Class _i__^ ^ GoijyriglttN"__^ L COPYRIGHT DEPOSm FACTS AND FANCIES ll^^^^^i^^^M^ HP^^ " -^-^^j^^^-^ ^^^ pw ^ __,^'--v.^M.-.. ...., r^ ,- --^ ■ • rs.r./:£.-_»_ WINTER Drawn by William Francis Evans FACTS AND FANCIES By WILLIAM FRANCIS EVANS AUTHOR OF "DEAR OLD HOME" AND OTHER POEMS NEW YORK STEWART AND COMPANY 1914 76 3 s^ 1 Copyrighted 1914 BY Stewart and Company MAY -2 1914 EDITION LIMITED TO FIVE HUIvraRED COPIES^, OF WHICH THIS IS NO.J^ / lY ©CI.A3 6 9'920 TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE Introduction ix Childhood Days 1 1 Hallowed Thoughts ii Night is Drawing Nigh 12 Farewell To the Flowers 12 At Close of Day 13 Ambition 13 Winter 14 Approaching Night 14 Life's Cross Roads 15 Evening Star 15 The Hand Divine 16 Links 16 Child of My Dream 17 The Oak 17 Savior Divine 18 Welcome, Vernal Showers ! 18 Be Wise 19 Look To the Future 19 Time 19 Summer 20 The Storm 20 To "The Movies" 21 Tempestuous Winds 21 Birds in Storm 2.2 Lamentation 22. Children At»Play 23 Lines on a Broken Promise 24 "Farewell" 24 Children 25 Youth 25 Disappointment 26 Music 2y That Mysterious Light 2y V Shine On, Little Star 28 Dawn 28 Beautiful Sun 29 The Falls 29 Flight of the Soul 29 My Beautiful Wild wood Home 30 When We Were Children 31 Jack Frost 32 Nature Slumbers Not 32 A Winter Day Musing 32 The End of Day 33 Hallowe^en 33 Rain 34 The Faded Rose 34 To THE Passed Year 35 Veritas 35 The Fan 35 The Thrifty Farmer 36 The Lovers Reunited 37 Life's Bark 38 Those Dreamy Eyes 38 Finere Respice 38 Spring 39 Lightning 39 Quickly Life Passes 40 A Petition 40 Harvest Time 41 Thanksgiving 41 Sweet Memory 42 My Mother's Voice 43 Time is Valuable 44 Birds in Spring Time 44 The Coming of Winter 45 One Solemn Thought 45 Willie's Plight 46 I Dream of Thee 46 vi Vanishing Daylight 47 Christmas 47 The Species 48 The Good Housekeeper 48 Frost on the Pumpkin 49 Making Friends 49 The Mind 50 The Farmer's Lot 50 Baby in His High Chair 51 Little Snowflakes , 52 Little Gray Mouse 53 Rustic Scenes 54 The Village School Beli 54 The Little Mocking Bird 55 Divorcing the Straw Hat 55 The Busy Little Bee 56 Autumn 56 Restless Sea 56 Be Good 57 Little Rain Drop 57 Winds 57 Fame 58 The Norsemen 58 My Wish 59 Light of Day Fade Not Away 59 Twelfth Month 60 Ring, Merry Bells, Ring On 60 Consolation 61 Be Kind To Mother. 61 Sixteen-Sixty-Three 62 Germs 62 The Arrow 62 Honor 63 The Wind is Blowing 63 Fleeting Day 64 The Old Church Spire 64 vii Small Things 65 Memory Gems 65 March 66 April Showers 66 Cement 66 "Alpha" 66 My Wish 67 Beware (^y Duty (yj The Christian's Hope 67 The Babbling Brook 68 The Frolicsome Leaves 68 October Days 69 The Little Log Cabin 69 Refreshing Dew 70 The Lark 70 Uncle Bob's Luck 71 Willie's Excuse 71 Thy Face — Beautiful "jt. Somewhere You Are "j^ When Rest Comes At Close of Day 73 When Morn Meets Night 73 The Haughty Flower 74 Violets 74 Elysian Field 75 The Golden Flower 75 Shadows 76 Wintry Winds 76 Admonition ^y The Soul y^j The Test yj Death 78 Hope 78 Sleep 78 Parting 79 You Will Remember Me 79 Lamentation 80 viii INTRODUCTION From Virginia, that proud old State, the "world has received much that was whole- some and good in the way of precept and practice. These lessons have been taught to be treasured up as heirlooms as the years go by. The Statesman, full of eloquence; the Patriot, full of charms; and the Poet, full of song, have arisen in bright succes- sion to win the admiration and praise of all people. There, in times of trial and of tears, the little acorn was planted from which sprang the great oak, now well rooted and strong, which we know and love as The Great Republic, whose arms defy the storm of battle in troublous times, and give shel- ter in times of peace to the down-trodden and oppressed. It is something to have been born in Virginia. The child may not know nor appreciate the favor when it looks out upon the world, but in later life, when one learns that the State stands as the rep- resentative of Honor, Fidelity, Perseve- rance, Love, and Patriotism, he will under- stand the nature of the gift and privilege. We have been turned aside from the Brownies that are ever near us, through summer's heat and winter's cold, to look over these verses and have something to say in the way of introduction, which we do ix cheerfully, as the tone is surely moral and uplifting, and they breathe of Home and the pleasant memories that cluster about it. The one who can not see something in such reading, for either youth or age, needs at- tention from more than the family physi- cian. The author, who is a native of Alex- andria, Virginia, and who has led an active life with both brush and pen, has evidently kept in mind the admonition of the mighty minstrel to the struggling aspirant, ^^Foot and hand and knee he tries, Thus ambition's minions rise." The reader, before passing through the pages, may be convinced and pleased to know that the muse still waves her wing from the mountains of Old Virginia, even though no more, as we have been told, from the heights of Parnissus. Facts and Fancies CHILDHOOD DAYS * Happy days of childhood, Koaming o'er the lea, Gathering fern and wild flowers, Chasing bird and bee. From our early childhood, 'Till the days of youth, We while away the moments. As children do, forsooth. Childhood days are over. Work now claims our thought. And as we grow older. Noble deeds are wrought. * Courtesy of "The Gateway Magazine." HALLOWED THOUGHTS If I had nothing else to do, But think and think of only you, I wouldn't want the night to come, For sleep would stop me thinking some. II NIGHT IS DEAWING NIGH Willows are grouped against the sky, The little thrush his song has closed, And swallows homeward fly. Night is drawing nigh ! The beetle and the butterfly Haunt the shady dell near by. Here and there a fire-fly Sallies forth against the sky. Night is drawing nigh ! Lowing cows and crowing cocks Have, once more, their noises stopped ; And horses from the day's toil, Are resting in their narrow stall. Night is drawing nigh ! Soon will the evening meal be fed, And all creatures retire to bed, For light of day, at last ! has fled. Silent night, — ^is nigh ! FAREWELL TO THE FLOWERS O, Little flower, so sweet and so fair ! Your fragrance floats on the chill air. Soon you will nod your head in sleep ; Winter's snow and ice, a blanket o'er you keep. 12 AT CLOSE OF DAY Day fades o'er the hills, And shadows creep among the rills ; Little golden butterflies Wing away to silent dells. A little brown thrush Sings a joyous lay, His tribute at close of day. AMBITION To life with sordid pleasure. Time surely brings its fate. Heed then the day of reckoning, Ere the verdict be too late. Attack time by the forelock. With it wrestle till "Day" breaks, And at dawn on the morrow, Eenew thy struggles 'gainst fate. In this world of human endeavor, Success seeks not the great. Ambition, crushed by disaster. Will ne'er be content with its fate. Fight on ! O soul, fight on ! On angelic wings arise. Soar o'er peak and mountains, Beyond the vaulted skies. 