THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 FORMS 
 
 BY 
 
 / 
 
 MRS. NANCY ROSS. 
 
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 OV 
 
 
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 COPYRIGHTED, 1893, BY NANCY RO£S 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 I l)egan writing these poems soon after the war 
 and have been writing at intervals ever since. 
 
 When I write about the dead, so called, I gener- 
 ally write as though they had spoken, or were 
 ■speaking. n. r. 
 
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 
 
 ^^^^i"^^ 
 
 Shelf ...E4^- 
 
 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 POEMS 
 
 BY 
 
 MRS. NANCY ROSS. 
 
 'Poetry and 7ffuS7C are the flowers of the soul." 
 
 •893 
 
 ?^^7 
 
:Ttv 
 
 COPYRIGHTED, 1893, BY NANCY ROSS 
 
PREFACE, 
 
 I began writing these poems soon after the war 
 and have been writing at intervals ever since. 
 
 When I write about the dead, so called, I gener- 
 ally write as though they had spoken, or were 
 .speaking. n. r. 
 
'" A light shone in the vnndow 
 And a Band of Angels sung. 
 
 Printed by The Oil City Derrick, Oil City, Pa. 
 
^I^e ^Aogel B^^d. 
 
 REFLECTIONS UPON SEEING A RAINBOW. 
 
 Ah ! see the rainbow's beauteous hue, 
 An emblem of a heavenly view ; 
 Fair scenes beyond that bow doth lie 
 And fairer, brighter is the sky. 
 
 Oh ! could you see those heavenly scenes 
 Your heart from earth would soon be weaned, 
 If you could view that landscape o'er, 
 On earth you'd wish to stay no more. 
 
 Wars no more invade our breasts — 
 We are not troubled with such pests ; 
 The rivers flow o'er those fair plains, 
 And joy and peace forever reign. 
 
 Joy and peace and love divine 
 Unite our souls, unite our minds ; 
 We've come, we've come, an angel band 
 We've come from that fair summer land 
 Where all is one bright summer bland, 
 And death will never come. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 Our shining robes of purest white 
 Far excel the sun's fair light ; 
 A golden harp within our hands 
 We've come, we are an angel band. 
 
 Our robes of purple, gold and blue, 
 Far excel the rainbow's hue, 
 A crown of pearls adorn our brows. 
 The angel band is with you now. 
 
 The rain is gentlest showers descend, 
 And all the angels say "amen " 
 The warmest and the gentlest showers 
 Descend upon our heavenly bowers. 
 
 Our cities do in grandeur stand, 
 And flowers bloom on every hand, 
 They bloom, they bloom in gorgeous dyes. 
 They bloom beyond these earthly skies. 
 
 In that fair land, the queen of flowers 
 
 Often form our heavenly bowers ; 
 
 It rises in the fairest form. 
 
 And with scarlet flowers it is adorned ; 
 
 Its odors scent the heavenly air, 
 
 We twine its flowers in our hair. 
 
 The snow ball trees in groves are seen. 
 
 But not so beauteous as our fair queen. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 It's there you'll find the thorny rose, 
 An emblem of your earthly woes, 
 The rose is ne'er without the thorn, 
 Fair roses do your earth adorn. 
 
 No winter sweeps e'er those fair plains, 
 But summer doth forever reign ; 
 The lightning's flash the thunder's roar 
 The tornado's winds are heard no more. 
 
 We have a city in that land, 
 Constructed by the angels' hands, 
 Surrounded by most beauteous groves 
 And guarded by the poets' love. 
 
 We've come, we've come, an angel band. 
 We've come from that fair summer land 
 Where all is one bright summer bland, 
 And storms do not come. 
 
 THE POETS. 
 
 The poets in days of yore 
 Many of them were very poor, 
 And lived in meanly cots, 'tis said. 
 And often earned their daily bread ; 
 But now we live in fairer homes 
 And often to your earth we come 
 To bring glad news of our fair land. 
 We've come, we are an angel band. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 THE LAUREL CROWN. 
 
 I care not for wealth or noble birth, 
 The toys and fashions of the earth, 
 But I would wear a crown, 
 The laurel wreath of faine, 
 Of glory and renown. 
 
 I'd mount the stars' and sun's fair light, 
 I'd wear a robe of beauty bright. 
 Its glittering stars should be fair to view 
 And all the world would want one, too. 
 
 I'd heal the sick at my command, 
 I'd spread the truth all o'er your land, 
 I'd cease the ocean's boisterous wave, 
 I'd save you from a watery grave. 
 
 The dead should raise' at the sound of my voice 
 And all the earth would then rejoice ; 
 I'd blight the fig tree in its bloom, 
 And I'd disperse your midnight gloom. 
 
 The blind should see, the maimed should walk, 
 And you should with the angels talk ; 
 A bruised reed I would not break. 
 The smoking flax I would not quench. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 And I would raise the fallen foe, 
 I'd do it too where e're I go, 
 I'd heal the torn and the broken heart, 
 I'd free them too from every smart, 
 I'd give them wealth, and joyous health, 
 I'd lead them to the throne above, 
 I'd lead them to their God of Love. 
 
 The mountains would move at my command, 
 I'd plant the flowers all o'er your land, 
 I'd stay the very whirlwind's breath, 
 I'd drive away your fears of death, 
 And I would stay the lightning's flash, 
 I'd bring you to your God at last. 
 
 Your prisoners, too, I would release ; 
 I would establish here my peace, 
 And all your wars I would dispel, 
 I'd drive them to the lowest hell. 
 
 And I would raise the fallen head, 
 And I would give the poor their bread, 
 I'd plant the truths within their breasts. 
 And I would give them heavenly rest. 
 
 This gift to others I'd impart 
 And joy and peace should fill their hearts ; 
 I would establish here my name 
 And__every tongue should speak my fame. 
 
10 THE ANGEL BAND. ■ 
 
 I'd paint the rose a deeper hue, 
 
 I'd lead yoa through yon ether blue ; 
 
 I would establish here your King, 
 
 And all the earth with His praise should ring. 
 
 He'd be like the lowly Nazarene, 
 He'd not be like a British Queen ; 
 His banners, too. He would unfurl, 
 He'd proclaim the truth to all the world. 
 
 And I would rule the very earth, 
 And to new thoughts I would give birth, 
 For I would stop the thunder's roar ; 
 I'd plant the lilies 'round your door. 
 
 The very lion and the lamb. 
 Should walk around throughout your land ; 
 The beasts and birds should know no tear, 
 When angel bands they are so near. 
 
 I'll lead you on to Venus' plains, 
 There you'd behold no galling chains, 
 For there, they no blood do spill, 
 They never do their brothers kill. 
 Nor beasts, nor birds, nor anything, 
 For they do have a God-iike king. 
 
 I'd have you walk in wisdom's ways, 
 And I'd prolong your earthly days ; 
 I'd rule you with progression's rod, 
 I'd beautify your earthly sods. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. ^ 11 
 
 I'd rule you with a sword of love 
 I'd bring it from the Courts above ; 
 I'd scatter errors from your land, 
 I'd do it, too, on every hand ; 
 I'd rise to the pinnacle of renown 
 And I would wear the Laurel Crown. 
 
 HOW TO BE BEAUTIFUL. 
 
 Obey the laws of health divine, 
 
 And then my friend, 
 
 You'll quickly find 
 
 That health and beauty are combined. 
 
 AVhat harms you always shun, 
 
 And cultivate much fun 
 
 TO THE MEMORY OF MR. BOYD. 
 
 He is gone, a spirit set free, 
 
 To walk the shores of eternity ; 
 No more sorrow, no more! pain. 
 
 Death is his eternal gain. 
 He may think as he walks those eternal shores, 
 
 Of the dear ones left behind, 
 How he'd like to speak to them once more 
 
 Loving words and kind, 
 
12 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 And tell them of his home in that land of youth 
 Of its beautiful flowers and fairy bowers, 
 
 Of its joys, and love, and truth, 
 And of the noble souls that swell the throng ; 
 
 Of its fadeless beauty and perpetual song. 
 
 And, oh ! how his heart will throb with joy. 
 When the time in the future shall come, 
 
 When he'll meet those loved ones 
 On that beautiful shore. 
 
 Where parting words are said no more 
 And sorrow no more is found. 
 
 LINES TO MY SISTEE PHEBE, 
 
 Dear sister, thou dos't send thy mind 
 
 Away on wings of thought, 
 To blend together with my own 
 
 With many a well wished fraught, 
 
 I know our souls doth oft commune 
 Though space doth intervene, 
 
 No walls so strong can chain the mind. 
 To me like God it seems. 
 
 How oft I feel thy tender love 
 
 Reach out to me so kind. 
 In the holy bonds of a sister's love. 
 
 It doth my heart entwine. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 13 
 
 How oft my mind doth wander back 
 
 To childhood's happy home ; 
 When among the flowers and green clothed fields, 
 
 We hand in hand did roam. 
 
 Oh ! nay, dear sister don't forbear 
 To view a scene so loved and fair, 
 As childhoods home. 
 
 When parents loved with smiles did greet, 
 And tried to guide our wandering feet, 
 In paths of right. 
 
 Our sisters, too, did cluster 'round, 
 In the holy bonds of friendship found, 
 
 To cheer us on. 
 Our brothers too, so kind and good, 
 Love surely is a heavenly food, 
 
 For all mankind. 
 
 Our father dear has been called home, 
 Among the heavenly fields to roam, 
 Our brothers too, and sisters dear, 
 Who oft our earthly home did cheer, 
 
 Some have gone. . 
 Our mother aged and worn with care, 
 Whose brow was once so fresh and fair. 
 
 Is left to us. 
 
 Oh ! nay, dear sister, don't forbear 
 
 To view a scene so loved and fair, 
 
 As childhood's home. 
 
14 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 The earth is clothed in beauteous hues, 
 Joys are in store for me and you. 
 
 Let's drink at heavens own fount of love, 
 Sent from the Holy Courts above. 
 
 Let gratitude inspire our minds, 
 
 And to Godly deeds may we be inclined ; 
 
 Let's tread the straight and narrow way, 
 That leads to everlasting day. 
 
 TOM BROWN. 
 
 Tom Brown has just arrived in town, 
 
 And we are all so glad ; 
 We've teased and taunted him, until 
 
 He's got most awful mad. 
 
 Now, Tom, he loves to spark the girls. 
 And hug and kiss them too, 
 
 And if you'll listen patiently, 
 A tale I'll tell to you. 
 
 Now there's little Katie Hazelet, 
 
 Tom takes a liking to ; 
 Says Tom one evening, "Katie dear, 
 
 I'd like to spark with you." 
 
THE ANGEL BAND, 15 
 
 But Katie, she was very wroth, 
 
 And on poor Tom did frown ; 
 Says Katie, " With the likes of you 
 
 I'll neither sit up nor down." 
 
 But Tom he plead most valiantly ; 
 
 Says he, "Katie dear, 
 If you will only spark with me 
 
 You shall not shed a tear. 
 
 "I've peanuts in my pocket. 
 
 And candy a stick or two. 
 And I would give a thousand worlds 
 
 If I could spark with you." 
 
 But never a bit would Katie spark, 
 
 And so poor Tom was sad, 
 And all the boys, they laughed at him 
 
 Till he got most raging mad. 
 
 And so he dressed the broomstick up 
 
 And sadly went to bed, 
 And hugged and squeezed the thing so hard 
 
 He almost smashed the bed. 
 
 WIN ETTA. 
 
