P s 35 E 7 IStF7 ]907 !SiJ iKiS:! Friendship and Home IN Poetry and Song Class Book 11^ kl:i CopyrightN"^ ^ <-, ' COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. ERRATA. Title page, read "of Youth" — not "to Youth," and "to Old-Age"— not "of Old-Age." Author also of "Mother in Poetry and Song." P. 8, 3d stanza read "make" my heart — not "makes." P. 16, 3d stanza read, "Who doth a heart possess," for the 2d line. In 3d line, read "cares" — not care." 4th stanza, 3d line, read "wanders" — not "wander." 4th line> read "long" — not " would." Friendship and Home In Poetry and Song BY GEORGE WASHINGTON NIMS Author of "A Keepsake More Precious Than Klondike Gold, "Golden Lines of Wisdom for the Young," "Uncle Reuben's Adventures Abroad," "Nims's Humorous Question-Book," "The Deserted Farm," "Sweetheart and Wife in Poetry and Song," "Forsaken by the World," "The Quartrain Instructor of Youth," "Nims's Humorous Epitaphs," "Mammon in Verse-Land," "Human Nature in Public and Private Lif e,"."The Counsellor to Youth and Friend of Old-Age," "The Declining Vil- lage,'' etc., etc. BOSTON, MASS. Press of E. L. Grimes Company 122 Pearl Street T-^^^V. D-A LiBHARY of CONGRESS Two Copy Received NOV n 190^ Copyrlcnt E/^try CUSS/I XXc. ie. COPY B. COF>YRI<3H-r -IQOV OeoRcae w. NiM« C ontent g Page. Boston Welcomes You 5 — 6 The Songs of Home My Mother Used to Sing. 5 — 7 Friendship's Mementoes 8 — 9 A Friend I'll Ne'er Forget 9 — 10 The Home I Loved So Long Ago 10 — 11 The Cot That Sheltered You and Me 11—12 Summer Friends 12 — 13 Don't Call That Man a Friend 13—14 Choose a Friend 14 — 15 I Might Have Had a Happy Home 15 — 16 Thanksgiving Day in Our Old Farm-House Home 16—17 The Friend I Love to See 17—18 My Mansion Home 18 — 19 My Old Friend Joe 19—20 When Home So Pleasing Seems 20 — 21 What Friend Can Do So Much for You 21 — 22 The Old Homestead 22 True Friends 23 A Christian Home 23—24 My Old New England Home 25 The Moss-Grown Cot 25 — 26 I'm Satisfied With Home 26—27 The Model Home 27—28 To Childhood's Home I'll Wander Back Again 29—30 The Mansion on the Hill, Mother 30—31 Where Can I Find So True a Friend 31—32 I Would Not Love to Friendless Be 33 The Model Friend 33—34—35 I Love a Sunny-Hearted Friend 35 Home and Friends 36 Couplets 37—38 Mother at Home 38 If You Would Not a Friend E'er Lose 38—39 Be Thankful For a Happy Home 39—40 Home and Friends 40 — 41 Unworthy Friends 41 — 42 A Loveless Home 42 — 43 Good Homes 43—44 Now In a Mansion Home, I Dwell 44 — 45 A Worthy Home, Indeed 45 — 46 When Summer Friends are Few 46 My Dear Old Home Just for To-night 46—47 O How I Love a Friend That's Dear to Me 47—48 Be Grateful For Friendly Deeds 49 My Boyhood's Happy Home 49 — 50 Then, What a Friend is Money 50—51 My Old New Hampshire Home 52 — 53 Our Old Log-Cabin Home 53 — 54 No Friend Like Money Have I Found 54 No Friend 54—55 Childhood's Happy Home 55 — 56 BOSTON WELCOMES YOU. (Old Home Week.) O sons and daughters of the Hub! To Boston wend your way, And for a season dwell where you First saw the light of day; Where friends you love, to greet you, wait- To you so fondly dear, Who for association's sake May shed a joyous tear. Come and review the hallowed past, When you in childhood played. And walk the streets where long ago Your childish feet have strayed; Where entertained, you'll daily be, And honored while you stay, For sunny hospitality With flowers will strew your way. Come, and Old Home Week's treats enjoy, That for a good-time tell. And seem at home where you were born, With friends who wish you well; And be of those who long again Comrades of old to greet, Who, in the city of your birth, You hope once more to meet. With old acquaintances of yore Sweet friendship's ties renew, And by-gone scenes love to recall With those to you so true; And golden days to memory dear In thought, live o'er again. When you with pleasure roamed, and you In childhood loved to train. Friendship and Home Yes, wander back again to a Fair city by the sea And view, with pride, historic sites So dear to liberty; Where freedom's brave defenders lived In stirring days of yore. And, once again, with gratitude Their memory adore. Yes! yes! to dear, old Boston roam, And proud of her, oh be! Whose name is known the wide world o'er — That patriots love to see; Come and be welcome everywhere Midst scenes so light and gay. Where you long — long ago so loved To pass the time away. THE SONGS OP HOME MY MOTHER USED TO SING. How I in fancy love to hear the songs My mother used to sing Of "home, sweet home/' that makes my heart as light As merry birds in spring. When in the cottage of my youth, in thought, I seem to be again— Aye, in the dear old home I loved so well When I was wont to train! Refrain: How I in fancy love to hear the songs My mother used to sing Of "home, sweet home," that makes my heart as light As merry birds in spring! The songs my mother used to sing, how sweet! How pleasing to my ear! — The bright and joyous songs of long ago. That I so loved to hear; Friendship and Home The hallowed lays that pleased me when a child, When sunny was my lot. That to my heart endeared my cottage home, Which never' 11 be forgot. What would I give to hear her sing again The songs so dear to me — The loving words that lulled me oft to sleep When sitting on her knee; That made me early love and venerate The sacred name of home — The name that I shall never cease to love Wherever I may roam. THE FRIENDS I USED TO KNOW. While sitting by my cosy hearth, How sweet it seems to me When lightly drifts the winter snow On mountain, hill and lea, To think again of those I love, Of friends my boyhood knew, Who played with me when I was young And to their vows were true! How pleasing to recall the friends That I have ne'er forgot. With whom I often strolled when bright And sunny was my lot; When in a rustic ville I dwelt, Far from the city's din. Where those wiio tread in justice' paths Unfriendly seemed to sin! What hallowed scenes come back again To comfort and to cheer. As I in fancy see once more The friends to me so dear; While in my old arm-chair I sit And think of days of yore. Of happy seasons of the past That I shall live no more! 10 Friendship and Home So while I can in fancy see The friends my childhood knew — The joyous friends I love so well, Who were so kind and true; I'll oft recall life's sweetest hours And keep their memory green, And seem to be a boy again In many a pleasing scene. FRIENDSHIP'S MEMENTOES. How sweet it seems in lonely hours, With love to fondly gaze On friendship's mementoes so dear, Which speak of by-gone days; Of memories that ne'er grow old And pleasures ever new, Of friends, of unforgotten friends, That never were untrue! When gazing on some treasured ring, What pleasing joys return. When in imagination, we Some sweetheart's face discern; When pondering o'er quaint relics old. The gifts of love sincere. Which seem to grow, as time rolls on, More precious and more dear! How satisfying to the heart When stars do brightly glow, To trace again in trinkets dear The friends we used to know; With fancy's aid to live again Life's most endearing hours, And roam through friendship's cherished vales, That gleam with memory's flowers! What rapturous joys and welcome scenes Return, with fond delight, To cheer the heart when doting on Some old familiar sight; Friendship and Home ii When tracing in some locket rare, A mother's loving face — That thoughtless time or crippling age Its lines will ne'er efface! What ecstacies! what soothing joy We never cease to feel Whenever we with presents dear 'Round friendship's altars kneel; When conning o'er some favorite book Some loved one Idndly gave, Who long ago was gently laid Down in the cold, cold grave! So, as we slowly journey on Life's highway to the tomb. May friendship's cherished flowers ne'er fade And die, but sweeter bloom; May its mementoes ne'er by love — Sweet love — forgotten be. While memory charms and we can still Its hallowed tokens see. A FRIEND I'LL NE'ER FORGET. However sad