^ ...^.yj^i^jwi i iii il ii ill ^ ^^^^K ' I Book jfe^_£4rP4 (xpightKi iU^ COFklJlGHT DEPOSIT. I'lll': ATlllOU Poems By IVOR G. WILLIAMS SAULSBURY PUBLISHING COMPANY BAIiTIMOSE, MD. Ji ^^■^^-t^ ^t"^^*^ V* By Author, 1918 .\^H ^i^m J. F. TAPLEY CO. New York 5\ ^^^ Dedicated TO My one and only sister, Ethel. CONTENTS PAGE France, We Thank Thee 3 Gone 6 Bermuda 7 He Lived Not Long 8 Love 9 God Knows What Is Best 10 The Only One 12 The Horizon 14 The Ten Virgins 15 Electricity 19 Weavers of Speech 21 The Gladiator 23 I Loved Once 26 Revenge 27 O Lord Have Mercy 31 Sleep 83 A Rainy Day 34 The Rest on the Way 36 Evensong 37 Come Out, I Say 39 Salisbury Cathedral 40 The Violins 43 The Wind 44 His Dead Love 46 Eyes of Blue 48 Left Alone 49 The Question 51 Not for Him 62 "Afraid to Die" 54 The Convict's Last Act . 68 FRANCE. WE THANK THEE Fair France, think of all thou hast done Since this mighty struggle begun; We know well thy sons one and all Have answered to their country's call By laying down their lives For thee and for that sacred cause — Honour, right, respect due thy laws. For strength they cry to him above ; For France they give up all they love, Mothers, sweethearts, and wives. Gallantly thy sons have always. Even way back in ancient days, Fought to keep France out of distress; Year after year without a rest Back in those stormy days. Now in this war they still can hold Their own bravely, both young and old. As in the past, showing us how What they did then they can do now, Their dashing, fearless ways. Let us not forget the women Who have proved themselves, like the men, To be brave in time of danger. Sent to the land of a stranger, Insulted at all times; What of those women, young and old, Who, forced to go where they are told.? And then made to work for the foe — A life of misery and woe — Who shall pay for these crimes.? 3 FRANCE, WE THANK THEE Wives torn away from their husbands, All separated from their friends, Then young daughters from their mothers And fair sisters from their brothers To places no one knew. Young girls stolen away by night. While their lovers are at the fight. Deported to another land. Such acts the women have to stand ; We know these things are true. We must not forget furthermore Those women who make shells for The men who stand behind the guns That bombard those devilish Huns. Have'you heard them complain ? These women, working night and day, So as to keep the foe at bay; For a woman no easy work Filling shells, yet they do not shirk Either danger or pain. France, to thee we express our thanks, To men and women of all ranks. Sacrifices ye have for sure Made, yet ready to suffer more, But victor}^ will come To your heroic people who Are set on seeing this war through. And when this war does end all will see It will not be necessary To ask what France has done. 4 FRANCE, WE THANK THEE Although not alwa^^s in the past Have we been friendlj^, j^et at last We find thee, France, our great ally Along with us to fight and die Either on land or sea. Then your brave squadrons of the air — For us what will those men not dare? Well rewarded God grant you may be. But for the present we must say France, fair France, we thank thee. GONE At last he has passed away. For no wealth, love, skill, or pain Could the hand of death then stay Or bring him back once again. Although wealth, learning, and skill Had done all that could be done; All these had saved him until The hand of death chose to come. But when it came nothing could Drive death away from the bed. And nothing in this world would Bring him back now he was dead. Though no more you will him see He of whom you were so fond, What matter so long as he Has gone to that land beyond.? BERMUDA All alone, surrounded by the mighty ocean, Thou art indeed a tiny country of thy own ; Ever peaceful and still, far from all conmiotion. Thou art one of the fairest spots that is yet known. A land of bright sunshine and gay flowers, thou art A regular fairyland with all thy many charms. How I shall miss, when the time comes for me to part, Your white beaches, coral shores, your cedars and palms. HE LIVED NOT LONG A little child, in fact 'twas a babe just born, That broke the stillness at the first light of morn With wails and cries. Were they of sorrow or joy? None could tell for that dear little baby boy Lived not long enough to be able to tell Any after whether he felt ill or well ; For not long had he been in this world of sin Before the Lord came along and called for him. He was carried away to that home above Where they say all is peace, happiness, and love. He is with the angels now, who ever sing Praises, by day and night, to their Lord and King. He knew not this world ; he went too soon to know Its trials and temptations, misery and woe. By God's mercy I may meet him by and by, But for now, baby, you are luckier than I. LOVE Love; what is love? do you know? Is it that which makes hearts beat so? That fills a maiden with bliss And makes her brave, can love be this? For do we not think it queer Women can live with men they fear? Yet they would not change their lot, Though men are brutes, they leave them not. Is it love that gives them bliss? What else would make them act like this? Their men beat them, make them cry. Yet these women stay till they die. And cannot a certain girl Set a young man's head in a whirl? What is it that makes this so? Ask the young man — does he not know ? Midst sorrow, trouble, and care. One can always find love still there. Ileal love cometh from above God gives us love and He is love. GOB KNOWS WHAT IS BEST 'Tis true that God knows what is best, What is best for you and me. Though 'tis not alwaj^s we think so ; Often we think He does not know When we are put to some hard test So we choose ourselves and see. Yes, we do choose and are we right Always in making our choice.'' Do we always choose for the best When we have been put to that test.? We think we have. All, well we might By not listening to His voice. But we soon find out 'tis not so ; That we have made a mistake, Most often when it is too late. Or very soon at any rate That after all we did not know What was good for our own sake. Through the long watches of the night Awake we can find no rest, What is this that whispers within Each one of us when we do sin, Telling us we have not done right.'' Our conscience, we must confess. 