LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. S|ait'&.;. @np^rig]|l fn........ UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. c,l ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA, AND OTHER POEMS BY CALEB HARLAN, M. D.; Wilmington, Delaware. SECOND EDITION. PHILADELPHIA : J. B. LIPPINCOTT & CO 1883. X-^c PS (7*)4 12 85 COPYRIGHT, 1879, BY C. HARLAN, M.D. COPYRIGHT, 1882, BY C. HARLAN, M.D. PREFACE, The following Poem, excepting a few verses, was written more than forty years ago. Why was it not then published ? The reason was, the author would not spare the means, at that early day, to bring out the work in a handsome and at- tractive form. Hence it was laid away and the time of its appearance indefinitely postponed. But now my gray hairs remind me that ere long I shall be called upon to experience the grandest event in hu- man life — the departure of my soul to a more glo- rious home — and that it is time to put my affairs in order for the change. Large piles of letters and papers must be burned, or disposed of in some oth- er way. And at last I must decide what I will do with the manuscript of Elflora of the Susque- hanna. 4 PREFACE. It must be destroyed or published. I cannot bear to leave it to the tender mercy of some disinterest- ed person. It might fall into the hands of a lit- erary pirate, or it might be brought out in a gar- bled edition — a disgrace to the author and an insult to the heroine. Then burn the poem ! No, I will not. It shall be published, out of regard to that beautiful and pure being whose history I have at- tempted to portray. The scenes, the characters, interested my boyhood. The events were engraven upon my heart. I loved them as w^e cherish the idols of other days. Then why not preserve them in poetry ? Yes, Elflora ! for thy sake alone I endeavored well to do it. Thou wert ever fond of the voice of the Muse, and, though the world may neglect thee, in the homes and the hearts of a few, if possible, thou shalt be enshrined for ever. Elflora of the Susquehanna CANTO THE FIRST. I. r I THOUGH cool the morns, though fresh the winds ■^ at play, Though mild the warmth that blooms the blush of May, Throughout all Nature hath a change begun, The forest shades proclaim the Spring hath come ; The watchful birds December winds had driven To seek in torrid lands a snowless heaven, With cheerful song now hail the halcyon hours, A home shall greet them wreathed in fruits and flowers. I* 5 6- ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. II. By Susquehanna's waves, that brightly sweep Her hundred hills enlightened freemen keep, Secluded stands a mansion, mouldering on In shade and moss through shining seasons gone. The verdant lawns, expanding far and wide, The groves, the vales, that fringe the crystal tide, The distant forests, piled along the sky, Majestic oaks, in opening vistas nigh. The wooded highlands, capt with granite towers, The gushing fountains, wildering greenwood bowers Around the dwelling, — ever please the eye With rural Nature's rich variety. And in that mansion — in the library hall. Where old engravings crown the faded wall. Where books and paintings, pebbles rare, and flowers, Betray the ramblings far, the well-spent hours — CANTO THE FIRST. Elflora sits alone. This spring-like day She seems amused with some old English lay ; But now, attracted to the window nigh, She looks intently on the clearing sky — On white-blue mist just mantling o'er the vale, On dazzling dewdrops loosed by breeze nor gale, On river sparkling, as it passed in view. With stars the sunlight o'er its surface threw. And, roused and listening, every feature flush'd. Her joyous thoughts in fervent language gush'd : " O brilliant hour ! enrapturing morn ! Upon thy fragrant airs are sweetly borne Birds' warbling melodies ; and, soft and clear. The purling of the fountain greets my ear. Ye little fragments of a broken storm That pass along the sky, and, changing, form A thousand shapes that catch the burning ray, And shining, silver-fringed, float far away ! 8 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. Oh, see ye not yourselves in yonder stream Now mirrored bright in morning's hallowed beam ? Those placid waters image back the sky, The beetling crags, the deep-green laurels nigh ; And this dark forest, now in sombre gloom. Which is to me more dear than gay saloon, Unrivalled beauties paint its vernal shades, Wave o'er the cliffs, and deck its sunless glades. Invite the weary to its peaceful groves. Instruct the curious and the sad compose. Though ever lovely, I rejoice to see Its wildwood blossoms bloom once more for me." III. 'Twas thus Elflora spoke ; then from the door She lightly stepped, array'd to seek the shore. The lawn she cross'd, the craggy steep descends, Through laurel winds, and treads the deepening glens CANTO THE FIRST. Where towering oak and lofty ash unite Their clouding limbs that half exclude the light — Where wary huntsmen find their noblest game — Where prowling wolf and wild deer oft are slain, She wanders on, delighted thus to roam Through rugged Nature far from friends and home. She reach'd at last a lone and blest retreat, A favorite grove, adorn'd by rustic seat, By blooming rose and vine transplanted there With taste, that left unchanged its rural air. The wild clematis twined its whiteninsf Mobes, The opening violets spread their purple robes, The drooping bowers, the vines that clustering hung Thick wreaths of tendrils pendent boughs among, And beech and deep-green cedar, wide display'd In sombre arches, cast around dark shade So dense the day-beams there but faintly shone, Mild tinging leaves by other seasons strown. lO ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. A foaming stream, that in its blithesome play- Like night-stars dazzled as it dash'd away, Refresh'd the grove, enlivening every bloom, And, gently whispering, broke the silent gloom, IV. The maiden sat, in loosen'd robes attired, Her features flush'd, her youthful beauty fired. The fix'd and changeless gaze her looks disclose, The pensive mood, the posture of repose. The eye upraised, the pleasant, cloudless smile. Almost reveal the thoughts her hours beguile. What manly form, advancing, cross'd the glade? His careless steps these quiet scenes invade ; Abruptly turning, with unerring eye Finds the grove-path and treads it hurriedly. His handsome features and the noble air. The mental beauty brightly written there, CANTO THE FIRST. II His light and lofty bearing-, and his dress In unison with all his looks express, Proveth, as far as outward sign will show, That youth hath seldom warr'd with toil or woe. Kindly received, and standing by her side. To hurried question he had scarce replied In guarded language, ere the gentle maid A strange unquiet in her looks betrayed. The rose, the color, from her features fled, A fearful paleness o'er her beauty spread, Too like the snows a north cold blast will flin^ O'er blossoms rich, the first young bloom of Spring. Impatiently she gazed above, around. The swaying trees now wake a startling sound. Another steadfast and more searching glance Calm and convince her that no foes advance. And yet how low she breathes each whispered word, As if perchance her language might be heard ! — 12 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. " Can it be true, and not an idle tale, That he hath come — hath even made this vale His home and shelter, his secure retreat — And blasted honor hath declined to meet?" " His person, ay, his deeds," replied the youth, " Are known too well, and that may be the truth. Last eve a huntsman, passing noiseless here, Beheld a being, and approached so near, Though moonlight only, he observed him well, And knew the man : he says it was Marcel !" " Kind language, Clifton, for a friendless ear ! And uttered, doubtless, to augment my fear ; And would, indeed, could I those words believe ; But human vision objects may deceive At night, when shadows so perplex the eye That one well known might pass, if silent, by. Did he accost him ?" — " No ; he only saw The darken'd outlines of the wild outlaw. CANTO THE FIRST. 1 3 Who that hath seen him could forget his form, His paUid features, and his eye of scorn That brooks no equal, and reverts its gaze When friendship, greeting, but a smile displays ? Though true that two long years have pass'd away Since he left here in foreign lands to stay, Deem not such love as he reveal'd to thee Could leave you always undisturb'd near me." V. Elflora shuddered, and in thoughtful gaze Recall'd to view the scenes of other days. Before her beauty far was famed or known. When none but Marcel sought her highland home, And felt the fulness of that quenchless fire Wliich lives consuming, though all hopes expire — When her dear father, with prophetic care. Had marked the youth and bid his child beware ; 2 14 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. With anxious pathos breathed it in his prayer, Then passed away. His words Hve keenly there. In silent anguish mourn the fatal hour Thy beauty's artless art displayed such power ! Keen be thy sorrow, pure and lonely one ! To parent's will thy mind could not succumb. VI. " I blame not others," she at last replied ; " The imprudence mine, whatever ills betide. So unsuspecting in my younger days, I deemed him worthy, spoke of him with praise, Accepted favors, and with him alone In pathless forests rambled far from home. And, playful, artless, leaned upon his arm. That kindness, I presume, did all the harm. Though social with h.