£32 P6 1907 ^opy 1 ^^ft F" 1" POEMS 1 WILLIAM COLLINS REED 1 THE CARPENTER AND POET 1 FIRST EDITION 1907 EXPLANATORY REMARKS Prices, Etc., by the Author. This edition of the "Spiritual Life of Christ" is limited, and when exhausted will only be reprinted to supply a demand suffi- cient to Avarrant a more refined and dignified edition, and in a clot'h bound form. The author offers apologies to his kind readers for the seem- ing cheapness and crowded make-up of this edition. He takes this means of placing before the thinking people of this age, a sampil& of his progressive thought. While the supply lasts, single copies will be supplied: Paper binding, postage paidi 50 cents each Bound in Cloth 80 cents each Cilub rates, by express, f. o. b. Jersey City, 40 cents in paper and TO cents in cloth binding. Kindly look over an article in the rear pages of this edition, describing the author's .Journal, its contents, etc, Adidl-ess all inquiries to Wm. C. Reed. IG Madison Avenue. Jersey City. New Jersey. POEMS ...BY... WILLIAM COLLINS REED THE CARPENTER AND POET FIRST EDITION Copyrighted, 1907 By William Collins Reed The City Publishing Company 251 Washington Street Jersey City LIBRARY Of CONGRFSS) Two CoDtes Recelvoc? AUG 16 »90;' Cooyncht Entry CUSS^/^ 'XXe., No. COPY U. J William Collins Reed. Introduction by the Author. Some selectious of Spiritual Devotional Hymns, arranged to familiar meters, and' a poem entitled, "The Old' or the New; By Hand or By Machine." A few vibrating thoughts on ''Grod and Creation," A few brief pages, also, of tribute and affection, to "Baby Eleanor," (the Author's youngest daughter, his junior by nearly tifty-two years), A brief tribute to 'the talents of Ella Wheeler Wilcox. Also a few thought vibrations to departed personal friends. The chief subject of the work, the life of Christ, briefly covers many of the extraordinary incidents and events of the pure life of Christ, — the wonderful and Spiritual Man of Nazareth, who was sent by the Great Unchangeable Spirit as an example to the world, to teach mankind the Spirituality of Man, Mortal and Im- mortal, which appears to have been intended to fulfill and cancel the traditional 'law of Moses and the Prophets. That mankind should live and be more spiritual is not a ques- tion, but a duty we owe to our souls, and' to the Great Spfirit, who has endowed mankind with spiritual talents. Every thought expressed in this volume has been duly con- sidered on the rock-founded base of Fraternalism and the broad vieAvs of Bible Spiritualism, which forces are at this present age bearing the Ark of God's Covenant through the dismal wilder- ness of Sectarianism and Vanity; faithfully watching the pillar of cloud by day and of fire by night, which guiding tokens are sym- bolized and perpetuated in the Spiritual life of Christ and shines alike to all mankind whom God created and endowed with soul and intellect, including all mankind. And imtil Pope, Rabbi, Bishop, Priest, Preacher and Teacher; Roman, Israelite and Christian, yea, all mankind, join heart and soul to follow the Ark of God^'s Covenant to the New Jerusalem, the promised millenium is not in sight. With the earnest hope of vibrating this thought these few lines are dedicated to the upbuilding of the spiritual, sensative and sympathetic man. Will my kind reader consider this thought? Youi-s most sincerely, WILLIAM C. REED. p. s. — It is owing to the limited means of the Author tTiat this edition is so crowded, and so cheaply published. Without effort no great good can be accomplished, and the Author trusts that at least some seeds or germs of thought in his effort may live and find nourishment in the heart and soul of some fraternal and spiritual brother or sister, with means and inclination to help promote the cause of Fraternalism and true Spiritualism. Ye.s, to help rear a Tabernacle to the one Great Unchange- able Soirit. THE AUTHOR. The Spiritual Life of Christ AND A Few Spiritual Selections from the Journal of WILLIAM COLLINS REED The Carpenter and Poet Published by William Collins Reed. Jersey City, N. J. If all mankind their lives "wouldJ blend To love maternal nature. Perpetual friendship would ascend To the Grand Paternal teacher. — W. O. R. Two Ooples Received AUG i6 190r Cepyriffht Cnfiy CUSS XXe., No. wEsBmmsBam mo SPIRITUAL PRAYER. Oil, Thou Invisible and' Unchangeable Spirit, we implore Thy blessing upon us, at aJl times, and under all circumstances. We desire tlie influence of Tliy love to enter into our sensi- tive and sympathetic souls. As we see and realize ourselves to be a part of Thy wondrous and scientific nature, we look up to Thee for knowledge and understanding of Thy will to us, and for us. Lead us entirely by Thy gpiritual influence, promptly correct every error of our lives, make us fit to herald Thy spiritual mes- sages to all mankind, where Thou wouldst have them delivered. Make us more si)iritual. more sensitive, and more sympathetic: put Thy word in our mouths, and Thy light in our hands, that we may aid to hasten Thy Spiritual Kingdom, as is most pleasing to Tliee. Bear us up to a loftier, nobler spiritual plane, and a grander spiritual midenstanding. Free us from the ties that bind our souls to earth and vanity. That our spirits may ascend to their natural spheres, that the spiritual desires of our souls may lead our hearts and our minds to the perfect spiritual example, (the Christ), Yea. to the New and Spiritual Jerusalem, in the perfect realm of Heaven. Free us from all bonds of selfishness and strife; give us wis^ dom to perform our temporal and spiritual duties; open Thou our spiritual eyes and ears, wheu in Thy wisdom we are prepared to behold our spiritual surix)undings; permit our loved' ones to return to us, and allow us the privilege of knowing them w^hen they come. Permit us to express spiritual thoughts that will comfort those around us: give us patience to abide Thy time and Thy way fotj- a'H things, and Thy Spiritual Kingdom and Power be praised for- ever. Amen. SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. BLESSED NEW JERUSALEM. Xatiire's rare beauty charmingly blends With the influence of Heaven's esteem, And the reflection of life's perfect dream — The Infinite wisdom of God's love to men. The g^randeur environs the sensitive mind. And lures it away to scenes so sublime, That visions appear from the Heavenly shrine Of the Spiritual Kingdom, Jerusalem. BJessed "New Jerusalem" — Perfect true Jerusalem; The grandeur of Heaven That wisdom has given, Appeals to the kingdom Of the "New Jerusalem." Hallowed and pure is the spirtual throne, Wihere the Mighty Unchangeable King reigns supreme; Whose Holiness vibrates the love and esteem That angels convey to the children of men. Its courts are enchanted by music so grand, That only immortals can well comprehend — • The beauties of Heaven eternally blend Through choirs of the "New Jerusalem." SPIRITUAL SONG SUPPLICATION. SPIRITUAL SONG SUPPLICATION. Beautiful angel, heavenly dove, Bear to us messages beaming with love; Bring to us loved ones whose spirits have flown, Lead tnem and strengthen them, help them to come. Teach us to know every spirit we feel, Train our dear ears to hear their appeal: Open our eyes to the visions so bright, Where happiness beams from the spiritual light. Help us to ride o'er the shadows of life. Bear us above the influence of strife; Keep us in sight of the Spiritual King Whose wisdom we love, and whose praises we sing. Give U6 the balm that is life to the soul. Free us from, earth-bound and selfisli control. Make us more watchful and spiritual each day. That we may be ready, when called, to obey. Angels, draw nearer, that we may behold The emblems of Heavenly glory foretold; Give us the spiritual, comforting love That only the messengers of Heaven can give. Show us the God-given talents we own; Unfold and disclose our good will to men; Convey to the kingdom our message of clieer; Unite us in love and faith that's sincere. SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. THOUGHTS ON THE SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. Long ago in earth's dark ages Spirit forces slept in peace, Many scores of generations Scarcely felt God's beaming grace; God withheld His love and wisdom For a long, long term of years, Since mankind had vainly striven To o'ercome His will and powers. Sympathy His grief abating With compassion for mankind, He conveyd a spirit message By a trusted angel band. Abraham, an aged husband. Upright and benevolent. Was the servant God had chosen To receive His covenant. Abraham received the message With a wisdom from above. And with wondrous understanding He received God's spiritual love. God promised that a mighty -nation, Countless as the grains of sand. And that spiritual redemption Sho-u'ld bless this nation He had planned. A Spiritual King shall come in flesh. Immaculate shall be His birth. Through Him all beings that confess Can free their souls from sin of earth; This king shall be God's o-nly Son, The medium 'twixt God and man; Through Him eternal joy is won, By Him all spirits are redeemed. SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. This covenant to Abraham Proclaimed the Christ as Spiritual King, His coming was so well defined The unlearned child could comprehend: Was sent to earth a spirit guide With a matchless angeil band To exemplify G'od's bounteous love For the races of mankind. For ages many message bearers Frequently foretold God's plan Of the coming Mediator, Spirit power 'twixt God and man; How when born, the common people Would' receive and worship Him, But the haughty Jewish rulers Would' ignore their spirit king. When God's day of glory opened To the spirit He ad'orned A brilliant star, the spiritual token. Told* mankind the Christ was born. And this magic shining magnet Was a guide to lead the way To the gifted Heavenly Stranger And the humble place He lay. Within this star appeared an angel. One whose form illumed the night, Who addressed a group of shepherds As they viewed the A'ision bright; Telling them the Spiritual Leader Had been born in Bethlehem, And' was nestling in a manger That adjoined the wayside inn. Then appeared the hosts of Heaven All around the angel form. Singing praises to His Kingdom, "Peace on earth, good will to men." Only once before that vision Did the stars in Heaven sing, Then to glorify creation, Now to praise a new bom King. SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. Men both ricli and educated In the foreign eastern clime Saw the star of G-od's Annointed Pointing to Jerusalem. They followed to the Holy City To behold the Sovereign King, Whom they trusted in the spirit, Sought to praise and worship Him. At the palace of King Herod Sought they, that they might behold The Heir to throne of sainted David, The promised king so oft foretold. Herod was amazed, yes, maddened. When their mission they disclosetl; Called at once his chiefs and wise men To confirm the startling news. "(io and search the land Judea, Bring the new born King to me. That I too may pay Him homage, Worship Him without delay." The chiefs, in fear, imparted knowledge Of the time when Christ was born. Also named the humble village, Knowing well his wicked scorn. Then as now the mighty rulers Were averse to spiritual truth, And in envious, selfish anger, Herod vilely sought Christ's death. The angel band removed the Infant Ere the sword was brought to bear, Carried Him to land of Egypt, Heavenly spirits watched Him there. The vengeance of King Herod ended When his wicked' heart was stilled: Then Christ with parents were commanded To return to native hills. To Nazareth the spirits led them. Back to where their kindred dwelt, . To resume their usual calling, i.i *j.iid God's rarest Jove they felt. ' > 10 SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. Jesus, perfect in tlie spirit, Never knew or planned a wrong, Was to all the dearest comfort Everywhere His pathway shone; Learned the trade His father followed. Plied His skill with diligence, Looked to God, His Heavenly Father, For His guidance and defence. At twelve years old His understanding Was the wonder of the time. He taught the priests and those commanding; Spirit questions He defined. He sung and chanted Psalms of David, While His shining countenance Made His presence wholly sacred; Angels d'id Him reverence. He loved His blessed, earnest mother, Her happiness was all in Him, And she alone knew God the Father Gave through her the Spirit King. Time passed by till He to manhood Reached the age of thirty years. Then a prophet bore a message — "Christ the Lord must soon appear." John the Baptist was the prophet. By the spirit spoke the word; He knew not that his cousin Jesus Was God's Son and Christ the Lord. He proclaimed the spirit kingdom With a rare convincing power, For the Spirit God of Heaven Issued thoughts that ruled the hour. The meek and lowly Prince of Heaven Waited God the King's command To fulfill His earthly mission And regenerate mankind. Leaving home and all behind Him, Mary bathed her face in tears. Though she knew the spiritual kingduni Claimed the One to her so dear. SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. 