my lot in life. How drear my future be; Though I with fortune sup, or roam With cold adversity. My Mary dear, I'll ne'er forget — A friend to me so true— Wherever I may dwell or roam. Whatever I may do. Though she beneath the turf had long Ago been laid to rest. Still, in my heart her memory Would be a welcome guest; For how could I forget a friend — A wife so dear to me — Who for me loves to kindly feel And my sweet smiles to see? 12 Friendship and Home While I prize love and gratitude I'll daily think of her, Who is the sunlight of my heart And its refreshing myrrh; For why should I ungrateful act Toward one I love so well, With whom, when we from earth have passed, I hope to always dwell? My Mary I shall ne'er forget While I can love and feel. And at fond memory's altars I Am privileged to kneel; So long as I can think of one So kind and good to me, I'll bear her constantly ir mind. And act, aye, gratefully. THE HOME I LOVED SO LONG AGO. How sweet it seems to wander back again To scenes where I was born. To tread once more the soil I oft have trod Lo! in life's early morn; When, everywhere, I see the blooms of spring And lilacs love to blow. And I can view again the happy home I loved so long ago. Refrain: Ah, yes! how sweet it seems to view again The home where I was born. And fancy I have seen the friends I love- Alas! now dead and gone. At the front-door I see my mother stand. Where morning glories grew. And, working in the garden, handy by. My father, kind and true; While on the door-yard's coat of living green. With playmates dear, I train, And in imagination seem to live My childhood o'er again. Friendship and Home 13 I see the swallows 'neath the old barn eaves And hear the whip-poor-will, And listen to the robin's cheery notes Down by the cider-mill; And, as of yore, I see the cowslips bloom In meadows bright and green, Where bob-o'-liuks can sing so merrily And I so oft have been. Ah, yes! how sweet it seems to view again The home w^here I was born. And fancy I have seen the friends I love — Alas! now dead and gone; How fondly sweet to think that I have seen The home so well I know — The home that I can ne'er forget — the home I loved so long ago! THE COT THAT SHELTERED YOU AND ME. O brother dear! but yesterday I saw The cot that sheltered you and me. The little cot with ivy running o'er. Where oft we played so merrily When trying care and trouble roamed afar, And many a merry joke was sprung. Where pleasure whiled life's balmy hours away And we the songs of childhood sung. Refrain: O brother dear! but yesterday I saw The cot that sheltered you and me. The little cot with ivy running o'er. Where oft we played so merrily. But yesterday I sat me down again Beside the hearthstone, old and gray, Where you and I the quiet games of youth In wfnter-time so oft would play; When faces old to me again appeared. And voices sweet I seemed to hear — The voices of the friends we loved so well. Of father and of mother dear. 14 Friendship and Home When musing there beneath, its storm-worn roof I thought my brother dear of you, Of the sad changes thoughtless time had wrought Since we were comrades, tried and true; How I had not, when you haS prosperous been- How you ne'er felt the pangs of want, But, like the fickle world, alas! you loved Too well to criticise and taunt. When sad misfortune preys upon my mind And dreary seems life's changing sky. How I in fancy love to wander back Beneath its humble roof to lie; The golden days of yore to live again, When we were happy, young and free, Within a home that never'U b3 forgot — The cot that sheltered you and me! SUMMER FRIENDS. While you are prosperous, you can On summer friends depend, While you are standing on your feet And gold desire to lend; So long as you with plenty dine And live and dress in style, They'll not refuse, when so desired. An hour with you to while. While you are fond of treating them And freely love to give. They'll not forget to notice you Wherever you may live; So long as you have scrip to burn And gold to throw away. They'll stick like bark on an oak-tree And from you never stray. While you a good appearance make And are a friend to show. While you good-natured love to be And how to please them, know; So long as they believe that you Friendship and Home 15 Are well supplied with gold, They'll stand by you and boldly swear Their love will ne'er grow cold. But when reverses come, how changed! How quickly then they flee; The very friends you counted on You look in vain to see. Where are they then?— these hypocrites, Deserving of the name — Why, they have disappeared and gone In search of other game. DON'T CALL THAT MAN A FRIEND. Don't call that man a friend, who loves Behind your back to talk, Unless you like to play the fool And decency to shock; But rather act as wisdom would— Be careful what you say, If you would on the safe side dwell And not be led astray. Don't call that man a friend, who dares Your faults to advertise, So long as you are one who can The laws of honor prize; While you look down on what is mean, Contemptible and low, And seeds of sinfulness in life You do not wish to sow. Don't call that man a friend, who leaves You when misfortune comes. When you, perchance, are forced to dwell In penury's cheerless slums; For, if you do, you'll play the part Aye, of short-sightedness. By running after one who ne'er Your lowly lot will bless. 1 6 Friendship and Home Don't call that man a friend, who twits You of mistakes you've made, While you have self-respect, and your Fair name v/ould not degrade; But look upon him as a foe And love to guarded be, While you no pleasure ever find In acting foolishly. CHOOSE A FRIEND. Better 'mong those ne'er choose a friend Who'll not for others feel, That in the realm of usefulness O'erlooks the public weal; But 'mong the kindly-hearted seek And friends worth having know, If you would not make a mistake And seeds of folly sow. Better 'mong those ne'er choose a friend Who hearts of steel possess, That never care the lot of the Unfortunate to bless; But 'mong those who desire to aid The cripple and the weak, If you would sense and wisdom please, And like a wise man speak. Better 'mong those ne'er choose a friend Who far from goodness strays. That wander from sweet virtue's paths And would with meanness stays; But 'mong those who uprightly walk And for a good name care, If you love to act sensibly And honor's colors wear. Better 'mong those ne'er choose a friend Who would act miserly, That from bad habits never strives FricndsJiip and Home 17 Or longs, lo, to be free; But 'mong those who can generous act And scatter sunshine's seeds. If you desire to be esteemed By those who do good deeds. Better 'mong those ne'er choose a friend Whose aims in life aie low, Who loves to grin at one who must In boggy meadows mow; But 'mong those who can sympathize And shed a kindly tear, ' If you desire to nobly live And to act basely, fear. I MIGHT HAVE HAD A HAPPY HOME. I might have had a happy home But for my foolish wife. Who was a friend to fretfulness And never-ending strife; Who in hot-water loved to be — She liked to gossip so — That made her neighbors t;ccwi and filled My soul with bitter woe. I used to wonder why her tongue Could fly so rapidly. When none, alas! had angered her And I was meek's a bee; When 1 was deeply sighing for A little happiness. That long from me had kept away — I must with pain confess. So fond was she of dress and show She often drained my purse, That made me long for my last ride In death's oft-dreaded hearse. To fashion she was such a slave, And to society. That from her presence, I admit, I often longed to flee. i8 Friendship and Home To her, vain style was everything, So where did I come in? Oh! never mind. But this I knew She wasn't too good to sin; Because she cared no more for home Than she did for a fly— And less, indeed, for me, when 1 Her wants could not supply. So who can wonder why I longed To have a happy home? Why I, alas! far, far away Did often long to roam? Where I