 AVinneta, the fairest of the fair, 
 
 Whose lily brow 
 Unclouded by sorrow and care. 
 Sends greetings to her own 
 
 True mother. 
 
16 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 THE CHILDREN'S BOUQUET. 
 
 SUGGESTED BY CIIILDREX's DAY. 
 
 The rose, the loveliest flower that grows 
 
 Is guarded by a thorn, 
 But beauty's brow, you know my friends, 
 
 Is guarded by its charms. 
 
 The lily, next in , purity 
 
 Has won our admiration, 
 For purity in all its forms. 
 
 Without regard to station, 
 Is sure to win the hearts of all 
 
 Of this great glorious nation. 
 
 The pink's perfume and violet's breath 
 
 Are sweeter friends by far, 
 Than all the spices of the south. 
 
 That roll in Nectar's car. 
 
 The asters, too, and hollyhocks, 
 
 Their beauties none can tell, 
 Their silent language speaks to all, 
 
 " He doeth all things well." 
 The dasies and the buttercups 
 
 That cheer our lonely way, 
 Are dearer to this heart of mine. 
 
 Than power's mighty sway. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 17 
 
 TO DELLIE. 
 
 Oh ! Dellie, my darling, 
 
 How are you just now ; 
 The days are so long 
 
 And so lonesome, I trow, 
 Since I saw your dear face 
 
 And heard your sweet voice, 
 That cheered me so often 
 
 And made me rejoice. 
 
 J hope you are well when this reaches you, 
 
 And that Etta, my darling, 
 Will always prove true 
 
 To one that's so worthy and faithful as you. 
 
 Xet's not grow old. 
 
 But let's all stay young, 
 We'll drive away all care 
 
 And let Old Age be hung ; 
 Let's all be rosy cheeked 
 
 And round and dim]3led chinned, 
 "We'll cast away all sorrow 
 
 And let joy and pleasure in. 
 Let's all be blithe and gay 
 
 And happy while we can. 
 We'll override Old Melancholy 
 
 And walk in Pleasure's van 
 
18 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 SCAMPER AWAY, OR LIFE AS IT IS. 
 
 Scamper away my little prig, 
 
 The world at large don't care a fig 
 
 Whether you live or die. 
 
 There comes my little darling May, 
 
 Her face is bright as a sunshiny day ; 
 
 And little Willie Spaulding has also come,. 
 
 And to my work I now must run ; 
 
 My dinner got and such things through, 
 
 A few more words I'll write to you. 
 
 My quilting now I must begin 
 Amidst the general household din ; 
 My company I'm afraid will come 
 Before this quilt is half-way done. 
 Now little Dellie wants to eat, 
 I must again rise to my feet, 
 His little wants I must attend ; 
 To children's wants there are no end. 
 
 And to my quilt again must go ; 
 The world at best is but a show, 
 It's cares, and toils, and endless strife 
 Oh ! who would be a useless wife, 
 To sit in the parlor all day long. 
 Do naught but sing some silly song, 
 Or bang away at the piano keys 
 
.THE ANGEL BAND. 19 
 
 And let the world aroand her freeze 
 For want of smiles and duties done — 
 Naught but a pest beneath the sun. 
 
 And now my feet I sure must warm 
 For fear a cold will do me harm ; 
 Now little Ella Mead has come 
 And asks for May, in childish tones, 
 I told her she had gone to school, 
 I hope she'll learn the golden rule. 
 Her little gloves, she's left with me, 
 She found them on the Christmas tree, 
 Her aunty put them on she said ; 
 Oh, cunning is her flaxen head ! 
 While she goes out unto the barn, 
 I hope that naught will her there harm ; 
 Oh ! here she comes all bright and gay 
 Although it is a wintry day. 
 
 Now she has gone, oh ! who'll come next ? 
 
 They do my very life perplex ; 
 
 My quilt I know will ne'er be done, 
 
 Such a life as this I fain would shun. 
 
 My gloves, my little Dellie wants. 
 
 And patched and worn are his old pants. 
 
 Oh ! 'tis enough to wear me out. 
 
 Although I once was young and stout. 
 
 And joys I had in plenty too 
 
 Though fagged and worn I stand by yowi ; 
 
20 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 The days of youth no hand can stay, 
 We all nfiust see our wintry day. 
 
 This subject now, it must be changed 
 Avid happier ones come in its range ; 
 Now little Ella has returned, 
 My very face with anger burns 
 To think that I am overrun, 
 I know this rage will spoil my pun- 
 What if my husband should come in 
 And find this house in such a din ? 
 
 But now the children all are gone 
 And I have got my feet quite warm, 
 And to my quilt I now must go, 
 Or I fear 'twill be my overthrow 
 To loiter around in this foolish way, 
 Oh, dear ! what will the neighbors say ? 
 
 The girls from school just now have come, 
 
 Just at the setting of the sun. 
 
 Our supper o'er and such things through 
 
 A little more I'll write to you ; 
 
 The evening passed with social friends^ 
 
 So now at last this day's work ends. 
 
 January 26th, 1869. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 21 
 
 EECOLLECTIONS ; OR, THE OLD BROWN HOUSE. 
 
 Long years have fled sirjce that glad time 
 AVhen youth rang out its joyful chime ; 
 The old brown house has tumbled down, 
 The place with moss and ivy's crowned. 
 
 Joy and laughter long have ceased, 
 Long years ago has fled my peace ; 
 My father sleeps within the tomb, 
 Our dear old home is filled with gloom. 
 
 My brothers and sisters are scattered around,, 
 And silence reigns on the old play ground. 
 Oh ! never again shall I behold 
 Those days of youth and joys untold. 
 Or see around that hearthstone fair 
 My little sister's golden hair. 
 
 My mother now is old and worn, 
 For many children to her were born ; 
 Her days on earth will soon be o'er 
 And we will see her form no more. 
 
 But God is merciful to all, 
 He knows what's best and whom to call ; 
 He knows our wants, He knows our needs, 
 And 'ti& His hand the raven feeds. 
 
22 . THE ANGEL BA Nl). 
 
 He'll guide us all along the way, 
 He'll guide us while on earth we stay, 
 He'll guide us to that fair, fair land 
 Where all is one bright summer bland. 
 
 LINES TO A FRIEND. 
 
 Helena, how oft your mind wanders 
 
 And fain would choose one from arftong the 
 
 joyous crowds, 
 That would banish care and sorrow, and every 
 
 dark forbidding cloud 
 -From the horizon of your almost new born life ; 
 Who oft would use the half enchanting word, my 
 
 own, dear wife. 
 
 But alas ! it seeks in vain, 
 For a heart that would enthrall and chain 
 Your love within its fond embrace, 
 And present an ever welcome face to thee. 
 But hush ! who knows but the future, 
 The unknown future, holds within its' folds a heart 
 that yearns thee. 
 
 One that shall throb in unison with your own ; 
 A dark eyed, manly form, 
 One that shall be worthy to bear the name 
 Of husband to thee. 
 
THE AX GEL BAXD. 23 
 
 One who will shield you from the dark storms of life 
 And guide your frail bark through its' dangers and 
 
 strife ; 
 Who will go with you too, o'er the river of death, 
 And you'll join the glad throng in the homes of 
 
 the blest. 
 
 ALBUM VERSES-LINES WRITTEN TO A FRIEND. 
 
 How oft my thoughts doth turn to thee in feelings 
 
 most divine ;' 
 Fond memory flings her armor round this heart of 
 
 mine. 
 Thy spirit oft doth blend with mine in holy, holy 
 
 love, 
 
 I feel its genial rays of light as from above. 
 
 Though clouds of sorrow shade our way and hide 
 the sun's fair light, 
 
 Yet hope, the star of destiny, sends fourth its wel- 
 come light. 
 
 It whispers us of future joys, of pleasures yet to 
 come, 
 
 It arises in our horizon, a new born sun ; 
 
 Without its cheering light, how drear would be 
 our way ; 
 
 How bright the sun doth shine when the clouds 
 have, passed away. 
 
24 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 THE MOTHEE'S VOICE. 
 
 The dirge of death is very sad 
 
 But sadder still to you, 
 For now, you hear no mother's voice, 
 
 Mo mother's form you view. 
 
 The charms of earth are very sweet. 
 
 Its beauties fair to view, 
 But Death, he visits all, dear Frank, 
 
 Sometime he'll visit you. 
 
 But if you're only ready, Frank, 
 
 Gird on the armor well ; 
 Mark heaven for your happy home 
 
 And shun the gates of hell. 
 
 Your pathway will be smooth, dear Frank, 
 
 The waters will not drown. 
 And you will reach that shining shore 
 
 And wear the victor's crown. 
 
 You'll walk the New Jeruselem 
 
 And sing the seraph's song ; 
 Sing praises to our heavenly King 
 
 Among that blood washed throng. 
 
 Your pilgrimage, -dear Frank, 
 
 On earth will soon be o er. 
 And your yearning heart 
 
 Will be satisfied upon that blessed shore. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 26 
 
 So now farewell, dear Frank, 
 
 Be kind and good and true. 
 And heaven's gates will open wide 
 
 Their shining folds for you. 
 
 And Theresa, too, my own dear child, 
 
 My love I cannot tell, 
 I warn you, too, my dearest child. 
 
 To shun the gates of hell. 
 
 To walk in wisdom's holy ways 
 
 And tread her paths of peace, 
 Is the only way to get to heaven, 
 
 And all your joys increase. 
 
 So now farewell, my own dear child, 
 
 May joy and peace you bind ; 
 Be kind and good and true, my child, 
 
 And heaven at last you'll find. 
 
 YES, INDEED 
 
 My husband's very kind to me, 
 His face I'm very glad to see, 
 
 Yes, Indeed! 
 He often lingers by my side, 
 And loves me as when first a bride, 
 
 Yes. indeed ! 
 
26 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 He brings me everything that's nice, 
 
 And calls me his own dear, true wife, 
 
 Yes, indeed ! 
 
 He buys me dresses bright and gay, 
 
 And brings to me when he's away, 
 
 Yes, indeed ! 
 He loves to see me dress and go 
 
 And cut the biggest swell and show, 
 
 Yes, indeed I 
 He fills our home with smiles and joy. 
 He loves our only darling boy, 
 
 Yes, indeed ! 
 And when his welcome step I hear 
 It cheers my heart, he is so dear, 
 
 Yes, indeed! 
 He never tries to rouse my ire, 
 But he always builds the morning fire, 
 
 Yes, indeed ! 
 He spends his evenings by my side, 
 And is a true friend and guide, 
 
 Yes, indeed I 
 
 THE NEW Y'EAR. 
 
 (Written shortly after the close of the war.) 
 
 The new year's come, the old has sank 
 
 Into oblivions breast. 
 Never more to be recalled 
 
 From its eternal rest. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 27 
 
 The new year's come and let's all strive 
 
 To see who'll win the crown, 
 The laurel wreath of fame 
 
 Of glory and renown. 
 
 The new year's come, let's all renew 
 
 Our enegeries the right to do, 
 And ever onward to progress 
 
 In wisdom and in holiness. 
 
 The new year's come, and it has found 
 
 Our nation now at peace, 
 The bloody garments caused hy war 
 
 Are things that are of the past. 
 
 The new year's come, and may we still 
 
 In peace and safety dwell. 
 And to all wars, both far and near, 
 
 May it be our last farewell. 
 
 The new year's come, and may our prayers 
 
 Go forth upon the morning air. 
 To praise the great eternal cause. 
 
 To praise his wise and holy laws. 
 
 TO A MOTHER UPON THE DEATH OF AN INFANT. 
 
