's thy victory now, O Grave!" 
 
 "O MASTER, WALK WITH ME!" 
 
 Two men in sorrow talked 
 As on their way they walked 
 
 One morning long ago. 
 They spoke of blighted hopes 
 Nor saw, upon the slopes. 
 
 The sunshine's glorious glow. 
 
 Then near them drew a third, 
 Who, listening, caught a word 
 
 That told their bitter grief. 
 Then He to them replied. 
 And, walking at their side. 
 
 He ministered relief. 
 
 Unto their wounded hearts. 
 As He the truth imparts. 
 
 Came peace; their sorrow fled. 
 And then at their request 
 He stopped to be their guest, 
 
 Gave thanks, and broke their bread. 
 
 And now, with opened eyes, 
 They look in glad surprise — 
 
 Their risen Lord they know! 
 That day, as they returned, 
 Their hearts within them burned — 
 
 With ardor all aglow. 
 
OF A SUBURBANITE 11 
 
 When, burdened and oppressed. 
 Sorrowful and distressed, 
 
 I walk along life's road, 
 O Master, walk with me ! 
 Let me thy glory see — 
 
 And lighten Thou my load. 
 
 To every contrite heart 
 Thy peace and joy impart, 
 
 Thy loving self make known. 
 Be Thou our welcome guest. 
 And, by Thy presence blest. 
 
 Our hearts shall Thee enthrone. 
 
 -^ 
 
 EASTER 
 
 To seek a rock-hewn sepulcher 
 
 The women went at break of day; 
 
 A heavy stone that grave had sealed, 
 
 Now — "Who shall roll the stone away?" 
 
 But when they came the stone was gone. 
 The tomb itself was void and bare, 
 
 Untenanted by Him they sought — 
 
 Naught but some grave-clothes lying there! 
 
 They stood perplexed, then saw two men 
 In shining raiment clad, who said 
 
 "Why are ye sad? What do ye here? 
 Why seek the living 'mid the dead?" 
 
 "He is not here, but He is risen 
 
 Just as He told you long ago." 
 Then they remembered, and returned 
 
 In haste to let His followers know. 
 
12 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 One woman lingered, and beheld 
 Jesus himself and heard His voice! 
 
 She too brought back the joyful tale 
 
 And bade their sorrowing hearts rejoice. 
 
 And two who journeyed down a road 
 That to a neighboring village led 
 
 Their Master joined and comforted, 
 
 And was made known while breaking bread. 
 
 And some who gathered in a room 
 To talk and ponder on these things 
 
 Beheld their Master in the midst. 
 
 And knew the joy His presence brings! 
 
 Ofttimes since then the sorrowful 
 
 Have comfort found along Life's way 
 
 Because with them the Master walked 
 Who can make bright the darkest day. 
 
 And she who sadly stands alone 
 Finds life is nevermore the same 
 
 If, list'ning for His tender voice, 
 She hears the Master call her name. 
 
 And often His disciples meet 
 
 With burdened hearts to talk and pray 
 
 And, finding Jesus in the midst, 
 Glad and rejoicing go away. 
 
 Since women found that empty tomb 
 
 Death and the grave have lost their power. 
 
 And souls who in the Master trust 
 Face without fear the final hour. 
 
OF A SUBURBANITE 13 
 
 With joy we celebrate that day. 
 
 And confident in hope we sing 
 "Where is thy victory, O grave? 
 
 And tyrant Death, where now thy sting?" 
 
 EASTER GREETING 
 
 May your eyes be never so dimmed by tears 
 
 That you cannot see "the Master" at your side; 
 
 Nor your ears be deaf to His loving voice. 
 
 Wherever you go may you realize the joy of 
 His companionship; in every gathering may you 
 Find Him present, to bless you with His peace. 
 
 And when, Life's journey done, you face the 
 Tomb, may you see it, not as a dungeon, but as 
 The open door to the "House of Many Mansions." 
 
 "I WILL LIFT UP MINE EYES UNTO THE 
 HILLS FROM WHENCE COMETH MY HELP" 
 
 Giver of Good, to Thee we raise 
 
 Our hearts in gratitude and praise — 
 
 We give Thee thanks for birds and flowers, 
 
 For clouds, as well as sunny hours — 
 
 And for the landscape's varied charms 
 
 Of hills and dales, and woods and farms. 
 