10 GOD KNOWS WHAT IS BEST Let us be careful what we do When we are put to the test. Be it pain, sorrow, joy, or woe Or the loss of someone we know. Then let us not forget 'tis true That God does know what is best. 11 THE ONLY ONE I'll always think of you, my dear, I'll always think of you, Though 'tis long since you last were here I'm stiH sincere and true. Yes, true to you I'll always be, No matter what may come. For I remember you told me I was the only one. The only one you said that had Captured your heart at sight. No other woman ever had Made you want to go right. "You loved me far better than life Itself, you told me then; You would ask me to be your wife, When you came back again. Here by the fire alone I sit Longing for you each day Come, dearest, tell me what is it That keeps you so away? Can it be that you have since then. As you refuse to come. Learnt to love another girl when I was the only one? 12 THE ONLY ONE You asked me if I loved you too And, love, did I not s^y My heart would always be for you When you came back some day? But now you, although my lover, Have chosen to forget. Now that you have found another, You leave me here to fret. However, I will pray that you Whom I still love, will be To your new love faithful and true. Though you were not to me. To the end will I think of thee. Though me you choose to shun. Some day you will learn that for me You were the only one. 13 THE HORIZON As I stand gazing far across the ocean From this rockbound coast, the thought suddenly occurs to me, How many of us now have any notion What is beyond that place where the sky seems to meet the sea? Up to there we have nothing to block our view, We can see all around us till our eyes rest on that spot Far away in the distance where I or you Cannot see beyond, even straining our eyes we can not. I wonder what is behind that long straight line? Maybe nothing but the sea, or perhaps some large vessel Is steaming along, yet we can see no sign Of any smoke or funnels; no from here we cannot tell What is passing along and we never will Unless we go out yonder when we shall find once again That from out there we can see all right until We find in the distance the sky meets the sea just the 14 THE TEN VIRGINS Ten virgins, beautiful and sweet, Clothed themselves with apparel new. For had they not promised to meet. The bridegroom who was now soon due? *New lamps for each one to carry. Their robes were of the very best. But the bridegroom chose to tarry So they laid themselves down to rest. They slept soundly, those virgins ten. As the precious minutes flew by. All around was calm and still, when At midnight there arose the cry, "Get ye forth to meet the bridegroom." Then all woke from sleep in great fear All was confusion in that room Now that their master was so near. The virgins took their lamps to trim Them hurriedly, for the time flies When they must needs go to meet him. Out of the ten but five were wise. For though all ten their lamps had brought 'Twas then found some had forgotten To fill their vessels when they ought ; So loud was the complaining then. Then they which had no oil said, "Come, There remains but one thing to do. Give us some oil, ye that have some So that we may light our lamps too." But they that did have oil said, *'Nay, THE TEN VIRGINS For if we do will it not be All lamps will go out on the way And none wUl be able to see? "But rather go ye forth and buy From them that may have oil to sell. Haste or it will be wondered why Ye are late ; then no one may tell What the bridegroom may think of you If the virgins' lamps burn but dim When he learns there we're such a few That after all really met liim." At that the foolish virgins went, Sayings that they very soon would. For one and all of them were bent On getting some oil where they could. But while they were gone along came The bridegroom. If some were missing, There were five whom he could not blame. Who were ready for the wedding. Then all present went in with him To the marriage ceremony. Although the virgins' lights seemed dim There was plenty of light to see. Then after all had gone inside And the service having begun, Those doors that had been open wide Were now closed against everyone. 16 THE TEN VIRGINS Hardly had the doors been bolted When through the darkness of the night Five lights were seen. Women in white Gowns at first they appeared to be. But their gowns were dirty not clean. If you looked again you would see Why were they late where had they been. 'Twas not unlikely they would soil Their clean white gowns, for had not they, These women in their search for oil Walked through thick mud and lost their way? All of them had run their fastest, They knew the bridegroom would not wait, So not once had they stopped to rest. But, alas, they find they are too late. Having regained their breath somewhat All knocked, then saying, "Let us in," But a voice said, "I know ye not, Know I only those now within." Then those five outside the closed door, One and all, bewailed their fate: Wishing they had made ready for Their master ; now it was too late. 17 THE TEN VIRGINS So let us always watch and pray Against temptation everyone. For ye know not the hour or day When your Lord and Master shall come. Be on the alert, so that we, When the time comes, hear the cries "He Cometh" — all will be ready Like those five virgins who were wise. 18 ELECTRICITY What is it that is put to a thousand uses And which now comes in for but a few abuses, Still only known by the effects it produces? Why, Electricity. That which can neither be destroyed or created, Yet can be moved from place to place, it is stated. And which to light perhaps it may be related, 'Tis Electricity. Though we speak of it flowing 'tis not a fluid; We can see it not, yet it can be detected ; And from a certain course can it be deflected, This Electricity. Yet it is not a gas, of that we are quite sure, But whatever it may be, we can it still store In cells chemically till discharged they want more This Electricity. That makes telegraph and telephone possible; That drives our trains, causing them to go where we wiU; And which, if too powerful on contact, will kill, 'Tis Electricity. When the day is done there comes the darkness of night. Yet by turning a switch we can have dazzling light. Then wireless, which helps the mariner in his plight ; 'Tis Electricity. 19 ELECTRICITY What is it that besides the fire can keep us warm? That can bake our bread, cook food, no matter what form? And which soon heats our irons for ironing nice and warm? 'Tis Electricity. It helps the doctor, for is not there the ex-ray By which he can examine bodies day by day? Now musical instruments may be made to play By Electricity. That which can be used now in all manner of ways ; By driving machines no end of labor it saves, But which if not protected could set all ablaze, This Electricity. Though it may seem strange, yet up to now it is so That no one has found out what 'tis that has so Helped all the world. We can feel it yet all we know Is that it's Electricity. 20 WEAVERS OF SPEECH Who are these weavers of speech by night and day, The invisible hands that ever play? Swiftly and skillfully joining to and fro Those cords by which the human voice can go? That weave the thoughts of rich and poor, one and all, Of towns and villages both large and small, That attend to all our calls early and late From near by or from a far away state. Whose is that voice that says when we choose to call Just the words "number please" and that is all ? Who is this person that is ever busy Sitting somewhere, where none of us can see? 