 Your lovely flowers have passed away. 
 Your home that once was bright and gay 
 Is shrouded now in grief and gloom. 
 For your baby boy sleeps in the tomb. 
 
28 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 Put by his crib and other things, 
 For his merry laugh no longer rings, 
 His loving voice no longer heard, 
 For lj.ushed and still is your baby bird ; 
 His little toys no more he'll need, 
 For your baby bird has flown, indeed. 
 
 You'll miss his patient little face, 
 His baby ways and childish grace 
 T hat filled your heart so oft with joy, 
 Your pretty darling baby boy. 
 
 Oh ! who can tell a mother's love 
 That she feels for her baby dove, 
 Or feel the grief that fills her breast 
 When her sweet love is laid at rest. 
 
 Oh ! there is none but Him on high, 
 His angel bands are oft so nigh, 
 He'll soothe your grief — all's for the best, 
 Though your sweet baby is laid at rest. 
 
 His messengers are from on high, 
 
 His angel bands are oft so nigh. 
 
 They've borne your white winged dove away 
 
 To tread the bright and shining way. 
 
 But he'll return to you again, 
 To cheer your heart and soothe your pain ; 
 They'll bring from that land so fair. 
 They'll twine sweet flowers in his hair, 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 29 
 
 They'll bear him on the wings of love, 
 They'll bring him back, your baby dove. 
 
 When night hath thrown her mantle round, 
 And silence hush is most profound, 
 God's angels do their vigils keep, 
 They always guard you in your sleep. 
 
 They'll bring your white winged dove along, 
 To cheer your heart with his glad song. 
 And sweet peace will give you rest, 
 And you will know all's for the best. 
 
 JOE'S MESSAGE ; or, AS THOUGH HE HAD SPOKEN, 
 
 GIVEN MARCH, 1881. 
 
 Dear Joe, why do you stay away, 
 Why don't you come to us to-day? 
 Dear mother, I'm not far away. 
 Upon this blessed Christmas day ; 
 The time is passing swift away 
 And I am witli you hereto-day. 
 
 Pray do not feel so sad and lone, 
 For I am not far from you gone ; 
 My home is in a brighter sphere, 
 And I am happy, happy here, 
 
30 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 My weary feet no more will tread 
 
 Among the hills, among the dead 
 
 But joy and gladness doth abound. 
 
 In this bright world no thorns are found; 
 
 We're all repaid for suffering here, 
 
 God wipes away the mourner's tears. 
 
 I only wish you all were here 
 
 In this bright world so free from fear ; 
 
 But never mind, the time will pass 
 
 And you will come to me at last. 
 
 Dear Sadie, 1 have often kissed 
 Her rosy cheeks, and thought how blest 
 We all would be in this fair land, 
 With joy and peace on every hand. 
 
 Dear father, too, feels sad and lone 
 Since his two oldest sons are gone, 
 But father, never mind, you'll come 
 To this fair land and greet your son ; 
 The gates of death you'll easy pass, 
 And you will come to me at last. 
 Dear friends, pray do not for me morn. 
 For I am not far from you gone. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 31 
 
 THE BEGGAR'S PETITION. 
 
 Oh ! lad}^ I pray you lend an ear 
 
 Unto my mournful story 
 Of want and woe, of care and grief, 
 
 And youth's fair fading glory. 
 
 I once was fair and young as you, 
 
 And my parents loved me dearly, 
 But age and care have banished youth. 
 
 And want I show most clearly. 
 
 My home was in a pleasant vale, 
 
 The stars they shone so brightly. 
 For care and grief they had no place 
 
 For peace was with us nightly. 
 
 But sad's the day and lone's the hour 
 
 I left that cozy nest ; 
 But God, He ordereth all things. 
 
 They say all's for the best. 
 
 But lady, how could you forbear 
 
 From asking alms when you 
 Had scarcely a dress upon your back, 
 
 Or upon your feet a shoe ? 
 
 AVlieii your little ones were ragged, 
 
 And your home from want forlorn, 
 And every day you almost wished 
 
 'J hat you never had been born. 
 
32 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 When your hu-band, too, was sick and worn, 
 And your children in their beauty, 
 
 Oh ! lady, how can you refuse — 
 It is your sacred duty. 
 
 PROPHETIC. 
 
 Riches and honor shall be thy lot, 
 
 Though homely and humble was thy childhood's 
 
 cot; 
 Murmer not at Heaven's decree, 
 For joys and pleasures shall come to thee. 
 
 Though the pathway may seem rugged and bare, 
 
 Yet fruits and flowers shall flourish there. 
 
 When the dangers are over, and the summit 
 
 attained, 
 And the pleasures of friendship and honor are 
 
 gained. 
 
 Then the eye shall behold the dark valley below. 
 While the curtains of heaven are all in a glow ; 
 And the hour of midnight shall be as the day, 
 When reforms shall have washed all the dark 
 stains away 
 
 From our nation's fair brow, and her glory shall be 
 As the sands of the desert and the leaves of the 
 tree. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 33 
 
 LINES WRITTEN FOR A FRIEND. 
 
 Mrs. Seely, I'm no poet you know, 
 
 But I'd advise you to gather flowers 
 Wherever they grow ; 
 
 Don't think too much upon spiritual things, 
 Bnt let your home with joy and laughter ring ; 
 
 Cultivate fun and frolic. 
 For you know, my dear Hattie, 
 
 It's good for the colic. 
 
 THE DEVIL. 
 
 The devil went one day unto 
 
 A happy Maying party, 
 Says he, " I'll raise the devil there. 
 
 Ha, ha ! you are my hearty ! " 
 
 ^ow there was Tom and Dick and Bill 
 
 And all the pretty lasses, 
 A romping o'{?r the greensward grass 
 
 Just as the devil passes. 
 
 ■Says he, ''Now I will have some fun 
 Out of those lads and lasses. 
 
 For I will tie the greensward grass 
 Before each lady passes ; 
 
34 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 And then upon their nose they'll fall, 
 
 Those lads and pretty lasses, 
 A little dreaming who is near, 
 
 When I, the devil passes." 
 
 And so he tied the greensward grass 
 
 Before each happy lover 
 Could e'er discern his movements there 
 
 Among the ^rass and clover. 
 
 They said, " Now we will have a run 
 
 In yonder grass and clover." 
 And so each lady starts away 
 
 With each her happy lover, 
 A little dreaming of the snare 
 
 That lurks among the clover. 
 
 And down upon their nose? they fall 
 
 Among the grass and clover, 
 Each lady clinging close unto 
 
 Her now unhappy lover. 
 
 Then scrambling cried, " Some awful wretch 
 Has tied the grass and clover 
 
 Across our path to spoil our joy. 
 The dreadful dreadful creature." 
 
 " Now we will search him out at once," 
 
 Cried each unhappy lover, 
 "For he is surely, surely hid 
 
 Among the grass and clover." 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 35 
 
 And so at once the search began, 
 
 All for the dreadful creature ; 
 But he had hied himself away 
 
 From out the grass and clover 
 
 Uuto a lovely shadey nook, 
 
 And meditating over 
 What he had done in yonder field 
 
 Among the grass and clover. 
 
 Now, who do you think the devil was 
 
 That tied the grass and clover. 
 In yonder field across the path 
 
 That caused each happy lover 
 To fall skersplash upon his nose, 
 
 Among the grass and clover? 
 
 His name was Ned ; he went to bed 
 
 That night a feeling sober, 
 When he thought of the mean trick 
 
 That he had done among the grass and clover. 
 
 MY GUARDIAN ANGEL. 
 
 Since we are parted, do not mourn 
 Thoughts of meeting in lime to come; 
 Every day our minds engage 
 Pleasant thoughts for our youthful age; 
 Heaven hath blessed us in our love. 
 
36 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 Every day that blessing proves ; 
 Now let us strive to wait that hour, 
 Heaven hath decreed by its all-wise power 
 Everything in its time will come, 
 And I'll lead you to your angel home ; 
 There we ne'er shall part no more, 
 How blest we'll be on that happy shore. 
 
 LITTLE PEARL. 
 
 There was a flower that God had given, 
 
 Its soul was pure as the snow that's driven 
 
 Across the heath and across the moor, 
 
 And is an enemy to the poor ; 
 
 When winter winds blow their northern blast,. 
 
 And summer days are gone and past. 
 
 It bloomed, 'tis true, in a garden fair, 
 And sweetest odors filled the air, 
 While sister flowers bloomed and throve, 
 And all around was peace and love. 
 
 This flower so pure of heavenly birth, 
 So soon was called away from earth 
 To swell the bright and heavenly throng. 
 And with the angels live among ; 
 Till her dear friends do cross the tide, 
 And all shall reach the other side ; 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 37 
 
 God knows what's best to do, 
 And trials he will send to you, 
 He's called your little flower away 
 To tread the bright and shining way. 
 
 Now let me advise you, dear friends, while you live,. 
 And daily God's bounty you always receive, 
 To think of life's lessons and ponder them o'er. 
 And ne'er turn the needy away from the door ; 
 Remember God's blessings are sent to you here 
 To aid and to comfort the sick and the poor. 
 And this you must do if you'd reach that fair shore,. 
 Where sickness and sorrow and death are no more. 
 
 If you would go and see dear little Pearl, 
 
 And live in that fair and heavenly world. 
 
 Where the flowers are so fair, and the fields are so green,. 
 
 And the most beautiful landscapes that ever was seen. 
 
 God's painted them all in his own way and time, 
 His love is eternal his hand is divine ; 
 In that fair land are the mansions of rest, 
 Their joys are eternal in the homes of the blest ; 
 Come now my dear friends let's tread the bright way 
 That leads to dear Pearl and where beauty hath sway. 
 Where glories eternal around us shall shine, 
 And we'll bless the dear hand that is ever divine. 
 
38 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 BERTIE AT GRANDMA'S. 
 
 Bertie is a rogue, the darling little elf, 
 
 He climbs, sometimes 'tis true, upon grandma's pantry 
 
 shelf; 
 He dives into the closets, falls down the cellar stairs, 
 And then he pouts his little lips and puts on manly 
 
 airs. 
 
 He startles grandma from her sleep in the great arm- 
 chair ; 
 
 Goodness sakes alive ! he's been cutting off her hair. 
 
 He's chased the hens into the parlor and broke the 
 looking-glass ; 
 
 Now, young man, grandma'll have to sj)ank your 
 
 pants. 
 
 He pulled the cat's tail almost off, and roused old 
 Nero's ire, 
 
 And the greatest wonder in the world is that he does'nt 
 set the house on fire. 
 
 Now, up and down the stairs he goes, his busy little 
 feet, 
 
 Then he almost screams, "Grandma, give me some- 
 thing to eat." 
 
 Now, to the barn he goes, on mischief he is intent, 
 The cows, and calves, and pigs come next, when other 
 things are spent. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 39 
 
 He rides the cows, and calves, and pigs, and drives 
 
 them by the tail. 
 When suddenly grandma comes out with a couple of 
 
 milk pails. 
 And says. "Young man, what are you doing, what are 
 
 you about, 
 What have you been doing to that pig's snout ?" 
 "Been putting potato bugs on it.'' 
 
 "Oh ! Bertie how could you do that, after you have 
 almost killed the poor old cat ?" 
 Then little Bertie said, " I was playing horse, 
 I thought I would ride old Ked and Sukey and the pig, 
 I know grandma, you don't care a fig 
 If I do ride them." 
 