 We thank Thee, too, that with each day 
 
 Come varied tasks, some work, some play. 
 
 May we in all be steadfast, true — 
 
 Do with our might whate'er we do. 
 
 And we thank Thee for quiet night. 
 
14 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 For sleep, and rest, till morning light, 
 
 Our strength restored, brings us once more 
 
 For helpful deeds an open door. 
 
 Help us with gladness to begin 
 
 Each task, and thy approval win 
 
 On all our work. O, make us wise 
 
 In meeting problems that arise; 
 
 Strengthen our hearts to stand for right 
 
 And fear no foe, trusting Thy might. 
 
 Fill us with joyfulness, that we 
 
 May scatter joy where'er we be. 
 
 Help us to heal the broken hearts. 
 
 And soothe the pain and ease the smarts 
 
 Of those that suffer. Grant that we 
 
 May point the wanderers to Thee — 
 
 May lift the fallen, help the weak, 
 
 And by our utmost efforts seek 
 
 To make this world God's paradise. 
 
 He, who no needed grace denies 
 
 To those who ask for His dear sake, 
 
 We trust will grant the prayer we make. 
 
 A WORK-DAY PRAYER 
 
 (A paraphrase) 
 
 O Thou Who workest "hitherto" 
 Help us, we pray, our work to do. 
 The tasks Thou givest we'll not shirk. 
 Give "grace sufficient" for the work. 
 The promise that we have from Thee 
 Is "As thy days thy strength shall be." 
 Believing this, which Thou hast said. 
 To-morrow's task we will not dread. 
 Dispel all fears — we trust Thy care — 
 
OF A SUBURBANITE 15 
 
 Inspire us and our drudgery share. 
 
 May we be diligent indeed 
 
 When plodding better serves than speed. 
 
 Prevent all careless haste, we pray, 
 
 Build up our characters each day; 
 
 With all of goodness make us strong. 
 
 Hearten our courage all day long — 
 
 Hold fast our hands when our faith fails 
 
 And keep us true when sin assails. 
 
 We thank Thee, Lord, that work brings strength. 
 
 And daylight follows night, at length. 
 
 The Carpenter of Nazareth 
 
 We thank thee for; till latest breath 
 
 The Wrestler of Gethsemane 
 
 Shall still our inspiration be; 
 
 May we with faithful care attend 
 
 Our stewardship till life shall end, 
 
 So that Thy face "with joy" we see 
 
 O Master! when we're called to thee. 
 
 AT EVENTIDE 
 
 Father, to-night we come to Thee 
 
 Fretted by tasks that irksome be — 
 
 With tempers tried — weary indeed — 
 
 But sure Thy help can match our need! 
 
 We come in answer to Thy call 
 
 That promised rest to weary men — 
 
 Coming, we let our burdens fall. 
 
 And pray "Renew our strength again." 
 
 Let Thy deep peace be our heart's balm, 
 
 On storm-tossed souls command Thy calm. 
 
 Refreshed by sleep, to-morrow — may 
 
 Our strength be even as our day. 
 
16 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 So that with hope and courage new 
 Gladly we shall our way pursue, 
 Sure that Thy presence will be near, 
 And where Thou art we need not fear. 
 
 AT DAWN 
 
 As our eyes open to the light, 
 
 To Thee, who kept us through the night. 
 
 Our thankful hearts we raise. 
 As Thou didst guard us while asleep. 
 Still, through the day, we pray Thee, keep 
 
 And guide us in right ways. 
 
 Make our paths plain before our feet — 
 Strengthen our hearts — save from defeat 
 
 Whenever sin assails. 
 With patience may we do our tasks, 
 Cheerfully helping him who asks — 
 
 Not judging one who fails. 
 
 With helpful words and kindly deeds, 
 And ready sympathy for needs 
 
 Of all our brother men — 
 With loyalty to truth and right — 
 Help us to serve Thee with delight 
 
 Till nightfall comes again. 
 