'Tis a woman's voice, but is she young or old? If she is young, how can she be so cold? For always from her I get the same reply ; My love she refuses, I wonder why. You that interlace triumph and tragedy, Why can't you speak just a few words to me? You that sit at some switchboard now so silent That can mingle gossip with sentiment. First joy and sorrow, then failure and success; Come tell me your name, you cannot do less. You that connect them all, tell me who thou art ; Spare me just a tiny place in your heart. 21 WEAVERS OF SPEECH But perhaps you are busy, can't spare the time To listen to any love words of mine. You that with so many calls can always cope, Come, my dear, give me just a little hope. But no ! your voice comes back to me just as cold, And I get the same reply as of old. Tell me, dear, to your hearts does love ever reach, All you invisible Aveavers of speech? 22 THE GLADIATOR The amphitheatre was crowded now As full as it possibly could be ; So much so that at first one wondered how All did find room, for you could not see A \acant place now to be had within ; 'Twas impossible to get a seat Now that it was time for games to begin, While the crowd started stamping their feet. Gathered there were high officials, priests, too, Knights, senators and all the elite; Officers of the army not a few, The common folk found themselves a seat Wherever they could up in the high rows. The crowd in a joyous mood all were. Singing, laughing, kicking each other's toes ; Never had there been heard such a stir. At last there came the signal to begin ; Then ceased the stamping of feet and row And all was suddenly quiet within, For all heads were thrust forward and now Thousands of eyes were fixed on a small door. All round the arena held their breath Now as their favorite stepped forth once more To meet either victory or death. Then could be heard loud shouts from all the stands, The crowd cheered, 'twas a wonderful sight ! More stamping of feet and clapping of hands, Then more gladiators come to fight, 23 THE GLADIATOR Out into the arena, one by one, Ready, their muscles were firm and set, But amongst them all there seemed to be none That could equal their favorite yet. There he stood, the victor of many fights. Before them now, brave, fearless and so Unbeaten he had risen to lofty heights. He was now for the time their hero ; In strength and size a regular Hercules, Claimed to be the strongest of ail men. Just look at his neck, back, arms, and knees — • He was the darling of the women. The combat has begun, all start to bet ; Now nearly all for their favorite. A few for his opponent with the net. For both of the men looked very fit. The one now crouching ready to attack Like some wild beast waiting for its prey. The other hoping to drive him back By the aid of his net in some way. The people's favorite armed with a sword Makes a quick thrust, at the same time he Takes his eyes not once from that piece of cord Circling around his head he can see. But his opponent is nimble and quick, For bending aside the net bearer Escapes the thrust, then by means of a trick Rouses his man to attacks darer. 24 THE GLADIATOR The favorite attacks, he thinks he sees His chance. Once more will he be able To add to his long list of victories, But his man chose the time all too well, For quick as a wink now the net bearer With his tridept stabs the other's knees. The favorite staggers, falls, tries to stir, Above him that fatal net he sees. But too late! The net already has him Within its folds. The fight he must quit. From all sides rises a terrific din Now at the fall of the favorite. Again and again does he try to hack His way from out of that deadly net. At last, exhausted, he falls on his back, For his victor at last he has met. I Wherefore this noise that now rings in his ear? All these shouts, cheers, and clapping of hands. They are not for him, he cannot stir. He, the favorite, lies on the sands. For him all is finished, there's naught but deatli. His conqueror, sword in hand, will bend O'er him, a quick thrust, then in his last breath He hears cries " 'Tis finished ! 'tis the end." 25 I LOVED ONCE I loved once, but 'twas long ago, A little maiden whom I thought Was an angel, but now I know Too well the grief and pain she wrought Within my heart. I loved in vain And still love though the years have flown. She fled, I saw her not again So, alas, I was left alone. But I blame thee not, maiden fair. That thou didst then love another; And so for me you did not care. But you might have, when you left hero Told me you'd return. Now I will Maybe never see thee again. Thee my angel, I love thee still. Though my love has been all in vain. 26 REVENGE Ah! so the time has come at last, Although so many years have passed Since I last saw your evil face — You, the man, that chose to embrace The woman that I loved, alas. She who was always pure and sweet Until you she happened to meet. You with your clever, charming ways, Way back in those forgotten days. But now I have you in my net. I haven't forgotten, so don't fret; Oh, no, you have not got off yet ! Wait till I meet you all alone, I guess then I will change your tone. Thank God at last now we have met. You who were the cause of her shame; That caused her death before I came Back, as I thought, to claim my bride. But, no, I found that she had died ; The thought now drives me nigh insane. So now you leave the theatre. Pcor Jane, if you had not met her! Ah, well, that is all over now But though dead she shall soon know how Well that I really did love her. 27 REVENGE You leave the place, your head held high, You hail a taxi, so do I, Though you tell your driver to race I shall not lose sight of your face, Oh, no, and you will soon know why. So you live in a swellish place, But you always did go the pace. At last both cars turn down a street Quiet as you would ever meet Now we shall soon come face to face. I heard your car stop just ahead, So I turned to my man and said Here we are to stop. I got out there And having given him his fare He turned his car, made home for bed. I saw you then pay your driver, But it was so dark that neither Saw me as I crept behind you Up those steps, and little you knew That I was anywhere near here. I heard you fumbling for your key. Cursing because you could not see. Then as you opened your door I Leaped at you and you gave a cry As you hit the step with your knee. REVENGE I quickly slipped in after you And as quickly shoved the door to, Then at once you switched on the light. You saw me and your face went white, As you wondered what you could do. You knew me at once, I could see. And that you were afraid of me. You knew the reason why I had Come after you, that I was mad. So you then tried your best to flee. I caught you, though you struggled so, But, no, I would not let you go. My hand shot out and gripped your throat And then, my word, how I did gloat To hear you gasping for breath so! Your face changed from white to black ; You wrestled in vain to get back Your breath, but, no, you cannot slip Away now once my deadly grip On your throat is fixed, 'tis a knack. I have learnt how you chose to play The traitor whilst I was away. You knew she loved me and I her Yet you went and shamed her, you cur. But now here I will make you pay! 29 REVENGE Now you shall for the life you led The' woman that I was to wed, Never again see the daylight, So 'tis no use for you to fight. Thank God, now you will soon be dead. Ah ! your breathing now becomes choked. Those evil eyes ought to be poked Out of your head, you big coward. But now I hold the winning card. How hot it is, I am just soaked. 