 But grandma, full of ire, poor, patient grandma 
 Never could stand that after he had almost 
 Killed the poor old cat and the dog, 
 And his other mischiefs too ; 
 I'll tell you for its true. 
 Grandma spanked his pants. 
 
 OUR LITTLE GIRTIE. 
 
 So bright a gem as Girtie, on earth was ne'er designed 
 
 to stay, 
 So sweet the hours passed and all seemed bright and 
 
 gay, 
 While her sunny smile lit up our home with joy, 
 And her tiny little hands were so eager for each toy. 
 
40 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 She was an angel in our sight- our joy and pride the 
 
 while ; 
 Oh ! how her loving nature did the weary hours beguile ; 
 But God has called her home, a heavenly place to fill ; 
 He knows our wants, He knows our needs, and this 
 
 aching void will fill ; 
 To teach us some great lesson this affliction he has sent, 
 His ways are mysterious, but for good they are intent. 
 
 Her father will miss her love — her bright and happy 
 
 smile, 
 As to his home he would retire to greet his darling child ; 
 He'll see her empty cradle, he'll see her empty chair, 
 , He'll miss her in a thousand ways, she was so bright 
 
 and fair. 
 We loved her, oh ! so dearly, that our life was given 
 
 nearly 
 To save her from the tomb. 
 
 But God saw fit to call her and with her we had to part ; 
 It rent the cords asunder, it almost broke my heart. 
 But I know our darling liveth in the heavenly courts 
 
 above, 
 Where the angels sing forever, and all is peace and love. 
 I know some day I'll meet her in that heavenly land 
 
 so bright, 
 Where the Lord never sleepeth, and the angels know 
 
 no night. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 41 
 
 Where there are perpetual fountains flowing o'er those 
 
 fairy plains, 
 And joy and peace together, forever they do reign. 
 I know I soon shall meet her, the time will quickly pass, 
 When I, too, shall be called to cross that sea at last. 
 
 TO EDA. 
 
 Though the days may be long and lonely the hours. 
 And the sunshine of life is withheld from thy bowers ; 
 Yet remember the promise the Lord hath declared. 
 To the righteous and faithful and him that's prepared ; 
 Bright promise of peace and a haven of rest. 
 In that beautiful land, in the homes of the blest.- 
 
 DROPPED IN THE HARNESS. 
 
 Two jolly sports, one Sabbath day. 
 Unto each other thus did say, 
 Says Clell to Charlie, " Let's have a lark. 
 We'll ride all day till after dark. 
 
 " We'll hire Bowman's old grey horse. 
 The sleighing's good , you'll go of course." 
 Says Charlie, "Yes, I think I will, 
 But you, old boy, must foot the bill." 
 
42 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 Says Clell, " I will if I can get her cheap, 
 We'll drive so fast the old gal can't sleep." 
 And so upon the Sabbath day 
 To have a lark they rode away. 
 
 Straight way to Plumer without delay 
 These jolly sports did wend their way ; 
 A jolly time in Plumer had, 
 Then started home, says Clell, " My lad 
 We'll make it in the shortest time, 
 We have not any hills to climb " 
 
 They drove away at the highest speed, 
 
 They drove till the old mare fell down indeed, 
 
 Fell dead in the harness, so they say, . 
 
 Staggered and fell upon the way ; 
 
 These noble lads were then obliged 
 
 To haul the sleigh instead of ride. 
 
 MORAL. 
 
 Now, my lads, when you go for a lark, 
 Don't drive so fast upon the start, 
 But let your horse have time to breathe, 
 Although your ears and nose should freeze, 
 
 DEATH. 
 
 What is death but change, a change from old to new ; 
 "Ye must be born again," your Savior said to you. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 43 
 
 Death is an angel fair that opens the door to bliss, 
 The pathway of the angels to a fairer land than this. 
 The casting off of garments old, and putting on the new, 
 The birthright of the angels of a fairer brighter hue. 
 
 The king of terrors, he should not be. 
 For he'll take you o'er that blissful sea, 
 And with the angels you'll exclaim : 
 Oh ! grave where is thy victory gained. 
 Oh, death ! Oh, death ! where is thy sting ; 
 As through our earthly sphere did ring. 
 
 Death is an angel fair, 
 A garland of flowers he always wears ; 
 A welcome guest he should always be. 
 For he'll take you o'er that golden sea ; 
 He'll take you to a higher sphere, 
 He'll take you to your friends so dear. 
 
 Just listen to his silent feet. 
 
 He makes the heaven and earth to meet, 
 
 He always blends the two in one. 
 
 Oh ! God thy heavenly will be done. 
 
 THE SUNSET. 
 
 Oh ! see the sunset's golden hue, 
 The pathway of the angels true, 
 For the straight and narrow way 
 That leads to everlasting day. 
 
44 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 But dark and gloomy is the road 
 Which by sinful men is trod, 
 But do not judge your brother here — 
 By love and kindness draw him near. 
 
 Our Saviour said in days of yore : 
 
 "I condemn the not, go sin no more." 
 
 But let your heart with pity melt, 
 
 As though his sorrows felt ; 
 
 And take your brother by the hand 
 
 And lead him to that heavenly land. 
 
 TO EDA GILLETT. 
 
 Dear Eda, you are walking now 
 In life's bright flowery way. 
 
 With parents kind and loving friends 
 To cheer you on your way. 
 
 But don't forget the Saviour dear, 
 
 His foot-steps follow still, 
 Then you may walk the path of life 
 
 And never fear an ill. 
 
 The storms of life may gather round, 
 And lightnings flash on high, 
 
 But if you put your trust in God, 
 And to Him e'er draw nigh. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 45 
 
 The storms of life, he'll banish all, 
 
 Your pathway will be clear, 
 And loving friends will gather round 
 
 Your lonely hours to cheer. 
 
 March, 1882. 
 
 THE SUMMER TIME. 
 
 Oh ! the glorious summer time. 
 All its beauties are divine ; 
 
 See the lovely hills 
 Clothed in radient green, 
 
 And all the pretty flowers 
 With their golden sheen. 
 
 All nature's decked in beauty, 
 And our spirits should be bright, 
 
 With all its glorious beauty, 
 And all its golden light. 
 
 The birds that sweetly warble 
 
 Through the summer air, 
 Should fill our hearts with gladness, 
 
 And banish all our care. 
 
 And oh ! the blessed rain 
 That comes to feed the earth, 
 
 Like hope, the brighest star, 
 That to all flowers give birth. 
 
46 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 And oh ! the weary travelers 
 That travel here below, 
 
 Whose hearts are filled with sadness, 
 And whose lives are weal and woe. 
 
 • Look up, ye son's of toil, 
 To God who rules on high, 
 
 He'll ne'er forsake the faithful, 
 He hears the raven's cry. 
 
 THE AUTUMN. 
 
 1882. 
 
 (Lines suggested by Mrs. Mary A. Wilhelm 
 
 Though the glories of summer 
 
 Are freighened away. 
 Yet the beauties of autumn 
 
 Are with us to-day. 
 
 In her gorgeous apparel 
 
 Of gold, red and brown, 
 Like a queen of great beauty 
 
 Our forests are crowned. 
 
 How blithe and how happy 
 
 The boys hie away 
 To gather the chestnuts 
 
 For winters cold day. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 47 
 
 When the snow shall envelope 
 
 Our lanscapes in white, 
 And time seems so long 
 
 In our cold wintry nights. 
 
 The farmers look forward 
 
 To a season of rest, 
 When their crops shall all be harvested, 
 
 From the east to the west. 
 
 And plenty hath crowned 
 
 Their labors at last, 
 When the spring time is gone 
 
 And the summer is past. 
 
 Oh ! think not of winter 
 
 So cold and so bleak, 
 With its cold benumbed fingers 
 
 And frost bitten feet. 
 
 Nor of the poor and the lonely 
 
 When weary and sad, 
 Whose lives are all desolate 
 
 And whose forms are half clad 
 
 But think of the autumn 
 
 With its rich harvest store, 
 Which makes our hesrts glad 
 
 Though the summer is o'er. 
 
48 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 BILLY THE BUTCHER. 
 
 Oh, say ! have you heard of Billy so brave? 
 
 His father is a butcher you know ; 
 And when money is scarce, and no cattle they've got, 
 
 Then away to the ^' soup house " he'll go. 
 
 He labors all day in the dust and the noise, 
 But he's brave and kind-hearted and true ; 
 
 And labor's an honor to every one here, 
 Though often disliked by the poor. 
 
 Oh, say ! have you heard of Billy's nice girl, 
 That he takes to the parties sometimes ; 
 
 She's the fairest and sweetest that ever was seen. 
 Though it often takes all his spare dimes. 
 
 She dresses in fashon and cuts a big show. 
 
 But Billy likes that all the same, 
 She can dance like a fairy and laugh like a queen. 
 
 And Billy can tell you her name. 
 
 Oh, yes ! we have heard of Billy so brave, 
 
 And his father's a butcher 'tis true ; 
 That he works in the " soup house " mid the dust and 
 the noise, 
 
 And his heart is both loyal and true. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 49 
 
 ■Oh, yes ! we have heard of Billy's nice girl, 
 That he takes to the parties sometimes ; 
 
 That she is the fairest and sweetest he thinks, 
 But he never begrudges the dimes. 
 
 That she dresses in fashon and elegant taste, 
 
 There is no one would dare to deny ; 
 But Billy my boy don't be caught in a trap, 
 
 And Billy, my boy, mind your eye. 
 
 TO A MORNING GLORY. 
 
 All hail thou lovely queen, 
 
 The glory of the morn. 
 The first to greet our weary gaze. 
 
 And to our Father's Throne our hearts to raise. 
 
 The emerald green doth deck thy brow, 
 
 And gird thy slender form, 
 Thou petted child of earthly birth, 
 
 The glory of the morn. 
 
 Thy sister flowers doth cheer our way, 
 
 And elevate our minds 
 Above the sordid cares of earth. 
 
 And make our hearts rejoice 
 In an immortal birth. 
 
50 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 ADDIE. 
 
 How little we dream in life's fleeting hours, 
 
 When we bask in the sunshine of pleasures sweet 
 
 bowers ; 
 Of the pain and the sorrow for us is in store. 
 Of parting with loved ones we ne'er shall see more. 
 
 How little we dreamed that the fair bridal flowers, 
 Would wither so soon in life's sunny hours ; 
 That she that we loved, so soon would be gone, 
 Her bright happy life cut off in its morn. 
 
 Our Addie was dear, so dear to our hearts, 
 
 How little we dreamed that so soon we should part ;. 
 
 But death the destroyer invaded our home, 
 
 And took our fair Addie. Alas ! she is gone. 
 
 JOHNNIE HEASLEY'S MESSAGE ; or, AS THOUGH 
 HE HAD SPOKEN. 
 
 Oh ! mother dear, why should you fear 
 Anything on earth you hear ; 
 Where God's love is overspread 
 Avid His heaven is overhead, 
 
 Don't let the cares of life perplex 
 And the ills of life you vex, 
 But just sail on, with your little crew 
 Until the heavenly port's in view. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 51 
 
 Bring Laura, and J8nnie, and Pet along, 
 And I will teach them my glad songs ; 
 Bring father too, and Alice dear, 
 And I will all their pathway cheer. 
 
 And your darling self, more dear to me 
 Then all else could ever be ; 
 We'll walk the heavenly fields above, 
 And sing the ransomed songs of love ; 
 We'll wear the golden crowns of peace, 
 And God will all our joys increase. 
 
 August, 1881. 
 
 TO MY DEAR OLD AUNTIE. 
 