\m, familiar} Never ! I cherish'd only what my will could sever — CANTO THE FIRST. IS A childish friendship, form'd in foolish pride, Pleased with devotion, careless if denied, Coldness toward me, a smile to others near, Disturb'd me not, nor caused a sigh nor tear. (O hallowed moments in life's golden spring ! And, now remembered, mournful sadness bring.) At last faint whispers, startling, met my ear Of deeds unmanly in Marcel's career. Instant, with firmness, I repulsed him then, Nor him would see, nor sentence from his pen. And yet, reluctant to believe him base, Our worthy pastor tried all means to trace. At my request, that censure to its source, But failed, nor found in him the least remorse. So always cautious, so composed with man. No looks betray him ; and, howe'er you scan His marble visage, none can truly tell Its thoughtful import, or be calm so well l6 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. When piying converse, artful in its aim, The dark suspicion mingles with his name." VII. '' Dwell not," said Clifton, " on a theme to thee So fraught with sadness, and so scorned by me ; The leafless Winter, with its frozen sky Of lowering clouds, and tempests howling by, Hath passed away, and blooming Spring once more With life and verdure decks the landscape o'er. Like it, Elflora, rouse thy joyous mind. What can be hopeless to a heart resigned And sternly trustful ? Future days shall bring To thee a calmness — ay, an inward Spring. The little violet, nestling on the rock, Will bloom secure when forests feel the shock Of strong tornadoes, and their giant frames In shattered fragments strew unshaded plains ; CANTO THE FIRST. 1 7 Its form so fragile will outlive the storm, And for that shelter long those cliffs adorn. Come, the violet imitate, and bless my home, My pleasant mansion, now, alas ! too lone, And ever will be till thine eye and smile Illume its halls and all my hours beguile. Give me the right to sympathize with thee In sickness and in sorrow, and to be Thy solace in all trying scenes of life, Thy dearest shield in Marcel's subtle strife ; And thou shalt be, in all our walks of joy, A happy child, and I thy darling boy." A moment coloring, she returned his gaze. That steady look a sincere love betrays ; That glance, peculiar to her own dark eye. Most eloquent, proclaimed her heart's reply ; Through loosened ringlets, clustering round her face, A grateful tear the ardent youth could trace, 2* B 1 8 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. And, half caressing as he clasped her hand, He seemed by gratitude almost unmanned. VIII. " Ills come with time," said he, " then why delay Our promised union till some distant day ? The threatened danger that enthralls thee now Argues this eve should consummate thy vow. To-night, with Howard, I will seek thy home ; Our reverend sire shall witness it alone." "To-night? to-night?" exclaimed the startled maid. " An only parent claims my love, my aid ; Our union now she firmly would oppose ; I know her thoughts ; thy wish must not disclose. 'Twould pain her feelings, agonize her mind, Pour fire on wounds my love, my words, should bind. Yet thou art favored ; only wait, I pray. For her dear sake, a more propitious day. CANTO THE FIRST. I9 Peaceful while single — death if e'er I wed, Was Edward's threat : that threat is now her dread." " Never," said Clifton, " will the villain dare To mar a happiness he cannot share. This eve our nuptials must take place ; and now I ask but this, thy sanction to that vow ; And trust my wisdom to arrange a plan That none shall know except the holy man. Rememberest thou the old majestic ash Whose boughs were shivered by the lightning's flash, And standing now in ruins, lonely, high, With dead-leafed arms outstretched across the sky ? To-night in secret to that shelter come ; A moon will fill the heavens when day is done ; Our pastor's quiet home thou knowest is near. And he will welcome us with friendly cheer. His aid and service we can always claim ; The marriage from the world he will retain." 20 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. IX. Pleasing to themselves, all Nature pleasing, Elflora and her friend the shades are leaving, The sunless grove, no hving object near Save songsters chattering to each loved compeer- The wren, the jay, the brownly-spotted thrush. The warblers dyed like evening's parting flush — Enliven still Seclusion's favorite place. Some twittering joyous ; others gayly chase Their little comrades on from limb to limb, Or through the air, vociferous, lightly skim, Till life and love, re-echoed, fill the wood Which man miscalls a lonely solitude. But mark ! the birds are dashing far and fleet, The leaves, the air, with rapid wings they beat. And skyward soar affrighted wildly, shriek. What being roused them in that calm retreat ? CANTO THE FIRST. 21 In creviced rock who dare, leaf-shrouded, lay, Like warrior armed, perchance prepared to slay ? Can it be true ? It is indeed Marcel Who rises there, where naught of ill should dwell. His haughty features, broadening to a sneer. Disclose a spirit warped by wild career, Maddened by love, by disappointment scarred, Hardened by crime, by midnight revel marred. His kindling wrath repulsive looks enhance To grimness stern, as scornful scowls his glance, As muttered words reveal the sullen joy The purposed vengeance which his thoughts employ : " I too remember the majestic ash Shattered and shivered by the lightning's flash, And by that Power, by Heaven, I swear To-night, poor orphan, I will meet you there — By subtle arts, if not by merit, gain Your heart and hand, perhaps your wealth obtain ; 22 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. And while your soul, incarnate, deigns to be, No human might shall wrench your form from me. But come, come, evening; passion's storm, sleep calm Triumphant conquest soon shall bring me balm; My plan, projected to ensnare the maid, Though baffled now, the coming night will aid." He ceased, and like the silent, single cloud Which flings o'er heaven's blue its blackening shroud, Passed down the glen, and slowly moves away, And in that wood there seems a brighter day. X. Elflora's mansion stands in quietude ; No foes disturb, no noisy guests intrude ; The windows, raised, admit the shine of day, And glass and massive carved-work catch the ray, Reflect it o'er the walls, diffuse, unite. Till all the room with yellow beams is light. CANTO THE FIRST. 23 The opening rosebuds, late arranged with care, And watered fresh, with fragrance fill the air, And, scattering sweetness, woo the wandering bees, Which come, and, pilfering, wave those tiny trees Like gentle zephyrs ; and that motion's all Which stirs within the maiden's lonely hall. Once more she comes, and noiseless crossed the room, A moment viewed the buds' unfolding bloom, A moment grasped a favorite volume nigh. Fluttered its leaves, then tossed the treasure by ; Then seized a crayon, plucked a pencilled rose She partly shaded ere last eve's repose. Contracts her brow, and bending fixed her look ; But dropped the gem, no quietude could brook. Her thoughts were music, floating fast and free, Wild warbling forth in tenderest melody. But, hark ! A voice hath breathed Elflora's name. How sudden still, how marble-like, that frame ! 24 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. A pure regard, a troubled, anxious air, And pale solicitude's expression there ; Now, winged by love, her steps to chamber glide, And kneels her by an aged mother's side. O youth ! how envied in thy heart's career When words shall greet thee half as fond and dear As those sweet breathings of that filial maid Which to her parent warmly proffered aid ! That parent ! Oh behold her faded eye Suffused with tears, affection's mute reply, And hand, slight trem.bling, on her daughter's hair In kind approval of her pious care ! Those features, furrowed by the lapse of time, Show youthful sweetness now in deep decline ; So light and gently fell the power of years That only in her form their force appears. What hallowed fortune blessed her troubled day To feel not weary as it passed away ? CANTO THE FIRST. 2$ Love, ever constant, from her only child, Her sorrows soothed and all her cares beguiled. And made her happy. Though almost alone, A calm contentment always marks her home, In close communion with one spotless heart Has peace no other ties could e'er impart. XI. " My child, a pure and deep regard for thee Solicits care. My mind, from fears not free. Dwells painful on a troubled slumber's dream. And oh how awful, how confused, that scene ! Strange sounds, strange voices, broke upon my ear ; Beings unknown, but oh not thou, wert here. I called thy name, I watched the opening door ; Others then entered, but thou cam'st no more. How still, how lonely, everything appears ! Now speak, my child ; can these be idle fears ? 3 26 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. Tell me thou wilt not leave me here alone ; Forego thy visit, and this night at home Remain with me, my only cherished dear ; But two days since the Howards all were here. What cause, what motive, can impel thy mind, When I against it am so much inclined ?" " My dearest mother, grieve not thus ; we know Consent thou gavest scarce one hour ago. The dreamy slumber of this afternoon Should not, dear mother, fill thy heart with gloom. All dreams are shadows, to thee however bad, And life without them brings enough that's sad. How short thy slumber ! See, the cloudless sun Is shining here as when thy rest begun ; Be tranquil now, and court more sweet repose. And I will watch till sleep thine eyelids close. Rest is essential to thy weary mind ; Composure calm will make thee more resigned." i CANTO THE FIRST. 