'Tis the worst sight I ever saw, That face of yours when you no more Breathed as you then without a whimp Fell in my arms breathless and limp ; And I then threw you on the floor. Through a kind of a mist I seem To see a scaffold — what's it mean.? A tug, then the sound of a fall. I start, awake, and after all, Thank God, 'tis naught but a bad dream. 30 O LORD HAVE MERCY Lord, have mercy upon one this night Who has transgressed against Thy sacred name ! Thou who seest our acts, evil and good. How I should bless Thee then if Thou but would Forgive me once more, though I have again Done that which is Avickedness in Thy sight. Thou who didst out of naught create all things; Even this world and all there is within. Oceans, forests, deserts all that there be ; All creatures on land, in air and in sea. Have mercy. Lord, please do forgive my sin, Thou who art almighty, the King of Kings. Didst Thou not send Thy son, Thy only son, To us to save this world from total loss.'' Not in a palace but a stable born ; Afterwards tempted and treated with scorn. Who for man's sins didst die upon the cross. Do we not thank Thee for all thou hast done? Yes, we do, yet Thou knowest all too well That even now do we not still prefer Most often in sin and shame to wallow. Instead of Thee, Lord, we choose to follow, In contrary to Thy wishes as it were, The lusts of the flesh, the world, the devil. 31 O LOUD HAVE MERCY Though I have fallen and given Thee pain, Yet once again upon my knees I throw Myself, asking Thee that Thou wilt once more Have mercy, Lord, though I chose to ignore. All Thy warnings yet if I only know Thou wilt give me strength, I will try again. 32 SLEEP The sun has gone down in the west And now 'tis time that we must rest, For are not we forced, one and all, Then to obey nature's call — Sleep, Sleep? The day is spent, the night has come When we must cease our work and fun. For now 'tis time for us to thrust Aside all cares, for we must Sleep, Sleep. Does not each bird now seek its nest Hoping to find shelter and rest? , After flying the livelong day Now return, for must not they Sleep, Sleep? All beasts of the field now obey The call to rest in the same way Now that all is silent and still They until the morning will Sleep, Sleep. Yes, so it will be all our lives, And even when that time arrives When all must needs give up their task To fall into that long last Sleep, Sleep. A RAINY DAY It rains ; we have nothing but rain Beating against the window pane Is it not time we had some sun? How much more rain is there to come? Why can't it clear up so that we Could all go out and then be free To play hide and seek in the hay? To run, fight, and have our own way? But no, here we have to remain ; 'Tis enough to drive one insane. All penned up in this little room. My, I hope it will clear up soon. Pouring with rain now all the morn, I wish I never had been born. To have to sit upon this stool, Oh, my, I do feel such a fool. Sitting watching the rain all day ; There is no room in here to play. If w^e could only go out there If only to get some fresh air ! But no we can't go out today In this room we shall have to stay. So 'tis no use for us to sob We'll make the best of a bad job. 34 A RAINY DAY Come cheer up, all, fetch out your toys, Laugh, shout, and make plenty of noise. Who cares whether it rains or not ; If it is cold or scorching hot ? I do not care, so there for one, We can still have plenty of fun. Although it is still raining fast Why should we all feel so downcast ? Is not this rain doing some good? Of course it is and if we would But wait a while, then we should see The good it does for you and me. Does not the rain water the ground, Trees, plants, and everything around? Think how it will refresh the grass Which dried up will now shoot up fast. If we could not have the rain, why Everything would wither and die. So let's be contented, each one. Whether we have the rain or sun. Even if you cannot go far Make yourself happy where you are, Though indoors we have to stay When we do have a rainy day. 35 THE REST ON THE WAY After journeying the live long day The weary traveler rests on his way. He has far to go, he cannot wait Long at the inn, or he will be too late. Too late to meet the one whom he seeks. Though he has now traveled for many weeks. He rests, then is once more on his way Soon as it is light, at the break of day. So we, like that weary traveler, One, all of us will soon have to stir — This World is but a rest on our way To that other World not so far away. The rest may not be so long for some, But yet for others many years to come Before they may reach that land above And come face to face with Him whom they love. 36 EVENSONG The sun had just set and now that it was twilight, Cathedral and Close would soon be hidden from sight. Out in the Close the trees cast shadows all around And a heavy dew was now falling on the ground. But from one of the cathedral windows a light Could be seen, at first dim then after a while bright. Outside in the darkness all was peaceful and still, When suddenly a deafening noise, which seemed to fill The entire close now with a thousand echoes. Was heard. The sleepy city awoke from its doze. It was only the bells chiming for evensong, Telling all who wished to hear it would not be long Now before the service in God's house would begin. Those bells seemed to be calling all to go within And give thanks to Him on high, both in song and prayer. In the cathedral there is plenty of room to spare For all who wish to attend, be they young or old No need for any to be left out in the cold. Dark figures can now be seen hurrying along : They are those few that are going to evensong. They enter by the main door, which is open wide And so are lost from sight to one standing outside. Then suddenly the cathedral bells cease their chime And all is calm and still once more ; now it is time For service to start. Outside all is hid from sight Now that twilight has ended and it is dark night. 37 EVENSONG Then from the dimly lighted building comes the sound Of an organ, then silence once more all around. Again the strains of that organ and now mingling With it can be heard the sound of voices singing. 