13 WINTER Winter is near with, its rain and snow, We hear Old Boreas wildly blow. All signs of summer have vanished to rest, All the sights we have loved the best. The feathered songsters seek their nest, And the sun sets early in the golden West. APPROACHING NIGHT Darkness soon will veil the evening sky. The lowing cows are homeward slowly come. The buzz of a belated bee is heard. Winging by with faint and whirring hum. The farm house, silhouetted 'gainst the sky. Slowly fades from sight in gathering gloom. The old bell calls the tired farm hands in. Pealing forth its usual evening tune. The shades of eve grow dark and darker still. As lights shine out above the distant hill, A welcome beacon of the rural roads. That cheers the tired farm hands with their loads. 14 LIFE'S CROSS ROADS When life's sun is setting, And the hair is turning gray, Let us forget not time is valuable. As our sires did in their day. Let us employ each fleeting minute, As time swiftly passes by. For we are nearing life's cross roads. My brother, — ^you and I. EVENING STAR She watched the glow of the evening star Beam forth its bright light from afar, Into the dark shades of the night. While she sat by a dim candlelight. Into her heart there came joy. As she watched the descending evening star. When she lay upon her bed that night. She murmured, ^'Mother! where art thou?'' Her thoughts to other realms soared. As above the horizon the starlight glowed. At last she fell asleep in peaceful bliss, Murmuring with her childish lips, '^Even- ing Star." THE HAND DIVINE God of the Universe, In Thee we trust ; Thou, most holy. Thou art just. Could we but view, Through this prison wall, Thy master hand, Thy all in all. Thou, the hope of man. May we see at last. And with Thee abide. When life's storm is past ! God of the Universe, In Thee we trust. Thou, most holy. Thou art just. LINKS Faith, — ever with me abide, Hope, — linger near my side. Charity, — thou art my pride. Faith, Hope and Charity; May all the world prize. And with me abide, 'Till I reach the skies. i6 CHILD OF MY DREAM Child of my dream From wliere did you come ! Robust and happy, Dear little one. Child of my dream, O ; do not fade away ! I wish you would With me ever stay. THE OAK You stately old oak, A score of years you have Graced the country road. Upon your sheltering branches, Birds of the air repose. In by-gone days. Children of the farm Sought thy shade, To jump their rope. Or play "Mumbly Peg." Long may you live. To shade the play-ground, Of the children who loiter In the shade of your branches. From the heat of a Summer's day ! 17 SAVIOR DIVINE Let us serve thee, Let us adore Thee, In days of our youth. When life's evening comes, We will know Thy Truth. WELCOME VERNAL SHOWERS ! Come, O Vernal Showers ! To our flowery bowers And kiss the lilies fair. The hot sun's descending, And flowers are bending In silent prayer. Come ! O Vernal Showers, With thy refreshing powers And visit our posies dear, Come ! ere the day is gone, O ! do not tarry long. Come, while daylight's here. O'er the distant hill top, Dark clouds are rushing. Hear the chilly winds blow ! Tall reeds and grasses Are waving to and fro. Rain's now falling, — As the clouds float by. The flowers are raising their heads. Toward the sky. i8 BE WISE Each day that is idly spent, Brings a harvest of discontent. Loiter not your time away, And the future will doubly repay. LOOK TO THE FUTURE. Was thy pleasure yesterday, Mingled with fear And thy thoughts of bad deeds, A burden to thy mind? O why not live for the future. And not in the wrongful past. Look on the day that greets thee Redeem thyself, at last. TIME. Like the tides that ever flow, Years will come and years will go. How each minute seems to fly, As the days go drifting by ! Life is short, whatever we do. Then be honest, brave and true. Three score years and more by ten. Are seldom reached by many men. 19 SUMMER Flowers blooming, bees a-bumming, Birds a-flitting tbrougb tbe air ; Lovers wooing, pigeons cooing, Signs of Summer everywhere. Down the brook the frogs are croaking, And in pastures green and fair, Cows are lowing, softly lowing. Signs of Summer everywhere. Birds are singing, welkin's ringing, Lovers stroll, a happy pair; Twilight stealing, bells a-pealing, Signs of Summer everywhere. THE STORM Oh, terrible storm, your fury has rent Havoc and suffering among the tents ! Cleansed atmosphere you leave in your wake, As you pass over village, river and lake. Birds of the air your terrors know. And fly to shelter whenever your furious winds blow. Oh, terrible storm, whither are you bound? To what far off city, village or town? 20 TO "THE MOVIES" Oh, come and go To a picture show, Where laughter and joy Forever flow ! Where young and old Meet together Love and lovers, Greet each other Oh, come go \N4th me, To a picture show, Where laughter and joy Forever flow ! TEMPESTUOUS WINDS Oh, Stormy Winds ! Why around my window play? The night is dark, There is no sign of day. Oh, Stormy Winds, What weird noise you make ! The hour draws nigh ; When will the morning break? Oh, Stormy Winds ! Why tarry around my pane? Come ! Thou light of day. And bring me peace again ! 21 BIRDS m STORM Oh ; what will become of the little birds ! The approaching storm in the distance is heard. They will stretch forth their little wings And fly safely away, from the furious winds. After the storm, when the air is serene, The little songsters will again be seen ; And their sweet song, we love to hear, Will like a lullaby allay our fear. LAMENTATION » What a welcome zephyr, Nell, From across the fields of corn! The end of a vacation day ; It makes me feel forlorn. Another day is added To the fleeting week; Sadness steals o'er me When I think of our city streets. And when the time comes to leave. Oh, my ! but won't I grieve. A week on a farm, with large green fields, Is worth a hundred city meals. * Courtesy of "The Washington Times." 