 A PRAYER 
 
 Doubt and weakness vex my soul; 
 Only Thou canst make me whole. 
 Sinful and unworthy I, 
 Yet, I pray Thee, pass not by! 
 I would helpful be and kind — 
 
OF A SUBURBANITE 17 
 
 Pure in deed, and word, and mind — 
 Gentle, loving, faithful, strong — 
 Hopeful, joyous, breathing song — 
 Full of courage, filled with zeal. 
 Saviour at thy feet I kneel — 
 Thou, who knowest all my need. 
 Thou canst make me whole indeed — 
 Make me what I ought to be 
 That my life may show forth Thee ! 
 
 ^ 
 
 AN EVENING PRAYER 
 
 The day is ended — darkness veils the earth — 
 
 So let Thy pity cover our mistakes, 
 For what we've done this day is little worth. 
 
 Thy love for weakness due allowance makes. 
 So, ere we seek repose, we come to Thee 
 
 Seeking for pardon — asking for Thy grace 
 To meet our needs, whatever they may be. 
 
 And that Thou look on us with smiling face. 
 Let gentle sleep our weariness dispel — 
 
 For what to-morrow has for us in store 
 Prepare and furnish us, we pray, so well 
 
 That we may better serve, and please Thee more 
 Than we have done to-day. And let Thy care 
 
 Be over us both now and when we wake. 
 Keep us from sin — be with us everywhere 
 
 To guard and guide. Help us, O Lord, to take 
 With thankful hearts whatever Thou dost give 
 
 Of joy or pain, and wholly trust Thy love. 
 May we the joy of service know, and live 
 
 Each day on earth the life of heaven above. 
 
18 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 PEACE 
 
 John 14:27: "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give 
 unto you ; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let 
 not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." 
 
 "Peace on Earth!" Peace now and here, 
 Peace that banishes all fear. 
 Though your trials seem severe 
 And storms rage, be of good cheer; 
 He, whose coming presaged peace, 
 Can from sorrow give release; 
 Fiercest storms obey His will. 
 Heed his whisper, "Peace, be still!" 
 
 Do dark doubts your path obscure? 
 He will make your footsteps sure. 
 Help you, weary, to endure. 
 And through dangers walk secure; 
 And when fall the shades of night. 
 Following him, you shall have light. 
 Weak and faint? He'll strength increase. 
 Banish care and keep in peace. 
 
 When in loneliness you sigh. 
 Turn to him, for He is nigh; 
 In His presence troubles fly. 
 Foes are faced with courage high: 
 Vainly doubts and sins assail — 
 Trusting Him, you cannot fail. 
 Never let His praises cease — 
 God with us, the "Prince of Peace." 
 
OF A SUBURBANITE 19 
 
 THE PRINT OF THE NAILS 
 
 John 20 :25 : * * * "Except I shall see in His hands 
 the print of the nails * * * I -will not believe." 
 
 Jesus was the "Son of Man" 
 
 And man's humblest paths He trod — 
 
 Trod them as no other than 
 Jesus Christ the "SON OF GOD!" 
 
 Would you know Him such to be? 
 
 In the hour when doubt assails 
 Look upon Him, and you see 
 
 In His hands "the print of nails." 
 
 As about His work He goes, 
 
 Follow all the well-marked trails — 
 
 Sacrificial service shows 
 
 In His life "the print of nails." 
 
 Shame and sorrow meekly borne — 
 
 Patient love that never fails — 
 Loving deeds repaid by scorn — 
 
 Everywhere "the print of nails." 
 
 When for Him you bear the Cross, 
 
 Though your strength or courage fails, 
 
 Patient be in pain and loss — 
 
 Your hands, too, bear "print of nails." 
 
 You shall in Christ's glory share, 
 
 Before which earth's brightness pales, 
 
 If you in your body bear. 
 
 As He did, "the print of nails." 
 
20 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 Would His church win unsaved men? 
 
 Naught but sacrifice avails 
 Men will throng her altars when 
 
 She too shows "the print of nails." 
 
 Sacrifice and service shine 
 
 With a brilliance nothing veils — 
 
 'Tis their beauty, so divine, 
 Glorifies "the print of nails." 
 
 ^ 
 
 CHILDREN'S DAY— 1897 
 
 This is the month of sunshine 
 Of birds, and flowers springing — 
 
 And this the day when children 
 Gladden our hearts with singing. 
 
 This day they all assemble 
 With hymns of Adoration 
 
 And all the land is keeping 
 The Children's Celebration. 
 