might possibly forget That I e'er wed a wife Who, than of home, thought more, indeed. Of empty show and strife. THANKSGIVING DAY IN OUR OLD FARM- HOUSE HOME. Down in our farm-house home, oh, what A happy time we had When all the smiles of kindness wore And none looked lone or sad! Because it was Thanksgiving Day, That comes but once a year, To bless the home we'll ne'er forget — The home to memory dear. How father and how mother smiled On this inviting day. When happiness was trump and our Young hearts were light and gay! So pleased they seemed to knov/ that we So light and happy felt In the old home where they so oft In prayer have humbly knelt. How on the turkey we did feast. And on the pudding, too. Because 'twas only once a year Friendship and Home , 19 This treat was ours, we knew; How dull and dumpish we appeared When we could eat no more. When we began to think we ought To fall down on the floor! Now when Thanksgiving days return They find us far away, Far from the home our childhood knew, Now we are old and gray; But we have ne'er forgot the home We loved so long ago, Or good old turkey-time when cold The winds of autumn blow. THE FRIEND I LOVE TO SEE. The friend I love to see Is one Who has a sunny heart, And from the joys of cheerfulness Has no desire to part; Who dares to stand up for the truth And on base acts looks down, And on the sins of treachery Is not ashamed to frown. Who loves to keep good company And sunshine's seeds to sow, And in the realm of knowledge strives Of wisdom more to know,* Whose word can be relied upon, No matter when or where, And on the stage of life doth not Two faces wish to wear. Who knoweth how to justly judge, And not by style and gold, Like those Avho would the lowly poor. Aye, leave out in the cold; Who never carries scandal's news, Or mischief loves to breed, Or oa insipid gossip's food Is ever known to feed. 20 Friendship and Home Who can with others sympathize And for another feel. And, in the varied marts of trade, Believes in a fair deal; Who to dumb animals is kind And to his rivals fair. And for the helpless and the weak Is not the last to care. Who never likes to twit and slur, Or vulgar language use, Or to be one who has to do With mischief-making news; Who never would be quarrelsome, Or ill-treat any one. Or of misfortune be of thoso^ Alas! who would make fun. Who loves to be agreeable. But never bold and rude. And, where not wanted, never dares, Or longs lo, to intrude; Who strives to live the golden rule And to please righteousness. And bright and happy seems when he His fellow-men can bless. MY MANSION HOME. My mansion home of long ago I'm thinking of to-night. While by my attic fire I muse And watch the embers bright; When on the window-pane is heard The sound of winter rain, And I, to pass the time away, Live in the past again. Pi,efrain: My mansion home of long ago I'm thinking of to-night, While by my attic fire I muse And watch the embers bright. Friendship and Home 21 Again I see its stately walls. So pleasing to the eye, And, in the drawing-room, the friends Who 'neath the cold sod lie; While once again, with one I love, I walk the marble floor Just as I did long years ago In golden days of yore. Its costly furnishings, so prized, And paintings old and rare, Remind me of more prosperous days When I could diamonds wear; Ere demon drink robbed me of all And left me penniless. Who oft with wealth was pleased to dine When I could richly dress. My mansion home is standing still. But little changed to-day, Where strangers— strange to me — now pass Life's sunny hours away; The home where wealth and plenty reign, Where I was pleased to dwell, Ere thro' the "cup" I lost my home— The home I love so well. MY OLD FRIEND JOE. I love to think of you, my old friend Joe, Of one so kind and good— that I love so; With w^hom full many a golden hour I've whiled When blustering winter howled and summer smiled So faithful you have always been to me, When plenty cheered or frowned adversity; So pleasing to my heart, I love to praise The genial friend I've loved from childhood's days. A model friend, indeed, you e'er have been. Who wisely walks and frowns on what is mean. Believing in what can uplift and bless, And in the noble cause of righteousness; 22 Friendship mid Home While striving to be always wise and just, As those who in the righteous love to trust; Of whom sweet friendship is so justly proud. With goodly traits you were so well endowed. Ah, yes! my old friend Joe, to me so dear, Who thro' so many years has been so near, Of you I love to think and fairly praise — The constant friend I've loved from childhood's days; Because you ai:e the ideal of my heart, From whom I know^ I'll never wish to part, So long as I the worth of friendship prize And I shall bide among the just and wise. WHEN HOME SO PLEASING SEEMS. When home so pleasing seems, you see. Is when its inmates can agree And from contention would be free. When love is never out of sight And its warm rays are wondrous bright. And all desire lo, to do right. When no discordant sounds are heard And none are ever meanly slurred. But peace charms like a singing bird. When ugly words seem out of place Where virtues love to cheer and grace, And all would show a sunny face. When all know how to happy feel And at the shrine of comfort kneel. And with each other fairly deal. When none are slaves to vanity And from abuse are wholly free. Like one who courteth harmony. When in ill treatment none believe Or needlessly a heart would grieve, Or wish to injure or deceive. Friendship and Home 23 When all for one another care And fond affection's tokens wear. And. like the prosperous, kindly fare. WHAT FRIEND CAN DO SO MUCH FOR YOU? What friend can do so much tor you As mammon when in need, When pennyless, and none for you Will do a kindly deed; When you are homeless and despised By those who judge by gold, And sad misfortune forces you To sleep out in the cold? What friend can do so much for you When you have debts to pay, And creditors are cross, and you Know not, to turn, which way; When sickness comes and you are shunned, And left, perhaps, to die; When you, forgotten by the world, With poverty dost lie? What friend can do so much for you When wedded you become, Aye, what can then like mammon aid In beautifying home; Or so enable you to live As human beings should. And cause your feet to stand Where men of means have stood? What friend can do so much for you, Should you in business fail, Or, v/hat can fill its place when you A pauper's lot bewail; What can make you esteemed again Or set you on your feet, Or cause the world to bow and smile Like friends you used to greet? 24 Friendship and Home What friend can do so much for you, Or make men sweeter smile. Or quicker aid you when you long: To promenade in style; And when at last to death, you bow, And you have said "good-bye," What can for j^our remains so grand A mausoleum buy? THE OLD HOMESTEAD. To the old homestead of my childhood, I In fancy often love to roam. To old familiar scenes my bo/hood knew Around my old ancestral home; To view again the hill-side and the stream. The rocks and riils and meadows fair. As in the happy days gone by, so dear. When I was young and free from care. Refrain: To the old homestead of my childhood, I In fancy love to often roam, To old familiar scenes my boyhood knev/ Around my old ancestral home. I love to wander through those shady haunts Where oft my childish feet have strayed, To linger on the playgrounds of my youth, Where I've so often danced and played; To sit beneath the maple's cooling shade 'Mid old associations dear, With comrades that I nevermore shall see. And sing the songs I loved to hear. In contemplation oft I wander back To live my childhood o'er again With parents kind and fond companions dear, On the old homestead by the lane; To sit beside the hearthstone's genial fire In the cottage where I was born, Upon the old plantation, as of yore. To live sweet seasons past and gone. Friendship and Home 25 TRUE