22 CHILDKEN AT PLAY On a bright summer's day, See the children happy at play, Kunning, jumping and skipping about, They are so happy they try to shout. As they toss their ball to and fro, You hear the noise as these urchins roar. Happy is this youthful group at play. And not a care their faces display. Bess tosses the ball to Dick, Harry tries to hit it with his stick ; And throughout the summer's day. Laughter and noise are mingled with play. These children in gymnastics are trained To possess healthy bodies and fertile brain. Charley is felled by the ball, but is up again ; ISTothing stops him, sun, wind, or rain. Vacation time for them has come. And when their morning work is done, They gather on the play-ground to play, Until darkness ends the day. Then home they go with fingers sore. And with face and hands tanned. Their clothes once white as snow. Dirty as a furnace man. 23 li:n^es on a beoken peomise oil ! why not by your promise die? Wliy deny your word, as months go by? Make one a promise and then decline, Is a grave mistake of heart and of mind. Win the heart, — ^break it, at your will, Leave an aching void, you should fill. Make one a promise and then decline, Is a grave mistake of heart and of mind. Some day, you'll reap this seed you have sown. Misfortune, then, will claim you her own, And it will be your time to wonder why Blessings from God forever pass you by. Give one your word and then decline. Is a grave mistake of heart and of mind. "FAEEWELL'' At last, we must bid farewell. And you depart forever from this sphere. You go to dwell in that immortal clime, Where happiness will ever be thine. Sorrow and weeping are never known In that haven where Our Father welcomes his own. When no longer I exist I hope to join you. Farewell." 24 CHILDRE:^r I sat at my window on a bleak November day, Watching school children homeward wend their way. Damp was the atmosphere, chilly was the day, But happy were the children as homeward bound they'd stray. Children, blithe and free, happy may they ever be ! Onward they went their way, that cold and chilly November day. YOUTH Oh, for the early days of my youth. Free from cares and the burdens of life ! Oh, carry me back to the days of my youth, When all was pleasure and happiness, proof ! At evening, before the open hearth. We would watch the glow from the fire enshroud us: And with books, slate and pencil. Work out the old school teacher's ex- amples. Oh, carry me back to the days of my youth, When all was pleasure and happiness proof ! 25 DISAPPOi:NrTMENT Aunt Julia Ann has a little girl ; They say she's double jointed. Aunt Julia says she loves her child, But hates to be disappointed. Jack called to see Dorothy White, To the city she had jaunted. How sorry said Jack, I feel. To be disappointed. One day, Frank climbed a large oak tree. To rob a nest in which he thought birds would be. The nest contained to his surprise two spiders of large size, And Frank began to cry, for he was disappointed. Johnny George, one day he fished ; — To go a-fishing he long had wished. He fished all day, to his dismay, and didn't catch a fish. Johnny said it was pleasure that he wanted. And at fishing he was disappointed. A broker once to his patrons said. My stock pays dividends every day. Very soon, it is told, the broker was dead — ( broke ) And his patrons were sadly disappointed. 26 Some men are so happy wlieii they wed, Misfortune does not daunt them. When they are married two days, Their wives are disappointed. After all, this disappointed state Follows the poor, the rich and the great. So take my advice don't stay up late. To worry over your past troubles or fate. For you surely will be soon or later disap- pointed. MUSIC Hark ! hark ! sweet music fills the air. The ladened zephyrs waft the sound afar. Joy to Apollo! Listen to the music of the Easter anthem fair! Hark ! hark ! sweet music fills the air. THAT MYSTERIOUS LIGHT I saw a light shine from afar, With brilliant glow like the evening star. At its flickering rays, my eyes gazed On that tranquil night in May ; To find it, at times, my life I would risk, At last, I found it was Will-O'-The-Wisp. 27 SBINE ON, LITTLE STAE. Shine on, shine on, little star ! Many miles from earth you are. We can see your tiny light, As you shine on this dark night. Shine on, till dawn of day Hides you in the sky away. At eve, with your tiny light. Shine on through the coming night. DAWN The morning star has disappeared beyond the Western horizon. And the dark shades of night Are blending with the light gray, in the Eastern sky. A faint chirp of nestled birds is heard, And in the deathlike quietness the echo of a crowing cock. The insects are still and frogs have ceased their croaking near the rill. Flowers are silently unfurling their leaves, The Lilies are nodding in the early morn- ing breeze. And as the sun slowly ascends in the East, Nature begins to stir, — ^with man and beast. 28 BEAUTIFUL SUN Beautiful sun of decadent day, Shedding forth your brilliant rays, Cheering us, from mom till night, Shine, ever shine, into our life. THE FALLS Your ever rushing torrents Gleefully sing Neptune's song. Through day and night, your cataracts flow, And gleefully sing as onward they go. Forever flow o'er crag and rocky shore, 'Till man and space shall be no more. FLIGHT OF THE SOUL Rejoice to be free, Oh Soul at liberty! From out thy casement Fly through boundless Realm, — beyond the ethereal sky. To that land of endless day. And at thy Father's Bar, Appear to receive thy reward, And may it be, — thy freedom gained, Happiness in other spheres awaits thee. 29 MY BEAUTIFUL WILD WOOD HOME Beyond heavy foliage, where large trees grow, Lies my beautiful wildwood home. About the large wooded place, Wild beasts are wont to roam. Throughout the day, children play On the porch of my wildwood home. Beyond fields on the mountain's side, Wild beasts do ever roam. As you gaze to the westward. Over fields covered with sheep. You can see over the top of the forest, A lofty mountain peak. The turbulent waters of a muddy branch. Its noise you hear when far from the ranch. The blowing of horns by the foreman of the farm, Calls the cattle from the fields to the barn. Of the many great cities I have seen. My home is the ideal of my dream. And when far away, I long for the scenes, of My beautiful wildwood home. 30 WHEN WE WERE CHILDREN When we were cMldren, we used to roam Over fields where wild flowers grew. With, small baskets we