 Their praises rise in chorus 
 And each child heart rejoices, 
 
 And organ notes and bird-songs 
 Unite with children's voices. 
 
 What place have men and women 
 Among the children here? 
 
 And why amid the flowers 
 Should ripened grain appear? 
 
OP A SUBURBANITB 21 
 
 When trees put forth their blossoms 
 
 And fragrance fills the air, 
 Their beauty and their perfume 
 
 Are but the promise fair 
 
 That when shall come the Autumn, 
 And leaves turn sere and brown. 
 
 Each branch now clothed with beauty 
 With fruit shall be bent down. 
 
 And where green blades are waving 
 
 In every wind-swept field. 
 We know the golden harvest 
 
 Its plenteous store shall yield. 
 
 This lesson nature teaches — 
 
 That fruit should follow flowers; 
 
 That grain must quickly ripen. 
 
 Through sunshine and through showers. 
 
 Then let this sheaf remind us 
 That boys must grow to men — 
 
 That childhood quickly passes 
 And comes not back again. 
 
 Rejoice and sing with gladness 
 For buds and flowers of Spring, 
 
 Rejoice still more when Autumn 
 Its store of fruit shall bring. 
 
 Be glad for childish voices 
 
 Rejoice, young man, for youth! 
 But waste not precious moments 
 
 Study to know the truth. 
 
22 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 The hours of youth are fleeting 
 
 They quickly pass away — 
 But after them there cometh 
 
 To all, a better day. 
 
 If the joyous heart of childhood 
 The voice of wisdom heeds — 
 
 And strength of earnest manhood 
 Is crowned with noble deeds. 
 
 Sing praises in life's springtime 
 
 And let no tongue be mute, 
 But pray when Autumn cometh 
 
 Your life may bear rich fruit. 
 
 WISHES 
 
 If my wishes could secure 
 
 All I wish for, it is sure 
 
 You would have bright skies above you 
 
 And no lack of friends to love you. 
 
 I would not forgotten be. 
 
 You would often think of me. 
 
 TO MARY H. 
 
 'Tis sure there was ne'er a 
 Girl like you, Mary — 
 
 Ever grew on the soil of the "Emerald Isle." 
 There's naught can compare 
 With your eyes or your hair 
 
 And there's nothing so bright as the light of your 
 smile. 
 
OF A SUBURBANITB 23 
 
 You're surpassingly sweet 
 From your head to your feet 
 
 And St. Patrick himself you would surely beguile 
 To leave the "ould sod" 
 He would come at your nod 
 
 And never go back to the "Emerald Isle." 
 
 VALENTINE 
 
 I know a sweet girl^ — she's red-headed — 
 And hers is the image imbedded 
 
 Most deeply within my heart. 
 As streams find their way to the ocean, 
 To her flows my heart's deep devotion 
 
 And needs neither compass nor chart. 
 
 TO A GRADUATE 
 On this, your graduation day, 
 
 What is the message I should send? 
 What are the words I ought to say 
 
 To cheer, inspire, and bless my friend? 
 You know full well that nothing less 
 
 Than ALL the best the world can give 
 Of real success — true happiness — 
 
 Should ever meet you while you live. 
 Were these dependent on my prayer! 
 
 Nor would I fail by word or deed 
 To comfort, cheer — to shield from care — 
 
 To give you help, whate'er your need. 
 Be sure of this, no matter what 
 
 Of good or ill your way attend — 
 Whether you win success or not — 
 
 That I shall love you to the end. 
 
24 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 DEDICATION 
 
 Gladly I send this best of gifts, 
 The Book of books — no other lifts 
 The soul to heights serene and bright 
 Like this — no other sheds such light 
 Upon life's path, nor helps to bear. 
 Like this, the sorrow all must share! 
 Comfort and strength in it are found. 
 Peace amid conflicts — joys profound. 
 To those who grope it points the goal 
 And rightly guides each earnest soul. 
 Make it your counselor and friend. 
 Study it, love it to life's end. 
 
 4; ^ ^ * H: * H: : 
 
 God's love surround you, and his grace, 
 Until with joy you see His face. 
 
 ^ 
 
 BIRTHDAY GREETING 
 "Father Time was glad the mornin' 
 Of the day that you were born in. 
 And the world is glad this minute 
 That you still are living in it." 
 