11 "Lo. I come. My Heavenly Father, I delight to do Thy will; Clothe Me' with Thy love and power, Strengthen Me for every call." The blessed Mary watched Him going Till He vanished from her view, In the seamless robe e'he wove Him, The all she loved, had said "Adieu." To begin His princely mission Came to John to be baptized. He was then revealed from Heaven By the spirit as a dove disguised. It descended straight upon Him Through the chilling wintry breeze With the words of adoration, "My only Son, in whom I'm pleased. To be tempted, tried and tested By the earth L^niud influence, . Forty days He Jived and fasted In the lonely wilderness. Cold and hunger bore upon Him. Yet no murmur He expressed. Beasts of prey were friendly to Him, Satan's bribes He dared resist. vVhen He hungered, almost famished, Satan said, "If Thou be God \v^hy not speak for food to nourish, Turn the common stones to bread." Then he offered all earth's; kingdoms If Christ's soul would follow him. Christ replied. "All earth's dominions Are the Lord's, thy realm is Sin." Returning from the wilderness His spiritual life and work began, 111 purity and tenderness God's love He ministered to man. Multitudes soon sought His favor. Many lame and sick He healed By His touch and' spirit power; Sightless eyes His word unsealed. 12 SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. Though so meek and mildi and lowly Could restrain a practised wrong; He rebuked the strong and mighty And their customs overcome. Entering the Holy Temple Raised His hand and voice with rage, Smote the men, their wares and tables. Saying, Grodi's house is not for merchandise. His spiritual life each day shone clearer . As He G-od's will exemplified, Threatened often by the rulers Who scorned His wisdom and His love. Yet, with all this persecution, Purest thouglits His mind controlled. Fearlessly He filled His mission, Angels comforted' Hie soul. He looked for honor with the wealthy Less than comfort with the poor. To all mankind imparted gently Blessings of His spiritual power. Not the righteous was He calling. Nor to any sect or clan. But the Spirit God proclaiming And His love for race of man. When He told the Jewish people. "TOiis day these scriptures are fulfilled," And "Formalism in the Temple Now must yield to spirit will;" Reminded) them that ancient prophets Taught the Gentiles as the Jews, That one Great God. and He in spirit, Sought to greater love diffuse. His people scorned this gifted message And cast Him from the Synagogue, By them His spiritual entreaties Were cast aside, and not received'. How sorrowful He left His kindred! Though He prayed that they might see The beauty of His Father's wisdom Planned for their eternity. SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. The multitude who felt His power And' received His spiritual love. Were a tlirong of earnest hearers Who believed Him sent by God. He healed the wretched' and' forsaken. Made them w'bole with but a word; It was the spirit force within Him And His angel band that cured. To absent ones the power imparted. Healed' the lepers at the gate. Comforted the broken-hearted, Bid' the dead to rise and speak; Fed the multitude that hungered With tlie scanty food supply. Blessed the food, while people wondered. Spiritually He passed' them by. Walked upon the water's surface. Tempest calmed at Hit? request. Cast myriad's of evil spirits From the lives of those pos.sessed. From maniac to herd of swine Evil spirits He tranisformed, When the herd' both wild) and blind Into the lake, they rushed and drowned. His will and word brought sweetest blessings To the humble of mankind, Rich or poor, whose hearts confessed Him Felt alike. His fjpiritual mind. Many rich and influential Saw Him, and believed on Him, Yet their fear of baser people Sealed' their Jips from comforting. High up in the lonely mountain With diisciples James and! John, Disclosed the grand' transfiguration. Heaven's mantle through Him shone. His countenance appeared as radiiant As the dazzling noonda.v sun, His purity slione out so brilliant. In spirit now they viewed their King. 14 SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. He prayed alond to God the Father That His s^pirit might abide In the minds of men forever Ui.nd lead them on to Paradise. Then appeared in beaming brightness Spirit forms, by Christ the Lord; They were Moses and Eiias, Sainted prophets of G-od's word. . They talked with Christ, His servants listened, •'With fear and trembling they beheld Though now convinced of spiritual blessings And of the truths so oft foretold. "Master." said they, "Thy power is greater Than kingdoms of the earth combined, Let us erect three Tabernacles, For Thee and them, to mark this time." Scarcely had they finished speaking When a voice from Heaven proclaimed. Which clearly echoed through creation — "My beJoved Son, and hear ye Him." Then suddenly the spirits vanished, Only Christ remained with them; He told them how His flesh would) perish But His form would rise again. The scenes described, how beautiful! And the thoughts expressed, how grand I Symbolic of the spiritual Exemplified for man. To show us thiat our sainted friends Can return to us at wilil, Cheer our lives and bear our burdens Though their forms inTisible. Christ was led by spirit power. Nurtured by its influence. Wrought the wishes they desired Without taint of selflshness. IMirongh His life, the grand reflection Of angelic harmony, And the soul's serene perfection Echoed from eternity. SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. 15 He foresaw and told the future Of His gross indignities. How the sinful Jewish ruJers Would infliot Him miseries. How unjustly they would judge Him In their court of prejudice, And how Judas would betray Him, Sell Him to be sacrificed. He told His trusted twelve Apostles Tliat their leader staunch and true Would deny their cherished Master "Thrice before the cock should crow." Peter answered, "Lord and Master, Thy servant Thou hast harshly judged; I would perish as a martyr To defend Thy spiritual love." That night the test was put to Peter By the stalwart prison guard. Demanding if he knew the prisoner Who proclaimed himself the Lord. Peter made a firm denial Of the knowJedge he possessed, "I never knew Him ere this trial To testify in His behalf." Twice again denied Him promptly To the guards who sought to know Why he lingered at the doorway. Again the cock was heard to crow. Peter then in grief remembered All the words his Master said, How unfaithful he would render Witness for the one he loved. Many, oh, how many people Who have tasted spiritual food, Been in touch with forms immortal. Sensed their thoughts so rare and good, Often gifted and developed, Sensitive to spiritual waves. In fp>ar deny tlie thoughts they cherish, For gold their spirits they enslave. 16 SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. "Blessed are the pure in spirit,"' Who unselfishly receive And impart the themes they cherish, Wisely sowing precious seed. If through weakness they should faJter, Humbly ask and seek for grace; A prompt return makes visions brighter, Renews the spiritual happiness. In His gentleness and meekness His will the spirit realm obeyed. His words were wisdom in completeness, His thoughts were spiritually conveyed; His ansAvers to the "Studied questions Of fhe priests so wise and learned. Astonished all the Jewish nation, Q.'hrough prejudice His life they scorned. His liie and spiritual example Sent to reinstruct mankind In the broader works of nature And the higher, grander plane. He loved and blest the little children. Fondled them within His arms, Said that angels up in Heaven Were endowed with childlike forms. Okrist foresaw the painful suffering That His body soon must bear. To complete God's spiritual offering That redemption might be shared; Agony, beyond description, Would engulf the "Son of Man" To renew the Spiritual Kingdom And restore the spiritual plan. 'Twas to be. His persecution That spiritual blessings miglit begin, And flesh behold His resurrection And triumph over death and sin. None but Christ, the Spirit Master, Could be equal to the test, God, the Spiritual Heavenly Father, Would convey His soul to rest. SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. Spiritually His etrength grew strouger Though His flesh was weak and frail. Bore insults without a murmur. Anger never marred' His smile. His trial a mockery of justice, Worse than fiendish massacre, His life a (sacrifice to umlice Of the Jewish governors. Without ^\•itne.ss they condeumod Him, To destroy Him they conspired, Hastened Him to I'llate's sanctum Charged with Roman law ignored. PiJate saw the gross injustice. He the Jews' dee?ire denied — "Innocent He is and faultless, His release I must advise." "Nay, Oh, King, thi.s vile impostor Must be crucified this daj-," Pilate yielded to their pressure, Though in sorrow he gave way. Christ, between two other prisoners, Was conveyed to Calvary By a guard of Roman soliders Whose duty was to crucify. Words can't express the pangs of sutlering He endured from vile abuse; Priests and' nobles scoffed and mocked Him, Smote His flesh in prejudice; Though with pity, shame and sadness Some, alas, were moved to tears, "Weep not for Me, My flesh must peris'h, But your souls for Heaven prepare." The painful cross when laid upon Him Bore His weakened body down; The load was carried up the mountain By a stranger, one unknown. With hands nailed firmly in position The thi-ee Avere coldly sacrificed; Two were thieves of great transgression, But Christ was wrongly crucified. IS SPmiTUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. As Hie dying form gi*ew weaker Hanging on the crucifix, The noonday sun grew darker, darker, Enshrouding earth with loueJinesa. "MY GOD! MY GOD!" aloud He cried, "Why bast Thou forsaken Me!" The mocking people, rain and; proud. Reviled' Him in their perfidy. "Hark," they said, "He calls Elias, Whom He seeks in His dtistrees," Scoffing at His form so helpless And the agony expressed. They watched Him as His breath was ceasing And respiration seemed suppressed. Till hour for sacrifice at evening When wrongs committed were confessed. "It is finished, It is finished," Is tlie last thought He expressed, Just before His spirit vanished From His body on the cross. Then aloud His spirit shouted "Father, unto Thee I come, Bruised, forsaken and tormented, (iive me peace and rest at home." His flesh remained in earth's cold station, His soul was borne to Paradise; All regions of the world were saddened Though spirit realms with hope rejoiced. Spiritual triumph now was dawning. The final sacrifice was done. And hoets of Heaven were preparing Tlie pure, the new Jerusalem, The joy in the eternal Heaven W'as seemingly beyond control. For mighty mountains qnaked and trembled And shattered rocks of massive mould. The sacred Holiest of Holies Entombed within the Temple walls Was rent asunder and in pieces, ,_, . Tradition bowed to spiritual calls. SPIRITTWL LIFE OF CHRIST. 