would stroll along, While some would sing a familiar song. Happy urchins were this group, who used to play- Over the large fields throughout the day, Leaping, jumping or hiding in the tall grass. From uncle Ned, or our pet dog Trask. And when mother called us, or rang the old bell. What fun we would have running, jump- ing and falling about. Each child trying to be the first one out of the field. To reach the house, to get the midday meal. Those days are past and gone forever. And other children to-day on those old fields play. They run, skip and jump like the children of our day. Time may change us, but love for those fields will never fade away. 31 JACK FROST Jack Frost is never lost, For work fall nigMs to do. He takes Ms pot of frosty dots, And veils the autumn night in white. NATURE SLUMBERS NOT. When it's snowing, and it's blowing; When earth is covered with sleet ; Little plants begin their growing. Far beneath our feet. A WINTER DAY MUSING. Weird tunes the winds are singing. Sleigh bells are ringing ; Cold Winter days are fleeting away. These North Winds make me shiver, As I walk by the river. And see the trees to and fro sway. I'm thinking of last night's dream . Of a pleasant Summer scene. While Winter's at its height galore. When the Spring months come again. And change the barren plain, I'll sigh for cold Winter days no more. 32 THE END OF DAY. Evening shades are falling O'er hill and leafy plain. Birds are now returning To their nest again. The little silvery brook, Down in the mossy glades, Is running, swiftly running, While daylight softly fades. From golden skies afar. Brightly beams the evening star. See those glowing colors fade ! Farewell for aye, Oh day decayed ! HALLOWE'EN * Vine and gardens bare. Yellow pumpkins at us stare. We'll cut 'em in twain. For Hallowe'en is here again. In the silent, starless night. Through winding paths and lanes. You hear noise and laughter Of the ghostly looking swains. They're the village lads and lassies, Hurrah ! Hallowe'en is here again. * Courtesy of "The Washington Times.' 33 RAIN Rain, rain, driving rain ; Hear it whip the window pane ! As the day fades o'er the moor, Hear the rain fall, swift and sure ! In the green and shady dell. Lowly lay the sweet Harebell. Birds and beetle gone to rest. And the sun sunk in the West. Rain, rain, driving rain ; Hear it whip the window pane ! THE FADED ROSE. Why droop your drowsy head? Why not to the flowery bed? The grasses still are green, Tho' Autumn tints fast change the scene. Sigh not for the days gone by. When, 'neath the azure sky. You bloomed forth in full array. The days, now cold and gray. Speed with you on your way. Sigh not, for the days gone by. Or for thy colors once bright. Pass on. With the season, pass ; And when spring comes again. Bloom forth with the trees and grass. 34 TO THE PASSED YEAR bitter year, you're past beyond recall ! My sad heart no longer with, tbee abides. 1 speed on wings of time, on and on, Till my soul shall at last find rest. VERITAS Honor follows thee, O truth ! From days of our youth, you are scored. Folks like to tell the other thing That makes this life a life of sin ; While you they hastily pass — And to a lie cling to the last. Let us adore thee, O Veritas ! THE FA]Sr * In the sun he can ever stand. To watch the game he thinks grand ; At his home he's never seen, Washing windows or staining screens. His poor wife does the work he dislikes, While he to each game daily hikes ; First one in the bleachers, this married man, He's known about town as a ^^fan." * Courtesy of "The Washington Times. 35 THE THRIFTY FARMER The thrifty farmer, Man of the fields, Mother earth for you, A harvest yields. You raise cattle. And till your soil. From morn' to night, You ever toil. Folks in the city, They live at ease. Think not of the farmer Who strives to please. Your vegetables and fruits, Your hay and wood. You haul to the city. Must ever be good. Your chickens and hogs. Your beef and lamb. To scrutinizing buyers. Your price must command. This is the life, Of a hard worked folk. The thrifty farmer, He earns his "dough.'' tev. 36 THE LOVEES EEUNITED (In Alplial>etical Form) After you, Geneva, Best girl I know. Cannot do without you, Do love you so. Ever thine, Forever believe me true. Graceful Geneva. Homeward we go, ^^Into the parlor come?" — Joy has just begun, ^^Kiss me deary?'' Love, I longed for you, Missed you greatly. Kever to stray again. O ! love, let us be happy. Past troubles forget, Quicker the better. Right here, let us join hands. Silent in prayer, True lovers again. United together. Vouch for each other? "Yes," We will keep our pledge. X lovers, No more. "You are my own," "Zack ! call up the Parson." 37 . M LIFE'S BARK 'Mid times of sorrow, 'mid times of joy, We sail our bark o'er life's briny deep. Our sMp gladly barbors from tbe gale, Wben we are anchored in peaceful sleep. THOSE DREAMY EYES When I recall those dreamy eyes, I wish to thee that I could fly. Those eyes that wealth could nevet buy ; Those dark brown eyes; those teasing eyes ; May they forever sin despise. When I recall those dreamy eyes, I wish to thee that I could fly. FINERE RESPICE. Had they obeyed the Master's trust, We would not have to turn to dust. Like flowers that bloom in early spring ; Bloom, decay and bloom again. Ungrateful mortals were they. To live and love and disobey The mandate from The Master Hand, Hence, we must die, to live again. 38 SPRING * The Hyacinth, and Jonquils Tell us Spring is here. Cold Winter days have gone their ways, Mornings cool and clear. Robins flit from tree to tree, Softly sounds the bird and bee. Early signs that now appear Tell us all that Spring is here. * Courtesy of the "Burlington Free Press.' LIGHTNING Lightning's nimble dart Plays many a Prank o'er head. The sky, once dark gray. Is now carmine red. The noble eagle Has kissed the clouds, And nestled in his nest. Glow of descending sun Shows old gold in the west. As lightning flashes Above distant hills. We see water swiftly flow Through glade and rill. The storm has passed, the air is still. 