'Tis the choir. Youthful voices, tender and sweet, Come floating through the air. Listen it is a treat ! One at first thinks that it is angels singing, when They are joined by the deeper voices of the men. We, out in the close where all is now dark and cold, Suddenl}" to our ears is borne those words of old, "He hath magnified me and holy is his name." Loud and clear from the old cathedral they came. But, alas, presently the sound of voices cease The loud .strains of the organ die away and peace Once more reigns over all, both close and cathedral Then darkness, all is still, organ, voices, and bell. COME OUT, I SAY The day has been hot and sultry, But now the air is cool and nice As the last flickers of light flee Swiftly away. Does it entice One and all to come out of doors? They that have been all the long day Working in offices and stores? Surely they nov will not say nay. Come out and enjoy while you can, The soft cool breezes to your fill. Surely it will be better than Staying indoors where it is still Warm and close. So come out, I say, Come out if you are not a fool. For you may not during the day Be able to enjoy the cool. 'Tis great out here without a doubt; Though it is dark, be not afraid, Very soon the moon will be out Then you will be sorry you stayed Indoors when there was such a moon. Come out and see it at its best. It will be bedtime all too soon When we must all needs go to rest. SALISBURY CATHEDRAL (ENGLAND) (Written in Bermuda) The cathedral close was now bathed in light, Light that was cast by a silvery moon, And along with the moon the stars shone bright. Altogether it 'twas as light as noon. There standing in the centre of that close As silent as the dead, a massive block. No matter what storms or how the wind blows This building stands as firm as any rock. It is the Cathedral of Salisbury, Long famed for its beauty by one and all. For even travelers in their hurry Do stop to gaze up at that spire so tall. For nowhere before have they chanced to meet, Although there are not many sights they miss, A spire that just over four hundred feet Soars right up toward the skies as does this. Up this lofty spire there are but a few That have ascended to the very top. Oh, just think of the magnificent view To be had up there ! No wonder we stop And think how we should like to go up there Oh, how we do envy those steeplejacks Who, ever fearless and brave, can just dare To go up and cement all holes and cracks. 40 SALISBURY CATHEDRAL If beautiful by day, it is by night Far more so ; if we ever chance to see This cathedral once in the pale moonlight 'Tis one of the loveliest sights there be. But placed in a valley with hills all round We see not the spire as far as we might. Yet many in the past have, I'll be bound. When lost, seen it, and thanked God for its height. Though maybe surpassed by many others When it comes to architecture inside, Yet there is not another spire like hers. Say what you will, it cannot be denied. No better example has yet been found Of early architecture than this be. In Great Britain or anywhere around None can touch the Cathedral of Salisbury. Note the uniformity, harmony That has been displayed in its construction. Not a trace of foreign art can we see Through all these ages saved from destruction. What tales we could hear of joy, pain, great fights, If those grey walls had the power of speech ! If those stone figures could have seen, what sights Would have been revealed to the eyes of each. 41 SALISBURY CATHEDRAL Though I have wandered far from England's shore. Yet I know the thoughts of this cathedral Will live in my memory ever more. Pointing skyward I can see that spire still. Its reflection in the river close by ; Its altar, the carvings, the stained windows, All these I cannot forget if I try. They seem more beautiful as the time goes. Though only in thoughts, yet perhaps some day, If it should be God's will, then once again I may really see you come I that way For I know you will be always the same. 42 THE VIOLINS The stillness of the warm summer's evening Was now broken by sounds sweet and low. To the ear strains of music came stealing- Coming from the ballroom down below. The melancholy wail of violins Now came wafting sweetly through the air. Above all other sounds they ever win — Their tone always beautiful and rare. They come first high and loud, then soft and low, The strains of those violins down there. As from one-step to dreamy waltz they go, For you can hear them now everywhere. t They fill the ballroom with their plaintive wail Now and sometimes far into the night Filling the hearts of both female and male With bygone memories and delight. But the time comes (dancers have left the floor) When all the guests, old and young, have fled ; The strains of violins are heard no more, All is darkness, their voices are dead. 43 THE WIND Speak not in whispers, O gentle wind! What is it that you can always find To talk about? Your voice high and low, Tell me at once, for I wish to know. Sometimes you appear to be so glad, Then at others you are very sad. For I have heard you many times groan And behind doors and shutters you moan. Can you really be so unhappy When often you seem so gay and free. Then sometimes 1 think that you get mad, ■ For your behavior is very bad. 1 You blow a gale, and you cause rough seas ; I You unroof houses, you blow down trees; * There is nothing you can do too bad. Sometimes when you appear to be mad, You hurl yourself with all might and main Your wrath not one bit will you restrain. And you choose to make a frightful din. Do you then know what you are doing? But mostly you are happy and gay And with the trees and flowers you play. jf Across the moor I hear you whistle Through the heather and the thistle. m You frolic to and fro day and night ; 1 You are very gentle when you might ' Destroy. But no you are not angry Then on land, and you are calm on sea. * 44 THE WIND Then sometimes you are quiet and still And I wonder then if you are ill Or if you are just taking a rest In some quiet spot; then afraid lest You might wear yourself out, for you do Work very hard I'll give you your due. But still you tell me not what you say, You refuse me though I wait all day. 45 HIS DEAD LOVE Before the fire, in an armchair large and low, Sits a young man now gazing at the flames. He seems lost in thought, he is alone, for, lo. Though young, a bachelor he still remains. Over his face comes an expression so sad As it is lit up by the bright firelight. Why seems he so sad.'' why, he ought to be glad. He is young, he should be merry and bright. But he is not, for his thoughts are far away. His face looks careworn too, can he be ill? No, he notices not the shadows that play Around the room, which is gloomy and still. For in the flames of that fire does he not see A form divine.? And what beauty and charms This maiden has ! She beckons to him and he Leaps towards her to clasp her in his arms. He can see that face to him so fair and dear, Those tender eyes of grey so full of bliss. Her hair touches his cheek now he is so near her. Her face is near his, she waits for his kiss. But just as he stoops to kiss her on the lips Alas, she vanishes out of his sight ! For into a kind of mist she again slips. He sees her not, though the fire burns as bright. 