 Thus a poet's words I'm quoting 
 As the best way of denoting 
 
 What your birthday means to me; 
 And I'm wishing most sincerely 
 That to YOU this day may yearly 
 
 Brighter grow, and happier be. 
 
OF A SUBURBANITE 25 
 
 RED LETTER DAYS 
 
 A calendar before me hangs, 
 
 In several colors printed — 
 Some days appear in sober black, 
 
 And some are brighter tinted. 
 
 The dark days are our days of toil. 
 When most we feel life's fetters; 
 
 But days of rest, and holidays 
 Are printed in red letters! 
 
 Of all the days of the whole year. 
 
 No day is brighter reckoned 
 Than that whereon my friend was born, 
 
 That day is August Second! 
 
 Still on my calendar I gaze 
 
 And still I note "Red Letter Days" — 
 
 And though the order seem reversed. 
 Still I put August Second first. 
 
 This is August Second, so to-day I send 
 Heartfelt birthday greetings to valued friend. 
 May this day bring to you always mem'ries sweet. 
 With new joys in prospect, that you soon shall 
 
 meet; 
 May each year that passes give you added grace. 
 Till with joy at last you see "Our Father's Face!" 
 
 Your birthday, dear, to celebrate 
 I'd gladly send you something great. 
 But, since my choice is limited, 
 I merely send a book I've read. 
 
26 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 I hope some weary hour 'twill soothe, 
 
 Or help to make some rough place smooth; 
 
 If it shall do you any good, 
 
 'Twill serve the end I meant it should. 
 
 MAY 18, 1918 
 
 Because to-day I'm sixty-eight 
 
 I think I've cause to celebrate! 
 
 And what more fitting can I do 
 
 Than gather flowers to send to you? 
 
 If you should live — I hope you may — 
 
 To be as old as I to-day, 
 
 I pray that happiness and health 
 
 May both be yours, and boundless wealth 
 
 You may have stored in Heaven above — 
 
 All through your life may you have LOVE. 
 
 TO A DISTANT FRIEND 
 
 Though you are very far away. 
 My thoughts fly to you every day. 
 I hope sometimes, by day or night 
 You'll think of me, and, maybe, write. 
 
 TO A FRIEND— ON HER BIRTHDAY 
 
 May I ask if you remember 
 On the third of last December 
 
 Flowers and rhymes I sent to you? 
 They but poorly spoke my feeling. 
 Only partially revealing 
 
 What I wished and hoped for you. 
 
OF A SUBURBANITB 27 
 
 Months have passed, and still unspoken 
 Still without a fitting token 
 
 Are the thoughts I fain would speak. 
 Where can I find words expressing 
 All the heights and depths of blessing 
 
 That on your behalf I seek? 
 
 Last year's flowers have long since faded, 
 Whose perfume and beauty aided 
 
 To commemorate this day — 
 Something that will last much longer, 
 And will speak in accents stronger, 
 
 Now I'll send you, if I may. 
 
 Keep this book, dear, always near you; 
 May it strengthen you and cheer you 
 
 Even in your hours of pain. 
 Sometimes think upon the giver. 
 Who will hope beyond Death's river 
 
 That we two may meet again. 
 
 JULY 19, 1919 
 
 Sad is my heart and hushed my song — 
 Gloomy the days — the hours are long — 
 
 When Faith is gone! 
 But Faith's return drives gloom away, 
 As shadows flee from brightening day 
 
 When comes the dawn! 
 
 APRIL 4 
 
 'Tis April sunshine and its showers 
 
 Prepare the way for springtime flowers; 
 
 But not a flower in any place 
 
 That grows more fair than one called "Grace." 
 
28 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 And year by year she fairer grows, 
 With Summer's sun or Winter's snows; 
 For passing years have left no trace 
 Of aught but good upon her face. 
 
 Since she was born 'neath April skies 
 Her smile with April sunshine vies. 
 I'm sure my life would brighter be 
 If oftener she smiled on me! 
 
 From April 4 she dates her birth — 
 *Twas then she came to brighten earth — 
 I'm wishing that with every year 
 She'll be more glad that she is here! 
 