FRIENDS. When cold misfortune visits you And you in need may be, True friends will not forsake you then, Or from you wish to flee; Though empty be your purse, they'll not Forget to notice you, And, as they were in prosperous days, Be ever just and true. WTien trials come and trouble frowns A helping hand they'll lend, And when you need a brother's aid Will cheerfully befriend; However fierce life's storms may beat — How" loud its billows roar. They'll by you bravely stand till what You dreaded so is o'er. When the cold, selfish world at you Is prone to basely frown. And underhanded enemies Desire to drag you down; Then they will not, like summer friends, Believe all that they hear. And when you sin, than damn, Would rather shed a tear. So doubly grateful you should be, If you have friends so true, On whom you ever can rely — As they, indeed, are few; While you admire a noble mind And gratitude revere; So long as honor you esteem And faithfulness hold dear. A CHRISTIAN HOME. A place where Christ is not debarred And God a welcome finds. And round the social hearth, sweet love 26 Friendship and Ho me Its tendrils daily twines; Where harmony delights to dwell With peace and gentleness, And all desire to friendly act And toward the tiiith to press. Where thoughts of Heaven can sunshine bring- To those who love to trust Lo! in the promises of One Whose words will never rust; Where all would live the golden rule And one another bless, And, never knowingly, the rules Of faithfulness transgress. Where jealousy is never known To play a cruel part, And cold, unfeeling envy ne'er Has fired a poisonous dart; Where cheerfulness deliglits to reic?n And justice feels at home, And none in search of happiness Is ever known to roam. Where meanness is unpopular. As it deserves to be. And none desire to lightly speak Of sunny charity; Where none are prone to twit and slur, But love lo, to be kind, And follow in the steps of one Who has with goodness dined. Where sacred things are justly prized And holy thoughts revered, And loving hearts to what is good And pure are most endeared; Where righteous living is esteemed. And kindly deeds as well. And all in unison from day To day are pleased to dwell. Friendship and Home 27 MY OLD NEW ENGLAND HOME. O how I love to wander back again, Back to my old New England home, Down in a flowery vale among the hills Where I in childhood loved to roam Through old familiar fields and wild woods cool, In summer's balmy days of yore, When hopeful youth and happiness were mine And I dwelt on life's sunny shore! Chorus: O how I love to wander back again, Back to my old New England home, Down in a flowery vale among the hills Where I in childhood loved to roam; Upon the sacred soil of liberty. Of Lexington and Bunker Hill, Upon the soil our Pilgrim fathers trod— And their descendants ever will! In contemplation, oft I sit me down In the farm-house my boyhood knew, Beneath the humble roof that sheltered me My childhood's joyous season through; To see my mother in her old arm-chair And father's genial voice to hear, ■ And, as I fondly muse, to live again The golden hours to me so dear. So proud, I'll ever be of being born And reared in a New England home— The birthplace of so many famous men And women, who no longer view Its valleys green or climb its rocky hills, But who have to distinction rose In all the varied walks of human life, As trusty information knows. THE MOSS-GROWN COT, MOTHER. The moss-grown cot again I see. My childhood's happv home, Near by the verdant fields where oft 28 friendship and Home My careless feet did roam. The cot I loved when I was young How still to-day it seems, But as of old upon the pane The summer sunshine beams! Refrain: The moss-grown cot to memory dear, My childhood's happy home, Near to my heart will always be Wherever I may roam. Again I hear the self-same jol:es My father used to tell, When summer smiled aad winter frowned- The jokes I loved so well; When in the evening I sat near The hearthstone's genial fire— - My only brother by my side, Arrayed in plain attire. Methinks I hear again a voice That often solaced me — Ah, yes! 'in fancy I behold Life's dearest friend to me; Whose loving smiles come back again, As in bright days of yore, Like rays of joy that in my heart Will live forevermore. I see the morning-glories bloom Beside our old front-door. While on the gate the robin siTigs And swallows skim and soar; Though far away I'm dwelling now, The little moss-grown cot. That sheltered me in childhood's days, Will never be forgot. I'M SATISFIED WITH HOME. Let others roam where'er they will- It matters not to me — Friendship and Home 29 O'er mountains or through plains, afar Across the '*deep blue sea"— I'm satisfied with home. The' others love to visit cluos To while the time awa>, Or out-of-doors had rather be With those who love to stra>— I'm satisfied with home. Let others talk about saloons And to the tavern go, Or wander 'neath the pale, pale moon When evening zephyrs blow — I'm satisfied with home. Tho' others lightly speak of it And, even sneer at me, And laugh at my expense, because I can't with them agree — I'm satisfied with home. However humble it may be My love will never wane, Tho' others pass unkind remarks To cause me needless pain — I'm satisfied with home. Tho' I bo slighted by the proud, When in adversity, Or flattered and respected when I sail on plenty's sea— I'm satisfied witli home. THE MODEL HOME. The model home is found where those abide That by uprightness stand, , ,. ^,, Where one, by love and kindness swayed, delights To lend a" helping hand; Where children to obey are ever prompt When dutv bids them to. When its inmates to truth and righteousness Ar^ willing to be true; 30 Friendship and Home Where love and sunshine find a welcome warm And spotless virtues bide. Where those who frown on vanity and siu With right and honor side; Where the sweet influence of peace and joy Is felt by night and day, And haughty pride and cruel selfishness Have no desire to stay; Where language, harsh and vile, is never heard Or low desires that blight. Are countenanced or nursed, but purity's lamp Is cheery, clear and bright; Where pessimism's gloomy fears do not Becloud a hopeful mind, But literature that elevates and guides, The wise and good can find; Where one, another loves to please, and smiles Bid care and trouble flee, Where hate and slander never come to curse. Or ugliness and jealousy; Where 'neath the sway of gentle kindness, life Worth living seems indeed, When its inhabitants, in what endears, Desire to nobly lead; Where smiling faces with good-nature charm And scowls are never seen, Where one will seek in vain to find what is Ignoble, base and mean; Where parents, worthy of the name, their young They guard and rightly rear. And for the ills of life is seen to flow The sympathetic tear. So, fortunate indeed are they who dwell Lo, in a model home. Where happiness and love reside, from which They never long to roam; Where cherished peace and sunshine captivate, And joy and comfort cheer — That its blest inmates think on earth The spot to them most dear. Friendship and Home 31 TO CHILDHOOD'S HOME I'LL WANDER BACK AGAIN. To childhood's home I'll wander back again, To a lone village far away, With one I love in golden autumn-time— Where I in childhood loved to stay— When forests fair with charming colors please And rural nature's blooms so sweetly smile, Where when a child, from care and trouble free, Life's rosy hours I loved to while; For I would walk its hallowed streets, as I In by-gone days loved to so well, And, in the moss-grown cottage of my youth. Just for an hour with memory dwell. For with my own sweet Mamie dear, I long To wander where my childish feet Have trod, among its flowers bright and gay. When I fond playmates used to greet. Back to its pleasant shades and sunny greens Oh, may it be my lot to roam, That I may from the city's din be free And view once more my childhood's home! For life's unwelcome cares I would forget When