46 HIS DEAD LOVE 'Twas only a vision, for nothing remains Of that fair maiden gone for evermore. He falls back and once more gazes at the flames ; He is sadder now than he was before. But after a while sitting there he can feel The soft pressure of lips touching his hair, And then two arms around his neck gently steal; He looks down, but still there is no one there. Then before the fire he falls into a doze But, no, now his breathing cannot be heard He is no more ; his spirit gently flows Away to join her he so dearly loved. 47 EYES OF BLUE Look at me, dear, with those eyes of blue And tell me that you will be To me, dear, always faithful and true, When I am across the sea. It may be years before I again Look into those eyes of blue. Yet your lover, yes, I shall remain, I shall always think of you. a, When old you v.ill to nie be the same; So tell me you will be true, Lift your head that I may once again Look into those eyes so blue. I 48 LEFT ALONE Alone once more, all alone, For, alas, my love has flown. Little girl, why didst thou flee — Were you afraid of me? I harmed thee not, little one, Yet think what thou hast now done. You vanished, I know not why, Care you not if I die,? We quarreled not, I and you. As 'tis said most lovers do. We had no sharp words, not one. Why from me did you run? Was not my love good enough? Or did you find me too rough? Little maiden, is that why You went without goodbye? I know you lived a gay life, Yet when you became my wife You said 'twas love you wanted; Love you had, yet you fled. 'Tis no fault of mine, my dear, That my love you did not hear. You were everything to me, Yea, and always will be. 49 LEFT ALONE Go and find another man, Find love elsewhere, if you can. But no matter where you try No one loves you like I. 50 THE QUESTION Should a man marry when he is young or should he Wait a while until he has grown older? Some say that a man marrying at twenty-three Will presently find his love grows colder; That his ideas change, then he will repent his haste, For he may find, after he is married, That some other girl is more suited to his taste, Then, too late, he will wish he had tarried. Others say 'tis best for men to marry quite young so They may have someone to love and steady Them throughout life. If this is best, I do not know. Then there are men that are never ready To marry ; that seem to prefer the single life. While others are too busy seeking gold And often pleasure, to be bothered with a wife. What do they care, but wait till they grow old.? 51 NOT FOR HIM When he saw her first it was at night When she stepped out of her car to go Inside the opera house, where one might Be cheerful, gay and forget all woe. He thought that he had never before Seen such beauty as his eyes now saw. He gazed at her, as he held his breath, He who was now nearly starved to death. For she seemed to be a form divine. From where he was he could see her fine. Such beautiful eyes and lovely hair. She turned his head, he was forced to stare At her beaut3\ But not long was he This most charming girl allowed to see, For, she entered, with steps swift and light, And so was quickly lost to his sight. But still he stood in the shadows long Watching the crowd as they passed along. But not one face, though he saw many Pass through the doors, yet none in beauty Could be compared to that girl inside. He looked long at those doors open wide Longing to go in that he might see That girl. But, no, he had no money. He was ouj; of work and starving, too. Hundreds passed by him, yet there were few That chose to notice him standing there. If he was starving, what did they care.? 62 NOT FOR HIM Yet although now it was getting late Out in the cold there he chose to wait. Well in the shadows did he remain Until he should see that face again. Bresently she came out through the door; She seemed more beautiful than before, At least to him she appeared to be For she looked his way and he could see Once more that face; how he loved her then. He thought she saw him watchmg her when Alas, the thing happened that he feared, Up came her car and she disappeared. She went, little knowing that she had Made some one at first glad and then sad. She knew not that a man at first sight Had fallen in love with her that night. Yet it was so, for he would ever, If only in thought, always love her. For 'twas like he would see her no more, For she was rich and he was so poor. Yet he prayed that some day they might meet He would not forget that face so sweet. She was gone, so 'twas no use to stay, So with a deep sigh he went his way. 63 'AFRAID TO DIE' The end is near I know for sure; How I can tell, I know not why. Let me live just a few years more, Dear Lord, I am afraid to die. How can I die when I'm so young.? Once well and strong I would Have lived for many years to come. Lord, if I only could. But something tells me 'tis not so, That life is not for me. Quick, oh, speak Lord, speak, I must know. Tell me wh}' this should be. Content I am to suffer pain And on this bed to lie. Even if I rise not again. But do not let me die. I cannot bear the thought of death, Of that long last goodbye. Fetch water quick, I gasp for breath. My throat is getting dry. The room is dark; why can't I see.? Who has put out the light.? Or is it.? No, it cannot be That I have lost my sight. 54 "AFRAID TO DIE' The fever is gripping me fast. I know it as I lay. I wonder how long I shall last Before the dawn of day. Must it be that when I am dead With a grave for a cot And a little cross o'er my head That all my bones will rot? My head grows thick ; I hear voices Now ringing in my ear, And such loud hideous noises I am afraid to stir. To my ears comes a low tolling, It must be a church bell. Where is it that I am going,? Is it heaven or hell? I am afraid. Lord, where are you? Come nearer, leave me not. Must I die? no, it can't be true. Oh, my, I feel so hot. So 'tis the devil after all, I almost guessed as much. I will not listen to his call, Though I can feel his touch. 55 ''AFRAID TO DIE' He thinks that now I'll have to pay For taking his advice In everything, both work and play, But death is not the price. If it is, he will be cheated, I'm putting up a fight. I will not be one of the dead, I'll live just out of spite. But wait, why this vision forming Now right before my eyes.'