2/ " My own, my daughter, thou hast ne'er before Beyond my sHghtest wish e'er ventured more. So kind and gentle, every act and prayer Seemed interested in thy mother's care ; Yet now my vital welfare claims regard ; My counsel canst thou thus this day discard ?" Elflora listened with profound regret; In tones of mild and soothing language met The prudent doubts maternal fondness gave, And tried by every means her fears to waive. And yet she told not of that nuptial deed The night would witness should her hopes succeed ; But tenderly v/ith love, and doubly kind, And to her wish appearing all resign'd, With woman's tact and art she gently drew A full consent to all she wished to do ; Except the marriage, which must not be known Beyond the study of her pastor's home. CANTO THE SECOND. I. TT THILE yonder sun illumes with level ray, While robes of gold the grand old hills display, The shadows lengthening on the plains extend. The cooler airs with day diffusely blend, The towering clouds in crimson mountains rise. And, 'sembling Etnas, flame one half the skies. But now they change, the shifting vapors fade ; O'er all the landscape fast descends their shade ; A moment sparkling gleams the setting sun. And sinking now, the halcyon day is done. The stars are brightening in the blue above. And beautify the walks endeared to love ; The songs are hushed ; the vales and hills in view. By evening shadowed, pale their verdant hue ; 38 CANTO THE SECOND. 29 The air, reposing, yields iis ardent light, The full-orbed moon in glory forms the night. II. Through pathless fields, by faithful woodman led, By branching thorn, by wild-rose thickly spread. By cliffs and scattered rocks, o'er whispering rills, By fragrant groves, that gloom the silent hills, Now turning, and now bending to evade The drooping limbs 'neath which her childhood played, Elflora reached the plain, and saw the tree. Dark, standing lone like sail-reefed ship at sea. The feeble outlines of a human form Cast a pale figure far across the lawn, And moving stealthy, sheltered in the shade The huge trunk in silver moonlight made. The bride beheld it, and with waving hand And gentle whisper, stern though sweetly bland, 3* 30 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. Dismissed her guidesman, and pursued her way Athwart the plain, whose paths seemed ht by day, So bright the verdure that around her lay, So cloudless clear the orb's refulgent ray. Now on that person whom the light revealed, But whose disguise a cunning foe concealed. She leans reposing, and her quiet air Betrays no fear that Clifton is not there. And they are silent, moving toward the wood ; But why — why looks she not where late they stood ? Confiding innocent ! mistrustless one ! Believing all her sorrows nearly done. Lightly and buoyant down the sloping way She glides like snow that falls on fire to lay. III. The forest verge is gained, and hidden now By shadows flung from many a massive bough. CANTO THE SECOND. 3 1 They pause. Marcel kneels down with searching eye, Anxious to scrutinize all objects nigh ; A figure, CLiFTON-like, is dimly seen, Approaching fast where they had lately been — Not recognized, but moving in faint view Between him and the pale horizon's hue. He fancied that dark form can only be The one from whom it would be wise to flee, And caught the maiden's arm to lead her on. Sought the dense shades, and noiseless passed along. Till now through tangled wood he wends their course, Down a steep bluff, through rustling brambles force. Sliding, sustained by limbs and shrubs around. Some bending breakless, some uproot the ground. Endangering by the worthless aid they lend. Like counsel false obtained from faithless friend. Stern Nature's gloomy castles now are near. Cliffs, grandly towering above cliffs, appear, 32 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. With laurel interspersed, and pillared firm By giant trees ; the vine and woodland fern Spring greenly there amidst the grayer moss, And wreathed in folds the massive crags emboss. Once more they paused. A cavern's secret door Is seen, when logs and stone that closed it o'er Marcel removed, and part exposed to view, In rock, the dismal entrance riven through. Elflora, trembling, instant turned aside, Averse to enter e'en with favorite guide ; And when he urged her on against her will. She felt through every nerve a shuddering chill. And backward stept, alone some course to take, And gazed to see what thence might be her fate. While undecided still her guide led on ; She sighed, and, yielding, followed, and they're gone In the dark cave which penetrates the hill. Now rough, now^ smooth their walk; they stand ; all's still. CANTO THE SECOND. 33 Then through the cavern instant flashed a light, And Marcel's features burst upon her sight. Wildly she shrieked, and fell, but, falling, found An arm of strength entwined her waist around, And laid her lightly on a pallet near Of otter furs outspread on skins of deer. IV. The youth a moment stood, then turned away. And left the maiden ; motionless she lay, Not breathing, or so gently that her breath Scarce told that fearful stillness was not death. But soon life's fountain redly flushed again ; The lips and features moved ; some color came ; And, slowly rising, now a single hand Supports that frame almost too shocked to stand. Surprised, bewildered, far around she gazed. What is that scene that thus perplex'd, amazed ? C 34 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. The torch refulgent sheds a golden light, On every object gleams intensely bright, And pictures forth the aisle, the dome, the shrine, Their cast of grandeur, every carved outline. And pillared halls whose lofty roof o'ershrouds With gorgeous arches, 'sembling silver'd clouds Of massive volume seen in summer sky, When piled in banks the radiant vapors lie ; The curtains rich, while in their breezy flow Seem changed to stone and hang like drifts of snow, Reflecting broad, in star-like lustre there. The flame, whose brightness glows beside the fair. The spacious cavern high and far extends, And where yon hall the light with darkness blends, Columns on columns, rising, faintly loom, Dimly discerned amidst the dusky gloom. But different to Elflora's startled view Those objects seem — of lifelike form and hue. CANTO THE SECOND. 35 Marcel she deemed was there, and when she saw Him thus disguised, and every wild outlaw That followed him, and form'd his reckless band, And ghost-like glimmering, and around him stand, No Clifton there, and no chivalric arm Near to protect, and proud to shield her form, Tears came, and language of despair intrude, Which proved her firmness more than half subdued. V. A sounding tread now echo'd in the rear, And from without, advancing fast and near, The villain comes ; surprised, the maiden sees No demon frowns, but smiles awaked to please. " Fear not," said he ; " though in this lonely cave. Thou hast a soul to make Marcel thy slave. I brought thee hither, anxious to reveal One truth my heart, though iron, must ever feel. 36 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. Behold my features ! Ay, look on me now : My callous feelings cloud my youthful brow. Despised and spurn'd by one I deem'd my friend, Reckless of life and careless of my end, A slander'd victim, sentenced though unheard, And thou — how faithless ! — ne'er repelled that word. I am no villain, am not even bad. And comrades vile — great God ! — I never had ; So, pure in thought, I am prepared to die ; Yet this to thee, thy friends will dare deny ; They have o'erreach'd me, have estranged thy heart ; But sleepless cunning now unfolds her art, For thou art captive, and thy friends shall hear The shout of conquest and behold my sneer !" At this Elflora, with indignant pride, And rising full, with frowning glance replied : " Marcfx, that language, breathed to give me pain, Forbear, ungrateful ! Do I merit blame ? CANTO THE SECOND. 37 Do not my feelings, all my actions, show A sister's sorrow ? " Barest thou answer, ' No ' ? If that be fiction once against thee hurled, With truth, poor coward, undeceive the world ; Retrieve thy honor ; prove thy motives pure ; Assume that station talents can secure, And teach mankind one noble lesson yet — Thy clouded star shall not in darkness set. Away with folly ! cease of love to dream ! Thy name, dishonor'd, go, once more redeem." VI. " Elflora, dearest (frown not at the word ; Thou shalt be mine, the time not long deferr'd), However glorious, however grand. To wake the soul and bid it proudly stand Among the immortals ever known, A god in mind that time can ne'er dethrone, 4 38 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. All would be naught, a nothingness, to me, A lifeless chaos, if unblest by thee. The dark-eyed daughters of chivalric Spain, And all of Grecia's honor'd old domain. The maidens of Italia's rosy land. The dames who tread Circassia's lofty strand, ' The noble Briton, and the Frank less free. Whose stars of beauty burn beyond the sea. Do not possess, in form nor earthly shrine, A soul whose flashes lighten brows like thine." VII. " Enough ! enough ! for all that thou canst say," Exclaim'd the maiden as she turned away, •' Shall not avail thee, never change my mind. Though servile praises be with force combined. I do disdain thee, and I fear thee not ; I scorn thy homage, I despise this plot. CANTO THE SECOND. 39 Stand back! hands off! I am not in thy power! Alone I am not in this trying hour. In God I trust : I know that he is here^ And will protect me if I have no fear; For ever paralyzed that hand shall be If laid with passion's dark intent on me." VIII. The villain paled, then slowly paced the room, Now near the light, and now in distant gloom, And, frowning sullen, gazed upon the floor, The haughty maiden, and the cavern-door, As though his feelings held wild war within. Now swayed by terror, now beguiled by sin. While thus his passions jarr'd in deep contrive. He left the prisoner, buried, yet alive ; But, pausing, closed the cave with artful care, Then gazed till satisfied no spy was there ; 40 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. Then, muttering to himself, he forced his way In that straight course he knew her mansion lay. Short was the time till on his eager view Light fill'd the windows, brighten'd, then withdrew, As though the inmates pass'd from room to room With all that hurry caused by mental gloom. Near now, and almost there, he plainly saw They talked perchance of him, the wild outlaw ; He reck'd not what they said, but boldly sprung Up the old steps and stood that crowd among, Which widen'd speechless, and with steady eye Watch'd his, that flash'd a moment to defy, Then gather'd quickly to a smile of scorn, Which proved at once with whom the bride had gone. Soon round the culprit press'd the closing crowd. And silence broke in voices censuring loud. And, waking justice roused in every breast. They soon, with iron hands his form arrest, CANTO THE SECOND. 