19 The earthquakes, andi untimely darkness Filled the s'addeued world with dread, The strongest hearts portrayed a weakness Tk)ward the spiritual SON OF GOD. They feJt remorse at every quickening, The unseen power their visions led. And feilt the sting of unfair reckoning Against the spiritual SON OF GOD. Christ's body hung both limp and' lifeless iiire the day had passed to nig'ht. The Pharisees so conscientious Lest trad'ition they might slight, They went to Pilate aning aJ'l His miracles. He talked for hours to thef^e people; Their attention was spellbound, Never man gave such example Or any teachings so profound'. Ere His talking He had ended, To the ones ordained He S'aid, "Rejoice to dio what I commanded, Your joy no man can turn aside." He to'Idi them that once more they'd see Him, ._ Meet Him at JerusaJem, Where His message He would leave them Before ascending to the throne. H'e then dismissedi the spiritual meeting Bidding them to meet again, Promising His spiritual blessing To all who gathered in His name. The Feast of Pentecost was nearing When all the Jews in Palestine In honor of the ancient custom Went yearly tO' Jerusalem. Twelve days before the Feast in question, Christ's mother and a company With the Apostles He had chosen Left the land' of Galilee. To Jerusalem they journeyed G-uid'ed by the angel bandi. Who led them to the Temple City By the spirit king's command. They waited with the expectation That the King of Kings would come In a glorious revelation Of spirit beauty and renown. SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. 37 His appearance sooii they witnessed, Mutual love bound soul to soul; His beaming ^ace was so majestic Heaven's blessin'ge o'er them rolled; Earth with it's cares all seemed to vanish, They were entranced by spirit power, Heaven appeared with untold fullness. TTiey viewed the grand celestial sTiore. His parting message and' His blessing He gave to those He had ordained To begin the spiritual teaching At once, and at Jerusalem. To teach mankind of every nation, That the spiritual age has dawned. And' tTiat now the generations Must believe to be redeemed. This belief in sriritual freedom From tradition's brazen band, To gain by faith and consecration Develonment to things more grand; The soul of man must greet the spirit Free from mind or heart's desire. Then influence sympathetic Grenerates the psychic power. To Mount Olivet He led them, 'On the same pretentious street Once was strewn wifhi palms before Him As He neared the City gate. The highway now seemed calm and peaceful, Only travelers on the way. He led His kind'red and Apostles Out as far as Bethany. The band were so engrosi=fed m spirit They moved outside tbe mortal plane. And* none but those of spiritual merit Could see or hear His last refrain. Once more He looked and wept in anguisTi O'er the doomed Jerm^alem; He foresaw the Temple perish Uoid'er selfishness and sin. 38 SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. He said' to them, "My trusted people, Begin ye at Jerusalem," They turned their faces toward the Temple, Again their hearts misjudging Him. "Lord," they said, "Wilt Thou restore us Israel's kingdom at this time? Place upon a^ throne before ue A wise and comprehensive king?" Again He answered them, and plainly, That certain things no man should know; The times and seasons of Grod's glory He kept within His own control; Many gifts His hand had given, Many precioue promises. But the angels of His kingdom Seldom knew His purposes. As they beheld the gorgeous city With its palaces so grand. Though stadned with blood and perfidy, Corrupt in every kind of sin — Could they think such vile pollution Might be cleaneted' and purified Sufficient for the Lord of Heaven To condescend to occupy? He led them on into the mountain Till Gethsemane was hid from view, And Calvary's scenes were quite forgotten. His heart's last grief was now subdued; Here from every appreheii&ion Of the curious and vain He celebrated hie ascension To the Heavenly home again. His solemn, spiritual, parting blessing He gave to those few faithful friends Who had shared His tribulation. Leaving all at His command. His nail-pierced hands He stretched' above them Ae they bowed in reverence, The spiritual chariot was descending From the Throne of Providence. SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. 39 As His blessing fell npoii them A brilliant robe appeared to fall From the open doors of Heaven Upon the spiritual "Lord of All." Then transfiguration's story Was surpassed in spiritual flow. For Heaven rejoiced with aJl its glory And' all its hosts re-echoed joy. They saw the chariot receive Him And slowly rise toward Heaven's door Where their hands could never clasp Him And his voice they'd hear no more. But failing down as He ascended They worshipped Him in prayer and praise, And watched till every gleam had ended. And still intently kept their gaze. When all had vanished from their vision They looked intently in the sky Until two white-robed spiritual beings Adidressed them from the realm on high. They told them that as Christ ascended From their midst to Heaven above He wonld return with arms extended To claim the souls that sought His love. That was enough, their souls were happy In the joy unspeakable, They hastened to the Holy City To tell the scenes so spiritual. The women and their kindred' joined them In a feast of spiritual thought, That bore a taint of inspiration From the cherished truth they sought. Oh. blessed thought and cherished truth, The life of Christ is All in All; The man of clear and perfect faith In influences spiritual. The angels were His constant servants. They fed His soul with spiritual food. His every act was born of spirit, The natural, spiritual Son of God. 40 SPIRITUAL LIFE OF CHRIST. The grandest and' most perfect model Ever known on earth's domain. The life God gave for pure example That men might know the spiritual man. Love God, love man, love sphntual teaching, Unfold the soul to sympathy. The unseen messengers' are preaching, Behold his spiritual sovereignty. CHRIST BLESSING LITTLE CHILDREN. 41 CHRIST BLESSING LITTLE CHILDREN. The beautiful thought Of our Savior on earth, When His Holiness mingled with men. When His comforting love To the lowly went forth And He called little children to Him. He pressed to His boeom The children so dear, And His smile was a Blessing to see. As His hand touched their foreheads He eaid soft and clear, **Let the little ones come unto ME." (Chorus.) Jeeus blest the children; His arms enfolded them, His blessing in the Father's name was given; With thoughts unrestrained He bid them come to Him, *'For of such is the Kingdom of Heaven." He pictured in words The Heavenly scenes; Told how childlike the Angels remain; With a babe in His arms His countenance shone. And He blest it again and again. Could I know that His Blessing Had fallen on my head. The thought would be Heaven to me, To have listened and heard His voice when He said, ■"Let the little ones come unto ME." 42 CHRIST BLESSING LITTLE CHILDREN. He liae gone from the earth To the Father's abode. Where the Saints and Redeemed Spirits dwell; Where God in His Holiness Judges with love. In Heaven, the Home of the Soul. The Angelic children Are numberless there. And live in the Grace of His love; Yet to earth. His great arms Are stretched everywhere, To bear worthy c'hildren above. (Chorus.) Jesus loves the children, He gladly welcomes them; His blessing in the Father's name is given; With feelings unrestrained He bids each child to come, "For of such is the Kingdom of Heaven." SPIRITUAL SUPPLICATION. 43 SPIRITUAL SUPPLICATION. Loved ones bring us spirit tidings From, the soul's eternal rest, Bring us comfort to the longings That our anxious souls express; Bring to us the guardian angel, Help to concentrate our minds, On the life beyond the mortal And the home not built with hands. Fathers, guide us and protect us, Shield us from life's trying storms, Your impressions we will cherish Though in spirit they are born. Mothers, come to soothe and comfort Aching hearts and burdened minds; Sympathy of mother's spirit Is the soul's most sweet refrain. Brothers, sisters, bring us greeting From the life beyond the grave; Your influence we are seekmg. Give us thoughts of spiritual love. Help us to dispel the shadows That ofttimes obscure our lives. Bring us messages of gladness From the realm of Paradise. Loving children we are watching For your spirits to return, With a comfort-giving blessing To the hearts that for you mourn. Turn our sadness to rejoicing; Linger at our firesides; Tell ns through our sou'l's impression That with us you yet abide. 44 SPIRITUAL SUPPLICATION. Angels from the spirit kingdom Help our loyed ones to return; Help us give our souls the freedom ' That we may know them when they come; Work through Ucs with spirit forces, • Make our lives more spiritual, Unfold within our own resources The unseen powers so beautiful. TRIBUTE TO ELLA WHEELER WILCOX. 45 TRIBUTE TO THE TALENTS OF ELLA WHEELER WILCOX. Like the sympathetic sunshine Ella Wheeler Wilcox sends Noble thoughts to fellow creatures Through the medium of her pen. Volumes of her inspiration Have been heralded to men. By her energetic nature And her intellectual brain. Her words are mother nature's wooing To the gifted human race, Using her whose hand is willing To her fond affection trace. Nature owns us as Her children, Though we're prone to waywardness, She would woo our souls to freedom By Her messages of grace. Through the concentrated talents Of our gifted heroine, Minds today are better balanced By the imprint of her pen. While her mantle beams with grandeur And angelic influence. Her soul reflects a splendor Of a spiritual eloquence. Her advice and rare example To the people of our time, Are so timely, yet so gentle, They develope thoughts sublime. Men of judgment oft are strengthened By Her talented appeals. And narrow minds are broadened By the knowledge she unseals. 