strolling through its fields so fair- Ay, when at memory's unforgotten scenes I love again to fondly stare. The haunts my childhood knew I long to see- However changed to-day they seem— Old Princeton hill, the mead and village-green, The brook, the mill-pond and the stream; The shady nooks where love and pleasure cheered, The Roper farm and Bailey brook, Which seem as dear as ever still, though I Long years ago these scenes forsook. The pleasing sights that charmed me when a boy, W^hich never'll from my memory fade, The lowly cot so pleasing to my heart, The woodland's cool and mossy glade; 32 Friendship and Home The orchards and the rustic gardens fair. The pottery-shop, to-day so still, The cosy playgrounds, that I oft recall, And fishing haunts and old grist-mill. So to the village of my childhood's days I'll gladly wander back again, And fancy I am j^oung while strolling where, With those I love, I used to train; Though childhood's friends and playmates kind and dear Will not be there to welcome me. Still with my Mamie dear, I'll happy feel. If I its hills and dales can see. THE MANSION ON THE HILL, MOTHER. Mother, to-day I visited The mansion on the hill. Where you and I, long years ago. Of sunshine had our fill; ; Y/here love and sweet contentment cheered. And comfort chose to stay Through frosty winter's chilly night And summer's gladsome day. I saw once more the drawing-room Where, with sweet fancy's aid, Your pleasing form again appeared, Yv^here I in childhood played; And golden hours of by-gone days I seemed to live again, When I with playmates, tried and true, So loved to romp and train. And oh! while 'neath its vine-clad roof What joys returned to me, What thoughts came flying back of one I never m.ore shall see! Of you, my mother dear, so gocd, So faithful and so true, Who with me lived the rosy hours My happy boyhood knew. Friendship and Home 33 Your deeds of love and watcbful care And chidings just and wise, , Again fond memory recalled-— That I so dearly prize; And many a pleasing thought of you More dear than ever seemed, As kindly words and noble acts Before my fancy teemed. Your gentle voice I seemed to hear, So pleasing and so sweet. As through its silent rooms I strayed With naught but gloom to greet; Still, tender words that mothers speak. Returned my heart to cheer, Lo, in the mansion on the hill, To-day to me so dear. The kind advice you gave me there Has proven a beacon-light. Ay, ay! when I have tempted been To wander from the right; The counselings that w^ere with truth And justice in accord. Which bade me learn to justly v/alk. And firmly trust in God. So, to my heart, the mansion on The hill will ever be A sweet remembrancer of you, I long again to see; Whom I shall never cease to prize So long as life is mine. While precious thoughts of you around My heart I love to twine. WHERE CAN I FIND SO TRUE A FRIEND? (A Good Mother.) Where can I find so true a friend In cold misfortune's hour, When I am forced to occupy 34 Friendship and Home Sad tribulation's bower; When I, my sliip of life, am forced To steer with compass lost And I on trouble's boisterous sea Am most unkindly tossed? Where can I find so true a friend When sorrow worries me. When for loved ones I sigh and grieve, And long in vain to see; When I a confidant desire Whose word to truth is wed, Who never would for gold betray, But with the righteous tread? Where can I find so true a friend Lo, in the hour of need. Who can for me so deeply feel Or so devoutly plead; Who when bewildering trials come So tenderly can talk, When in the chairs of restlessness I am obliged to rock? Where can I find so true a friend Who talks so cheerfully, When on life's wintry side I look, Or thinks so oft of me; When I down-hearted feel, who can Sunshine so quickly bring. Or plead so earnestly with me The lays of hope to sing? Where can I find so true a friend Who will so faithfully My secrets keep, or in dark hours So nobly stand by me? No matter where I dwell or roam, A friend so good and kind, (So faithful when life's trials come, I know I'll never find. Friendship and Home 35 I WOULD NOT LOVE TO FRIENDLESS BE. I would not love to friendless be, Whate'er my lot in life, While I am forced to dwell lo, in A world so full of strife; While I a social nature claim And conversation cheers, And I can shed, for those I love, Affection's hallowed tears. I would not love to friendless be. No matter where I dwelt. If I the sunny influence Of friendship e'er had felt; If I had ever known a friend Congenial to my heart. From whom I know it would, to me, Be painful e'er to part. I would not love to friendless be, For I would lonely feel — Though rich or poor — if I could not At friendship's altars kneel: If I should journey on alone In this wide world of ours — Like some, alas! who never see Affection's cherished flowers. I would not love to friendless be. While I prize happiness. So long as I love company. With joy, I now confess; While I am interested in Humanity and care, Like those who kindly hearts possess. How othors live and fare. THE MODEL FRIEND. The model friend is one who loves To always kindly act Toward those who highly prize their word 36 Friendship and Home And are by honor backed; Who strives to keep his promises, Whatever they may be. And from the vile resorts of sin Is not ashamed to flee. Who of another's feelings thinks And is to kindness wed, Believing it is just and wise To be to treachery dead; Who never would advantage take Of those who wisdom lack. Or to please underhandedness Deceive behind one's back. Who is a friend to etiquette, At home as well's abroad. And in the fields of foolishness Is never known to plod; • Who has a heart that even for An enemy can feel. And at the shrine of haughty pride Is never known to kneel. Who never loves to rudely act, But wooes civility, And from what can degrade or harm Is one who would be free; Who can for others sacrifice And do a kindly turn. And lessons wise from lowly minds Be not ashamed to learn. Who would not be to selfishness A base and heartless slave. Or to please cold, unfeeling greed Act like a grasping knave; Who plays the part of gentleman, Wherever he may be. And, never to please cruel spite, Would make an enemy. Who to right-living is a friend, At home and when abroad— Friendship and Home 37 A friend who dares to justly walk And to believe in God; Who loves to smile and kindly speak, And looks on the bright side. And with the worthy and the wise Forever would abide. I LOVE A SUNNY-HEARTED FRIEND. I love a sunny-hearted friend Who always has a smile. And with a pessimist would not His leisure time ere while; Who on the sunny side of life Is always to be found, And for his kindly deeds and words Is one who is renowned. A friend who ne'er my feelings harms Or strives to injure me. But one who would rejoice if I Could more of sunshine see; Who can a solemn secret keep And smile when others frown, And never, like the mean, would kick A brother when he's down. A friend who can be sociable And a good iime enjoy. And, never to please cruel spite, A neighbor e'er annoy; Who don't believe all that he hears And far from gossips strays, And, never for the love of gain, His fellow-men betrays. A friend who keeps his promises, On whom one can rely, Who to act under-handedly No money e'er could buy; Who would not be a slave to greed Or foolish act for pride, But everywhere be pleased with sense And kindliness to side. 38 Friendship and Home HOME AND FRIENDS. I love to sing of happy days, Of seasons long ago, When I the golden seeds of love And pleasure used to sow; When I had friends, so kind and true. And an inviting home. Where those I loved contented seemed And never longed to roam. Refrain: I love to sing of happy days, Of seasons long ago, When I the golden seeds of love And pleasure used to sdw. I love to think of those I prized When I in childhood played In genial summer-time, when we Through vales and meadows strayed; Of friends that I could always trust, Who were so dear to