4I With cords immediate tensely bind each limb, With prudent forethought weapons wrest from him, And, over-cautious, as they pass'd him by. Kept a close watch upon his hand and eye, And barr'd the doors and closed the shutters to, Lest his associates might the broil renew. So strange, so startling, all his late career, So wrapt in mystery, so involved the sphere In which he triumph'd since exiled from home. That wild conjecture filled the void unknown, And whisper'd ominous to condemn Marcel : " Behold his forehead, gash'd by sword or shell, And mark his bearing, watch his kindling eye. When cannon-thunder booms along the sky." IX. The prostrate captive, though disarm'd and bound, Now raised his eye and quiet gazed around, 4^- 42 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. Until his searching glance met Clifton's ; then A shout and laugh which shock'd the crowd of men Broke from his lip, and told at last too well No threats could conquer and no arm could quell, Unless they silenced him by sudden death, Or stifled with strong hand his venom'd breath. " You have my weapons," then he coolly said ; " Now stab my heart or shoot me through the head ; Commit at once the wished-for homicide. Why stand reluctant ? Can it kill the bride ? Ay, dare to do it ! She shall feel the blow, For where she slumbers you shall never know. She is imprisoned in a secret cave Where not a hand but mine her life can save ; No food to nourish, and no water near, She dies if these mean cords detain me here. But not unconscious will she yield her breath : Old Time, remorseless, shall behold stern Death CANTO THE SECOND. 43 Deep waste her form and wear her strength away, Till 'feebled Nature scarce hath power to pray; Then loathsome vermin will from creviced wall Steal forth, and coldly o'er her features crawl, And she shall feel them, try to scare in vain ; They undisturbed will stay, and, gnawing, pain. Unloose me now, or by that cave I swear As now she shall remain, shall perish there !" X. The pause which followed open'd to the ear Deep groans of anguish in the chamber near, So rending to the heart all rush'd within And saw the ruin wrought by giant Sin. They loosed Marcel, and, holding, brought him nigh ; That sight which fill'd with tears each manly eye He coldly gazed upon, perchance with hate. Believing she half caused his gloomy fate. 44 EI,FLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. Raised on her couch by those who near her stand, The feeble being stretched her fleshless hand And grasped Marcel's, and, trembHng, mildly said, " Can this be thee ? is all thy virtue fled ? Oh no, it is not. Give me back my child ! Oh, Edward ! is thy manhood all exiled ? Too often thou hast seen her soothing care, How dear she was, how warmly she would share The little toils my daily comforts ask From those who deem'd their watch a weary task ; Night after night, all-anxious, near me stay When servants, coldly kind, would steal away. Regardless of their charge, and only come When gentler hands their little rites had done. It seems but yesterday — dear happy hours ! — Her infant form in grove and garden-bowers Play'd round me, artless, wild with joyous glee, Careless of all care, from every sorrow free, CANTO THE SECOND. 45 Till all at once my little infant grew The guardian angel hopeful Fancy drew. And must I lose her now ? is such pure worth Rewarded only by the thorns of earth ? Be generous, please ! I ask it with a prayer, And bless the hand that will my daughter spare." XI. In thoughtful silence Marcel turned aside, And from the chamber stept with humbled pride, And by a window sat, and propp'd his hand Against his brow, whilst others, gazing, stand. Then Howard, keenly anxious to restrain The storm of passion and the bride regain, Now spoke so kindly to that shattered heart, In tones meek goodness only can impart, That he was summoned to be seated nigh By meaning glance of Edward's shaded eye. 46 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. " My friend and pastor," then replied Marcel, " Thy words revive me ; thou hast counselled well. Now to Elflora come, and feel no fear ; By daylight, I presume, she can be here. It is her wish, to-night, to have thee there, And I alone to her must not repair. Do not, I pray, decline her last appeal When life demands it ; this thou canst but feel. I must acknowledge that I could not see Elflora's parent when she gazed on me. But my poor mother rose before my eye In that last sleep in which I saw her die. It hath unmanned me, hath so chilled my frame A deathlike faintness now unnerves my brain. I ask one moment of my early years ; My deep-wrought feelings need relief in tears, But they refuse my heart that calm repose So pure, so grateful, when the tear-drop flows." CANTO THE SECOND. 47 He ceased, and rose to leave and lead the way, But voice imploring now prolongs his stay, Called to the chamber ; Howard stands alone, With Clifton near him, who in whispered tone Talk of the danger of their absent friend. And offer plans that might perchance extend Relief, though transient, till the early dawn Revealed to them the course the bride had gone. What fatal rashness," then the pastor said. To be by him to that lone cavern led ! For well I understand his dark design ; But wisdom may suggest to not decline ; There might some unexpected means arise. Some unforeseen event, to aid surprise. Perhaps, like huntsmen, I could mark the track ; A limb snapped here and there, while wandering back Among the leaves would whiten in the sun. And you that splintered path might find, and come." 48 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. * Then Clifton answer'd, " Do, my noble friend, Accompany thus ; by every means extend Rehef and comfort to that spotless love, And soon as morning dawns yon hills above I'll rush to save you, search and find the cave, With strong associates, comrades true and brave." The hall with others Edward enter'd now ; Some change seem'd wrought upon his iron brow ; But, whispering sternly in his rival's ear, He utter'd words that Howard must not hear : ** Return my weapons ! Dare to watch my path, The bride shall famish, you shall feel my wrath." XII. The purest hopes induced the aged sire The offer to accept ; while they retire Despair and sorrow paint with deeper gloom The looks of those who linger in that room, CANTO THE SECOND. 49 Inactive, cautious, lest they might defeat By steps imprudent plans with risks replete. One spoke regretful that they did not slay, Or keep the culprit firmly chain'd till day, And boldly promised to uproot the wilds, The hills and valleys, and all deep defiles. But he would find her, and securely save From demon hands, and bear her from the cave. Others, excited less, made calm reply : " While that was being done the bride would die." " Then why not force the robber to reveal The place by burning brand or bleeding steel ? His poniard's point I would have gently prest. Then harder, still more hard, against his breast. And threaten'd to the hilt to plunge the blade ; We might, all doubtless, thus have gained the maid." But one acquainted long with stern Marcel, Said, " Mildness, and not force, can only quell." 5 D 50 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. While thus too loudly flow'd each useless word, Within the chamber dying groans were heard, And those who coldly watch'd the glazing eye W^hisper, " Ere dawns the day, think not she'll die ?" CANTO THE THIRD. ONCE more we leave the mansion and its guests, And in that cave in which Elflora rests Behold her prostrate, slumbering, all alone, Her hair neglected, furs half round her thrown, The tears undried, the frowning features pale, The wreck of dreams — the dreams that still prevail. The lips, slow moving, mark a troubled sleep, She sighs, again is wrapt in slumbers deep. And now more loud, more heavy, breathing makes. And now, in one convulsive start, awakes, Looks round her with a wild, distracted air, A moment silent, and then kneels in prayer, While o'er her forehead droop dark locks of hair. 51 52 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. Her trustful language, breathed in mellow'd tone, Falls not unheard ; she is not now alone : Unnoticed by Elflora, softly come Her friends, now resting till the prayer is done. II. The maiden rose, and dried the grateful tear Which fill'd her eye, and gazed, but not with fear, Upon those forms approaching near her now. Though one had malice stamp'd upon his brow. Her lofty spirit had resign'd its fate. And stood serenely calm'd, resolved to wait With unchanged mind the dark, uncertain doom. Which hope, though nightless, scarcely could illume. One glance of kindness on her friend she threw, But in that look no smile beam'd forth to view ; The settled stillness of her feeling heart To features snowy pale no gleams impart CANTO THE THIRD. 