46 TRIBUTE TO ELLA WHEELER WILCOX. Like the wondrous Nazerene She exemplifies the true, in a sympathetic strain Imparted only by the few. Reproducing in a measure The lesson of the Gross, And the spiritual endeavor To unfold the purest thought. The principles of Washington Ne'er were grander than her themes; The wisdom of our Lincoln Not more famed than thoughts she blende; As the great renowned Napoleon, She "has fathomed caverns deep. And surmounted heights to freedom On the waves her lines create. What work so grand or beautiful ■ Has ever been attained By mortal being in the world In any modern 'time, As that so justly championed By the truely gifted hand Of Ella Wheeler Wilcox. Whose thoughts appeal so grand. Her volumes are a monument. In the thinking reader's mind, That never can diminish By the ravages of time; Her friends by millions praise her. For the light her work has given, Upon the mystic future And the spiritual way to Heaven. SPIRITUAL REJOICING MELODY. 47 SPIRITUAL REJOICING MELODY. The joy of our loved ones will flourish And gladden our sensitive minds, When we live in the love of the spirit And exemplify "Good will to men." And whjen we commune with our loved ones Through threads that our sympathy weaves, Then Heaven will blend with our natures And earth will be Eden, revised. The Heavenly hosts are rejoicing To see the mists clearing away, For the curtains of Heaven to open And receive the regenerate day. The cherished Christ life now is dawning, Its beauty we clearly behold, The children of men are proclaiming More freedom to spirit and soul. Broadened views are received by the people, Our minds sense the spiritual blend. And long for the perfect example Of sympathy, given to men. Oh! hasten the spiritual kingdom. That harmony of thought will unfold. When earth will be ceded to Heaven, The perpetual courts be unveiled. When angels and spirits and mortals Will all know the God of the realm. And enter the sanctified portals In the Heavenly Jerusalem. 48 SPIRITUAL SYMPATHY, SPIRITUAL SYMPATHY. Modest as the evening zephyrs Are the spirit calls, Gentle as the softest whisper Their entreaties fall. Tenderly their love vibrations Luminate our sonls. With a flow of inspiration Spirit power controls. Great Spirit universal Father of mankind, Harmonize our souls immortal To perpetual blend. Give us messages 'of comfort From our vanished friends, Who are happy in the Spirit Free and unrestrained. May the freedom of our loved one® With their forms unveiled, Bring us to tlie cherished Kingdom With the truth revealed. May our sympathetic natures Grow more sensitive. And develop truths to treasure Proving Spiritual love. Lead us by the wajs ^of wisdom Christ exemplified, And the perfect Spiritual Kingdom Into Paradise. AUTUMN THOUGHTS. 49 AUTUMN THOUGHTS. The season of rest from summer's grave cares-- Seems welcome to ideal nature, For care-worn and faded the foliage appears And her tboughts seem to be of the futurfe ~^he forest nymph plays hide and seek with the i»aves The golden and scarlet they proffer. And prepare to recline in natural ease Through the silent repose of the winte- The fruits of the 'orchard are gathered and primeu. The corn and the grain is all measured, _ iio husbandman shelters his cattle and swine And the iireside beams with his pleasure. ■Decline of the Autumn, a scene most complete Of any expression in nature. symbolic of passing the earthly retreat, - From the journey of life to the future. 50 SPIRITUAL EASTERTIDE. SPIRITUAL EASTERTIDE. Awake, my dreamy vision The gladdened forms beliold, ■New life adorns earth's garden Fresh beauties to unfold: The angels are rej'oicing. With joy their songs express, All nature beams with gladness And Heavenly tenderness: The seasons bring New life so grand To bless mankind, And angel voices s!ng, "Behold the Prince of Heaven, Return to us, Oh, King! For Christ the Lord has risen And conquered Death and sin." The tender buds and blossoms Proclaim, in grand array, Their reverence and devotion For Resurrection day. The warble of the song-birds With their enchanted ring, Re-echo sweetest music, In melodies of spring. Fond nature may you oft repeat This lesson of the spring, And reproduce it more complete And greater wisdom bring. The artificial grandeur. And studied solemn form, Though grand, it bears a measure Unfit f'or easter morn. SPIRITUAL EASTERTIDE. 51 Great Spirit of the universe On us reflect tliy love. Convey Thy choicest t5lessing Into our spirit livee. Endow us with Thy wisdom To know and comprehend, The never fading beauty Of Thy perpetual realm. The sight development of Soul Like Milton's work portrays, A special gift from Heaven's fold That spirit love conveys. 52 PHYSIC MEDITATIONS. PHYSIC MEDITATIONS. When spring in all its beauty Commemorate© new birth. All Nature smiles so sweetly All over mother earth. Creation gives expression To earth's magnificence, And naught but resurrection So beams with eloquence. Again when golden sunbeams Mature the germs of spring, And summer smiles her welcome O'er boundless garlands green; Then thoughts of admiration Enthuse progressive minds, Towards Nature's inspiration And development sublime. Ae summer's graceful bowers So soon must know decline, Transforming buds and flowers To lessons m^ore sublime; The gray and brown of autumn Maturity proclaims, When past scenes are forgotten And to nature all returns. Repose is autumn's greeting The final rest from care, And nature's mystic sleeping That everything must share. All foliage, fruits and verdure Return to mother earth. While insects, birds and beasts cancur With man in future birth. PHYSIC MEDITATIONS. 53 All life upon the earth-plane Is limited and veiled. To mortal understanding Though deepest thought prevails. The sensitive emotions We feel but cannot see, Are spiritual vibrations Of mortal souls set free. Great Spirit, pure in wisdom, Whose plans have never changed, Renew the spiritual freedom That long has been restrained. Cause peaceful understanding And harmony to blend, With visions from the kingdom Of the New Jerusalem. 5^ SAINT JOHN. SAINT JOHN The Medium, Apostle and Evangelist. Saint John, the gifted prophet And psycic messenger. His life imbued with spirit Modest, sensitive and clear His talents were amazdng As he caused them to unfold. He held clairvoyant vision Within his soul's control. A kinsman of the precious Christ, Saint John, His special love His mind engrossed with purest thoughts His soul in freed'om moved; He viewed the vast invisible With rare intelligence, And from his sympathetic soul He talked with eloquence. The youngest of the chosen twelve He followed soul and heart, He loved to do the Master's will And spirit love impart. The tenderest vibrations He continually gave, And conducted Inspiration By messages of love. Giving out a true reflection Of the perfect life of Christ, Was the tenure of his mission And he walked in Righteousness. He gave the pure unbiasg'd truth In love from soul to soul. And freely voiced Inspired thought Through spiritual control. SAINT JOHN. 5^ John was closer than a brother To the wondrous Nazerene, Mutual love they shared together, Shared each other's true esteem; Walked with Christ as His companion, Sat at table by His 6ide_ At the great Transfiguration Heard the words the angels said. He was grieved at Christ's betrayal By the traitor's treachery, Stayed beside Him in His trial, At His side on Calvary. By the Master's form he lingered Till it lay within the tomb, Saw the spirit forces gathered To respond the last amen. Is it wonder that his tC'aching So reflected Christ's career, When mutual devotion Made their friendship so sincere? Christ's soul transformed to spirit In mantled form returned; And through the friend He cherished The spiritual work went on. His journal is a volume Of gifted th'ought expressed, The unrestrained reflection Of Christ's life reproduced; His written exhortations Beam with wisdom most sublime. And many manifestations Of spirit love returned. He was gifted as a prophet And devout evangelist; As a being nearer perfect Than any man but Christ. He preached the truth and proved it. By the self sustaining power; He practiced and believed it With a spiritual desire. 56 SAINT JOHN. His conscientious teacliing Of spiritual sovereignty, Ijo Nero was displeasing In his seifi«h dignity; And Nero gave instructions That John be borne away Jo an isle of desolation, Of mountains in the sea. Patmois the isolated place Where .Tohn was sent to dwell, Her natives were a savage race Except those in exile. His greatest grief in banishment From friends in spiritual faith. Was, lacking his encouragement Some might fall from grace. This malice of King Nero To the growing truth restrain, "Was futile as an echo On a barren, treeless plain; For John's cherished fields of labor Flourished as the buds of spring; Vnd his soul was even nearer The ascended Spirit King. The Book of Revelation John wrote on Patmos Isle, Through Spirit manifestations And science of the soul. To his perfect passive nature , His soul was sensitive. And Heaven's mystic splendor In visions were displayed. The great unchanging Spirit Caused the mortal shades to yield, And for the time to vanish That Heaven might be revealed — So future generations Could clearly comprehend The fullness and perfection Of Heaven's Immortal Shrine. SAINT JOHN. As he viewed the princely splendor In the courts of Paradise. And saw tne Great Creator Of a thousand worlds like this; On His throne of such magnificence That natural sight would fail To look upon its radiance Unprotected by the veil. In the grandeur, and the beauty Of the shinging courts so bright, He beheld a wondrous city With mansions pearly white; Its palaces of crystal More brilliant than the sun, Engraved as the Celestial And the New Jerusalem. As the grand, enchanting vision. Lured his soul to Paradise, He became a guest of Heaven And the pure angelic host. There love beyond description Filled the boundless realm of space, And music gave expression To its harmony and peace. But another scene he witnessed From the mortal side of life— Of remorse, despair and anguish Courting misery and grief. In a loathsome, selfisli chasm Where earth-bound souls must stay To develop Spiritual wisdom That in life they cast away. Countless souls in judgment Were waiting in suspense, For Spiritual development And growth to bear them hence; Mostly those who followed heretic's Rather than the plaintive soul. And honored man instead of Spirit, Or selfishness their lives contrrlled. 58 SAINT JOHN. When his trance condition ended And his soul from Heaven returned. He fully comprehended That perfection must be earned In the vmeyard of the Master Harmonizing fellow men, Aiding souls to move with Nature In her sympathetic blends. John's life had been devoted To unfoldment of men's eouls. And the wisdom he imparted Was profound and spiritual. He had mildly sensed the beauty Of Spirit power tlirough faith, But his vision proved its glory A thousand times more great. He resolved that every creature Should hear and know the truth, Through messengers and teachers The Spirit vine should fruit. His pen portrayed the vision That God Himself revealed, In holiness and wisdom. The words inscribed and sealed. His warnings to the Church Of the Spiritual belief, To beware of Anti-Christs Who would lure their souls to grief. And compromise the spiritual By works unauthorizied. So formal and traditional That truth is ostracised. His journal while in exile Was a fount of sympathy, Flowing to him from the angels In the realm of purity. Nero's malice proved a blessing To the races of mankind, Through the psycic revelation Of the Evangelist Saint John. CHRISTMAS TIDE. r)5> CHRISTMAS TIDE. The welcome and joyous Christmastide Conveys to the thoughtful mind, Charming thoughts of spiritual love — The love that redeemed mankind. More than nineieen centuries ago In the Asiatic clime, From the spirit abode, and by God bestowed, A suiritual king was born. A messenger from the spirit realm To the faithful shepherds came, And told them that, in Bethlehem, Was born the King of Kings; The messenger showed them a brilliant star That led to the humble bed Where the mother and spiritual stranger were Who was born to awake the dead. 