39 QUICKLY LIFE PASSES Little Happiness, A little pain, Little sunlight. Followed by rain; — Ever toiling. By day or night. Battling against Worldly strife, Illness, death; — The end of life. A PETITION At close of day, Let us repent. As we pray. To "Our Father" Who art above, For His goodness. For his love. That when dawns The morning fair, Our souls from Burdens He will spare. That through the day. Our feet may trod The way that leads Us to "Our God." 40 HAKVEST TIME Leaves are bright, Grain is ripe, Vines with, grapes laden, The day is short. And night is long. Farmers are singing Their harvest song. THANKSGIVIISTG Thanksgiving is here ! Be of good cheer, It is the Thankful Day, When we should pray. Praise the God above For his light and love. And bounteous harvest Of the past year ; For our life and home, And our health so dear. It is the Thankful Day, And we should pray. Let Thankful Prayers ascend To Him, who's our true friend. In hamlet, vale and town. May Thanksgiving be found. 41 SWEET MEMORY Sweet Memory, how I long for thee ! Memory to recall days gone by, For memory, I can only sigh. Sweet Memory, Oh, how I long for thee ! Memory of dear friends, who with me played. Memory of the days, when at the old home I stayed. Memory of my best days, the village school days. Sweet Memory, Oh, how I long for thee ! Memory of my mother's favorite hymn she used to sing; Memory of her last words on earth she said to me. Sweet memories of the past, — Oh, how I long for thee, Sweet Memory, Sweet Memory! Sweet Memory, I cannot call thee back, For you I can only sigh. Sweet Memory, Oh, how I long for thee ! Never to me to return again, Sweet Memory ! Happiness cannot be bought, sold, or exchanged ; it must be pursued. 42 MY MOTHER'S VOICE Hark, mother's voice I hear ! Soothing it is to my ear. I have been a naughty child, But she greets me with a smile. My mother's voice, I cannot forget, Though she whips me and I fret. I am bad, my mother knows. It is why she scolds me so. Hark, mother's voice I hear ! I love you mother, mother dear. I have been a naughty child. But she greets me with a smile. Taking jam from the shelf. Crying all day for wealth, (a penny) Acting naughty at dinner time. Pouting, fussing and trying to whine. I have been a naughty child. But she greets me with a smile, Hark, a gentle voice I hear I It is my mother's ; I need not fear. ENCOURAGEMENT Encouragement though rarely given, Is appreciated by men and women. 43 TIME IS VALUABLE Wlien the day^s sun is shining, And the night far distant seems, Do not think of yesterday, Or barter with midday dreams. Employ the present minutes, Before they forever pass by, For the morrow may find you Beyond the view of human eye. BIRDS IN SPRmG TIME O ! hear the songs The little birds sing, On swaying boughs, In early Spring. When buttercups are budding And daisies deck the sod, Hear the early songsters singing, In the trees, on swaying boughs. As harbingers of Spring Time, They act their humble parts. In this scene of Life's drama. Giving cheer to weary hearts. 44 THE COMING OF WINTER Winter is coming o'er the hill. Insect and beetle now are still. Pastures, once bedecked with grass, Are withering from the wintry blast. The harvest from the fields, Is stored in loft and bin. And the old mill near the lane, Is busily grinding grain. As the day goes swiftly by, You hear echoes from farmer's ax. They're cutting cordwood. To keep fire within our flat. ONE SOLEMN THOUGHT! When Death's cold hand shall grip This mortal frame of clay, What will be my thoughts. On that Judgment day ! Stay, I cannot. — Go, I must, Thus I will hope and ever trust. That through His death, I shall rise And live in realms beyond the skies. 45 WILLIE'S PLIGHT The heavy drops of rain Nearly broke my window pane. To the cover, I surely did hug, And thought how snug I was in my trundle bed. To sleep I went. The rain fell, I dreamed of good things, money to spend. At last I awakened to find my dream Had vanished with the passing scene. I DEEAM OF THEE I dream of thee, I dream of thee. Oh, when shall I again thy face see ! In my visions in the night. Thy face I see, in rays of light. Years may come and years may go. Thy form on earth 111 see no more. I dream of thee, I dream of thee. Oh, when shall I again thy face see ! Life, to me now is void Of earthly pleasures once enjoyed. Oh, how happy I will be. When at last, thy face I again see ! 46 VANISHING DAY LIGHT Softly tlie light of day fades away, O'er valley and distant bay. Soon the shades of night will fall, O'er flowers and moss covered wall. Fowls of the air are gone to rest. The sun's fast descending in the West. Toil and cares of day are gone forever, And around us dark shades gather. Oh, golden light of vanishing day. We wish you could with us forever stay. May we ever enjoy thy beautiful light. As we toil through the fleeting days of life. CHRISTMAS Christmas joy and Christmas cheer Relieve the care of the fleeting year, Santa Claus, — that good old elf. He makes you happy, in spite of yourself. You see the merry children go From house to house and to and fro. Their toys, they're eager to show. Surely a fitting time for praise, Christmas, — the Day of Days. 47 THE SPECIES * Said a grasshopper — hopping To a frog on a rail, ^'The female of the species, Is more deadly than the male." Said the frog to the hopper, Leaping fast as he could, "The male of the species, To me always looks good." * Courtesy of "The Caldron." THE GOOD HOUSEKEEPER The good housekeeper Lives not at ease. She's striving all the time, Her household to please. Her work seems easy. To the fault finding guy ; That her duties are arduous, No sane person can deny. She's a rare jewel That's hard to find- Let us adore her, Now and all time. 48 FROST ON THE PUMPKIN When frost is on the pumpkin, You hear the weird noise Of the village men and boys, As they file through the lane. Men gunning, rabbits running, Jolly lads and lasses Knock persimmons off the trees. Chips like flakes a-flying. Echoes, through the forest dying, As the sturdy woodman Fells the leafless trees. When frost is on the pumpkin, Farmers go a-hunting, And you hear the weird noise. Of the village men and boys. For they are from care, — free. MAKING FRIENDS Be good, be gentle, be kind, If you would true friends find. They may cheer you, day by day. When you're about to go astray. Why be grouchy, why whine. Die, and leave no friends behind? 