53 Of that warm welcome which in early days ^ Oft wing'd her step along the flowery ways, When in the forest she beheld his form Coming like sunlight through an evening storm. III. With sullen calmness, glancing at the bride, Marcel in silence proudly by her side Now placed himself, and grasp'd her trembling hand, And cool, though earnest, issued his command To Howard, standing mute in meekness by, But who the mandate heard without reply. " My friend," said he, " I brought thee here to-night With honest intent and a sense of right. That by thine office thou may'st end the strife Which threatens now an aged parent's life. Now, marry us at once, and legally too ; Speak out ! do quickly what thou hast to do ! 5^ 54 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. Or die in darkness, starved within this cave, And all alone, where not a hand can save. Where all thy time untold shall pass away, Where never more shalt thou behold the day. The task is easy ; what we both require, This reconciling act, is her desire ; This sacrifice she is prepared to make. This very hour, for her dear mother's sake. — Silence, Elflora ! Wilt thou dare decline ? What must be must be, and thou shalt be mine ! When we are married, and from Clifton free, A model husband I intend to be." The youth, resolving that the nuptial rite Should be accomplish'd ere the short-lived night Could lift its mantle and reveal the den To search untiring of relentless men, Now aimed his weapon at the pastor's breast. And, grimly frowning, urged his dark request CANTO THE THIRD. 55 With such wild gestures, such o'erwhelming scorn, Few could withstand it or live out the storm. Yet Howard was calm ; the mildness seen before The aged pastor's prayerful features wore As he, unconscious, seemed to pass away In thought and spirit to those realms of day Where saints are resting, and where never cease That life whose pastime mars no holy peace. The bride, with eye on his, hath inly caught The inspiring tone his trustful feelings wrought, And stands unshaken, with an air and mien Of stern composure equal to the scene. And loosed at once the hand that held her arm, And lean'd, though lightly, on her pastor's form. Once more the ruffian, roused to foaming wrath, Satanic fury hurls 'round Beauty's path ; Yet, undisturb'd, the maiden dared to smile, Sustain'd by steadfast faith against his guile. 56 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. The villain, trembling, now approach'd more near ; His arms re-priming to excite their fear, A moment on them drew unerring aim, Then, sharply wheeling, at the torchlight flame Discharged the weapon, and the shatter'd fire To cinders flash'd ; and as the sparks expire A sudden darkness, deeper than the gloom Of midnight tempests when there shines no moon, Pervades the cavern, render'd doubly drear By echoes far roU'd back from echoes near, Like bolts of thunder shaking Summer's sky. Or crash of woods when winds are howling by. IV. Marcel advanced and clasp'd around the waist The startled beauty, and with caution traced Those gloomy chambers to the distant door. And moved so noiseless as the bride he bore, CANTO THE THIRD. $7 Emerging outward, that the aged sire All guidance lost as fast their steps retire, And he remains immured within the cave — His home in future, soon perchance his grave. And now the cavern firmly once again Is closed ; unopened it may long remain. And this Marcel accomplished with a care That filled Elflora's heart with wild despair. Once more his arm encircled hers with force, And downward toward the stream he turns their course, Through woods so rugged that the flying deer Would pause for shelter there, and feel no fear. The boughs above them and the cliffs around, The lonely hour, the silence so profound (Save the monotonous and constant roar The river sent in thunder to the shore). Fell on the maiden's heart, and swept away A transient moment all the ills of day ; 58 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. But ever and anon they came in view, And left upon her brow an icy dew. Yet hope of rescue half sustains the bride, And cautious glances cast from side to side By him who leads her plainly now reveal He fears those riven crags her friends conceal. With weapon ready and with noiseless tread, With hand on hers, he gently leans his head, And, often pausing, with nice care surveys Each moving bramble which the light wind sways. Old trunks of shatter'd trees, that branchless stood Like spectres peering through the darksome wood. Proud oaks, prostrate by the power of Time, High rocks, grotesque and capped with creeping vine. Seem living forms by troubled Fancy's aid As scatter'd moonlight fitful on them play'd. But, ever watchful, with a steady hand To execute liis selfish heart's command, CANTO THE THIRD. 59 He moves as fearless to the river-shore . As ever hero Freedom's standard bore, Though in the forest, in each darken'd glen, His guilty conscience sees unflinching men. Whose faithful rifle in the deadly strife Leaves nothing living when it aims at life. At last in safety on a giant rock That turns the stream, nor trembles at the shock. They stand, and, speechless, far around survey The rough, wild scene, and wilder waters' play, For there the Susquehanna rolls along A boisterous current, clear yet pouring strong. V. The youth now shoved in view an oarless boat, And moor'd it near them, on the surge afloat. And instant in it placed the captive bride. And to her questions strangely calm replied : 6o ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. " Thy fate, Elflora, who shall ever mark ? Alone and friendless in this fragile bark, I soon shall launch thee on the foaming spray, Where none can rescue to entomb thy clay, But hungry fish of thee will make their meal Ere scarce thy drowning form hath ceased to feel. And hast thou courage in this hopeless hour Death thus to meet, and yet possess the power To change my purpose and establish peace ? Now pledge thy honor, and this plot shall cease. To love me always, or at least to live With me as mine, if love thou canst not give. Dare to refuse me, I will seek thy home When thou art gone, and by false words alone Entice young Clifton to the secret cave Where Howard lingers my imprisoned slave, And there, redeemless, with thine aged friend His joys, his sorrows, and his life shall end. CANTO THE THIRD. 6l Thy friendless mother (such she then will be) — Ay, now thou tremblest, and perchance may see Some sacrifice to her pure love is due If thou wouldst not thy hand with blood imbrue." VI. Her doom the maiden heard with tearless eye, And mark'd composure showed in her reply : " Peace, peace I will not purchase, nor my life, Nor partial freedom, in this shameful strife By sacrifice of right, in which I trust, When conscience tells me it would not be just. This hour have I no friend to rescue me? Look round you, and behold in every tree. In every leaf, in every flower that blooms, In every atom that the plant consumes, In every star, in every ponderous world, In every ray of light by suns unfurl'd, 6 62 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. In air, in lightning, in the restless sea, God was, and is, and hence shall ever be, Owning all space, pervading every sphere; And, to my heart, so ever sheltering near. Marcel, my soul is safe : I have no fear ; My trust, my faith in God, will save me here. If I must perish, if my hour hath come, 'Tis His high will, not thine, poor wretch ! when done." Marcel, perceiving by her earnest tone, Which spoke her feelings more than words had shown. How vain, how hopeless, every subtle art To win or conquer that unshaken heart, Now shoved the vessel, and it dashed away Athwart the billows, bounding 'midst the spray. Which rocks opposing burst to sparkling foam As whirl'd the currents, sidelong swiftly thrown, Like gliding serpents wreathing round their path, And backward curling with envenom'd wrath. CANTO THE THIRD. 63 The skiff that bore her seem'd a shatter'd speck, And the wild waters, dark without the wreck, Appear'd to bear her fast and far away, As she, apparent, prostrate on them lay. And as the distance shrouded all from view, Save mist and vapors form'd for morning's dew, And waving rapids that roll'd madly on, The villain, musing, murmur'd, " She is gone !" VII. In restless mood he breathed a heavy sigh. With scanning glance surveyed each object nigh. Then hastening upward on the hill's incline. From rock to rock, with hand from limb to vine, From many a pendent branch accepting aid, He gained a level crown'd with younger shade, Some distance from the fatal scene. And now He leaves the forest, feels upon his brow 64 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. The zephyr's balm, which swept the fields and bring The lavish fragrance shed by rosy Spring. Through the bright moonlight, on the flower'd lawn, Near the ash tree, appears a moving form Engaged intently with a strolling pack Of faithful dogs that search for some lost track. With step more cautious Edward crossed the plain, And unperceived upon the huntsman came. And seized his arm with such an iron grasp That Clifton started with a sudden gasp. VIII. " Did I not warn thee, if you sought the cave Or dared to watch me, there was naught could save The bride from vengeance, should you chance to find The place or cavern where she lives enshrined ? Yet mark this effort : here are dogs that know The tread of maiden from her manly foe, CANTO THE THIRD. 65 And now may lead you, like some human guide, The path, though printless, where I led the bride. I see the motive, and the project laid That shout or whistle shall bring to your aid Intrepid huntsmen, who are even now Concealed in numbers on yon wooded brow ; I saw them there, and thought that I could trace The form or features of some well-known face. They did not see me ; nay, and it was well ; I might have sent them howling through the dell, Or laid them lifeless with my pistol-ball. Nor left one witness to record their fall. All this is useless, since I come to crave That you will join us in the secret cave, That we together may adjust our cause. And shield my errors from the outraged laws ; For which I give thee thy unsullied bride, Still spotless pure, still worthy of thy pride. 