'j-he gift was the grandest ever made To the races of mankind. It was in this gift that God conveyed Freedom of soul and mind. To the freedom of soul He left control For man to exemplify, But man has failed, through selfish will, And bound his soul thereby. So the Christmas anniversary Tells the dawn of spiritual birth. And all mankind, for centuries. Have hallowed its sacred worth. And year after year, as the time draws near To commemorate the day. Good will appears with gifts to cheer All the world in a spiritual way. 60 THOUGHT REFLECTIONS. THOUGHT REFLECTIONS. Minds are narrow and contracted That adhere to prejudice, And denounce as wrong transacted Certain kinds of business. Take, for instance, those who measure In the various games of chance, Or who plan for public pleasure For a worthy recompense; Also, those who deal in spirits Are condemned oft-times unjust, For every industry has merit, And every enterprise is just; Every calling knows pollution From vagrancy to sacred trust, But, from among the callingi? mentioned, Never grew an anti-Christ. WHERE IS PEACE AND REST? 61 WHERE IS PEACE AND REST? Can you tell me, roaring tempest, Of a land of real delight, Where perfection of the sweetest Banish cares from memories sight; Free from torrid heat of summer, Or the winter's frigid blast; Where fictitious nride^don't murmur To allure the soul from rest? Can you tell me, roaring tempest. Of a land in any clime, Where the heart and mind can banish Every grief, beyond all time? The roaring tempest, whispering low. With a sigh of pity, answered: "No." Can you tell me, gentle breezes, Of some spot devoid of care, Where contentment never ceases And vexations never mar? Where no selfishness or sorrow^ Ever darkens night or day, And noi longing for the morrow Or regret in any way? Kindly tell me, gentle zephyrs, If you know of such a shore Where contentment lasts forever And vexations nevtr mar? The answer of the gentle breeze: "I think beyond the mystic seas." Can you tell me, golden sunshine, ' If on earth there is a place Where enchantment fills the daytime And contentment rules the space? Where humanity ne'er ages Beyond the princely prime of life, Where no sickness ever rages. Or fatigue from toil cr strife. Kindly tell me, golden sun-beam, If you know^ of such a shore; ' Where repose is simply dreamland, And enchantment, evermore? . - 62 WHERE IS PEACE AND REST? The sorrowing sun-beam answer traced, "Not on earth is such a place." Can you tell me, silvery moonlight, If your journeyings take you through Any land or any planet That is free from grief and woe? Where no yearning, and no longing, Haunts the minds of people there, And sweet peace is ever dawning With tranquility so dear? Kindly whisper, pallid moonbeams. If a place like this you know, Where fraternal spirits blossom As sweet Eden long ago? The moon lay silent on her bed, And negatively shook heV head. Can you tell me, plaintive conscience, Of the rest the heart desires, From every care or grievance — The spot to which the soul aspires? Of the realm, beyond these portals, Where sweet music is inspired By the presence of the angels And the real seraphic choir? > Can my conscience by impression Tell me of the realm of bliss, And inspire a comprehension Of eternal blessedness? Yes. Oh! yes; the conscience answers; There's a rest to mortals given. Where the pure in heart can anchor In the realm of rest in Heaven. ANGEL'S GREETING. «a ANGELS* GREETING. The angels are here, my soul to bless With the spirit's boundless love; They bring me a message of hope and peace From the mansion home above: The baud is united to bear me away, To the home of my kindred and friends, Where happiness reigns in eternity, In the home that is built without hands. Oh, my beautiful angel band, Your presence enraptures my mind; On your wings of pure white, to the regions so bright You will carry my spirit home. To the selfish themes of my life, farewell! I'm preparing to journey soon To the realms where immortal spirits dwell. And where trials will be unknown. My heart seems to feel the angels' appeal To prepare for the spiritual home. Where harmonies blend, and joys never end, And where sorrow will be outgrown. 64 MEDIUMSHIP. ANCIENT AND MODERN. MEDIUMSHIP, ANCIENT AND MODERN. The noteworthy prophets of ancient renown, . The talented sensitive seers; Those familiar in spirit, and gifted in tongue, All reflected God's mantle most clear. They were oftentimes called in their busiest hours; ^yere chosen sometimes while at rest; And bid to arise, and obey spirit power. And voice tnoughts the angels express. There were wise men, and dreamers, and readers of fate. And leaders inspired to guide, Who received and imparted God's sincerest thought Through gifts that the spirits conveyed; The exceptions are few, where God Himself came To deliver a message to man; Though, to Moses appeared, in fire and flame, And His presence convulsed sea and land. With Abraham and .Tacob, the angels convened And blended their minds to God's will; To Joseph the spirits gave visions and dreams. And with wisdom inspired his soul. The prophet Elijah, and Samuel the seer; King David, and Solomon the wise. Were people endowed with the spiritual ear. And were gifted with clairvoyant eyes. . How enchanting the thought of the angelic voice Calling, ''Samuel! Samuel! come forth!" The innocent child sought his master in haste. Saying, ''Here am I, Eli, my Lord." Every age since creation has known spirit growth In some form of sensitive blend; From Adam, in Eden, 'till Christ came to earth And exemplified "Good will to men." MEDIUMSHIP, ANCIENT AND MODERN. 65 The beautiful, sensitive teachings of Christ, A perpetual spiritual flow, From which every soul can be nurtured and blest, By accepting the love He bestows: These thoughts of the spiritual trend of the past Are reflecting to-day bright and dear, And those prophets were mediums, born to exist, God's talented children they were. The resemblance to-day, to the ages gone by, Are striking in many respects, The world courting form and outward display, Many temples are naught but deceit. The spiritual lessons are mocked and debased; Men barter their souls to oppress The god of their hearts are possessions they trace, And their soul's only comfort, "Success." No gift in God's dowery sO' grand to obtain, Or that echoes so plainly His love, As mediumsliip with harmonious blend In touch with the angels above. Should those sturdy of will mock the medium's call By harsh words, or acts of contempt. Ne'er shrink from the mission that appeals to the soul, This is testing the spiritual strengtli. All those called must be tried, and often severe. Think of Job, or of Christ in the flesh; Of Daniel, who earnestly prayed without fear, And of those in the fiery test. The multitude countless whom the angels liave called. Though a small army numbers the true. Who have triumphed temptation, ne'er faltered or failed, And whose works are a perfect review. Our own age is blest with those gifted with thought. And endowed to hear sensitive voice. With spiritual talents, of vision and sight. Some comfort the sick and distressed. There are many endowed with a genius's brain, Who bring comfort to earth in that way; And teachers and statesmen and leaders of men; Many talented lights beam to-day. 66 MEDIUMSHIP, ANCIENT AND MODERN. Napoleon's great plan when well understood Was a contest for freedom of soul, Whicli time would have proved to fill many needs In spiritual mind and control. A prophet and seer, as was Lincoln the great; And McKinley by spirit was led. Their spirits continue through others to speak And re-echo" their words and their deeds. THOUGHT VIBRATIONS. (57 THOUGHT VIBRATIONS. In all artistic walks of life There's no accomplishment So beautiful, or void of strife, As soul's development. Oh, Liberty reflect the strains Whereof the syrens sing. When Heaven's songs are earth's refrains And Christ o'er all is King. 68 THE EXISTENCE OF A GOD. THE EXISTENCE OF A GOD. Some scientists of world-wide fame Whose knowledge knows no bounds, And some whose scholarships proclaim Their knowledge great and sound. Have cried aloud, "There is no God." "No period of creation," "That earth was always, and could prove" "The Bible books all fiction." 'Tis well that only few believe Such theories and reason; The multitudes won't be deceived By atheists derision. These simple facts quite plainly prove That real fanaticism Is born and bred by whims imbued In excessive education. The Grod exists in everything, The sun and moon and stars, The firmament is held by Him, So matchless are His powers. All natural growth reflects His will; The ocean tides proclaim it, The seasons show His presence real, The winds and storms sustain it. The living monsters of the deep. The reptiles of the land. All beasts and birds and things that creep, And His likened image, man. Oh, atheist, hide your guilty face; Fanatic, seek the dark; 'Tis God that gives you life and grace; Behold His matchless work. THE EXISTENCE OF A GOD. bU We feel His presence day by day, His anger or His pleasure. Though form invisible to tlie eye His wisdom, rules that measure. If He thought best to let us see His form with spirit vision, Like thought the mystic veil He'd free And we'd view the spirit Heaven. To see Him on His Heavenly throne In His court with spotless angels, And hear seraphic music sung By tlie shining robed immortals; Would cause our eyes to fix their gaze. Our ears to always listen, Towards the glory and the praise Beyond this earthly kingdom. POPULAR PHILANTHROPY. POPULAR PHILANTHROPY And the Most Highly Esteemed in the Land. While musing o'er philanthropy, And lives of humane folk, The models of humanity Of past and present note; The muse is most inspiring And exalting to the mind, To blend our thoughts admiring These noblest traits of man. The first renowned Philanthropist Of which we will converse And by Whose will all things exist, He made the Universe, Again in Joseph we behold A model of this type; His striking modesty foretold Virtues true and bright. The inspired Moses of the past This model' plate of man, For love of freedom sacrificed Honor, to free his clan. The Prophet Daniel loved mankind To such a high degree By constant thoughts and deeds combined Wrought peace and harmony. The grandest type of philanthropy The world has ever known, A model, too. of piety Exemplified for man — Is .Tesus Christ, the Sanctified. W^hose character was love, His benevolence has verified Peace with man and God. POPULAR PHILANTHROPY. 