 ^ 
 
 APRIL 4 
 
 In the month of April 
 
 With its smiles and tears 
 There's one day whose brightness 
 
 Shines through all the years 
 'Tis the day on which we 
 
 Celebrate your birth — 
 That fourth day of April 
 
 When you came to earth. 
 And each year this glad day 
 
 Finds a higher place 
 In our hearts, because we 
 
 So much more like Grace! 
 
OF A SUBURBANITE 29 
 
 "WHAT'S IN A NAME" 
 It has been asked "What's in a name?" 
 Some people think them all the same; 
 But in my mind no name is set 
 Above the name of "Margaret!" 
 
 One beautiful in form and face 
 Might fitly bear the name of Grace, 
 But there is one I can't forget 
 And she is known as "Margaret." 
 
 We borrow names of flower or gem, 
 Though little we resemble them; 
 But Lily, Pearl, or Violet 
 Are not as fine as "Margaret." 
 
 As sweet as any flower that grows 
 Most people think the fragrant rose — 
 Its name is sweet — but sweeter yet, 
 To me, the name of "Margaret." 
 
 No matter though I'm far away 
 
 One name still haunts me through the day, 
 
 And in my dreams I hear it yet — 
 
 'Tis the dear name of "Margaret." 
 
 MAY 18 
 
 To-day, for me, marks seventy years 
 Of life that has known joy and tears! 
 Rejoice with me that on this day 
 As I look back o'er all my way 
 My heart is filled with thankfulness 
 For mercies undeserved by me — 
 For friends, and health and happiness 
 And hope of better things to be. 
 
30 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 I'm hoping that as you grow old 
 New joys may constantly unfold 
 Before your forward-looking eyes, 
 And that you'll win life's highest prize! 
 
 ^ 
 
 JUST YOU 
 
 It matters not how far away 
 
 My weary feet may from you stray 
 
 My thoughts, unwearied seek the place 
 
 Where you abide. No time nor space 
 
 Can hinder when they you pursue — 
 
 No night so dark but they'll find you. 
 
 ^ 
 
 HALLOWE'EN VERSES 
 
 1 know a little witch 
 
 And she is almost five — 
 
 (Most witches are much older) 
 Most witches ride a broom. 
 But, sure as I'm alive 
 
 This one rides on my shoulder. 
 
 On this night when witches visit. 
 It would give me joy exquisite, 
 If one witch would visit me. 
 You're the witch I long to see. 
 
 Look in your glass on Hallowe'en 
 
 Your true love's face may there be seen! 
 
 I do not know this true to be, 
 
 But — if it's so, look! you'll see me! 
 
OP A SUBURBANITB 31 
 
 Just as a bird flies through the air 
 A witch can travel anywhere ! 
 Were I a witch, I'd mount my broom, 
 And quickly ride into your room! 
 
 "If wishes were horses then beggars might ride," 
 If I were the beggar I'd ride to your side — 
 Alas! for my wish will not carry my weight; 
 So here I must stay bemoaning my fate. 
 
 TO MRS. R. M. W. 
 
 If I possessed a witch's broom, 
 
 And to and fro could ride at pleasure, 
 Ere long I would invade your room — 
 
 The miles between I'd quickly measure. 
 But witches all have disappeared, 
 
 And every witch took her broom with her— 
 My travels, it is to be feared. 
 
 Will not be like to bring me thither. 
 But thoughts can travel fast and far. 
 
 And often mine go eastward speeding, 
 Past hill and plain, to where you are — 
 
 And when I come — you sit unheeding. 
 And yet, I wonder, is it so? 
 
 Perhaps, across your mem'ry stealing. 
 There comes some thought of long ago — 
 
 And then you stir, my presence feeling. 
 
 A PORTRAIT 
 
 'Twould tax the skill of a painter 
 
 Her picture to you to give. 
 Whose image will never grow fainter 
 
 Upon my heart while I live. 
 
32 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 Her lashes can scarce veil the splendor 
 
 Of eyes that are sparkling with fun, 
 But sometimes a glance, shy yet tender, 
 
 Warms my heart like the rays of the sun. 
 No gold that ever was minted 
 
 Can rival the gleam of her hair. 
 No rose so exquisitely tinted 
 
 With the blush on her cheek can compare. 
 Ah! words never yet have been printed 
 
 Can describe a beauty so rare. 
 