6* E 66 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. But all must pledge me by a solemn oath A lasting friendship, that I may in both Thyself and pastor find sufficient aid The law's stern justice rightly to evade. The noble Howard, ever meaning well, Hath kindly bound him always to repel The groundless slanders Envy cast on me. And asks all friends to sanction his decree. IX. "Although imprudent, and perchance unwise To credit language which I should despise, I will to see them venture in the cave, Yet grant no promise such as that you crave Before our meeting. And I ought to know What cause, what circumstance, hath made my foe So very gentle and his words so bland. Most certain, something hath thy soul unmanned, CANTO THE THIRD. 6/ And changed affection for the friendless maid To selfish interest since she was betrayed." There is, and thou shalt hear it," said Marcel. Thou knowest Elflora — ay, perchance too well — The soothing sweetness of her quiet way ; But only rouse her or infringe her sway, Provoke her feelings, cross her stubborn will, There's not a panther prowling on yon hill But I would rather fondle to reclaim To gentle loving than that fiery dame. If you such creatures can domesticate, Come get her, and God help thee and thy fate !" X. 'Twas nearly day as downward through the wood They bent their course, though every object stood In all that shadowed loveliness of night Which rests on earth when planets all are bright — 68 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. When clouds are only scatter'd far and few, Making the clear a purer, deeper blue. Such was that balmy morn ; the setting moon, Half down the west, was near her mountain-tomb ; The winds were still, the birds not yet in song, And all was silent, as they moved along Through forests gilded by the level ray, Which slept on leaves and cliffs that walled their way. While slow they walked by crags and giant trees, There came a sound, so like the whispering breeze That none but Clifton, haply listening, caught The low-breathed murmur, and its meaning sought By hurried glance around and through the shade. Where Night and Silence seemed in slumber laid. And there a form he saw approaching near With cautious step, perchance controlled by fear. The moon a glory round her features threw As she in breathless quiet nearer drew, CANTO TPIE THIRD. 69 And stood so still, so pale, that Death seemed there ; Nor corse nor statue ever shone more fair. " Behold that madman !" then exclaimed the bride. " In oarless vessel, on yon river's tide. He dared to launch me from the rugged shore, The sport of waters, whose uneven floor Too well he knows is formed of countless rock, That skiff, unmanned, cannot escape their shock. Yet God, all potent, turned it in a cove, And waved it gently by a pendent grove ; I grasped a limb, and slowly dragged the boat Where still it lies, half grounded, half afloat, On a sand-shore, beneath the eagle's tree ; I left it there, and now once more am free !" XI. The villain stood confounded and amazed ; His eye to Clifton's slow and sullen raised, yo ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. But sudden turned him from that hghtning gaze, As though he caught the sun's unclouded blaze. A child, though feeble, now might grasp his hand And hold him captive, e'en assume command By cautious language o'er that cowering youth, So shamed, so withered by the voice of truth, His brute-like passions were subdued to sleep ; A nerv'eless tremor o'er him seem'd to creep ; An icy moisture gathered on his brow ; A woman's mildness might control him now With gentle accents, careful to convey No word imprudent to prolong the sway.' But Clifton carries his protecting arms His dirk, his pistol, have peculiar charms. And why not use them 'gainst his mortal foe ? He wished to conquer ; why the chance forego ? He aimed the weapon at his rival's breast, And shouted, " Stand, sir ! I at once arrest ! CANTO THE THIRD. 7 1 One single move, one act to rescue, try. That very moment, dastard wretch ! you die ! Kneel at my feet ! Obey ! I bid you kneel. Or crashing shot this instant flashing feel !" XII. Like rising tempest lit by sheets of fire, The culprit reddened, and the kindling ire Curled his proud lip and surged and heaved his frame, Till from his features flashed a battle-flame. So startling sudden burst his strength in storm That Clifton scarcely could an act perform Before the dagger, threatening, o'er him swung The moment that his weapon aimless rung. Now breast to breast, and each armed hand to hand, They strike and swerver, now advance and stand. Each gleaming poniard drips with smoking blood, From either bosom spouts the sanguine flood ; 72 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. That dash a channel carves across the cheek ; The villain bleeds when he essays to speak. But now a passage of that practised foe Disarms the other, who but foils each blow By Nature's weapons and by manly strength ; But, staggering near, his death seems fixed at length. " This instant, Clifton, seals at last thy doom ; To respite thee high Heaven hath no boon," Exclaimed the ruffian as he raised his dirk. With passion trembling, to complete the work. Elflora, where art thou this fearful hour ? For safety dost thou seek some hidden bower ? Ah no ! She watches with unfaltering eye A time to interpose, and, stepping nigh. Her shawl she opened, every fold outspread. With dauntless courage wrapped the villain's head. Down o'er his arms the silken garment droops ; His eyes are dark, his hand makes aimless swoops, CANTO THE THIRD. And ere his struggles can remove that veil A rock's sharp fragment, such as strew the dale, Young Clifton grasped, and then with fatal aim The hooded culprit stretched upon the plain. They snatch the cover from his quivering face ; He lies so still he seems in Death's embrace. Just where the forehead joins his raven hair The blood is bubbling and the skull is bare ; So wide the gash you may perceive the stone, So strongly hurled, hath crashed the solid bone. XIII. The strife's last echo scarce had lull'd away Ere three armed huntsmen sprang to join the fray From out the forest, and behind their train The peaceful Howard, hurrying onward, came, And hailed them promptly, lest to vengeful deed, In their excitement, they should dare proceed. 7 74 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. But all was quiet when he reached the scene, And scarce a movement where so late had been The wild contention and the strokes for life, The clash of weapons, and the knife to knife. The ground was crimsoned, and the bloody grass Was bruised and matted, crush'd by many a pass Of feet now fettered by approaching death, Now strongly struggling in the gasp for breath. XIV. Elflora wept, and leaned against the arm Of him whose counsel and whose manly form Was now essential to sustain her there, Her fears to soothe, her painful charge to share. She told, though briefly, all that late had passed — The launch, the perils, and her walk when cast Alone at midnight on the trackless shore — And all the trials that she nobly bore CANTO THE THIRD. 75 To aid them both, and then to foil Marcel, Whose purpose, threatening, he had dared to tell; And now, self-censured, she expressed remorse That all her efforts seemed of death the source. " Not thine the fault ! Oh no, dear faithful bride ! But love of arms," the sacred sire replied — " The coward's shield, which virtue casts aside. Ah me ! how often have I warned thy friend That trust in weapons must in failure end ! What human being could have rescued me Save Edward, whom I could not hope to see ? Who else in time could find that secret cave ? And yet I felt that God my life would save. With strong reliance, with undoubting trust. That in this life He ne'er forsakes the just, I sat me down and calm'd to peace my mind, And to His will with joy my fate resigned ; J^ ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. And then to me was opened exit clear ; It is enough that I am safely here. And now assistance is by these required, Once more this subject, if again desired, I will resume when we have less to do ; Our friend revives ; his foe seems better too. — Kind huntsman, lend thine hand, and with thy aid I think this youth, with care, may be conveyed To his own dwelling, while we leave the rest To wait on Marcel till his wounds are drest, And if not able then to walk or stand, They will of course extend a welcome hand To bear him home, and then provide with care The aid and comfort he may need when there." XV. Assent to this request was made by all, And two are left to answer Edward's call. CANTO THE THIRD. 77 While those with Clifton carefully move away, Nor mark the actions of the men who stay. One grasped a vine and tensely bound each limb, The other shook the foe, rough-handling him, To see if conscience was enough restored To feel the torture which they held in hoard. And grimly chuckled to perceive his eye By glance and motion gave a mute reply ; Then, turning to his comrade, coolly said, " I fear the prisoner will too soon be dead. Suppose we lynch him while we know he lives, And reap the pleasure vengeance always gives To those whose hatred of such evil ways Compel the hangman to cut short their days ? Could we be censured should we now embark His fettered person in the selfsame ark In which he placed the unoffending bride ? His fate, like hers. Ids god may then decide." 