71 Girard, a marvel in his time Of unsectarian grace, Did noble work on wisdom's line That time cannot erase. To Peter Cooper much is due From millions of mankind; His noble acts so good and true, Had magnitude divine. Had Abram Lincoln lived to see The wisdom he proclaimed, His heart would swell with ecstacy, So perfectly he planned. Our noble Gladstone leaves behind Influence truly great; Such honest zeal we seldom find, Such thoughts we rarely state. AvS time rolls by, each age is blest By living demonstrators. Whose lives and talents do not rest From good toward fellow creatures. The grandest lives can't always boast Of wealth at their command; But time and talent, free of cost, They offer to mankind. A^ast sums in cash, oft'times appraised To endow, or build a theme, If a like amount or more is raised — A real oppression scheme: The donor lauded by the press For benevolence with his wealth. When the real and true Philanthropist Is he who toils for health. 'Tis not a duty or command For one that's blest with riches, To give a cent, or even lend To a cause against his wishes. But thor-e who by progressive gain With incomes vastly great, When prompted to a cause maintain Should bravely make a slate. 72 POPULAR PHILANTHROPY. Tp build, endow, and man their cause Or unrestrained assist, Or better they would cease their noise, Keep their coin and not oppress. Many people seek the aged, To their comforts give a hand, This seems justly lauded 'Tis the time for cares to span. Then, the orphan is an object Of so many generous hearts, This is, too, a worthy subject For benevolence to impart. But the orphan has attention From the popular social sway. More inclined to moral suasion Than the young folks of to-day; Who by parents are neglected — People well-to-do, I quote, Whose paths are unprotected, And fall prey to vice and sport. The grandest aim of philanthropy That presents itself to-day, Is led by one of integrity In the highest moral way. This friend plans for the future By attractions for the good. And entice from pits of danger Young men of every creed. The commodious rooms of welcome Made inviting every way. By art and moral training Are the modern Y. M. C. A. And this champion of honor Is Miss Grould, whose life we praise, And whose work deserves the banner, The Philanthropist of the age. POPULAR PHILANTHROPY. 73 From reflection of her goodness Her generous acts behold, Aids in secret and in kindness Much that ne'er was told. Time and money without question She bestows to Y. M. C. A. With only the worthy suggestion To save the young man of to-day. Miss Helen Miller Gould, we greet you As the one whose willing hand Is a guiding star from vshore to shore And a beacon to the land. Ti THOUGHT REFLECTIONS. THOUGHT REFLECTIONS. To (Ion for life a teacher's armor, Be a Avarrior of tlie CroBs, Is the highest mark of honor Mortal being ever passed. Teachers, to impart the spirit And to culture souls of men, Should be pure as Christ was perfect, Free of strife for worldly gain. But the armor of the spirit Donned for gain, or dignity, Desecrates the perfect precepts Christ portrayed through sympathy The true apostle's life must" liken That exemplified by Christ; Gospel preached for selfish glory Bears the taint of "Anti-Christ." MEMORIAL TRIBUTE TO HARRY WAGAR. 75 VIEMORIAL TRIBUTE TO HARRY WAGAR To Zella and Ruth, riie surviving daughters of my devoted and esteemed friend, these line§ are dedicated by the author, 190G. Friendship's tender cords are severed. Love is chilled by death's cold hand, And his soul has gone forever To repose in spirit land. Heaven offered peaceful blessings That the earth could not control. And in spite of love's caressing Angels lured him to their fold. Passed beyond the earthly portals Heart is stilled, and eyes are closed. Donned the robes of life immortal In the realm of sweet repose. Never lived a kinder father, Though his life was filled with care. He sought and planned his children's pleasure, Foremost of his thoughts sincere. Honor brightened all his pathway. Prudence was bis guiding star, Home and loved ones first in memory. And their happiness his care. Exemplified the rarest friendship, Always ready to relieve, Or to cheer the weak in spirit — Giving aid each day he lived. Harry Wagar while in Nature Was my long and cherished friend Whose sincerity I treasured And whose virtues I commend. When we lived so near together' That each day entwined our lives. He seemed nearer than a brother Bound by friendship's sacred ties. MEMORIAL TRIBUTE TO HARRY WAGAR. Diligence was his endowment Day by day, and year by year, Engrossed liis mind with his employment. Faithfulness was his career. A master in the art of planning Architecture, and designs. Skilled in workmanship or drawing, Possessed a gifted liand and mind. A specimen of his engraving I am proud to say I own; All embossed with neatest carving A hand made desk adorns my home. Its end designs are climbing ivy, The front portrays the bleeding-heart, A branch of maple, rare in beauty, And cat-tails, all in panels wrought. This work so neat and beautiful Reflects his friendship on my life. He loved me, that I know full well. His death engulfs my heart in grief. Six years have lapsed since last we met, We ne'er exchanged a written line. Though on my friend my heart was set, To visit him I'd always planned. Now, alas, too long I've waited. In the flesh we ne'er can meet, But as spirits are united I will long my friend to greet. While I wait to feel his presence From the realm of endless day, I'll endeavor to be patient And abide th& will and way. In a breath of consolation To these daughters who survive, Do not scorn the kind impressions That may bless your future lives. Think of father as an angel, Who will watch you night and day, And protect you from the danger That is lurking by your way. MEMORIAL TRIBUTE TO HARRY WAGAR. 77 He felt comfort in impressions From the spirit side of life; To his thoughts on unseen missions I am strengthened in that faith. Look to God to guard and guide you, Trust beyond this life 'of care. Death has no powers that can divide you From the loved ones over there. 78 AN ECHO. AN ECHO. It Iiaf^ frequently been said That the dead alone are just, And when the body dons the grave The spirit sinks to rest. But Avho can so enslave The lesson nature gives, That, only from the grave The real, in freedom lives. MEMORIAL TRIBUTE TO CHARLES REED, JR. 79 MEMORIAL TRIBUTE TO CHARLES REED Jr., Who was accidentally killed ou the Railroad in Bayonne, N. J., Sept. 17th, 190(3. The sensitive ties that affection has wove, Alas have been severed in twain By the cold hand of fate, sO' regardless of love. Anil SO' heedless to sadness and pain. A dear boy in childho'Od, so suddenly called From the scenes that earth's pleasures commend. Not even a comforting, loving farewell From parents, and sister, or friends. Treasured in our memories are the happy days. And the cherished thoughts of Charles so dear, Whom the angels bore away to the vast eternity, To be numbered with the loved ones over there. The innocent boy in his childish delight With his mother's consent went to play; His face beamed with joy as he sped from her sight, This seemed like his happiest day. To the beautiful waters of great New York Bay He was going, a toy boat tO' sail. When fate so unfeeling intercepted his joy And eternity welcomed iiis soul. The dear one was torn from his parents' embrace, And hid from his sister's sweet smile. In bereavement they mourn, while his memory they trace Through his life to the flight of his soul. They fee! that the wisdom 'of God should prevail, Though painful His will seems to be. Through His comforting grace are their minds reconciled To meet bim in eteruitp. 80 MEMORIAL TRIBUTE TO CHARLES REED, JR. ■ Dear mother, your &on, in the spring time of life, Was called to the Heavenly home; There free from the shadows of earth's care and strife. He will wait for 'his mother to come. And father, the boy whose ilife was your joy. For you, up in Heaven will wait, In that blissful abode, in the presence of God, He'll watch by the celestial gate. Gentle, loving sister Mary, how you'll miss your brother Charles, And how often you will Jong to see hie face; But the angels have conveyed him to their home of precious pearls. Where for Mary he will always save a place. Think of him as one in Heaven, in the New Jerusalem, Who is happier than mortals can express. In the iland of endless sunshine, where Christ the Lord is King, In the home of perpetual happiness. GOD AND CREATION. 81 GOD AND CREATION. Creation sliowg an all-wise God, A nature more than grand, A perfect acting universe Too great to comprehend. The strongest minds bear thoughts so weak And 60 inadequate, That God invisibly responds And nature's work repeat«s. God's will and word awoke from sleep The nature we adore, For charming nature did exist Unmeasured time before; But when His will and word caused light To shine in nature's face, Nature instantaneously Took God in her embrace. God's love was kindled when she smiled; He aided her to rise, The sunlight made her joj's complete And freed her from tlie ties — That Satan placed upon her Twenty thousand years before; He as prince of outer darkness. With misery his dower. Satan disapproved the sunshine When Dame Nature was releaiseJ, He felt no grudge toward nature, But despised the Prince of Peace, He seemed to comprehend That when creation was complete The limit of his power Would be a painful grief. 82 GOD AND CREATION. Satan's dismal kingdom Was in realms devoid of light; Even at this age He is partial to the night. Hits dislike for the creation And the God of light and love. He measured out in silence, For he dared not question God. God's purpose in creation Was premeditated good; He planned no harm to Satan Or tlie haunts of his abode; But instead, He sought to bring about A science so complete That no imagination Could conceive a plan so great. The light of God's creation Shows the vsisdom of His plans, For nothing could be grander Than the sunlight He designed; It influences the seasons To harmonize with life. And endows a charm to nature I Of the most intrinsic worth. How monotonous to creature\s Inhabiting the earth If, with all the great perfection, The horizion was dark. With nature bound and silent, And absorbed in endless sleep; Could anytliing be beautiful with darkness so complete? The firmament with all its grandeur Would be simply vacant space If no light was cast upon it To reveal its beaming grace. The beauty and magnificence Of mountains, seas and plains, Would be a realm of mystery If the shroud cf darkness reigned. GOD AND CREATION. 83 All living creatures of the sea, From greatest to the leaet, All love the light of harmony And by itts power exist. The birds that scale the horizon. How aimlevss they would fly. If light had not made visible A distance to the eye. Viewing all the splendor Of God's ideal light, And how the whole creation Concedes influence bright. His last and greatest wonder, The mechanism man Acknowledge^ magnificence In light's perpetual plan. Man He endowed with reasoning power And mind to comprehend, With gifted understanding And clear ingenious brain. These gifts make man superior To everything He made. He said, "In man, and man alone Reflects My own image." The love that bound dame nature To the Omnipresent God Knew Hie reciprocation, His affection she enjoyed. His Heavenly mantled countenance Was more to her than life; He lingero'd in her lovely bowers. And mutual love unites. No doubt this love influenced God To tenderness towards man, His sympathy for nature Imparts a thought most grand. As God with nature harmonized In love's enchanting dream Eden, then their paradise, And man their true offspring. 