 ^ 
 
 "WHEN ELLEN SMILES" 
 
 Troubles beset us everywhere — 
 Our lives are seldom free from care! 
 One thing my worries oft beguiles, 
 They're all forgot when Ellen smiles! 
 
 Life has some trouble and some joy, 
 Some things that please, some that annoy; 
 Who of them all a list compiles 
 'Mid things most prized puts Ellen's smiles! 
 
 How many times relief I've found 
 From routine work's unvarying round 
 Because I stopped, glanced round brief whiles, 
 And intercepted Ellen's smiles! 
 
 This earth with pleasant things abounds: 
 Then go and seek glad sights, sweet sounds; 
 You'll find, though you should travel miles, 
 Naught that surpasses Ellen's smiles! 
 
OP A SUBURBANITE 33 
 
 LONGING 
 
 Whether I'm sleeping or waking 
 
 Ever I dream of you — 
 At morn, when day is breaking, 
 
 And all the long day through, 
 And when, the sun declining. 
 
 The shadows longer grow — 
 When stars o'erhead are shining 
 
 After the sunset glow — 
 Ever my thoughts are turning 
 
 To you, by night or day; 
 Ever for you I'm yearning. 
 
 Wherever my feet may stray, 
 Your image still discerning, 
 
 Though you are far away. 
 
 Jt 
 
 WE PREPARE LUNCH FOR THREE LADIES 
 WHO WILL TRAVEL 
 
 M. B. C. Folks 
 
 We are giving you some Smyrna figs — 
 Eat all you like but don't be pigs! 
 We think you'll also like some dates — 
 Eat from your fingers or from plates. 
 When nothing else you like is handy 
 Solace yourselves by chewing candy! 
 Ere kindly sleep your eyelids shuts 
 Don't fail to try the salted nuts! 
 Don't feast on olives till you burst! 
 Let lemon-juice assuage your thirst! 
 Don't scatter crumbs or make a muss. 
 And sometimes kindly think of us! 
 
34 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 We trust while going you'll not lack. 
 
 (Who'll fix your lunch when you come back?) 
 
 Have a good time — see all the sights, 
 
 Keep early hours — don't stay out nights! 
 
 With people talk — enjoy their jokes — 
 
 But none you'll find like your own folks! 
 
 TO ADA, JULY 26, 1919 
 
 M. B. C. Folks 
 
 Ada, dear, we hate to lose you ! 
 Should that man dare to abuse you 
 Come right back — we'll surely use you 
 
 Just the very best we know! 
 Since you will persist in going 
 We are anxious to be showing 
 Our regard — so you'll be knowing 
 
 That we hate to have you go. 
 
 A committee has been choosing 
 This new silver for your using. 
 For we know that much we're losing 
 
 When our Ada goes away. 
 All of us have helped to get it 
 And before you now we set it 
 With the hope that you will let it 
 
 Tell you more than we can say! 
 
 As you enter new relations 
 Please accept congratulations, 
 And we join in invitations 
 
 That you oft will seek our door. 
 We'll be very glad to greet you — 
 On our best chair always seat you 
 And endeavor so to treat you 
 
 That you'll wish to come once more. 
 
OF A SUBURBANITE 35 
 
 TO MY GRANDCHILDREN 
 
 When Mary Helen writes to me 
 Her letters always seem to be 
 
 The very thing that's needed 
 To make the world seem fair and bright 
 Dispelling gloom and bringing light 
 
 So worries pass unheeded. 
 
 I wonder why she does not write 
 A letter every Sunday night 
 
 And mail it Monday morning. 
 'Twould help to keep me free from care 
 And I'd go smiling everywhere 
 
 Sorrow and sadness scorning. 
 
 To the little girl with auburn hair — 
 Grandmother's here, and you are there — 
 But though we are so far apart 
 Your picture is in Grandma's heart. 
 
 And Grandma thinks of you every day 
 When you are working, or when you play 
 And longs for the time, the glad time when 
 You and Grandmother shall meet again. 
 
 Margaret and Mary each sent us a letter 
 And we cannot say which one we liked better — 
 But one thing was needed to add to our joy 
 And that was a letter from Georgie, our boy. 
 And since he has sent one, by help of his mother 
 We hope before long he will write us another. 
 For letters from Brawley please Grandma and me 
 Far more than all others that we ever see. 
 