me. When in the careless days of yore. To wander, I was free. I love in fancy to behold The home that sheltered me When I, with parents that I'll ne'er Forget, so loved to be; To sit beside the hearth and sing, And pleasing stories tell, And watch my mother smile at jokes My father loved so well. I love in thought to be again With friends I'll ne'er forget, Who were the sunshine of my heart — Whose like I ne'er have met; And in imagination seem In childhood's home to be. When I with smiling plenty dwelt Free from adversity. Friendship and Home 39 COUPLETS. In trying hours, true friends play well their part — Thus showing others that they have a heart. True friends rejoice when you are prospering, And to your door kind wishes love to bring. From home be one who loves to banish strife, And, what may breed contention, dare to knife. When love is absent home less ploasing seems, And Avith the seeds of discord often teems. If you would have a pleasant home, then be A constant friend to love and harmony. From those who love to twit and slur One ought to flee— as from a cur. Be thankful if you have a happy home. And from its fold but rarely wish to roam. A sunny home is bliss, indeed, To those who goodness' precepts heed. The home that shelters cheerfulness Its happy inmates loves to bless. Home is no place to twit and slur, Or to create a needless stir. True friends and a good home, how dear To those who love and happiness revere! Fretting makes home a dismal place, Or fools do ne'er their names disgrace. At home to one and all be kind. While you love right and peace of mind. Be pleased when you can aid a friend, When you his honor would defend. 40 Friendship and Home Of a good home a champion be, Or you less happiness may see. Lo! of home training, never lightly speak While you dread to be called a senseless freak. MOTHER AT HOME. How sweet it seems when evening dawns To see my mother's face, On which I never can the signs Of pessimism trace; To see her in the home I've known Since I in boyhood played, Since in the sunny fields, so near, I first with loved ones strayed! How then I love to listen to Her gentle voice so sweet, When I from wearing toil am free — Ah! then, oh, what a treat! To listen to her good advice And words of love and cheer. To ponder them, as justice v/ould, From one to me so dear! How happy I shall ever be While mother dear at home Makes life so bright and sunny seem And bids me not to roam; While one I call "my dearest friend," Shall love and feel for me, And, in her old arm-chair, I can Her hallowed imas-e see! IF YOU WOULD NOT A FRIEND E'ER LOSE. If you would not a friend e'er lose Be careful what you say. Wherever you may be, and with The wise be pleased to stray; Friendship and Home 41 Aye, cautious what you do, lest you Should needlessly offend. And much, alas! against your will A hand to folly lend. See that you never twit or slur. Or talk behind one's back. Or dare to play a double part, Or in good-nature lack; But walk, lo, in the paths of one Who would treat others well. And with the upright and the good Wish you might always dwell. To sacrifice for friendship's sake, Be ever willing to, And to the vows that you have made. Don't fail lo, to be true. Or you may lose a worthy friend And act short-sightedly. Like those who far from wisdom stray And from discretion flee. Be careful not to ever slight Or dare to coldly greet One whom you love and reverence. Or wish to meanly treat; If you would not a friend e'er lose While on your journey through This world of sunshine, storm and care, And to your vows be true. BE THANKFUL FOR A HAPPY HOME. Be thankful for a happy home Where love delights to reign, And peace and sweet contentedness Are never known to wane; If you desire to wisely act And value happiness. And, like the good, your family Be ever pleased to bless. 42 Friendship and Home Be thankful for a happy home Where all contented feel. And love to take an interest In one another's weal; Where discord is a sound unknown, And sunshine loves to cheer Like kindly words do one who finds Life's journey dark and drear. Be thankful for a happy home, However poor it be, Where all do one another please And dwell in harmony; Where all their duty love to do And on injustice frown, Like those who with uprightness walk And on base motives frown. Be thankful for a happy home Where goodness doth abide, And none, on what can tell for sin, Are ever known to side; While you possess a grateful heart And worth appreciate, And you the blessings of sweet home Refuse to underrate. HOME AND FRIENDS. Be thankful if you have a home Where love and kindness reign, Where those you love delight to dwell And love doth never wane. Be thankful if your friends are true. And for you really care, Wliile you possess a grateful heart And signs of goodness wear. Be thankful if your home is one In which you happy feel Whenever 'neath its sheltering roof You sit, or stand, or kneel. Friendship and Home 43 Be thankful if your friends believe In living a good life. And joining hands with those who dare To frown on needless strife. Be thankful if your home is what You think it ought to be — A place where none unhappy feel, But all fair sunshine see. Be thankful if your friends are all That goodness doth desire. If they are never known to tread In meanness' slimy mire. Be thankful if your home is bright And cheery every day, If what for happiness can tell Is never prone to stray. Be thankful if your friends make life For you more sunny seem, If they, when in your company, With sweet good-nature teem. UNWORTHY FRIENDS. Better avoid unworthy friends While you prize happiness. And, in your heart of hearts, desire Your fellow-men to bless; While you sweet peace of mind admire And from discord would flee. If you with those who wisely walk The joys of life would see. Better avoid unworthy friends While you would rightly live, If you would not to foolishness Your time and money give; While you revere a worthy name And labor to do good. If. you would act a noble part And do as justice would. 44 Friendship and Home Better avoid unworthy friends While you on earth aspire To be of some account in life And noble aims admire; While you life's quicksands would avoid And on safe ground reside, If you would please the good and not With senseless folly side. Better avoid unworthy friends. Lest you be led astray, And, sooner than you think, be coaxed To tread the downward way; While you to meannv:)ss are a foe And to good-sense a friend, If you, to sin, do never wish A helping hand to lend. Better avoid unworthy friends Wherever you may be — Ay! better to be friendless than To seek their company; While you aspire to make your mark In goodness' fruitful field. If you would stand by righteousness And not to folly yield. A LOVELESS HOME. O may it never be your lot To dwell lo, in a home From whence, in order to find peace, You are obliged tO roam; Where hatred takes the place of love And sunshine none e'er see. While night and day is plainly heard The groans of misery! With those, oh may you never live Who rather froY>^n than smile, Who happy seem when they at home Can others' feelings rile; Friendship and Home , 45 But with the sunny-hearted, may You live life's fleeting hours With those who cheer, like kindly words. Or summer's sweetest flowers! Ay! in a loveless home may you Be never forced to dwell While to your ear are softly sweet The sounds of kindness' bell; While you prize peace and happiness And quarreling abhor. And with your fellow beings dread To always be at war. GOOD HOMES. How fortunate, indeed, are they Who live in a good home. Who to find peace and happiness Are never forced to roam; Where bad examples none e'er set. But goodness loves to reign, And aught that can upbuild and bless Is never known to wane. Where mothers — worthy of the name — Their young do rightly rear, And through their love and usefulness Their names to home endear; Where brothers and where sisters, too, In harmony abide, And with base jealousy and hate Are