49 THE MIND 0, Mind at ease, You conceive mischief When you please. Control my body, While I repose. Where you roam, 1, alone, know. THE FARMER^S LOT Silvery clouds Were floating In the summer sky. Noonday fast approaching, The sun was high. Birds were nestling In leafy trees, From the heat Of the melting sun. The farmer in the Large green fields. Day's work was half done. I sat in the shade, In amazement thought Of the farmer's lot. In the winter he is idle ; He must work When the days are hot. 50 BABY m HIS HIGH CHAIR Little baby, how his large eyes glare ! Securely strapped in his high chair, His rattle and rubber doll To the floor he's let fall. Mother does not hear him cry, From the sewing room near by, The sewing machine she makes fly. While little baby sits and cries. Soon, sister May home will come, From the baker's with sweet buns, His wailing then will cease, For sweet buns, he loves to eat. Mother soon her sewing will stop. For dinner time is drawing nigh, When she comes into the room. He will change his peaceful tune. And if not forwith taken. Will cry, as if his heart's breaking. But when mother says "come sweet !" He will cease crying and try to speak. This is the little man of our house. Who is nice and quiet as a mouse, (When at rest in Mother's lap) , And mother thinks he's great, — this noisy brat. 51 LITTLE SKOW FLAKES See! little snow flakes From tlie clouds fall, Hiding my playhouse, My flowers, my ball. The landscape is covered, In the dreary night. Grass, yesterday green. Is bedecked in white. Tree tops and church spires In the village. Across the bay. Like beacons shine Against the sky to-day. And little snow birds, Beneath my windows fly, See ! the birds play, In the snow, cold and dry. Very soon with my sled. Outdoors 1 will go, To play in the beautiful snow. If my path were all roses. My work one sweet lay. To you, I would gladly bring Koses each passing day. 52 LITTLE GRAY MOUSE You little gray mouse, Always stealing 'bout the house, Just as quiet as you can be, Slyly peeping now at me, While Miss Tabby, our old cat, Lies asleep upon the mat. Come on, Charley, bring your stick. Hurry! Hurry! Run here, quick. Ah ! there he goes into his hole. Wish I had a big long pole. Never mind, soon well try To catch him, though he's very sly. I will set our new mouse trap, This little rogue to catch so fat. I'll set it near this hole you see. And quiet we all must try to be. If he comes near to this place. The trap will end this daily race. What care we if old Tabby sleeps I We'll catch him, then she'll have a feast. These fragrant flowers, I send thee from afar, A token of esteem for you, my ^^star." 53 EUSTIC SCENES I long for tlie rustic scenes Of my boyhood days, — Tlie rustic bridge upon wMch. I played, The ivy-covered porch. Of a large rustic house, Oh, rural man, who changed the scene about? THE VILLAGE SCHOOL BELL Hear the echo through the dell, Of the village school bell. See the little urchins trod, O^er the fields of barren sod. Winter^s cold cannot harm These sturdy children of the farm. Now they wend their way. O'er the hills cold and gray. Louder still the echo swells. From the village school bell, Keminding us of days of old. When to school we used to go. Many a tale could we tell. Of those happy days of yore. When to school we used to go. King on, — dear old bell! 54 THE LITTLE MOCKING BIRD Oh, little mocking bird, From where did you fly? To this old maple. From the azure sky, You daily come and sing Your morning lay. Before the sun^s rays Make hot the June days. Your visit I entreat, Your music, clear and sweet. Is delightful to hear O, why not stay here? Return before the day is o'er When to other trees you go. Remember, I welcome you To my cottage near the shore. DIVORCING THE STRAW HAT I hate to part from you, straw hat, Space is needed in our flat. To the dump you are consigned Like the former "straws" of mine. How it pains me to let you go ! I'll shut my eyes and throw You upon the ash pile. 55 THE BUSY LITTLE BEE How does the busy little bee Improve each, fleeting hour? By visiting throughout the day, Each open, fragrant flower. AUTUMN The sky is clear, trees are bare, Golden leaves lay o'er the field. Days are short and squirrels bark, Autumn has returned again. EESTLESS SEA Through day and night. In winter's cold. In summer's heat. Your restless wave On shores you beat. Your tides rise and fall. From East, to Western shores ; And commerce of this busy world, Sails o'er your briny deep. Each day your tides recede, Upon your bosom vessels creep. Forever, o'er your restless waves, Mariners, a vigilance keep. 56 BE GOOD Be good, be true, Is my wish for you. — Be good, whatever you do. LITTLE EAI:N^DR0P Oh ! little raindrop. You're life to beast and grass, Without your visitation, How long would farms last? WINDS Blow ! Ye Winds, blow I Your coming, no one knows. Throughout the vale, zephyrs trail Your pathway as you go. Blow ! Ye Winds, blow ! O'er vale and dale. Heat of day fades away. Where'er your zephyrs trail. Blow ! Ye Winds, blow ! AVhere you go, who knows? Throughout the vale, zephyrs trail Your pathway as you go. 57 FAME What art thou That most people crave? Thy glory sends many To an early grave. Men sacrifice their lives In vain, seeking to gain What the world Calls — Fame ! THE NORSEMEN In Norsemen's time, In the Viking age, On North shores. Bold pirates lived. Those Norsemen Of the ocean caves, Have long since gone Their destined way. Their treasure hidden, On barren isles. Lies mouldering away; While Old Boreas Sings a requiem o'er The Northern bays. 58 MY WISH May each rosy morn, With its crystal dew, Give you hope and cheer, Till life's labor is through. In stormy nights, While through darkness you toss, Keep thy little bark safe. Ere thy life be lost. LIGHT OF DAY, FADE NOT AWAY ! light of day. From my sight Fade not away ! Guide me by Thy guiding light. Through weary paths. Till night shall Bring me rest ! When at mom. In Eastern skies, You shine. May thy light Still guide me. Without thee, 1 may stray. Light of day, Fade not away ! 59 TWELFTH MONTH The harvest, gathered from the fields, Lies garnered in the loft and bin. As the day draws to its close. We hear the sighing wintry wind, O'er the hills mournfully sing. Thru leafless trees and o'er fields brown, Our vision extends for miles around. KIIsTG, MERRY BELLS, RING ON Ring merry bells, ring on, ring on. Peal forth to all thy gladsome song. Normandy's bells, from o'er the sea. Peal forth their chimes, to you and me. Ring merry bells, ring on, ring on. The world's in need of thy sweet song, To gladden the course all must pursue. In hours of trial, when days are blue. Ring merry bells, ring on, ring on. My soul's enraptured with thy song, While voices of our old church choir. In unison ascend, 'neath rusty spire. Your chimes upon the night so clear. Now penetrate the deathlike air. In hamlet, vale and city beyond. Peal forth to all thy gladsome song. 60 CONSOLATION The Holy Book, with pages fair, Gives us hope when burdened with care. Some time, some day, Whate'er betides. We shall with Him abide, And with angels joyfully sing Praises to our risen King. BE KIND TO MOTHER Mother ! O how I pine, When I recall the day, I was wont to disobey Your wise admonition! If not for thee, where would I be? Though I have strayed, 1 remember my childhood days. When at thy side I knelt to pray. Could I but return to my early days, When you held sway O'er my childish ways. I may not ever see thee more, But thy love I still adore; And this request I make once more, — Be kind to mother. 