7* yS ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. " Ay, that will do, but now 'tis nearly day ; Some one may rescue should he hold his way Till sunlight ; therefore shoulder up that side ; The burden thus between us we'll divide. Hold fast ! grip firmer ! There ! now close your fist- The one that's under — and I'll grasp your wrist. Ay, now we have him ; if he will not walk. His feet may draggle." Thus drawled in their talk While bearing Marcel roughly through the wood To where the vessel, still half grounded, stood. The captive raised at last his drooping head, Became collected, and with effort said: " I know that money hath secured your aid. You bloody scoundrels of the blackest grade ! Bribed to defame me, you have hourly sought My life, my ruin, and ye flinched at naught That might accomplish this, his fixed design. Ye sons of Judas ! born to rot in crime, CANTO THE THIRD. 79 Go, get the wages fiends should blush to hold, The blood-stained guineas of his bribing gold, And then — then into everlasting fire Depart, ye cursed ! ye can climb no higher !" The nettled woodsmen answered in reply That all he said was one ungodly lie, And they could prove it. But their way was queer : They cuffed and shook him till the proof was clear; And then, by this time having reached the boat. In it they placed him, and when well afloat, Let go the vessel as it felt the wave. And as the last long shove to it they gave, A loud farewell in scorn they sent the foe. Then died Marcel ? or lived ? Who cares to know ? XVI. The welcome morning breaks broad up the sky ; The birds rejoice ; the fluttering leaves reply. 8o ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. Sprinkling moisture bright as showers of snow, Which zephyrs scatter as they whirl below ; The orb ascending, warmer beams his light ; The winds are freshening ; forests feel their might, And fling their thousand banners to the breeze ; And clouds, like icebergs of the Arctic seas, Float the deep blue and proudly bear away. Till heat congenial fills the home of day. The cliffs are passed ; the openings through the wood Reveal the mansion, shining where it stood. With tossing shadows on its eastward side, And windows sparkling when those shades divide. The eager huntsmen cross the vale between With lively voice and step, now tread the green. And pass the portals of the open door. The chamber gained, what lay their eyes before ? The parent prostrate ! Ay, and cold and dead, Though hours but few had waned since breathing fled ; CANTO THE THIRD. 8 1 And near the couch, with outstretched hand and arm, With looks of anguish fixed upon that form, Elflora stood, as stands the chiselled rock, Pallid and tranced by that heartrending shock ; And in her dark and moveless eye appears A grief too deep for words and too intense for tears. At last a painful shudder flushed her brain. And language of remorseful import came : ' No more, no more the object of my care ! Oh this, O Heaven ! must I learn to bear ?" XVII. Day after day the bride, in mournful thought, Her darkened chamber's deep seclusion sought, And there in secret oft implored in prayer That her apparent disregard of care Might be forgiven, and her watchful grief Be soothed by hope and find in tears relief. F 82 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. 'Tis done ! Her nature ere that season passed Reaction feels, and peace triumphs at last, Suffusing calmness o'er her clearing brow. And where it gloomed a smile is radiant now. The youth, recovered, meets his blooming bride ; In her old hall they stand, now side by side ; The pastor speaks, proclaims that they are one, And prays to God to bless the deed now done. But ere he leaves them, with his calm blue eye On Clifton fixed, to claim for his reply Attention mute to words to him addressed, His admonition kind he thus expressed : " A woman's love ! Its home within thy heart, What angel joys, what peace, it can impart ! In cot or castle it will shine the same, And yield contentment in its magic reign, Toil, sickness, sorrow in thine earthly home Its worth celestial make more purely known. CANTO THE THIRD. 83 Then cherish always her whom Nature's laws Hath bound to thee and made thine own her cause. 'Tis Wisdom's counsel. Addle-brained are they Whom stranger beauty e'er beguiles astray ; Perfect kindness hath almighty power On earth, in weary life's eventful hour, To tranquillize the heart, the human soul. And calm the passions into firm control. Oh, then be gentle in thy walk through life ; With kindest accents always greet the wife ; Then she will grow more happy every day. And smile on trouble till it fades away. The brightest gem, the grandest gift to man, Since toil for comfort in this world began, Is woman — noble, loving, faithful, true. In all she does, in all she ought to do. If man by kindness only will impart That strength which lifts to Heaven her trusting heart." 84 ELFLORA OF THE SUSQUEHANNA. XVIII. The Spring departs ; the Summer suns are high ; Heat fills the air, and dazzling light the sky ; Seasons on seasons roll their shades away ; Shrubs rise to trees, and trees themselves decay. The change of Nature and the winds and rains Relentless come, and scarce one mark remains Of that old mansion, save a crumbling pile Of logs, which nourish insects that defile ; But as they moulder down to dust and earth. Their darkening richness gives luxuriant birth To briers and brambles and the wreathing vine, Which, rising fast, around the ruins twine. COMING HOME. T AM a happy man to-day; •^ My peerless wife is happy too : A promise comes from one away That cheers our hearts, our hopes renew. I see the future clear and bright, The harbinger of golden hours, When my dear family shall unite In hallowed Home's domestic bowers. The noble youth we love so well, Who plucked our little blooming rose, Will soon return, and with us dwell In manhood's prime — in peace repose, 8 85 S6 COMING HOME. When winter chills each aged limb, And life's last sun is nearly set, My arduous tasks relieved by him, I can depart without regret. Dear Father of ten thousand worlds ! Accept once more our grateful prayer As day by day our fate unfurls. May we Thy watchful mercy share ! LONELY, BUT NOT SAD. r I AHE vine-sheltered rocks, embowered, unseen, ^ The blossoms, the bird, and the bee, The banks in the bloom of a bright summer green, - How welcome in childhood to me ! — Now Autumn's red leaflet falls silent and fast — On the waters' calm bosom it lays ; The plants of the forest their flowers have cast, And the stem of the violet decays. Like Nature's green mantle my playmates depart. Companions like flowers decay, But, closer than sorrow. Death came to my heart. And tore all my children away. 87 . 88 LONELY, BUT NOT SAD. All spotless and pure as the fresh-fallen snow They entered the mansions above; Removed from affliction and heart-rending woe, They joined the blest angels in love. Oh, had I another dear cherub like these, How willing from him could I part! For well do I know his bright spirit would please That Parent who loves a pure heart. All mortals must die and be exiled from earth ; Why end the last moments in tears ? Oh, why not rejoice, when they know the new birth Immortal shall be in the spheres? THE INFINITY OF SPACE. SWIFT as the sunbeam cleaves the sky, My soul, entranced in boundless space, A trillion leagues appeared to fly. And yet the end I could not trace. I saw around, on every hand. Great suns unknown and planets shine, So vast in size ! so startling grand ! Twas fearful ! God ! were they not Thine ? Again my soul resumed its flight A billion billion miles away, Then paused once more to view the light. Which almost made the darkness day. 8* 89 90 THE INFINITY OF SPACE. While gazing on the wondrous scene An angel form approached me near; I asked if he had ever been Where boundless space did not appear. He said : " Ten hundred thousand years My soul surveyed the fields of space, In line direct through countless spheres, By mighty suns and worlds in place ! There is no centre and no end ! Great globes fill all the realms I saw, Controlled by stars whose radiance blend Obedient to eternal law ! " By ages taught, we see His might, Unchangeable in endless time, Inflexible in all that's right, Omnipotent in every clime. THE INFINITY OF SPACE. 91 My friend, for ever banish fear; A home there is for thee above; Then part from earth without a tear, But give to God a pure heart's love." OUR GREAT REPUBLIC T 'HE North in union with the South ^ As ONE shall ever be; Secure for aye each river's mouth By fleets on every sea. . II. By skilful hands and mines of gold Shall mighty harvests wave, And barks shall float a thousand-fold The ocean storms to brave. III. A hundred thousand years or more The coal shall last to burn, 92 OUR GREAT REPUBLIC. 93 To send our ships to every shore, And bilHon spindles turn. IV. Like mountain-heights enwrapped in flames The furnace-stacks shall be, Till roads of steel o'er trackless plains Unite the sea to sea. V. Then let the glorious cotton grow In all the Southern vales ; While steam expands and rivers flow, Our mills shall need the bales. VI. Let Europe fight her battles o'er, To prop her shattered thrones; Our noble warriors nevermore Shall sack each other's homes. THOUGHTS ON LIFE AND DEATH. « TT THEN I have reached a thousand years of age, ' * And can behold on memory's truthful page My life celestial, ever shining bright, Without a sinful thought to shade its light, How happy then will my existence be To know from all remorse my soul is free ! What, then, to me is pain or toil while here? But trifles these, ordained to disappear As constant progress lifts the soul above. And conquers all things with subduing love. The Saviour said, " God's kingdom dwells within ; Be pure in heart, be kind and free from sin ; 94 THOUGHTS ON LIFE AND DEATH. 