 WRITTEN FOR MRS. G. 
 
 Dear auntie, we are quite well, 
 But I work so hard no tongue can tell 
 How much I suffer from day to day, 
 As I walk along this earthly pathway. 
 
 But, auntie I will not complain, 
 
 As long as a living I can gain. 
 
 And God gives me health and strength to work 
 
 I will not my duties shirk 
 
 Dear auntie, how I'd like to peep 
 
 In your little room so warm and neat ; 
 
 A pleasant talk we'd have together, 
 
 Of old times and friends, and home and weather. 
 
52 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 Dear aunt, I know you'd like to see 
 John anti Lida as well as me ; 
 Our town has grown quite dull indeed, 
 But still supplies our wants and needs. 
 
 Ritta's little daughter, Eda is with me now,. 
 She's grandma's joy and pet, I trow, 
 Her loving heart and girlish ways 
 Remind me of my own young days. 
 
 She's fourteen years old, perhaps you know,. 
 The time goes so fast and yet so slow. 
 It seems scarcely more than a day 
 Since she was a little wee baby. 
 
 Ritta, too, is with uS here, 
 
 He doth my lonely hours cheer ; 
 
 He's helping his pa to fix the wells 
 
 And will probably stay here quite a spell, 
 
 Elisha is busy from morn till night. 
 Helping to fix the wells aright ; 
 I will bid you now, dear aunt, adieu. 
 Hoping soon to hear from you. 
 RousEviLLE, Pa., March 21st, 1882. 
 
 LET'S NOT GO BACK. 
 
 Let's not go back to old time creeds 
 With all their musty lore, 
 
 But let's be foremost in the ranks 
 Of modern thought and power. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 53 
 
 Let Reason be our guiding star 
 
 In all our journeyings here, 
 For when we yield her powers up 
 
 There's none our frail bark to steer. 
 
 WE COME, DEAR DORA. 
 
 AVhen evening shadows fall around you, 
 Then we come with blessings rare ; 
 
 Then we come from homes celestial. 
 Where the days are always fair. 
 
 Oh ! how sweet the blessed mission 
 
 Of the angel world to this, 
 As they come from worlds elysian 
 
 To sweeten all the toils of this. 
 
 Yes, we come and see you darling, 
 Know your every thought and care, 
 
 Kiss your dafling little baby, 
 Smooth her cheek and stroke her hair. 
 
 Yes, we'll watch you always darling. 
 Try to cheer your earthly life, 
 
 Try to smooth your pathway always 
 Midst this world of care and strife. 
 
54 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 The snow is falling, falling upon my mother's grave. 
 It is wrapping the earth, as it were, in a winding sheet. 
 Oh! unwelcome visitor to thousands of hearts, God be 
 merciful to the poor, to the rich, who have thousands, 
 winter is a season of pleasure. 
 RousEviLLE, December 15, 1882. 
 
 THE WINTER TIME. 
 
 Oh ! the dreary winters time, 
 
 I wish its terrors were not mine ; 
 See the rugged hills wrapped in spottless snow, 
 
 And hushed are all the pretty streamlets, 
 That in summers time did flow. 
 
 Nature's no longer clothed in beauty, 
 
 To make our spirits bright, 
 And all its golden glories 
 
 Are turned to winter's night. 
 
 The birds no longer warble 
 
 In through the summer air, 
 But fiercely blows the north winds 
 
 To hasten all our cares. 
 
 And oh ! the unwelcome snow 
 
 That comes to chill the earth, ' 
 Like poverty and want 
 
 That to all miseries give birth. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 55 
 
 And oh ! the weary toilers 
 
 That travel here below, 
 How wretched are their lives 
 
 As they go to and fro, 
 
 The rich man in his luxuries 
 
 No cold nor hunger feels. 
 He folds his arms in idleness 
 
 Around his heart of steel. 
 
 But the angels look down with pity 
 
 Upon the suffering ones of earth, 
 And they hasten to their cries of want, 
 
 And to their lowly hearth ; 
 Their shining robes that glitter, 
 
 Are brighter than the sun. 
 As they hasten to obey his call. 
 
 And say, " Thy will be done." 
 
 NONSENSE. 
 
 Nonsense ! nonsense is my theme. 
 And I will tell you now my dream : 
 Last night I lay upon my bed, 
 While funny things ran through my head ; 
 I dreamed I was upon the dance, 
 And oh ! how I did jump and prance ; 
 With Dan and Charlie round I went. 
 And many a glance of love I sent ; 
 
56 TRE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 My over-skirt off it came, 
 And to the bed-room away I ran, 
 But I came back in a minute or two, 
 And that's the last I'll tell to you. 
 
 I have a secret yet in store 
 About my dress how it got tore ; 
 What will you give if I'll impart 
 This awful secret of my heart ? 
 Only a quarter, did you say ? 
 Then you'll have to call another day ; 
 For such a sum I'd not impart 
 This awful secret of my heart. 
 
 Oh ! five dollars did you say ? 
 
 Then I'll tell it to you to-day ; 
 
 How Jim and 1 rode out, on night, 
 
 The horse took an awful fright 
 
 As we were riding past the grove. 
 
 And talking all about our love — 
 
 About how we'd get "spliced" some day, 
 
 When dad was done a making hay. 
 
 How to the parsons we would go, 
 And to the world we there would show 
 How the thing should be done, 
 And the horse started on a run. 
 He ran, I tell you, at an awful rate — 
 Jim says, " How's that for Kate." 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 57 
 
 The words he scarcely had got out 
 When, thumpety bump, wie both fell out ; 
 My dress caught on a snag, I think, 
 As we both fell skersplash into the drink. 
 
 ON THE DEATH OF INFANTS. 
 
 God sends the sweetest flowers 
 
 To chase our cares away, 
 And then he calls them to his home 
 
 To bask in endless day. 
 
 The weary ones of earth, 
 
 How oft their sigh is heard, 
 But the happy voice of childhood 
 
 Is like the singing birds. 
 
 'Tis well he calls them home 
 
 From every strife and care, 
 To that world eternal 
 
 Where all is bright and fair. 
 
 Ere their tiny little feet 
 
 Have learned the paths of sin. 
 
 And their guiless hearts 
 
 Have turned like stone within. 
 
 Ere shadows gather round their brows, 
 
 And sorrow sits enthroned, 
 And darkness shrouds their earthly lives 
 
 And fills their earthly home. 
 
58 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 WE MISS THEE. 
 
 "We miss thy merry laugh, 
 
 We miss thy smiling brow, 
 We miss thee in a thousand ways, 
 
 Our own, our darling boy. 
 
 We miss thee at the even tide, 
 
 We miss thee at the morn, 
 We miss thee from the cottage bed 
 
 Where nightly lay thy precious head. 
 
 No more we see your cap and coat 
 
 A hanging in their place, 
 No more around the evening meal 
 
 We see your happy face. 
 
 Your little sled no more you'll draw 
 
 Upon the well trod snow. 
 Your little friends will miss thee, too, 
 
 Wherever they do go. 
 
 WILLIE. 
 
 Willie is a little witch, 
 Although he is a boy, 
 
 I'm sorry for to say it 
 But he's nothing but a toy. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 59 
 
 His father is a merchant, 
 
 And sells his various wares, 
 But Billy is a scapegrace 
 
 And goes to all the fairs. 
 
 He tries to make good bargains, 
 
 While clerking in the store, 
 He says, "I'll give you so much 
 
 But not any more." 
 
 I'll tell you what he did 
 
 Last summer in the shade, 
 He sold out lots of ice cream, 
 
 'i hat he and John West made. 
 
 And then he took the cash, 
 There's no knowing what he done, 
 
 I dare say he spent it 
 
 With Johnnie West, his chum. 
 
 He goes to school in winter 
 
 And plays his various tricks, 
 And then he goes a skating 
 
 On Sandy's little creek. 
 
 We know he's full of mischief, 
 
 We know he's full of fun ; 
 We know his father, Ellice, 
 
 After the pretty girls did run 
 
60 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 But I'll tell you all about it, 
 That Willie's good withal ; 
 
 You know, my dear young fi lends 
 There's harm in playing ball. 
 
 We hope, some day he'll fall in love, 
 With a fair and pretty girl, 
 
 Her hair it shall be sunny, 
 And in bright ringlets curl. 
 
 He'll live to be an old man, 
 And do us lots of good. 
 
 But he'll not forget the fun 
 He had in his boyhood. 
 
 MY NEIGHBORS. 
 
 I have six neighbors in a row, 
 I live above and they live below ; 
 First, Mrs Jennings, I'll describe, 
 She was once Pat Jennings' bride, 
 Little Mamie is her only child, 
 And Patrick sometimes gets wild. 
 
 Mrs. Smith lives next in the row, 
 
 She loves Scott and Gracie, too ; 
 
 And next to her is Mrs. Gall, 
 
 With her four children, cats, dogs and all. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 61 
 
 Mrs. Engle, she lives next, 
 
 I don't know what can her perplex, 
 
 Her husband he's so very kind 
 
 That love and peace their lives combine. 
 
 Mrs Johnson lives next to the last, 
 And she can talk so very fast ; 
 Her son Marshall, too, is not so slow, 
 And to. see his Nettie he'll often go. 
 
 Mrs. Lancaster lives last in the row, 
 She has a husband and children two. 
 Now my friend if you'd chance to go 
 Up and down this merry row, 
 My neighbors I am sure you'd like, 
 For they scarcely ever quarrel or fight. 
 
 OUR HOME. 
 
 Our home is delightful, 
 
 'Tis a haven of rest, 
 Where the poor weary wanderer 
 
 Forever is blest. 
 
 Oh ! the memories that cling 
 
 To its hallowed walls, 
 Are dearer to me 
 
 Than jewels or gold. 
 
62 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 The sports of my childhood 
 Were all here enthroned, 
 
 And joys without number 
 Encircled our home. 
 
 My father and mother 
 
 And sisters so dear, 
 That formed the loved circle 
 
 In those bright happy years, 
 
 Are scattered and gone 
 By times ruthless hand. 
 
 And only two are now left 
 Of that once happy band. 
 
 My companion so kind, and so 
 
 Dear unto me, 
 Is fading like blossoms 
 
 From a beautiful tree. 
 
 His footsteps, once light. 
 And manly and strong, 
 
 Are growing less buoyant 
 As we journey along. 
 
 And I feel that my own strength 
 Is beginning to fail. 
 
 And my cheeks, once like roses 
 Are now turning pale. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 63 
 
 We all will soon pass 
 
 To that beautiful shore, 
 Where we'll meet with those loved ones 
 
 Who have gone on before. 
 
 And others will tread 
 
 The land of our home, 
 And time will roll on 
 
 When our journey is done. 
 
 TO MY DAUGHTER. 
 
 Dear Dora, I received your letter, 
 
 My health, I think, is a little better ; 
 
 Daisy too is well and strong. 
 
 And says her head is full of songs ; 
 
 May wants to stay all winter long. 
 
 And they have asked her her visit to prolong. 
 
 We've bought a house upon the hill. 
 
 It's very nice and papered well. 
 
 It's lathed and plastered too. 
 
 And painted nice all through and through ; 
 
 There's two rooms above and four below, 
 
 Besides a closet and pantry too ; 
 
 Ta says it six hundred cost, 
 
 But the man sold it at a fearful loss, 
 
 For we only fifty gave, 
 
 And-with it a nice garden have. 
 