6i "SIXTEEN-SIXTY-THREE" Tlie lovers loved each other lovingly. He sought to let her know he was willing The slip knot to hastily tie. She asked more time to consider her ardent lover's plea, For she was only sixteen, and he, sixty-three. GERMS A scientist worked in his laboratory small. Searching for germs, — it was early in the fall. A fly chanced to light on his microscope small, The scientist exclaimed, this is the great- est germ of all. THE ARROW I shot an arrow into the air. Gravitation caused it to fall I know not where. One autumn eve while strolling With a girl, of girlish pride, Lo ! to my surprise, I found the arrow, Imbedded by "Dan Cupid'' in her heart. My arrow had at last found its mark. 62 HONOE Honor, — from whence dost thou come? All hope to achieve thee, — parent and son. To attain thee, men toil through night and day. In fruitless pursuit, — ^while farther off you stay. THE WIND IS BLOWING The wind is blowing over the plain, Tossing billows of golden grain. The mocking-bird sings her lay, Men in the fields are cutting hay. The wind is blowing over the plain, Tossing billows of golden grain. Aspen, Daisies, and Golden Kod, Are nodding to the green sod. Yellow-winged butterflies Are descending from the sky. For the wind is blowing over the plain. Tossing billows of golden grain. The day's work soon will be done. Over the western hills creeps the sun, And the honey-bees homeward come, Flying low, with whirring hum. The wind is blowing over the plain, Tossing billows of golden grain. 63 FLEETmG DAY lAght of day is fading, From tlie cloudless sky. Folks from toil returning As the night draws nigh. Soon from care and sorrow, Of the fleeting day. We will rest in slumber. Till night fades away. THE OLD CHURCH SPIRE Oh, lofty Spire! To far off skies You ever inspire. Our daily desire. As we aspire, Is like our sire, Who worshipped beneath Your distant peak. Oh, lofty Spire ! To realms higher. Where happiness reigns, You ever inspire. 64 SMALL THINGS A little pain, A little gain, A little habit ; How much harm, Will it do, If not reformed? MEMORY GEMS I wish I were Your little glass When you drink. You would hold Me fast — With your soft hand. I wish I were Your little cup. When you drink You would Lift me up And kiss me With your lips. Let us think right, speak right, do right, — at the right time. 65 MABCH Wintry winds, Around the eaves play. Beautiful snow, A blanket, o'er fields lay. APRIL SHOWERS April showers, — Gentle rain. Refreshes grass and Growing grain. CEMENT A few gallons of water, With many grains of sand, Mixed with any good cement. Make homes upon the land. "ALPHA" Ye comely women. Ye men of worth. Remember the beginning,- Mother Earth gave you birth. 66 MY WISH May gentle zephyrs, Wafted from afar, Quicken thy pulse, Wherever you are. BEWAEE! Broken glass thrown Upon the highway, Makes a chauffeur Ugly words say. DUTY Duty is ever before us. We know, as time passes by. But lack the moral courage. To go where our duties lie. THE CHRISTIAN'S HOPE When this short life shall close. In peaceful sleep we will repose. To awake no more, we pray. Until the dawn of eternal day. 67 THE BABBLma beooe: What running stream is tMs, From out of tlie woods that flows? It is the babbling brook, As down through, the vale it goes, Kissing the grass and flowers so rare As it flows to the river fair. THE FEOLIGSOME LEAVES Beneath the trees, as twilight fades, Leaves are dancing in the shade. The elf of the wind is playing a tune, For the frolicsome leaves, this eve in June. They go forward, then backward. As if they're trying to hop, And keep still, when the noisy wind stops, For all are enjoying the evening hop. Beneath the trees, as twilight fades, Leaves are dancing o'er field and glade. The elf of the wind is playing a tune, For the frolicsome leaves, this eve in June. Here and there they now assemble. Awaiting the oncoming night. When the air becomes serene, they'll frolic to rest. And bid adieu to their Fairyland guest. 68 OCTOBEK DAYS Fruits are ripe, And the woods are briglit With, autumn leaves. Farmers are toiling, From morn 'till night, Binding up their sheaves. THE LITTLE LOG CABIIST The little log cabin For years has stood, A beacon in a lone wood. The roughly shaped sides, With the old gabled top. Can be seen from the road. Over the pine tree top. Six children in the cabin were reared, Three are living, three are dead. The sun above the cabin's top Shines clear and bright On this picturesque spot. The old maple leaf trees. Far above the eaves, wave In unison with zephyrs That over the fields play. Years may come and years go. But the joys of my early days Spent in the little log cabin. Will never fade away. 69 REFRESHING DEW When the morning's refreshing dew Kisses the grass and flowers beneath the azure sky, Flowers brighten and the grass lifts up its blades, As the refreshing dew falls on earth and glades. This early visitor can for a short time tarry, For the ascending sun, with rays of heat, Melts the dew on grass and flowers sweet. After a visit from refreshing dew. Grass and flowers shed forth their bright- est hue. And with the power of the sun's warm ray, They sprout and grow throughout the day. THE LARK A lark once sang at break of day, In an apple tree, a joyous lay. A farmer near, with his eyes up-cast. Heard the song as the lark flew past. But at last the sweet song ceased, As the sun shone in the East ; For her heart had failed to beat. And beneath the tree she lay at his feet. 70 UNCLE BOB'S LUCK Little fishes in the brook, Swimming near to Uncle's hook, Uncle Bob is in a doze, Which the tiny brook trout knows. A ripple Uncle Bobby sees ! A fish from off his line he frees ! To his delight, a trout he's caught, — His half day's catch — a nickle could have bought. WILLIE'S EXCUSE • I do not want to go to school, I have a slate, but not a rule. While my companions run and play, I am shut in school all day. I do not want to go to school. Where I must mind my teacher's rule. To play truant, I know, is bad. This I'd do, if it wer'n't for dad. While my chums next door may play, I, to school must go to-day. I hope that when I am a man, I'll play in the village band. Then I'll play and play away. To make up for this time to-day. * Courtesy of the Burlington Free Press. 