36 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 One night I came home feeling blue 
 So tired I scarce knew what to do — 
 And Grandma said, "I'll have to scold; 
 You act like you were growing old. 
 But this ought to restore your youth — 
 A letter sent by Margaret Ruth!" 
 And, sure enough, by it inspired, 
 I quite forgot that I was tired! 
 To talk and laugh I soon began, 
 And acted like a different man. 
 If you had only seen me then. 
 You'd not wait long to write again. 
 
 This to the boy who is almost a man 
 And growing to be one as fast as he can 
 Grandmother wishes you always to be 
 Glad and happy and full of glee. 
 
 May your life be long and your days be bright. 
 May you shun what is wrong, and love the right. 
 Be strong and helpful, gentle and kind, 
 And whatever may happen, success you will find. 
 
 LA GRANGE 
 
 (Air: "Maryland, My Maryland") 
 Who dwelleth here such life enjoys, 
 
 Never would he wish to change; 
 The "garden spot" of Illinois — 
 
 We have found it in — La Grange. 
 Here happy troops of girls and boys 
 Fill all our streets with cheerful noise. 
 And none can tell how great the joys, 
 
 Known by dwellers in La Grange. 
 
OF A SUBURBANITE Z7_ 
 
 Here nature with a bounteous hand 
 
 Lavishes her treasures strange, 
 On every street tall shade trees stand 
 
 O'er the village of La Grange, 
 With blooming flowers and foliage green 
 And grassy lawns, thy homes between. 
 No fairer village e'er was seen 
 
 Than La Grange, Our own La Grange. 
 
 Our wand'rings far away from home 
 
 Hearts from thee shall not estrange. 
 Wherever weary feet may roam 
 
 Hearts turn back to thee. La Grange 
 Thou dost not nestle midst the hills — 
 Through thee there flow no murmuring rills — 
 But in thy trees the song bird trills 
 Love for thee "Oh! sweet" La Grange. 
 
 We breathe thy ozone laden air 
 
 While with joy thy streets we range 
 
 Such draughts are antidotes to care — 
 Banish languor from La Grange 
 
 And while we stay within thy pale. 
 
 Oh may our ardor never fail 
 
 To guard thy honor, whom we hail — 
 Queen of villages — La Grange. 
 
38 RANDOM RHYMES 
 
 *' SUSIE" 
 
 She makes rhyme with amazing facility 
 And shows very great amiability 
 
 For whoever may ask 
 
 She thinks it no task 
 To write out a verse with docility. 
 
 Her subjects show great versatility 
 Our praise she receives with humility. 
 She owns a typewriter 
 And it seems to delight her 
 To pound out her verse with agility. 
 
 Pray don't doubt my tale's credibility 
 Because of the improbability 
 
 That a girl so endowed 
 
 Should not be too proud 
 To treat common folks with civility. 
 
 ^ 
 
 CHRONIC WEARINESS 
 
 When the birds come back each Spring, 
 When the balmy breezes blow, 
 
 B don't want to do a thing — 
 
 He would rest till falls the snow. 
 
 And when birdies fly away 
 
 To escape from Winter's storms 
 
 Then no work he'll do, they say, 
 Till once more the weather warms! 
 
OP A SUBURBANITE 39 
 
 INSTALLATION HYMN 
 (Eastern Star) 
 
 Sister, we gladly see you kneel 
 
 Before this altar now; 
 And, as you speak, new joy we feel 
 
 To hear your solemn vow. 
 The honors now conferred on you 
 
 Worthily may you bear, 
 And every duty may you do 
 
 With most painstaking care. 
 
 Chorus: 
 
 Let every action be 
 
 Honest and true, 
 And may we ever see 
 
 The best in you, 
 So that whate'er betide 
 
 During this year, 
 You can review with pride 
 
 Your record here. 
 
 Remember that the vows now made 
 
 Bind you to faithfulness; 
 But that from all you must have aid 
 
 If you would win success. 
 Seek by your conduct to inspire 
 
 New zeal in every breast: 
 God give the wisdom you require 
 
 And help you do your best! 
 
 (Chorus) 
 
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 
 
 015 939 194 2 ^