95 Then peace and comfort, such as angels know, On you existence always will bestow." Why wait, poor worm, till death dissolves this frame ? Cannot your firmness noble thoughts sustain Till passion yields obedient to the will ? Though tempted oft, be sternly master still. Dash down the cup, the door to ruin close, Make God your friend, make peace with all your foes ; Then welcome death, however startling near; Thrice happy dead if truly happy hero ! The wicked die, and anguish thrills the ear. In horrid groans, in sighs, and shuddering fear. The moment when they touch that dismal shore Where sin meets sin, perchance to part no more. The smelting furnace not so hot, so red, As keen remorse endured by all the dead When, unprepared, they pass from earth to roam, Without a hope, to seek the criminal's home. 96 THOUGHTS ON LIFE AND DEATH. And such a scene ! a home without a sun, No moon to rise, no glorious dawn to come ; No trees to leaf, nor fruits, nor flowers to bloom. But desert sands all wrapt in fearful gloom ; The storm-like shade, for ever on the plain. Shuts out the sky from all that vast domain, Till every being walks he sees not where, And stops and howls, then sinks in mute despair. Oh, how unlike the peaceful, golden strand, Home of the pure in heart, the summer land. Where all who live as God designed while here Find kindred love, and friends almost as dear ! — A home prepared with gorgeous scenes in view, Majestic prospects opening, ever new. As floats the spirit on — away, away. From orb to orb, through spheres of endless day. THE LAST DAYS OF KATE LAMAR. I. " 1 ^ORGIVE me, dear mother; to-morrow I leave— ^ To-morrow shall bid thee adieu, And ask in my absence that no one will grieve; My promised return I renew." II. " My daughter, my daughter, so brilliant at home, So full of the joy of existence, Again and again wilt thou leave me to roam In the near or the gloomy distance ? III. " When thou art here with me the beautiful sun. With his cheerful and golden rays, Comes creeping about us till day is near done, In love with thy innocent ways. 9 G 97 98 THE LAST DAYS OF KATE LAMAR. IV. "And when in the silence and darkness we kneel With thy dear little hand in mine, No words can express the great comfort I feel That thus it may be in all time. V. " The mind can imagine more beautiful scenes, Enjoying secluded repose ; In page of the poet the splendor that gleams Grand pictures of life will disclose. VI. " Then better by far be contented at home : Art thou restless again to see The ocean in storm, or the mountains alone. Or castles all wrecked on the lea?" THE LAST DAYS OF KATE LAMAR. 99 VIL Kate's attachment to home was doubtless sincere ; Ambition beguiled her away; Her mother's affection made every scene dear, Yet failed to induce her to stay. VIII. We begged and implored, as we rode to the boat, To leave not her parent in tears ; Our words were unheeded; we left her afloat, To travel in Europe some years. IX. The morning was cloudless, the noble ship lay Receiving the last of her crew ; Then grand as an eagle she swept down the bay. As passengers waved their adieu. 100 THE LAST DAYS OF KATE LAMAR. X. The ocean was sleeping — no crest on the wave, No motion, except a long swell ; The vessel was moving so proudly and brave : Her steaming no ship could excel. XI. Thus onward till midnight she ploughed the blue sea; Though stars were obscured by a fog, They slowed not the engines, but let them work free, Though warned of her speed by the log. XIL Then sudden as lightning that shatters the rock Against an ice-mountain she drove ! So firm the resistance, so great' was the shock. The planks were shivered, the bulkheads stove ! THE LAST DAYS OF KATE LAMAR. lOI XIIL The vessel went down with three hundred on deck ; Some shouted, some prayed, and some cried ; The chairs and the fragments which broke from the wreck They seized, and to float with them tried. XIV. As morning came slowly the brave-hearted girl, While drowning, looked round in despair, As she brushed from her eye a troublesome curl And shook the wild foam from her hair. XV. To the petrels that flew so near to her head She stretched out her delicate hand. And begged them, for God's sake, while living or dead, To take her to some sheltered land. I02 THE LAST DAYS OF KATE LAMAR. XVI. The storm-birds were heedless; Kate sank in the wave : The absent she ever will be ; No rose nor sweet flower shall bloom on her grave ; She sleeps on the sands of the sea. APPENDIX JOHN FERRIS, OF WILMINGTON, DELAWARE, Born September 21, 1801 — Died September 2, 1882. T T E was the only child of John Ferris, who fell a ^ ^ sacrifice at the early age of twenty-four in his devotion to the cause of humanity. When the yellow fever in 1802 was so fatal that few escaped it who were exposed to its deadly influence, this young man, on the threshold of a bright and prosperous career, with a loving wife by his side and dear friends around him, turned away and entered the abodes of the poor, and with untiring and sleepless attention to their wants 104 APPEND*IX. never left them till death struck him down — we may say at their very feet. What must have been the feelings of the lonely mother as she held her babe for the last time to gaze upon the cold features of such a father! Little did she then know that that child who leaned so helpless upon her bosom would one day be a comfort to her so dear that no words can express the joy of her heart as she saw him, year after year, in all the trials, all the vicissitudes of life, a model man in honor, in affection, in wisdom, and in his devotion to her lonely home. Let us trace, though very briefly, his bright career. After spending a few years at the common schools, he was sent while a mere boy to Philadelphia to learn a mechanical business, because he had manifested an early fondness and a remarkable skill in the use of tools. But what is a city life to an apprentice-boy? It has many roads. The paths of dissipation, of idle- APPENDIX. 105 ness, and ruin are open to all. But these had no attractions for him. There are nobler walks that at- tract the few. These he found and loved, and fol- lowed. Young Ferris, even in early life, had a massive development of the intellectual and moral regions of the brain. To minds of this cast schools are not es- sential ; the boy educates himself Access to a good library is all he asks. When his task was finished in the city, and he came to his native place to estab- lish himself in business, he was astonished to find that his reputation as a man of high moral worth and stern integrity had reached the town before him. He was offered, without solicitation, all the money he needed to engage in business. He succeeded beyond his most sanguine anticipations. He had scarcely passed the prime of life when an ample fortune in- duced him to retire from his profession. But not to rest. Then, as it ever will be, I pre- I06 APPENDIX. sume, many widows needed a wise, honest, and patient counsellor. And wherever they inquired for one they were generally advised above all others to go to John Ferris. And these were his clients that kept him busy even to the last month of his eventful life. Yes, without compensation, in the storms of Winter and in the burnino; heats of Summer, he was ever faithful, ever watchful of their interests and welfare. His extensive learning, his unquestioned ability, and great experience enabled him to answer many abstruse questions which perplexed and worried even astute lawyers. He spoke from an intuitive comprehension of what the law should be. And after days of toil among their books the lawyers, to their surprise, generally found that he was correct. As far as I can recollect, he never held a public office, never was a candidate for public favor. He saw that hypocrisy, deceit, and low cunning too often control the primary APPENDIX. 107 elections. These traits were revolting to his better nature. With a mind capable of moulding into har- mony the discordant elements of an empire, he turned from all worldly preferment, and in the seclusion of a happy home every moment not absorbed by business or company was devoted to the acquisition of know- ledge. Scarcely a work of any value escaped him. With a memory seldom equalled by others, he made himself acquainted with the arts and sciences, with history, government, biography, travels, and general literature. What a lesson his life should be to every fatherless boy ! Will you not learn from him that a solid foundation of unblemished integrity, laid in early man- hood, is of inestimable value through life ? And also learn that prosperity and honor, and the profound respect and love of others, cannot be conferred upon you by family, by friends, or by fortune, equal to that I08 APPENDIX. which can be won by industry, by self-reHance, and a decent regard for all the feelings, all the refinements, of society. We cannot close this sketch without a few words upon the kindness of his heart. Honest and deserving poverty never appealed to him in vain. And there was scarcely a little child or horse or dog in his neigh- borhood that did not know him well, and did not listen with evident pleasure for a pleasant word from him as he passed by. This was the result of true contentment and the harmonious development of all the nobler faculties of his nature. He was certainly a remarkable man. His self-government seemed abso- lute and perfect. The passions and propensities of the mind were held in stern subjection by an indom- itable will. Hence the more you associated with him the more you learned to love, honor, and respect him. To the stranger this picture may seem too strongly APPENDIX. 109 drawn, but not so to those who were intimately ac- quainted with him. And who should know him better than I did ? His mother was a sister of my father, and from that cause alone we were thrown very much together. My affections had no brother but him all the days of his life. He was the first to teach me to fly a kite, to set a snare, to sail a minia- ture frigate upon the placid waters of my rural home. Yes, I see him now, as those days rise before me, al- ways walking uprightly in the sunshine of a mother's love. Wn.MINGTON, September 6, 1882.