* Is it for me to take warning To heed and to be wise.? Out of a kind of mist appears. As I think of my wrong, A cross, I see now, as it ncars, Someone is nailed thereon. At the appearance of that cross The devil must have fled. It must have filled him with remorse Those loud noises are dead. Then from afar I seem'd to hear A voice that said to me, " 'Tis the devil that makes you fear. Renounce him, he will flee. 56 ''AFRAID TO DIE' "Behold him who was crucified, Wlio upon the cross laid Down his life for man's sins. He died For he was not afraid." The voice ceased ; the vision has now Vanished before mj eyes And once again I hear the row Of those loud, piercing cries. But they trouble me not, you see ; I now trust in God and I know well that He will help me To reached that promised land. Over me a wonderful calm Has come, I now know why. With Thee I can come to no harm, So now, Lord, let me die. Take me. Lord, please do not ponder, To Thy home up on high. For ever, for now no longer Am I afraid to die. 57 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT This story that I here relate Will interest 3'ou too, For I can guarantee to state That every word is true. Now I was born and bred in Howe, A hamlet on the moors. I've lived here threescore ten years now. Among the rugged tors. Howe has a small population, Ten houses at the most. Thirty miles from a station, A dozen from the coast. At Howe one leads a quiet life Year in, year out the same. Far from the noise of city strife, Its poverty and pain. Yet not far away you may see Surrounded by a wall, A building wherein misery Reigns till the end of all. Behind this wall gloomy and bleak. Weather beaten and grey. Stands the prison of Chesterpeake WTierein the convicts stay. 58 THE CONVICT'S LAST ACT Visit the place at night, by chance, When all is calm and still, And you then see at a glance Chance of escape is nil. A massive block of masonry, Built of limestone and square. Situated in a valley Where one woiild never dare. For this high wall guarded by spikes Forms barriers against Would-be deserters and the likes Of those beyond that fence. At every gate a warder stands Motionless as the grave ; A gun held ready in his hands To stop an unknown knave. What chance for a man at this hour With a guard all alert In the central lookout tower Ready to do him hurt.? During the day the inmates work Down in a pit close by. Woe betide both them that would shirk And those who will not try. 59 THE CONVICT'S LAST ACT Day after day, year after year, The work is carried on. Now and then fresh faces appear To suffer for their wrong. Should they suffer? Of course they should, They are guilty of crime. They did not make good when they could, Now they must serve their time. Maybe it was not all their fault. You are inclined to say; Evil companions — however, That may be proved some day. Meanwhile they have to pay the price, Though it may seem so dear, For letting themselves be enticed When they should have steered clear. Their work is both hard and trying, Let one say what they may You cannot help admiring The way that they obey. Doing the same as the days pass, Clearing the stone away, Trying their best while the time lasts, Digging stone is no play. 60 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT For crimes committed in the past These toilers have been caught. How long shall their punishment last When many still have not? Many have come of high degree, Some were even of fame, Who would not care now to be free. Now they have shamed their name. Others would gladly take a chance, That is, if they but could Be sure of making some advance Toward that yonder wood. One man, of whom I now will speak. His name was Allen Fry, Did get away from Chesterpeake But only for to die. The year I can well remember, Was eighteen seventy-nine, Toward the end of December, Just around Christmas time. Although now the years have long passed Never to be regained I'll remember when I'm asked The year that I have named. 61 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT Fry, a convict, was hero, too, As jou will soon agree. His sad story was all too true, I'll tell it by degrees. 'Twas six o'clock in the evening. All had long been indoors. O'er the sky dark clouds were stealing. Wind howled on the moors. Old men of Howe, as if their right. Now viewed the skies with fear That it would be a dirty night, The coming storm was near. Some of us gathered at the Inn; There was Tom Jones, Jack Hoar, Farmer Giles, Bob Sims, Archie Flynn, Billy Bates and several more. Many were the nights we had spent Up at the old Grey Hound, Seeking gossip and refreshment — There both were to be found. So in the front room of that Inn We gathered every night To talk, drink, smoke, often to sing- Old songs with all our might. 62 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT On this night to which I refer All gathered together Round the fire, none cared to stir Out in such fierce weather. The skies grew darker and tlie wind Grew fast into a gale. Rocked everything it got behind And moaned o'er every dale. Suddenly a flash lit the skies A vivid sheet of flame, Momentarily blinding our eyes, Then going out again. Then a low rumbling sound, which made All the windows rattle Like the roll of distant drums played Just before a battle. Not I, and I question whether If anyone now in Howe, Ever remembers such weather As we were having now. Old Bobbie Syms then said, "Methinks I'm feeling pretty dry," At which he called loudly for drinks But received no reply. 63 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT We waited, but still no one came, So we shouted, "King, King !" All breathed curses on that man's name For keeping us waiting. Then suddenly fat landlord King Came bustling in with "Ha ! Sorry to keep you gents waiting, But was kept in the bar." About the middle of the storm The wind all at once fell, Then gently to our ears was borne The tolling of a bell. Wondering if we were quite sane We listened breathlessly. Hark ! Ah ! there it goes once again As plain as it could be. Some said it might be the church bell Ringing for evensong. It was not that, I knew quite well. Because the time was wrong. Then once again above the blast Coming from o'er the knoll We heard again as loud as last That melancholy toll. 64 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT Then before any else could speak Tom Jones, who had risen, Said, " 'Tis the bell of Chesterpeakc Over at the prison." At that we all listened once more. Yes, Tom Jones was quite right; We heard it just above the roar Of that dark, stormy night. Its mournful note, loud and clear, Always in the same key, Was a warning for all to hear No matter who they be. 'Twas plain someone had escaped, for That was what the bell meant. At the prison across the moor So warning had been sent. The crack of guns, and cries of men. Was then borne to our ears. Dead silence, then the wind again To calm all our worst fears. Then Farmer Giles before the fire Said it was not a shot ; Declared that Jones was a liar, That the bell was all rot. 65 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT But Giles was as deaf as a clam, We all had heard that, bell, So no one argued with the man Who had not heard its knell. Who could live on a night like this On those moors bleak and bare? For if the warders' shots had missed 'Twas certain death out there. Had the fugitive got off free.? And had he succeeded In his wild dash for liberty Or had he been shot dead.? He may be lying on the ground Wounded and in great pain, With not much chance of being found, But there he must remain. All of us crouching round the fire Now breathed a humble prayer For the poor creatures in the mire And swampy marsh out there. The storm was raging at its height ; Wind, thunder, lightning, rain, The latter beating with all its might Against the window pane. 66 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT The wind plajcd round the chinks of doors, Making a mournful sound. It even got under the floors, Although so near the ground. The roar of the thunder o'er head Was hideous to hear, 'Twas loud enough to wake the dead, Making the bravest fear. With the noise of thunder and rain We could not hear that bell. Though we listened often again We could not hear its knell. Then Landlord King came in and said, "Now, boys, it's getting late. No doubt I can find all a bed. Something at any rate. "You can't go home a night like this Out in that fierce tempest; With this lightning, think of the risk, You best stay here and rest." What King said was true, to be sure, It was now nearly dawn. So if we slept here the night, all Would be calm by the morn. 67 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT All had just risen, when a flash Suddenly lit up all; And then was heard an awful crash, Shook floor and every wall. We all stood there trembling with fear. And not one said a word. That crash had been dreadful to hear. For still it could be heard. Then Hoar and Sims in the same breath Said, "Boys, we had some luck," Yes ; that flash would be certain death For anyone it struck. But the worst of the storm had passed. The wind blew not so strong, It would not now much longer last, All would be calm ere long. But, alas, although it seems we In the Grey Hound had luck ; A fire from the window we see Yes, something had been struck. Out in the darkness of the night It was seen by all eyes, A reddish light, first dull, then bright, Reflecting on the skies. 68 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT We all gazed out of the window At that light brighter now. Wliose house could it be that burnt so? Thank God, 'twas none in Howe. Then Billy Bates suddenly said, "Come, boys, we must go out. Not one of us could go to bed Without helping, I doubt." Bates was right ; we all ought to go For right now there might be Lives in danger for all we know ; We must go out and see. So we all put on our raincoats And then snatched up our hats. Wrapped thick mufflers well round our throats. Took a drink — two, perhaps. Then King, who had gone to get lights. Came back now hot and damp And, of course, at once there were fights To get hold of a lamp. We all went, though the rain still poured, As King opened the door. For we quickly hurried toward That fire across the moor. THE CONVICTS LAST ACT In the distance we saw the light As we staggered ahead, For it seemed to burn now quite bright, No longer a dull red. On the moor how the wind did blow. We wished we were in bed. Our lanterns bobbing to and fro. As we blundered ahead. All felt by this time well nigh dead, We moved at a good pace Despite the weather. Flynn then said, "Why, that's old Gibbon's place." Yes, it was in this direction We all remembered then; As we kept slowly on and on, Cursing our luck, we ten. Hoar said, "Why, Gibbons went away ; I know he went to Pearl To market only yesterday, But there's his wife and girl." We cursed Gibbons for his queer taste In living right out here. 'Twas lonely and bleak, yet we raced On, our hearts full of fear. 70 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT Now at last we had reached our goal, But after all our pains Were we now too late after all? The house was naught but flames. Nothing but the bare walls remained Of the Gibbons cottage, And these were discolored and stained By the flames, not by age. Then suddenly we heard a groan From close by. Some ran Round the ruins, but all had flown Then we saw a woman. She was then kneeling on the ground Supporting somebody In her arms. We went at a boupd To see who it could be. It was Gibbons' wife, after all, With her, her daughter Peg, Who must have had a nasty fall For she had broke her leg. 'Twas the daughter's room that was struck By that flash of lightning, The wife, it seems, had better luck, It did not touch that wing. 71 THE CONVICT'S LAST ACT It seems the mother had rushed then For her daughter who came Hurrying out of her room, when She was stopped by the flame. But the fire drove the mother back Although she tried all ways ; For in courage she did not lack, Though stairs were in a blaze. But the passage she could not cross. All around her was black With smoke and she, filled with remorse, Now was forced to turn back. Meanwhile the daughter found that she Was a prisoner, for Time after time she tried to flee Across the passage floor. Stifled and blinded, she was forced Back into her room, where. At the window, as all was lost. She offered up a prayer. God answered her prayer, for she saw At that moment below Outside running toward the door A man she did not know. 72 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT But now the flames were all around her, She stood trembling with fear. From the window she could not stir; She knew her end was near. Then to her ears came the sound Of one forcing his way Through the flames and thick smoke around. Would it keep them at bay? But, no, it had not, for she saw Through the smoke the figure Of a man rusli across the floor. Who stopped on seeing her. Throwing her arms round his neck she Looked up into liis face. He picked her up and turned to flee Out of that burning place. Suddenly she noticed his clothes The marks of arrows bore. Then, weary, she started to doze, And soon she saw no more. The next she knew, she was in pain. But 'twas not from the fire. Lying down in the mud and rain. How came she in this mire? 73 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT She thought some bones she must have broke, She found she could not stu* And was just giving up all hope When she saw her mother. The fire by now was nearly dead. We wondered what to do, When, turning to the girl. Bates said, "Where's he that rescued you?" The girl roused herself from a doze, Shook her head and said, "Oh, He had arrows marked on his clothes, Alas, 'tis all I know." We searched the ruins for him then ; Yes, both inside and out, And were just giving up hope when Jones inside gave a shout. Yes, we found a man lying there With ashes for a bed. We carried him to the fresh air But, alas, he was dead ! There he lay silent ; he who had Given his life to save A girl's. 'Twas wonderful, yet sad. For he had been so brave. . 74 THE CONVICTS LAST ACT Then o'er him both girl and mother Did tears of sorrow weep, But he lay still, he did not stir, He slept the long last sleep. On his clothes were those marks of shame, Those arrows broad and black. He had fallen and shamed his name, Yet courage he didn't lack. He who had escaped and was free. Yet he had not thought twice To give his life, would you or me Make such a sacrifice? 'Twas true he had committed crime Even when a mere lad. Though he had not served all his time, 'Twould be worse if he had. As he could not face the flames, so He must have in despair Thrown the girl out of the window Then perished in the flare. 'Twas true a convict was his lot, From his warders he ran. But, nevertheless, was he not A hero and a man? 75 i 0018481 01^""" (f