never known to side. Where worthy fathers justly act, And for their offspring care, And never, night or day. the frowns Of ugliness e'er wear; Where smiles, in place of scowls, are seen And sunshine's blessed rays. And all are known to daily strive To* walk in kindness' ways. 46 Friendship and Home Where children are taught how to mind And how to act and talk, And in the chairs of foolishness Are never known to rock; When all aspire to live a life Approved by righteousness, And, never to please vanity, Are slaves to show and dress. Where works that benefit are read And all improvement love. And none within its fold are rude, But harmless as a dove; Where none home-training's worth despise. Or at refinement sneer — The home where love and duty reign. To worth and goodness dear. NOW IN A MANSION HOME I DWELL. Now in a mansion home, I dwell, I ought to thankful be, While I am far removed from want And cheerless poverty; And to my Maker grateful feel For blessings I enjoy, If I would rationally act And not with folly toy. Now I dine on the best and sleep Lo, on a downy bed, And to the comforts wealth can give I know that I am wed; While happiness my 'pathway strews With blossoms bright and sweet, And in my daily intercourse True friends I often meet. Ay! for the blessings gold bestows, Lo! in return, I ought To justly live and walk with those Who noble deeds have wrought; If I would act consistently Friendship and Home 47 And frown on foolish pride. And with what tells for righteousness Be always pleased to side. A WORTHY HOME, INDEED. The home where love and justice reign And goodness' influence ne'er'll wane. Where smiling faces one can see And with the friends of kindness be. Wher^ the good-natured feel at home And to find peace don't have to roam. Where peevishness no welcome finds, But cheerfulness with sunshine dines. Where one, another strives to please, And with what can upbuild, agrees. Where worthy aims are not unknown And seeds of sin are never sown. Where all ideals high can woo And to their vows be ever true. Where happiness is wont to bless And all are friends to righteousness. Where fault-finding's unpopular And all bad language would debar. Where all believe in God and right And shun whate'er can curse and blight. Where children knowingly are reared And to their parents are endeared. Where harmony loves to prevail And none make fun of those who fail. 48 Friendship and Home Where lessons wise are daily learned And what improves is soon discerned. Where gentleness is not despised And kindly deeds are highly prized. In such a home all ought to dwell Who love to ring right-living's bell. WHEN SUMMER FRIENDS ARE FEW. When empty is your pocket-book And you are poorly fed, When forlorn is your lot and you To poverty are wed. Then summer friends are few. When you are forced to seek for aid By cold necessity, When with ill-luck you have to dine, And sleep with penury. Then summer friends are few. When you are forced to poorly dress And live most anywhere, When by the world you oft are shunned,. Like those who roughly fare. Then summer friends are few^ When you the pangs of hunger feel And gloomy is j^our lot. When you are down and destitute. And long to be forgot, Then summer friends are few. MY DEAR OLD HOME JUST FOR TO-NIGHT. Just for to-night, oh! let me view again My dear old home that sheltered me When I was young through childhood's carele.S3 daj'i And helpless hours of infancy; The little cot, so precious to my heart. Friendship and Home 49 Now I am growing old and sray. Oh, let me see again ere I, alas! From mortal scenes have nasned away. Chorus: My dear old home, just for to-night, I'm longing now to see. The cot I loved when I was young, That kindly sheltered me. ' ' Just for to-night, oh! let me hear again The voices once so fondly sv/eet, Of loving friends who never proved untrue — The friends I'm longing now to greet; That I may hear the ticking of the clock And creaking of the old arm-chair — To think myself a child again and bid Adieu to trouble, pain and care. Just for to-night, oh! let me k'ss again Sweet faces far more dear than gold, Of father and of mother kind and true — The faces that will ne'er grow old While love endears and recollection charms. And gratitude can bud and bloom — While I can gaze with hope's entrancing orbs Beyond the portals of the tomb. Just for to-night, oh! let me live again The past within my dear old home — The golden hours and blissful moments sweet Ere far away I went to roam; And 'round the cosy hearth, with those I love. Fond memory's scenes live o'er — The joyous scenes that never'U cease to bloom On childhood's never-fading shore. O HOW I LOVE A FRIEND WHO'S DEAR TO ME! O how I love a friend who's dear to me! Whose smiles are always sweet. With whom I like to pass life's sunnv hours And dearly love to greet; 50 Friendship and Home A friend on whom I ever can depend When smooth or rough life's sea. Who shims the haunts of selfishness And loves to cheerful be. Refrain: O how I love a friend who's dear to me! Whose smiles are always sweet. With whom I like to pass life's sunnv hours And dearly love to greet. With one who never looks on the dark side — A friend who's dear to me — Lo, in his sunny company so bright How I delight to be! With one who loves to be affectionate And always just and kind. Who in a feeling heart believes and in Nobility of mind. How light and happy then I feel, while I His Idndly voice can hear. When in his presence I am pleased to list To words of love and cheer! Because, so true a friend, not every day It is my lot to meet, As through life's winding paths I roam— a friend To me so kind and sweet. NEVER ILL TREAT A FRIEND. Whatever you may do in life. Oh, ne'er ill treat a friend! But rather when a chance occurs Be quick lo, to defend. If he has faults, you may have, too. So never hasty act Like one, alas! who seems to lack In charity and tact. Friendship and Home 51 BE GRATEFUL FOR FRIENDLY DEEDS. To friends who have been kind to you Ungrateful never be. But through your acts and words, that you Are thankful, let them see; That you appreciate what they In your behalf have done, And of their noble efforts ne'er Desire lo, to make fun. To those who have befriended you Lo, in the hour of need. Who, through their generous acts have shov/n That they are friends, indeed, Be ever thankful, kind and true. And for them kindly feel. And never long to say or do Aught that may harm their weal. MY BOYHOOD'S HAPPY HOIVIE. To-day I wandered back again To Sterling's vales so green, Near by Wauchusett's shady slopes. Where I so oft have been. Where childhood played, I strolled to-day, Around my boyhood's home. O'er hill and dale, through glen and grove. Where I was wont to roam. Though many a landmark is no more, Still, I can plainly see The little cot where I was reared— The friend of infancy. How sweet it seems to linger here. Where once I roamed so free. When all the world before me lay Far from adversity; 52 Friendship and Home Y/hen genial hope my pathway lit With many a dazzling light, And harmless pleasures often shone Along life's highway, bright! 