64 THE ANGEL BAND, 
 
 Jjell has gone to Olean 
 To earn all the money that he can ; 
 I have a girl I like quite well, 
 She's very good, her name is Nell ; 
 Earle goes to school and learns quite fast, 
 But there's no telling how long that will last. 
 The refinery now is in our row, 
 And Sweland, he doth make it go ; 
 Pa works in the barrel factory now, 
 Although it's cold and stormy too. 
 EousEviLLE, Pa,, October 25, 188 1. 
 
 HOME. 
 
 "There's no place like home." 
 
 The joys that cluster round the hearth 
 Exceeed all other joys on earth, 
 To see around our hearth-stone fair, 
 Your little cherub's golden hair, 
 And oh ! the mystic ties that bind, 
 No other place on earth you'll find. 
 
 When night hath drawn her curtain round,. 
 And silence's hush is most profound, 
 Then to your home you would retire, 
 And sit around your love-lit fire ; 
 The storms and blasts might sail in vain. 
 They'd have no power to cause you pain, 
 For love would shield you in that hour 
 Against their wildest, rudest power. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 65 
 
 A VOICE FROM THE OTHER SIDE. 
 
 WRITTEN FOR MRS. BURNS 
 
 Mother, it's a word you'd have from me, 
 
 Some lines in poetry, 
 
 About how I pass my time 
 
 In this fair and lovely clime. 
 
 My time I pass most pleasantly, 
 
 And am quite jolly as you see ; 
 
 There are three score, ten thousand, 
 
 That have come along with me, 
 
 Who were cut off quite early. 
 
 You ask, was the conductor to blame ? 
 
 That's a question quite plain ; 
 
 That's a question he should decide, 
 
 In such matters God should be his guide. 
 
 Mother, dear mother, I wish you were here, 
 
 I'd kiss your dear cheek and speak words of cheer ;. 
 
 I know you'd be happy in this beautiful world 
 
 Where Heaven's fair banner is always unfurled; 
 
 With father and many dear friends gone before 
 
 You soon woald forget all your sorrows of yore. 
 
 Father, dear mother, is a much better man, 
 
 To lighten your hardens he do3s all lie can. 
 
 We have pleasures and joys unknown to you here, 
 
 In this beautiful world with the angels so dear. 
 
66 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 Mother, you know the time will soon come 
 When your trials on earth all will be done, 
 And you'll come to us in this beautiful land, 
 You'll take your dear brothers and friends by the 
 
 hand; 
 You'll bid farewell to the trials of earth, 
 And you will rejoice in this heavenly birth. 
 
 Mother, I never have wished myself back, 
 Ood bless the conductor and old railroad track, 
 That carried me over the river of death 
 To this beautiful world in the homes of the blest. 
 
 Mother, I know that your trials are sore, 
 That your anguish is much and your life is a bore, 
 I know that you languish and pine for a rest, 
 But mother, God knows what's for the best ; 
 Your work is not done, that's what they say here, 
 But be of good comfort my own mother dear. 
 The skies may grow bright, perhaps in a day, 
 And all your sorrows be scattered away. 
 
 God's banner, dear mother, is always unfurled, 
 O'er this, my own mother, and all other worlds ; 
 His love is eternal, His work's never done, 
 He'll gladden your heart at your setting sun ; 
 Now mother, farewell till we meet again 
 Where love, joy and peace forever do reign. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 67 
 
 MOTHER'S LETTER. 
 
 LINES WRITTKN FOR A FRIEND. 
 
 Dear children, you -must kindly treat 
 
 Each other while I'm gone, 
 You know our home is very dark 
 
 Without your father's form. 
 
 He was the chosen of my youth, 
 
 In that bright and happy morn, 
 When all the flowers seemed to smile 
 
 And bright the waving corn. 
 
 The path of life has rugged grown 
 
 Since age has banished youth. 
 And all the sweet flowers have seemed to fade 
 
 Just like the days of youth. 
 
 Now, Annie, you take good care 
 
 Of all the things you know, 
 Till I return, which won't be long. 
 
 And so must Mary, too. 
 
 And if your father should come home 
 
 Before that I return. 
 Make everything as pleasant as you can, 
 
 Just as I'd have done. 
 
 Don't be afraid to stay alone 
 
 For God will guard your sleep ; 
 He'll send His angels bright and fair 
 Who will their vigils keep. 
 September 2, 1881. 
 
68 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 TO MY DAUGTHER, MARYE TE. 
 
 LINES WRITTEN FOR MY FRIEND, MRS. G. 
 
 Dear Maryette, the time is fleeting, 
 
 Fleeting fast away, a few more years 
 
 And all that's here will pass away ; 
 
 And these mortal bodies 
 
 Will be laid away in the silent tomb, 
 
 And the Master will call our spirits 
 
 To their eternal homes. 
 
 And say, dear Maryette, say. 
 
 Are we prepared to go ? 
 
 Are our lamps trimmed and burning. 
 
 And are our garments pure and 
 
 White as the snow ? 
 
 Have we obeyed the Saviour's loving voice ? 
 
 Have we cheered the lone and weary ? 
 
 Have we made their hearts rejoice ? 
 
 Have we followed in his footsteps 
 
 O'er the thorny path of life ? 
 
 Have we given up the pleasures 
 
 With which the world is rife ? 
 
 Are we prepared to go 
 
 When God shall call us home ? 
 
 Can we lay our garments by 
 
 And say, " Thy will be done ?" 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 69 
 
 THE SEASONS. 
 
 January's the month for cold and storms ; 
 February's winds, they whistle on ; 
 March, it brings a warmer breath ; 
 April pronounces cold winter's death ; 
 May is the month for poets' song ; 
 June, it brings the rose along; 
 July's sun sends warmer rays ; 
 August brings more sultry days ; 
 September brings our harvest store ; 
 October proclaims that summer's o'er ; 
 JS^ovember brings its storms along ; 
 J)ecember comes with Christmas songs. 
 
 Spring comes with warm and genial rays ; 
 Summer brings her joyous days ; 
 Autumn comes with all its store 
 And says to man, "your summer's o'er" ; 
 Cold winter comes with chilling breath 
 And says to all, " prepare for death." 
 
 THE REBUKE. 
 
 Oh ! brother why didst thou refuse 
 
 To obey the heavely call, 
 Prosperity and happiness 
 -Would then around you fall. 
 
70 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 Why shouldst thou fear the face of mariy 
 Which naught but else than clay, 
 
 How couldst thou drive 
 
 The heavenly messengers away. 
 
 We come to aid and bless your life, 
 
 And make you happy here, 
 And if you'd only tread the path. 
 
 You've naught on earth to fear. 
 Why bury up your talents rare 
 
 Beneath an earthly soil, 
 And thus the heavenly messengers, 
 
 Their purpose you would foil. 
 
 Arouse, arouse your energies, 
 
 And gird your armor on 
 To fight a world of prejudice, 
 
 We'd have you now begin. 
 Oh ! burst the bonds of prejudice 
 
 And let your thoughts go free, 
 Show to the world the mighty works 
 
 Of love and purity.. 
 
 JUST OVER THE RIVER. 
 
 Just over the river so fair 
 
 The angel's are waiting to greet you,. 
 Just over the river so fair , 
 
 We are waiting to meet you. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 71 
 
 Dear father and mother, 
 
 Friends, sisters and brother, 
 Just over the river so fair 
 
 We long to meet you, 
 Just over the river so fair 
 
 A happy band v^ill greet you. 
 
 We know that your hearts 
 
 With sorrow is riven, 
 ' ['will draw your thoughts 
 
 Upward to heaven, 
 To tread a valley so fair 
 
 In passing over the river. 
 
 Oh ! the valley of death is so bright, 
 Oh ! it was like a sweet slumber to me, 
 
 As I was passing over the sea 
 To meet the angels so bright. 
 
 Oh ! mother don't weep for me, 
 
 For I am with the angels so bright. 
 My absence I know you will mourn, 
 
 But I am not far from you gone ; 
 I have thousands of pleasures 
 
 Unknown to you here, 
 My pathway, bright angels, 
 
 Will always be ready to cheer. 
 
 Charlik Ross Message. 
 
72 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 TO DELLIE. 
 
 The days of youth go fleeting by, 
 And its bright joys will soon be o'er, 
 
 But if you walk in virtue's path 
 You'll reach the heavenly shore. 
 
 Manhood's days will soon come on 
 With all her cares and toil, 
 
 And oh ! we'll sigh for those bright days 
 When we were only boys. 
 February, 1882. 
 
 LITTLE MARIAN. 
 
 WRITTEN FOR SISTER LOIS. 
 
 Our precious little rose-bud, 
 Plucked by deaths own hand. 
 
 With angels she has gone to live, 
 She's joined the angel band. 
 
 Our darling little May, 
 
 The joy and pride of all, 
 So son was called away, 
 
 But death will summons all. 
 
 Scarce three summers had she lived 
 Upon this earthly sphere. 
 
 But she has gone, sister. 
 To live with angels dear. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 73 
 
 You oft will see her little things, 
 
 And think of her eyes of blue, 
 But think of her as an angel, 
 
 That oft times comes to you. 
 
 Her merry laugh, her prattling voice- 
 But do not weep, my sister dear, 
 She's joined the angel choir. 
 
 Her little brother will miss 
 
 Her busy pattering feet, 
 And oft he'll sigh and say, 
 
 Oh ! Where's my sister sweet. 
 
 Her father too, oh ! who can tell 
 
 The grief a father f«els. 
 And oh ! the loneliness 
 
 That o'er his heart strings steal. 
 
 Her sister, ah ! how lonely. 
 
 She feels the stroke 1 know, 
 But it was the will of God 
 
 That your sister thus should go. 
 
 Oh ! do not weep, my sister dear. 
 
 She's joined the angel throng, 
 And often with dear angel friends 
 
 Unto you she will come. 
 
74 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 FANNIE BARNSDALL'S MESSAGE. AS THOUGH SHE 
 HAD SPOKEN. 
 
 Dear father, I've come from my fair angel home, 
 To pluck the pale flowers which by death has been strewn, 
 I've come on the wings of the true turtle dove 
 To sow in your hearts the seeds of God's love ; 
 I've come on the breeze of the newly born year, 
 I've come to my earth home your lone hearts to cheer ; 
 I've come o'er the wisdom capped mountains of love, 
 I've come from my home of beauty above. 
 Dear mother, although I am absent in form, 
 I've come on the breeze of this beautiful morn ; 
 I've brought the loveliest garlands of flowers, 
 Plucked and entwined from those beautiful bowers ; 
 I'll crown your loved brows with chaplets of flowers ; 
 I'll show you the path to those mansions above, 
 I'll lead you along with a daughter's fond love 
 Until you the pathway hath found. 
 To that beautiful landscape where love doth abound. 
 And there your dear Fannie you will then embrace. 
 You there will behold her dear angel face. 
 
 THEODORE YANE. 
 
 Theodore Yane is a lovesick swain, 
 
 And so he's at his courting again ; 
 
 He's courting the girl that lives in the lane. 
 
 And we all know he's a lovesick swain. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 75 
 
 A lovesick swain is Theodore Yane, 
 
 He goes a courting through sunshine and rain. 
 
 Through sunshine and rain, 
 
 Though the nights are dark, 
 
 Theodore will always have his spark. 
 
 MRS. R.IYMOND. 
 
 Mrs. Raymond's very proud, 
 
 She feels herself above the crowd ; 
 
 She dressed, too, sometimes in silk, 
 
 And when a girl, she was a jilt. 
 