84 GOD AND CREATION. A habitation for mankind By nature was bestowed, A paradise of beauty Where fragrant fountains flowed. There everything for comfort And perfect happiness Was bountiful, and harmonized With nature's perfectne«ss. All creation's work but man God gave in nature's care, And (?he has ruled them wisely For many thousand years. Then man, untainted, walked with God, And God revealed to him With unreserved sincerity His relationship to man. He said, "Behold and eat the fruit Of every tree but one; That tree is Satan's evil tree. Don't touch or taste, but shun. To perpetuate your happinees, Take heed of what I say, Who eats of good and evil fruit In grief shall surely die." The years of happinees and joy That Adam spent with Eve, With God their daily visitor And not a care to grieve. Nature smiled so tenderly On Eden's graceful bowers, Existence was a luxury Of poetry and flowers. Time sped along, and happiness Was more than they could ask; They never thought to disregard The warning God had passed. But musing on the lawn one day, Right at their very side, A wily, charming serpent Mysteriously arrived. GOD AND CREATION. 85 It said, "Dear people, you are blest With more at your command Than you have any knowledge, Or even understand. The God who made you all you are And placed you in this home Has forbidden you to even touch The fruit to gain His throne." "This tree of knowledge, gcod and bad, The brightest and the best, If you will eat will make you lord Above the God you trust. None would be greater than yourselves-, Nature would be your child. God would scarcely be your equal When with knowledge you are filled." They were enraptured with the thought Of greatness thus bestowed; Eve ate the fruit, and Adam ate, And God was disobeyed. While the taste was yet upon their lips They felt the sting of sin; They trembled when they thought of God And tried to hide their shame. The tempting serpent disappeared Mysterious as it came; From whence it came or whither went They could not ascertain. They hid beneath the shrubbery, But the sin they could not hide; They sensed extreme forebodings And vexations multiplied. They blushed to gaze on nature; The flowers seemed distressed, The serpent's statement haunted them, Their hearts were truly crushed. Wretchedness and worry Was now their painful state, Their future scenes were sorrow Without respite or rebate. 86 GOD AND CREATION. The wily <;erpent that deceivetl The unsuspecting race Was Satan, T\-ho had gnashed his teeth When creation filled earth's space. He planned the lie that blighted The happiness of earth, And gave vexation to the will That ruled the universe. No other creature but mankind Doe« Satan care to sway, And in many a different guise He falls upon his prey. By money, lust, and promises, He lures intO' his den; And multitudes of Eves and Adams Weep with shame and pain. Satan, since creation, Never wished for light to cease; He has gained ten thousand fold Since nature was released. His resources, too, have multiplied Since creation was designed, And in spite of God',5 intentions He appropriates God's plans. He interferes with harmony; Makes dissention with mankind. He tells to all who'll listen That creation ne'er was planned. That God's inspired word Was fiction magnified. And that future life was myth And no God to be obeyed. Beware of Satan always; He travels in disguise. He wins his prey by pleasant thoughts. Then takes it by surprise. He numbs the passive conscience, And flatters easy minds With thoughts of Bible fiction. And no life beyond this shrine. GOD AND CREATION. 87 He seeke the learned and eloaueut. To use their gifted tongues; He breathes the thoughts unseen Into their scienced brain. He finds a few with boldness To denounce Grod and His word; But their influence is trifling With theory go absurd. All scienced nature echo's God; He lives in every thing. The sun reflects His power By the light and life it brings. The moon and stars and sun combine To tell us night and day. For God, and only God, could make Them act perpetually. The ocean's periodic tides Majestically designed. Are mighty as the universe, Mysterious as the wind; The clouds that ride the horizon And carry seas of rain, All prove the God and His designs, And His Bible they sustain. All mechanism, known as life. Throughout the universe, Are proof of His Omnipotence And His perpetual course. All, up to man, accepts this proof And wisdom infinite. And live by nature's instinct Acknowledging a right. The smallest insects are uuheld By virtue of God's law; The seasons pass like clock-work Because He made them so. The foliage buds know spring time By instinct they possess. Each living thing knows what to eat And what food tastes the best. 88 GOD AND CREATION. Because the human mechaniem Was fertilized by Grcd, Who breathed within man's nostrils The soul's eternal seed. And formed man nearer like Himself Than any thing He made. Is that the reason man should doubt The word, with proofs so staid? These doubts are Satan's influence And filled with selfishness, Which Satan uses to purloin Mankind to wickedness. And more enlightened people Are wavering to-day And compromising wisdom For the frailest vanity. Oh, mortal man, the hand of God Has written on the wall. And not in hieroglyphics, That vanity must fall. He proves the Holy Bible By the moving universe, And His pictures for the future Reflect His perfect course. Our ruler,? have forgotten That above all earthly power The sovereign hand of Justice Records each day and hour. Give heed to friendly warning, Think deep to wisdom's good, Denounce the tempter's vision And accept the word of God, THOUGHTS EXPRESSED BY THE SPIRIT. SU THOUGHTS EXPRESSED BY THE SPIRIT. Could mortal beings realize The spirit's foud desire To beautify and harmonize These transient lives of ours. Our fondest hopes the angels bring. Their tidings to our memories cling. With happiness our hearty they fill. And give our souls relief. From that abode where all is well. And conscience knows no grief. No theme in life is so complete, Or theory so grand. And no rejoicing can compete With joys from spirit land. The God of nature made us free To plau our own eternity; The angels watch our buc^y lives And try to smooth the way. ' Their friendly influence abides Throughout this life of clay. When life's perplexing cares shall cease. And sorrow be outgrown. Our minde will be endowed with peace — Sadness will be unknown. The spirits then our hearts will fill With sentiments of Chirst's good will. The angels then will hold our hands And we their forms can see. Sweet singing by the mystic band Will greet us full and free. 90 TRIBUTE OF AFFECTION TO BABY ELEANOR. TRIBUTE OF AFFECTION TO BABY ELEANOR WHEN FOUR MONTHS OLD. Dearest, sweetest birdie baby, Charming Mary Eleauor! You're so sweet, and fat and chubby, Y'our coquettish eyes implore. You're the center of attraction And the Dollie we adore. Yes, we love you to di Eleanor, my baby, My sweet little lady, Sq ehy and so shady, Look here, don't you cry; Now give me your paddy And stay with your Daddy, And don't be afraidie To scratch chick or die. Chorus. Eleanor, sweet Eleanor, The rose-bud we adore. Fairy light, beaming bright In you forever more. , _ Your singing and talking, Your dancing and walking, Your falling and stalking. Too bad, I confess; Be brave, little bonnie, My bright little nanny, And try it againy For better succe6s> , She drinks from the oil can,^ Plays in the asli pan; Swims in the dish pan, Takes lunc*heon on coal; Chews needles and pins. Eats glass, tacks and tine. Plates and saucers she spins In the most approved role. My cute little magpie, And wide awake brigTit eye, My mascot and fairy, So cute to behold; With whistle and rattle. She portrays Tier metal At thirteen months old. ELEANOR WHEN THIRTEEN MONTHS OLD. 97 Mother adores her. Father encores her, Sarah implores her ./ / To keep happy and gay; ^ Charles loves to treat her^ Lillian to greet her,. We all entreat her To romp and to play. 98 ELEANOR WHEN EIGHTEEN MONTHS OLD. ELEANOR WHEN EIGHTEEN MONTHS OLD All the gems of mother earth, And their g^reat intrinsic worth, Could not match a precious jewel I adore, True affection she imparts To the center of my heart. My idolizing, Fairy Eleanor. She caresses and she kisses All her dolls and baby toys, She prattles baby gibrage all the while, Her coquettish, roguish looks. As she turns her picture books, Is enough to make a judge of justice smile. Chorus. Charming little sunbeam, Realistic dream, Concentrated perfect little star; ^Trusted Guardian of the deep ^ Watch thics jewel while she sleeps, -And may angels bless my darling Eleanor. JNo pattern e'er so true, ^ Dr summer sky so blue; 'No magnet half so sensitive before; No emblem made so neat, Or music strains so sweet, As the countenance of baby Eleanor. *' When she hears me coming home at noon *- ' Or any other time, She always runs to meet me at the door. And so sweetly says, "My papa. Papa, don't you understand, "That you must up up baby Eleanor." ELEANOR WHEN EIGHTEEN MONTHS OLD. 99 So thoughtfully she brings My slippers, while she sings, "Papa's shoeis, papa's shoes, papa see;" And when I sit down to write, If my pencil meets her sight, She imploringly says, "Papa, pency me." She never will be satisfied To sit still on my knee, And seldom likes to play upon the floor; But clear on top the table Is where she loves to be; Funny notions of my baby Eleanor. 100 ELEANOR WHEN TWO YEARS OLD. ELEANOR WHEN TWO YEARS OLD. My charming and sweet little daughter, The choicest of all I adore, So charming and gay is the laughter Of Tootsey, my fond Eleanor. She climbs from the floor to the table Without any help but a chair, She is only two years old, but is able To scale every inch of the stairs. She loves to descend to the cellar Every time she sees papa bring coal, The darkness to her is no 'terror — She's a bravo, and sterling as gold. Her fondness for babies and pictures Is almost a sensation at times, She seems to have art in her nature And music enraptures her mind. She is partial to shoes and to shoestrings — Often works for an hour or so. Untying and completely unlacing The ties of her Papa's old shoes. Says "tea-up" for teacup in talking, And Lewis she always calls "Boo." About four double LI' to say Lillian; I think her a darling, don't you? Her soft little hand pats my shoulder, Then says, "I'm Papa's sweet dirl," But she shrinks when I offer to kiss her, Though she gives me the kiss after all; She listens and watches for Iris, And Leslie she's quite fond of, too; For Charles she has always a caress And loves to do romping with Lew. ELEANOR ^YHEN TWO YEARS OLD. 101 Her liking for tea, milk and sugar Advances as she grows in size, "Dink-te-wa" is her name for cold water And "goo-ca" is what she calls pie. She has a cast boy she calls Jimmie, Bo-peep is her cotton filled doll. She stands Jim head downward iso funny — Jim and "Tocts" are a pair, let me tell. There is none she loves better than Mother, Though Sarah she loves very dear; She hac5 oceans of love for her brother, Her affection for Lillian is clear. Her birthday in April we cherish; On the eighth she will be just two years. We are wishing this Sunbeam to flourish And fill every heart with her cheer. 