'Twas joy to me when trouble dwelt From home far, far away, And anxious care intruded not On spring-time's sunny day. Though time has changed my boyhood's home. The pottery-shop and mill. Its playgrounds and their shady haunts, I love them dearly still. The blissful hours that here I spent I never shall regret; The happiest season of my life I never can forget. The village of my childhood's days I treasure with delight. And ever shall while memory lives Enjoy this cherished right. Look back, with pride, I often shall Upon its vales so green, And oft in thought live o'er again Some old famJliar scene. THEN, WHAT A FRIEND IS MONEY! Alas! when sharks in human form A mortgage would foreclose, And leave you shelterless, and you Contend with sordid foes; Then, what a friend is money! When you know not which way to turn, ''Cause debts so multiply. And grim despair makes you desire From penury's haunts to fly; Then, w^hat a friend is money! Friendship and Home 53 When you would in society shine And noticed wish to be. When you would be a favorite And please prosperity; Then, what a friend is money! When landlords warn you out and put Your goods down on the street, And you have no desire to live, But death would gladly greet; Then, what a friend is money! When greedy creditors would force You to talk suicide. And, if they had their say, would make You with the homeless 'bide; Then, what a friend is money! When you no way in life can see Your bills to promptly pay, And you, thereby, are forced lo, with The destitute to stay; Then, what a friend is money! When you your situation lose And want is hovering near. When prospects bright and cheery flee And poverty you fear; Then what a friend is money! Ay, ay! when unexpectedly Misfortune visits you. And empties soon your purse and malies You cry, "What shall I do?" Then, what a friend is money! When to the poor-house you believe That you must quickly go. Or when old-age weighs down, and you Have a hard row to hoe; Then, what a friend is money! 54 Friendship and Home MY OLD NEW HAMPSHIRE HOME. I'm thinking of my old New Hampshire home, Now I am dwelling far away, Far from the happy home my boyhood knew, Now I am growing old and gray; I'm thinking of the granite hills I love, Of blooming vales and meadows fair, Where oft my childish feet with pleasure roamed When I was young and free from care. Again I rove where I in childhood played, Upon the soil where I was born^ And in the farm-house, as of old, I sit With those I love, now dead and gone; Sweet smiles I see and loving words I hear. From fond companions now no more. Who with me lived the sunny days of youth When we the smiles of pleasure wore. Among its granite hills and valleys green I live my childhood o'er again, As Mt. Monadnock and Mt. Washington Their lofty summits I attain; As down the fair Connecticut I glide. Or o'er its famous lakes I sail. As through the beech and maple groves I stroll When summer blooms on hill and dale. Again, I seem to quaff the cooling draught From many an old familiar spring, And, as of yore, beneath the balmy pines The joyous songs of youth I sing; While thinking of my old New Hampshire home. Of scenes to recollection dear. Of childhood's friends I nevermore shall see — The friends I love and most revere. Chorus: I'm thinking of my old New Hampshire home. Now I am dwelling far away. Far from its granite hills- and valleys green, Now I am growing old and gray; As I in fancy roam its sunny fields Friendship and Home 55 I live my childhood o'er again, As I behold the cot that sheltered me When I was free from care and pain. OUR OLD LOG-CABIN HOME. To-night, thro' childhood's haunts again I roam, Down by my father's old log-cabin home, Down on the old plantation, as of yore, My careless feet so loved to wander o'er When pleasure reigned and happiness was mine. And I among the lasses used to shine; Where first I met my sweetheart on the green, When she was beautiful sweet Bessie Beane, Where once we wooed, ere aught we knew of gloom. When first the morning glories were in bloom. To-night, I hear the darkies sing again, Now by the cotton-fields I dance and train. As I in fancy love those merry hours When we so sweetly sang in shady bowers, When life and rosy hope before me lay And cold misfortune dwelt far, far away; Ere cruel changes came or sorrow tried. When I strolled carelessly o'er acres wide, And wooed so merrily down by the flume, When first the morning glories were in bloom. To-night, down in our cabin home, 1 see Sweet faces once so fond and dear to me; I see again the reverend pastor there The eve she looked so lovely and so fair, When gaily sang the blithesome nightingale And brightly beamed the stars o'er hill and dale; When, hand in hand, we vowed we'd faithful be Though fortune smiled or dark adversity — The vow we pledged as loving bride and groom When first the morning glories were in bloom. Now from these hallowed scenes tho' far we dwell, Far from the shady haunts we love so well. The old log-cabin home v/e've ne'er forgot Where first my sweetheart's hand I sought. 56 Friendship and Home When life with all its charms before me lay, And she was sweet and beautiful as May; When o'er its walls the woodbine softly crept And love and peace and fond contentment slept, Where in sweet wedlock's wiles we met our doom When first the morning glories were in bloom. NO FRIEND, LIKE MONEY, HAVE I FOUND. No friend, like money, have I found I can with justice say, That by me has so firmly stood At home or far away; No helper in the hour of need So willing to befriend When hunger at my vitals gnaws And I to penury bend. No friend, wherever I have roamed, That's done so much for me To cause my life to be in touch Lo, with prosperity; That's strewn my path^vay v\^ith so much That tells for happiness. Or brought so oft to me the joys That comfort, cheer and bless. So, till I find some surer friend Who can do more for me. And pay more willingly my bills When in adversity, I'll not forget that I've ne'er found As money, such a friend, So willing in the hour of need A helping hand to lend. NO FRIEND. Who loves to twit you of your faults — How dark or light they be — Is not, indeed, a real friend. But a mean enemy. Friendship and Home 57 Who likes your feelings oft to wound In a cold-hearted way. And in your presence never cares About what he may say. Who can, whenever so inclined. With pleasure backbite you. And, in your path the thorns of hate Be not afraid to strew. Who dares to falsify, to mar Your reputation dear, And on some dangerous reef your bark Of life would gladly steer. Who happy feels when slurring you, No matter when or where. And smiling sweetly when you know What 'tis to roughly fare. CHILDHOOD'S HAPPY HOME. Home of my childhood, ah, how^ changed, I see! Where I in boyhood lived and roamed so free; Now, after many years, again I view My father's cot, near where the maples grew, Midst scenes that long ago I loved so well. When in a country ville I used to dwell; And, as I list, I hear no sounds within. No welcome voice that w^ould attention win — Deserted lo, I but too plainly see. This moss-grown relic, once so dear to me! Still I can trace where oft my feet have trod. Where my dear mother knelt in prayer to God. The little room, tho' bare, reminds me still How earnestly she prayed for his good-will; Where father's kindly voice I seem to hear. And sister's smiles I see, to me so dear; Now, on Its walls, it is my lot to gaze And live again my childhood's sunny days. As I' in thought recall the joyous hours When I so loved to rove 'mong pleasure's flowers. 58 Friendship and Home To-day within the village church I sat, Where often congregate the lean and fat. Dear bosom friends — companions of the past — Who, I'll remember till I've breathed my last. But, oh! the faces that I saw were new And strange to me — ay, e'en the parson's, too. I saw but three to-day — ay, only three, In all the congregation known by me, And they the blade of time had marked so plain, To know, I had to stare and stare again. But yesterday I saw the district-school, Where many a comrade felt the master's rule, And learning bade our roving thoughts be still. While education curbed each stubborn will; Now weather-worn and marked by thoughtless time, It stands to view, like yonder aged lime, Betokening the fate that must be mine When with old-age at last I'm forced to dine; Since all that's temporal must soon decay And slowly pass from mortal sight away. How sweet it seems once more to linger here In a fair ville to fond remembrance, dear. Or, as of yore, in peace to idly roam The sunny fields that cluster 'round my home, To pluck again the wild rose on the hill And hear the swallow^s twitter on the sill On this bright summer day, as when a child. When nature's charms to me so sweetly smiled; To meditate 'midst scenes I love so well. Where I in childhood was so pleased to dwell! NOV li 190?