 But now she's moved into this State, 
 
 I will bet a silver plate 
 
 That all her silk Was in the " soak", 
 
 From her bonnet to her cloak. 
 
 A PROPHETIC TEMPERANCE SONG. 
 
 Oh ! we're a happy temperance band, 
 
 As we go hand in hand up the hill of time. 
 
 Oh ! won't we make the echoes ring, 
 As we gladly shout and sing 
 Our happy temperance songs ? 
 
 " Old King Alchohol is slain, 
 And he'll ne'er come back again 
 To disturb our joys. 
 
76 THE ANGEL BAND, 
 
 " He once held sway both night and day 
 Throughout our happy land. 
 
 " But now he slumbers in his grave, 
 And o'er our land no more he'll wave 
 His flag of death." 
 
 Oh ! we're a happy temperance band, 
 And we'll sing throughout the land 
 Our happy temperance son£;s. 
 
 TO MRS. BECK. 
 
 WRITTEN FOR A FRIEND. 
 
 A friend in need is a friend indeed. 
 
 We'll find as we journey on, 
 But pleasant dreams and a life serene 
 
 Is not for us all to have. 
 
 But my varied life as sister and wife 
 Have been both useful and true, 
 
 So I'll not complain nor any one blame 
 For all the suffering I've endured. 
 
 But I often find those most inclined 
 
 To take the needy in, 
 Are those from the humble walks of life, 
 
 The widow, perhaps, or the poor man's wife 
 Who toils for her daily bread. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 77 
 
 I've often thought I'd like to find out 
 
 Which are the kindest and true, 
 The rich man with his stores of wealth, 
 
 Or the weary and toiling poor. 
 
 Last summer I was sick, 
 
 And in order to regain my health 
 I sought the city. 
 
 I had heard a great deal of the Free Methodist, 
 About their being so good, true and kind, 
 
 And this is why my mind 
 Towards them was inclined. 
 
 I was told that a widow in the city dwelt. 
 She was not rich and many a pang of sorrow 
 
 And of want had felt ; 
 
 I visited her, I told her my story, 
 
 That I was seeking for health, 
 And that pennies, not dollars. 
 
 Composed my whole wealth. 
 
 I found a friend in her indeed, 
 
 A woman's heart should always plead 
 
 For those who are in want and need, 
 For the angel's look with pity upon 
 
 The suffering ones of earth. 
 
 And they hasten to their cries of want. 
 And to their lowly hearths ; 
 
78 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 Their shining robes that glitter 
 Are brighter than the sun, 
 
 As they hasten to obey his call, 
 And say, "Thy will be done." 
 
 A LETTER FROM HEAVEN. 
 
 Grandma Taylor, my friend, is happy and well, 
 Having luckily escaped the dangers of hell. 
 
 Green are the fields and sweet are the bowers, 
 And gladness and joy fill each happy hour ; 
 No pain or sorrow o'er pathway is strewn, 
 For pleasure and beauty are eternal our own. 
 
 We look upon life with a happier view, 
 
 When freed from earth's cares that are always with you ; 
 
 We know the great Giver deals justice to all. 
 
 Though the sorrows of earth doth often appall 
 
 The strongest and bravest and those we love best, 
 
 But we know in His wisdom that all's for the best. 
 
 My friend, when you cross the great swelling tide, 
 And meet all your friends on heaven's fair side, 
 We'll clasp our glad hands and sing the bright strains, 
 All free from our cares and sorrows and pains. 
 
 We'll sing the glad song of the ransomed and free, 
 As we sail o'er lifes ocean, how happy we'll be. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 79 
 
 A SONG. 
 
 Sweetest joys on earth depart, 
 Sadness oft times breaks the heart ; 
 The fairest flowers will fade away, 
 And all that's here will soon decay. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then come dear friends and join oar band, 
 We're just from that sweet summer land, 
 Where all is one bright summer bland, 
 And death will never come. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Joys in heaven will ne'er depart, 
 Sorrow never breaks the heart ; 
 The flowers there are of fadeless dyes. 
 And death will never mount the skies. 
 
 GEM THOUGHTS. 
 
 See your star gemmed skies at night. 
 Heavens own orbs of dazzling light ; 
 Behold yon arch, the milky way, 
 All their Creator's powers display 
 
 WRITTEN DURING A THUNDER STORM. 
 
 Oh ! see the lightning's flash, 
 
 Think of the thunder's roar ; 
 
 Just listen, hear the rain in torrents pour. 
 
so THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 TO A FRIEND. 
 
 Genial companions are agreeable associates. They fill 
 our spirits with sunshine ; they open the avenues of our 
 natures to pleasing reflections ; they remind us of a beau- 
 tiful fountain, whose sparkling jets reflect a thousand sun- 
 beams, whose source is as exhaustless as the oceans. 
 
 TO HARRY. 
 
 A wife may be loving and friends may be kind, 
 
 But there's none in this world like a mother you'll find. 
 
 ROBERT IRVIN'S MESSAGE.* 
 
 MARCH, 1881. 
 LINES SUGGESTED BY HIS DEATH. 
 
 Oh ! listen to my mournful song 
 Of sorrow and distress ; 
 
 To think that I was called away 
 In manhood's prime and best. 
 
 To leave my darling little ones, 
 My poor and lonely wife : 
 
 And just for a few small rabbits 
 I yielded up my life. 
 *He was accidentally shot while hunting. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 81 
 
 My life was very dear to me, 
 
 Though a poor and laboring man, 
 I struggled hard with poverty 
 
 But was still a happy man. 
 
 The days they glided swift away, 
 
 And all was joy and peace ; 
 My wife tried hard to lighten all, 
 
 And all my joys increase, 
 
 But there's a word I'd say to all ; 
 
 Be careful of your life, 
 For I would give a thousand worlds 
 
 Could I be living with my wife. 
 
 AUGUST, 1881. 
 
 But God hath lightened my poor life 
 
 And sunshine doth abound. 
 Where darkest shadows filled 
 
 My heart, and sorrow there was found. 
 
 My dearest friends, oh ! do not think, 
 
 That God will curse to die 
 His children here when called so soon 
 
 To yonder heavenlp sky. 
 
 Oh ! no, His mercies doth abound, 
 
 And He will bless us all ; 
 No soul so dark but his bright love 
 
 Will beautify us all. 
 
82 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 LINES. 
 
 WRITTEN UPON THE DEATH OF LITTLE ANNIE EATONy 
 
 WHO WAS KILLED ON THE BRIDGE AT PETROLEUM 
 
 CENTRE, NOVEMBER 28, 1877. 
 
 In the month of November, one beautiful day. 
 
 When all nature was calm and the winds seemed to say r 
 
 "Come, listen to me, I have something to tell 
 
 That will soften your hearts, remember it well ; 
 
 'Tis mournful and sad, a most pitiful tale 
 
 Of a horrible accident that occurred on the rail, 
 
 At Petroleum Centre, that once famous town. 
 
 Whose glory and riches have long since gone down^ 
 
 " In a dearly loved home not far from the town, 
 Among the high hills and close nestling down, 
 Lived dear little Annie, the light of that home, 
 Where death and great sorrqw had never yet come ;. 
 The morning in question, so blithe and so gay. 
 To hasten to school she wended her way. 
 With her papa to take her the bridge safely o'er, 
 The work of a moment, just a few rods from their door. 
 
 " But before they had reached it, I here will relate, 
 They met a young friend, who a request there did make^ 
 She said, ' I will take little Annie the bridge safely o'er/ 
 Her request was then granted and they then said no 
 more. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 83 
 
 Then hastening on they hoped soon to reach 
 The end of the bridge, scarcely either did speak ; 
 But before they had reached the farther end 
 The nine o'clock train came rushing along. 
 
 Without warning or signal of ringing the bell, 
 Or sounding the whistle, that's w^hat they all tell, 
 The children ne'er heard it till the bridge it was in, 
 Then the rush and the roar and confusion and dia, 
 And then the poor children tried hard to escape, 
 But dear little Annie, alas ! was too late, 
 "She stumbled and fell across the hard rail — 
 Oh ! whose heart will not soften at this mournful tale. 
 
 The train was too near to stop at such speed, 
 And dear little Annie was run over indeed ; 
 No tongue can describe her parents great woe. 
 When her poor little body was severed in two. 
 Come all you fond parents who have children de^r. 
 Remember the Lord, him to love and revere, 
 He taketh his lambs to his heavenly fold — 
 To that beautiful city, whose streets are pure gold." 
 
 MY NEAREST NEIGHBORS. 
 
 PETROLEUM CENTRE. 
 
 There's poor old Auntie Butler, now. 
 She's black as any carrion-crow, 
 
84 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 She lives in her old hut alone 
 
 Unless some stragling man there comes ; 
 
 She gets an honest living too — 
 
 By hard work, I believe, 'tis true. 
 
 And Mrs. Welsh lives just below, 
 
 She sells ale and whiskey, too ; 
 
 I would n."»t injure any one, 
 
 Or maintain a slandering tongue. 
 
 For she's a widow with children three, 
 
 And must live like you stnd me. 
 
 And there is poor old Liza Sharp, 
 She gets her living by hard work ; 
 She washes for people from day to day^ 
 And to her temper oft gives way. 
 
 And there are Ellsworth's just above, 
 They dwell togather in peace and love ; 
 « There's Mr. Ellsworth and his wife. 
 And little Rosey their joy and life. 
 
 Mr. Lacey's I do not know, 
 
 Alhough they go to and fro, 
 
 A goodly name I've heard they bear. 
 
 And of joys and sorrows have their share.- 
 
 The school-house, too, is in full sight. 
 Where all the children have their rights. 
 There's Mr. Lord and Miss McCray, 
 They do their duty from day to day. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 85 
 
 And little Miss Barker and Gracie Lord, 
 They always speak such truthful words ; 
 You never could doubt a word they say, 
 And their scholars love them from day to day. 
 
 My neighbors, I have named them all, 
 The school included in the roll. 
 
 MAUMEE. 
 
 Little Kate and handsome Dick, 
 
 They'll get married very quick ; 
 
 1 hey'll ride to town upon a pig, 
 
 And there they'll buy their wedding rig, 
 
 And then to Sulphur Springs they'll go, 
 
 Chatting all the way so low. 
 
 I'VE WANDERED. 
 
 I have wandered by the sea-side, 
 
 I've wandered in the glen, 
 I've wandered o'er the mountain tops 
 
 Far from the haunts of men. 
 
 I have wandered in the city 
 
 Amidst the giddy throng, 
 Where care and sorrow all day sit 
 
 And sing their mournful songs. 
 
86 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 I have wandered o'er the ocean 
 Where the foaming billows roar, 
 
 And dangers thick beset us 
 All our journey through. 
 
 I have wandered to America, 
 Far from old Ireland's shore, 
 
 And then I wandered back again 
 To tread her lands once more. 
 
 I have roamed o'er old Ireland, 
 And sang her merry songs, 
 
 And straightway for old England 
 I started out one morn. 
 
 I have roamed o'er old England 
 Among her palace domes, 
 
 But I never found a place so dear 
 As my old Irish home. 
 
 LITTLE EA.IILE. 
 
 INow, little Earle is very cute, 
 
 The very facts you can't dispute. 
 
 His little jokes are plainly seen, 
 
 And even his own dear mama he will not screen ; 
 
 He plays his tricks both night and day, 
 
 And tries to screen himself alway. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 87 
 
 His papa has a friend he likes, 
 
 Whom to his house he oft invites 
 
 To spend the evening, pleasant cheer, 
 
 And he comes quite often, I do declare ; 
 
 To him one evening Early said— 
 
 *' Why don't you come and bring your bed 
 
 And stay always ? " 
 
 " Who said so ? " the guest inquired, 
 
 A feeling a little somewhat ired ; 
 
 " Mama did," he quickly said, 
 
 " That you'd better come and bring your bed 
 
 And stay alway." 
 