71 THY FACE,— BEAUTIFUL In vain, I seek thy face to know, Beneath, thy turban wealth of hair grows. O, Grecian head, O, stately bust, Were you made to turn to dust? SOMEWHERE YOU ARE {The Departed) Beyond the sky, where stars illumine, Somewhere you are. On this planet is thy tomb, Somewhere you are. Distant worlds and distant suns, Around this planet Their course do run. In that great unknown. Somewhere you are. When upon earth, your life Was severed from toil and strife. Your soul then began its flight. Somewhere you are. Your labors upon earth are done. Your soul has vanished beyond the sun. You will be missed, beloved one ; Somewhere you are. 72 WHEN REST COMES AT CLOSE OF DAY From arduous duties of day's toil, When rest comes at close of day, Quitely upon your couch, you lay, Recalling trials of tlie closing day. Dreamland elfs their game play. When rest comes at close of day. Castles that you're prone to build. Loom boldly through the hazy air. While ghostly shades of coming night, Like ghosts creep upon the stairs, Flitting about in prankish way. When rest comes at close of day. How thankful for this restful time. When one can enjoy needed rest From arduous duties of day's toil. Like brave soldiers from battles' quest. Burdens of life vanish far away. When rest comes at close of day. WHEN MORN MEETS NIGHT When rosy morn meets Night in the East, And greets her with a kiss on the cheek, Night blushes, disrobes and Scatters her dark veil far away. And welcomes morn, the Queen of Day. 73 THE HAUGHTY FLOWER A daisy to a blade of grass Said, "Far above, I tower ! My head is Mgli and nodding ; I am a pretty flower." Tbe grass said, "You, I do admire ! While I have but one hue, Yet, without my brothers green, What would the farmers do?" VIOLETS In the green, shady dell, Sweet violets dwell. These modest flowers of purple hue, Grow in the dells, hidden from view. Their sweet incense fills the air. As they thrive and bloom with Nature' care. Oh, modest violets you are content To live and bloom, to diffuse your scent Upon wild flowers, grass and weeds. Far away from strife, and live at ease. 74 ELYSIAN FIELD Oh, where is that land of rest, Elysian fields, where dwell the blest ! This mortal world of endless grief Gives not the happiness we seek. Where, oh where, is endless rest ; Elysian fields, where dwell the blest! As fleeting moments bid us part, When earthly ills our lives do end, May we soar unto that land of rest, Elysian fields, where dwell the blest ! Toil on, toil on. Oh man of clay ! Until the dawn of perfect day. Then at last, — may you find rest, In Elysian fields, where dwell the blest. THE GOLDEN FLOWER O, pretty flower of golden hue, I know what with you I'll do ! You cover the field, acres wide. And grow upon the hill side. Children call you golden rod. And every fall you deck the sod. I like your pretty golden hue, You must adorn my playhouse too. 75 SHADOWS Soft the shades of evening fall. Shadows come and shadows go. See the shadows on the wall ! As they're flitting to and fro, So do fleeting hours . While we sit in solitude, In our rosy bowers, We see shadows come and go O'er the garden flowers. WINTKY WINDS Bright the old fire glows ! As the wintry wind blows, You see the flying sparks, As smoke up the chimney darts. Wintry winds outside play Around my eaves, this wintry day. At night, they'll lull to rest The weary soul to a land of bliss. The burdened mind will, in repose. Forget the world of toil and woes ; And to Elysian Fields will stray. Or to the haunts of a better day. 76 ADMONITION Why sit, why squirm Like the little dusty worm. To loiter is a bad estate, Do not tarry ere it's too late To reach the Pearly Gate. THE SOUL Soul of this life. From where did you come ! Out of what unknown clime, Into this body of mine! Soul of this life. Oh, where do you go. When you take your flight. From this earthly shore ! THE TEST. Many a sorrow here below, Gives us faith to journey on, Many a hardship undergone, Makes both soul and body strong. 77 DEATH Unwelcomed visitor, — Why come to our frame? Kob it, of its brightest name, — While angels tarry in disguise, To guide a loved one to the skies? Thou, greatest of mysteries, Tell me the truth — And console a weary youth ! HOPE Thou, ever present are to me dear, O ! tarry with me throu the year ! Without thee, I dare not live ; With thee, what are trials to me? I need thee 'till I reach eternity. SLEEP Mystic Sleep thy visit I entreat ! Oh, come and waft me to that quiet state. Where I'll find rest, 'till I awake ! Mystic Sleep, why tarry away? Oh, come and waft me to that land of rest, Where sweet dreams my coming await ! Oh, Mystic Sleep, thy coming haste ! 78 PARTING When you and I must forever part, And from tMs sphere for all time you go, I will not forget, down in my heart. The reason why I love you so. YOU WILL EEMEMBER ME Your love for me is not of yore, You are always cross and sore. When I am gone to return no more, You will remember me. The old songs of love, you sing to me no more. You may be happy some day again, when I have left this shore. When my face you can not again see. You will remember me. When my lips you once loved to press. And greet with a loving caress. Are far away on the deep blue sea. You will remember me. When my soul has soared to that echoless shore, To realms beyond, to return no more, Then you will miss me and I know You will remember me. 79 LAME:isrTATION. Give me back those days of toil, When my youthful life was spent, Upon the soil I loved to till. Those happy days of my life are o'er, I'm battling now on life's rugged shore, 'Gainst my forlorn will. The years are quickly passing o'er My aged head, now white as snow. And my limbs are getting sore. Time, the warden of our fate. Is halting my once agile gait, I'm a youth no more. While I repine, my life decline. My eyes once alert look down to earth, And ^^Father Time" will some day come. To summon me to other shores, Where I'll not yearn for days of yore, But rest from cares for ever more. THE END 80