 But little Earle is smart indeed. 
 
 His prinks and pranks you don't need to care, 
 
 His head's level, I'll wager a dime every time ; 
 
 He's our own dear blessed little baby boy. 
 
 He's a regular little man, he's no toy. 
 
 With his big bright eyes and winning smiles. 
 
 The cares of life he doth beguile ; 
 
 He makes the clouds to pass away, 
 
 And brings in the sunshine every day. 
 
 He strews the flowers of hope along, 
 
 And brightens all with his happy song. 
 
 DEAL GENTLY. 
 
 Deal gently with the erring, 
 Speak lovingly and kind. 
 
 For, oh ! the hand that made them 
 Is Godlike and kind. 
 
88 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 TO WILLIE. 
 
 Oh ! Willie is my darling, 
 
 My blessed little love, 
 
 Oh ! he is the dearest, the sweetest little dove ; 
 
 His little hair is sunny, 
 
 His eyes are azure blue. 
 
 And his skin is like the lily 
 
 Bedecked with the morning dew. 
 
 His mouth is like the rosebud 
 
 Just opening to the view. 
 
 And his teeth like pearls the fairest, 
 
 And his cheeks of matchless hue. 
 
 His voice it is the sweetest 
 
 And his smile it is so rare, 
 
 And his little hand so dainty. 
 
 That with no artists' would compare. 
 
 Oh ! Willie is my darling, 
 
 My blessed little love. 
 
 Oh ! he is the dearest, the sweetest little dove. 
 
 WRITTEN DURING A SNOW-STORM. 
 
 Oh ! the merry, merry snow. 
 
 Coming down, sometimes fast and sometimes slow ; 
 
 Oh ! the merry, merry snow. 
 
 Sweetest emblem of purity here below. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 89 
 
 How it dances, how it prances, like the joyous thoughts 
 
 of youth ; 
 Now so quickly, flying swiftly, like the merry feet of 
 
 youth ; 
 Now it slackens, thus^sit packens, like the darling? cares 
 
 of youth ; 
 Now it ceases then increases is its volume and its work. 
 How it flurries, how it scurries all along the western sky ; 
 How it moves us, how it proves us and will try us bye 
 
 and bye ; 
 Oh! tis welcome, and we'll prove it with the best of 
 
 graces ; 
 Oh ! we love it and we'll prove it by our smiling faces. 
 Oh! the merry, merry snow. 
 Fairest emblem of purity here below. 
 
 WRITTEN FOR A FRIEND. 
 
 Dear Clint, why do you stay away so long ? 
 I miss your happy voice and song. 
 That cheered me in those happy days 
 When boyhoods life was spent in plays. 
 
 Why don't you come or write to me, 
 
 'Twould cheer my heart 
 
 As I sail o'er life's troubled sea. 
 
90 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 I miss your footsteps in the hall, 
 I miss your form within our walls ; 
 I miss you in a thousand ways 
 And sigh for those bright, happy days, 
 When I clasped you fondly to my heart, 
 And prayed that God would never part 
 Me from my darling, darling boy, 
 Whose life and love was all my joy 
 
 But those bright, happy days are passed, 
 
 And you are gone from me at last. 
 
 To tread lifes thorny path alone, 
 
 And we miss you, darling, so much at home. 
 
 But you must write me a good, long letter, 
 And I know I shall then feel a great deal better ; 
 And I wont feel so lonesome when you're gone, 
 And wish so often that you were at home. 
 I will bid you now, dear Clint, adieu. 
 Hoping soon to hear from you, 
 
 Mother. 
 
 CORA. 
 
 Oh ! I am so glad I have passed 
 To this beautiful land ; 
 
 With grandma and Harley 
 I shall walk hand in hand, 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 91 
 
 All over these fields of beauty and light, 
 
 Where the sunshine of God 
 Shuts out all the night, 
 
 And the birds warble songs 
 Most melodious to hear, 
 
 And the joys of this world 
 Dries up every tear. 
 
 TO VINA. 
 
 Dear Vina, the days are passing swift away 
 
 And the flowers of earth will soon decay ; 
 
 Perhaps you'd like to know what the future has in store 
 
 for you, 
 Whether pleasures, or, whether it is going to be a bore 
 
 to you. 
 
 Now, Vina, every life has its sunshine and it also has its 
 
 shadows, 
 So don't look for all sunshine without a single shower, 
 If you do you'll be mistaken, and bleak will be your bower. 
 
 Care may fade away the roses and the lily from your 
 
 cheek, 
 But we must all expect to take the bitter with the sweet. 
 
 Now, Vina, perhaps you may marry a gentleman, accord- 
 ing io your taste, 
 One that wears a moustache and sideburns on his face ; 
 
92 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 One that sports a diamond ring and drives a dashing 
 
 steed ; 
 One that lives up to the times and dresses well indeed ; 
 No common sort of rowdy or ordinary chap, 
 But one thatknows just how to hold the ladies on his lap. 
 
 Perhaps you'd like some children, just a few to pass the 
 
 time, 
 To drive away dull care when daddy's not at home. 
 
 Two handsome boys and pretty girls, of fair and elfish 
 
 grace. 
 Who would never cause your heart to break, or bring 
 
 the blushes to your face.'J 
 Perhaps you'd like a home, with peace and comforts 
 
 both combined, 
 Where you could rest your aching head and consolation 
 
 find. 
 
 Perhaps you'd like to live a thousand years or more. 
 But you ought to be contented with seventy and four. 
 
 MATTIE IS NOT DEAD. 
 
 Who says Mattie is dead ? 
 
 'Tis not death, 'tis life, 'tis resurrection, 
 
 'Tis the casting off of garments old, and putting on 
 
 the new. 
 The birthright of the angels, of a fairer brighter hue. 
 
THE ANGEL BAND. 93 
 
 Who says Mattie is dead ? 
 
 ' ris not death, 'tis life, 'tis resurrection. 
 
 " I would not live always, I ask not to stay 
 
 Where storm after storm rises dark o'er the way." 
 
 Who says Mattie is dead ? 
 'Tis not death, 'tis life, 'tis resurrection, 
 'Tis life, 'tis beauty, it is not gloom 
 Beyond the portals of the tomb. 
 
 Who says Mattie is dead ? 
 
 Can God die ; can the immortal spark moulder and 
 
 decay, 
 And all its beauties fade and waste away ? 
 No, God cannot die, neither can you or I, 
 We may depart this mortal sphere. 
 And our friends may weep the bitter tear, 
 Yet bright beyond these earthly skies. 
 Where the soul never dies. 
 We live and breathe the heavenly air, 
 Where all is bright and fair, 
 Where sorrow never comes ; 
 And Mattie cannot die, or weep the bitter tear, 
 For love and joy reign eternal here 
 In this bright sphere. 
 No, Mattie is not dead. 
 
 My darling child receives my care, 
 And I often kiss his young brow so fair ; 
 His guardian angel I will be, 
 *' And when he shall that narrow sea, 
 
94 THE ANGEL BAND. 
 
 I'll greet him on that blessed shore, 
 Where we'll meet to part no more." 
 Mattie is not dead.* 
 
 We are not gone far far away, 
 But with our loved ones often stay 
 To cheer them in this vale of tears. 
 And banish all their cares and fears. 
 " Oh ! how sweet the blessed mission 
 Of the angel world to this. 
 As they come from worlds elysian 
 To sweeten all the toils of this." 
 No, Mattie is not dead. 
 
 TO MY DEAR MOTHER, FROM LAURA. 
 
 Though the way may seem dark and disasters appall, 
 
 Yet heaven's fair banner floats bright over all ; 
 
 Though your friends may depart for that fair blessed land, 
 
 Yet Laura, my darling, will clasp your dear hand, 
 
 And will gently and loviilgly lead you along, 
 
 And will cheer your earth life wifh her bright happy song, 
 
 And will scatter the thorns from your feet, 
 
 iVnd will pour in your ear heavenly music so sweet, 
 
 And your cares, my dear mother, will vanish away. 
 
 And the hour of midnight shall be as the day. 
 
 Just think of God's smiles, how glorious and sweet, 
 They banish our cares and the thorns from our feet. 
 They'll brighten our pathway o'er the river of death. 
 Where you'll join the glad throng in the homes of the blest. 
 
CONTKNTS. 
 
 Album Verses — Lines Written to a Friend 23 
 
 A Letter from Heaven 78 
 
 A Song 79 
 
 A Voice from the Otiier Side 65 
 
 A Prophetic Temperance Song 75 
 
 Addie 50 
 
 Bertie at Grandma's 38 
 
 Billy, the Butcher 48 
 
 Cora 90 
 
 Death 42 
 
 Deal Gently 87 
 
 Dropped in the Harness 41 
 
 Fannie BarnsdalPs Message 74 
 
 Gem Thoughts 79 
 
 How to be Beautiful 11 
 
 Home 64 
 
 I've Wandered ^5 
 
 Joe's ^lessage 29 
 
 Johnnie Heasley's' Message 50 
 
 Just Over the River 70 
 
 Lines , 82 
 
 Lines to my Sister Phebe 12 
 
96 CONTENTS. 
 
 Little Earle 86 
 
 Lines Written for a Friend 33 
 
 Lines Written to a Friend 22 
 
 Little Pearl , ■. 36 
 
 Let's not go Back » 52 
 
 Little Marian 72 
 
 My Guardian Angel 35 
 
 Mother's Letter 67 
 
 Mattie is not Dead 92 
 
 Mrs. Raymond 75 
 
 My Neighbors 60 
 
 My Nearest Neighbors 83 
 
 Nonsense 55 
 
 Our Little Girtie 39 
 
 On the Death of Infants 57 
 
 Our Home 61 
 
 Prophetic 32 
 
 Robert Irvin's Message 80 
 
 Recollections ; or, the Old Brown House 21 
 
 Reflections upon Seeing a Rainbow 5 
 
 Scamper Away ; or, Life as it is 18 
 
 The Poets 7 
 
 To Mrs. Beck 76 
 
 To Vina...: 91 
 
 To Willie 88 
 
 Q^o my Daughter, Maryette 68 
 
 Theodore Vane 74 
 
 The Laurel Crown 8 
 
 The Children's Bouquet ,. 16 
 
 To the Memory of Mr. Boyd 11 
 
 Tom Brown 14 
 
 ToDellie 17 
 
 The Mother's Voice 24 
 
 The New Year 26 
 
 To a Mother upon the Death of an Infant 27 
 
 The Beggar's Petition 31 
 
 The Devil S3 
 
 The Sunset - 43 
 
 To Eda 41 
 
 The Summer Time 45 
 
CONTENTS. 97 
 
 To Eda Gillet 44 
 
 The Autumn 46 
 
 To a Morning Glory 49 
 
 To my Dear Old Aunty 51 
 
 The Winter Time 54 
 
 The Seasons 69 
 
 To my Daughter 63 
 
 The Kebuke .••••' 69 
 
 To Dellie 72 
 
 To my Dear Mother, from Laura 94 
 
 Written During a Snow-storm , 88 
 
 Winetta ••• •. 15 
 
 We Miss Thee 58 
 
 We Come • 53 
 
 Written for a Friend 89 
 
 Willie 58 
 
 Yes, Indeed 25