102 ELEANOR WHEN 2y2 YEARS OLD. ELEANOR WHEN TWO AND ONE HALF YEARS OLD. Eleanor, my s%yeetest blossom, Like a rosebud you appear; Eyes so bright and lips so crimson, Cheeks so perfect and so fair. Then again, you quite resemble Flowers of the mountain side, Arbutus, as it gently rambles, Seemingly intent to hide. Pansy like you're always smiling, Like the blue-bell always gay. And as lilies you're beguiling, Sweet as honeysuckel's spray. Charming as the blooming cerus, Winning as the heliotrope. Graceful as the twining cypress, Happy a« forget-me-not. When you go upstairs to Papa, Then a rambler you must be; And at table when you're happy, Then your rose must be the tea. When you muse with brush and comb You compare with sweet lilacs; Mormng-glory at day's dawn, In the eyening four-o'clocks. When you break the dinner dishee You are like the touch-me-not, When we fail to please your wishes Y''ou're a thistle from the lot. When you're fixed to go out walking You're a choice chrysanthemum; Never tube-rose so inviting. Not in all our Christiandom. ELEANOR WHEN 21/2 YEARS OLD. 1(» Astor-like you're fascinating, As tlie calla, you are pure; Not a might procrastinating As rhododendrons of the moor. - Seldom selfish, like the sunflower^ Or insipid like the fern; But profuse in mystic power. Like magnolias in the sun. Like the daisies in the meadow. Or coquettish marigold; Also like a brilliant poppy, At six months more than two years old. Water-lilies can't be sweeter, Portulacas not more bright, Gladiolas never neater, f Or more attractive to the sight. Eleanor, you're even greater, More than language can express. Perfect as the passion flower That portrays the Crown and Grose. Your happiness is my delight, Every murmur grieves me sore. But I trust the angels bright Will adopt sweet Eleanor. 104 ELEANOR WHEN THREE YEARS OLD. ELEANOR WHEN THREE YEARS OLD. Eleanor, the fondest treasure, Her loving tenderness Conveys a true affection That words cannot express. Her fascinating innocence Endears her roguish smile; Her prepossessing laughter Does certainly beguile. V Chorus, She is charming and attractive As the shells along the shore; Loving as an angel, Precious darling Eleanor. And she'« brighter than the dew-drop That sparkles in the morn, Loving little angel, Prepossessing Eleanor, *'Mamie was her Papa's darling," And "Come home, father dear," ' "Sing a song a-sixpence," Are songs she loves to hear. "Evalina," "Dear Old Pompy," "Put me in your little bed," . "^ "The Happy Bumblebee" » And "Old Joe Finley's Pig." She sings her songs for Mamma So sweetly every day, And recites some pretty stories To her dollies in her play. .She seems to know the meaning Of the cunning baby rhymes, With meter mixed and twisted She recites them verv fine. ELEANOR WHEN THREE YEARS OLD. 105 She thinks she's helping Sarah When she's with her at her work, And shows delight when Lillian Returns hunae from New York. She always runs to meet her The moment she comes in. And watcher for her Papa To call "hello" to him. She speaks of Charles quite often, And wishes he'd come home. And not go back to Boston On the "chu-chu" "chu-chu" train; And would bring the baby candy, Picture books and play, And not forget her birthday, For she's three years old to-day. 106 REPOSE OF THE SO-UL. REPOSE OF THE SOUL. The beautiful, beautiful home of the soul, Repose of the spirit when freed from earth's toil; Where sorrow and sadness, or care is unknown. And unrestrained peace is the lasting refrain. Earth has its charms and harmonious blends. Its seasons of beauty that nature defends. The fathomless love that words can't express. Yet with all earthly pleasure, the soul knows no rest. To study this life with unselfish design. And live in the spirit, with thoughts unrestrained. Our souls would ascend to an angelic plane Where eyes would be opened to visions sublime. Our ears would hear voices and musical strains. Our thoughts would be tempered to inspired Irain^ The curtains of Heaven would open their folds. And loved ones in spirit would comfort our souls. Man has wandered so far from the spiritual road. Lured by vain inclinations and self-righteoue pridfi^ With cultured desire all the past to excel, Ignoring by practice true harmony of soul. The themes so mysterious,to minds of mankind. Is wonderful only as nature is trained; And if man had remained in his pure, modest fornix Phenominal mystery had never been born. To gather the fragments of our talented race, With hope of replacing soul and spirit in place^. Lure flesh back to natural, unselfish desire. Is a mission of love the spirits aspire. May God in His wisdom encourage our band. And keep our souls tuned to the spiritual bleiid». And permit us communion with friends in His fold. In Heaven, the beautiful "Home of the eoul." THE SENSITIVE SOUL. 107 THE SENSITIVE SOUL. Man's soul, the vibrator of spiritual love, And when unrestrained can freely receive The grandest impressions, .see visions unfold, And view the immortal, through the lens of the soul. 108 VIBRATIONS OF THE CHARACTER. VIBRATIONS OF THE CHARACTER. Vibrations of the character Of Napoleon Bonaparte Still echo his unmatched career As prince of psycic art. HYMN OF DEVOTION. 109 HYMN OF DEVOTION. Kind spirit of the plane above Extend Thy gentle hand, To guide us in the ways of love Where wisdom may be gained. We sense the grandeur of the plane To where the soul aspires, The Paradise, where unrestrained, Celestial scenes appear; The realm where purity is rife, Where sorrows are outgrown. And all are mutual in one faith Where Heaven and earth are one. To Thee we owe impartial trust And to Thy power commend Our feeble thoughts of righteousness For Thy divine amen. We trust to Thy unchanging zeal To give us thoughts of truth, Whereby our Heaven environed souk May grasp the spiritual faith. Impart Thy wisdom to our minds, Reflect Thy light of love, That we may fully comprehend The joys of Thine abode. Accept us as Thy messengers, To herald to mankind Thy love and wisdom so sincere, The truth Thy will sustains. To Thee we owe impartial trust And to Thy power commend Our feeble thoughts of righteousness For Thy divine amen. 110 HARMONIOUS THOUGHTS. HARMONIOUS THOUGHTS. The pleasures of life's journey That frequently appear As fountains on a de«ert, And lights along the shore; Are spirit demonstrations Of lore divine and pure, By messengers from Heaven Through lights along the shore. Our little deeds of kindne«s Are more to be adored Than honor, wealth, or greatness; They are lights along the shore. Kind thoughts are sweet vibrations From the Celestial Choir, The "golden rule" reflections Of "lights along the shore." THE OLD AND THE NEW. Ill THE OLD AND THE NEW. By Hand or Machine. (The train of thought in this article I proudly dedicate to my ^«£teemed friend, the Inventor and Statesman, Mr. E. B. Cum- anings, of Indianapolis. Ind.) Tlie dear old ways of nature A thousand years ago; Tbe sun ehone then for every creature, As it does to-day we know. The seasons, four in number, The first we'll note as Spring; This season wakes the splendor, And to nature new life brings. *Tis then the tender foliage, The buds and blossoms grand. And birds of song and plumage Beam forth o'er all the land. The second season's beaming grandeur Is Spring, advanced to scenes mature; Balmy nights, oh! lovely Summer, Your influence, noble, grand and pure, Tis in this season streams grow shallow By the torrid, scorching sun. Babbling brooks, with tunes so mellow, Gaily chime their nature songs, Nature in her real perfection i Is not confined to verdure green, For birds and beasts show true affection — Their tender offspring beams serene. To Autumn now our vision leads. Through scenes past comprehension, When fruits of nature next succeed The Spring and Summer mentioned. ■TLis harvest time in nature's field. The reaper, frost, is waiting [ TThe signal for his power to wield On Summer's arbor making. The tinted leaf and forest nymph Nestle side by side together, And trust to nature's pearly tent, The snow in winter weather. 112 THE OLD AND THE NEW. The harvest garnered by the frost The forest stripped of splendor; The lovely green in slumber lost, Reposes through the winter. The northbird to the southward goes. Instinctive to their kind, Ne'er waits the chilling winter snows That bars their chance of food to find. The wild beast of the mountain cave His hair grows thick and long, To shield him from the chilly wave Of nature's dreamland, silent song. The quadrupeds have coats of fur That resist the wet and cold, The ice bound streams and lakes concur. Protection to the fish uphold. Thus time rotates in loveliness; The seasons come and go, The spring with its tenderness And radiant floral glow. The harmony so musical. Of summer's festive dream Has ne'er grown worn or whimsical. Or aged by centuries seen. The crimson glow at autumntide Betokens life far spent; And points to life's pathetic side To both restless or content. The melancholy solitude Of mountain, plain or river, Echos naught but quietude Throughout the silent winter. This scene, to man the most sublime,^ The last and first in nature, Symbolizes nature's plan, Man's advent to the future. The glorious sun beamed forth her rays In ages far remote; The same as witnessed now-a-days — No less or greater scope. The eastern horizon, at morn Resplendent o'er the aerial space. THE OLD AND THE NEW. 113 Reflects perfection's plan adorned, From which the beeit skilled hides his face. Man's ideal power magnified Ten thousand times its real might. Is insignificant beside God's perfect plan of natural light. The Lunar system, wondrous theme. Its influence truly grand, Predestinates all perfect dreams; Binds Art to Science, heart to hand The Planet realm, when understood. Shows nature's wondrous plan. And marvelous, matchless works of God» So mysterious to man. Man's natural state in purity, When free from taint of sin. Is boundless love and harmony, The mysterious is unknown. When God to man gave sovereign right To rule His grand creation, Conceded power and equal might And perfect veneration. Oh, Spirit God! Oh, Nature God! We crave Thy promised pardon To reinstate in Thine abode Thy eeed in Eden's garden. This Ideal cruise through Nature's realm Is measured with delight. 'Tis well; sad scenes to overwhelm By thoughts and visions bright. To link the ancient to the new By artist's pen or pencil Seems grotesque, yet 'tis very true, Each bears the same credential. Did man with nature keep apace In centuries past and gone. When educated minds were scarce And machinery was unknown? Or shall we say, man leaves behind? And almost out of sight. The mystic work so wisely planned. By Him whose will created light. 114 THE OLD AND THE NEW. When earth was tilled in olden times, No ploughs of shining steel, Propelled by horses, or by steam. Or motors, in the field. The popular motive po^er then Was willed by God, who said, The sweat from ofiE the brow of man Shall earn his daily bread. For more than sixty centuries Man seemed content to toil In poverty, and ignorance Of his heaven inspired soul. From Adam's fall, man's tendency For many thousand years Was down to slothful vagrancy — Exalted manhood disappears. In pity God held out His hand To grand-sire Abraham, And sought to make him understand His grand redemption plan. Obedient to the Master's will This chosen Abraham Had inspired faith, to see fulfilled The magic rise of mortal man. A hundred generations passed To Abraham's chosen seed; From Canaan's plains in Paradise Through Pharaoh's galling greed. Midst walls of water, led by God; In wilderness fed by Him, By manna, rained from Heaven above — What love He showed for man. The journey, long and hard to go. Through the wilderness of Paran And thrilling scenes of Jericho, ^ To the blessed Bethlehem. Here God made good His promise To Abraham's sons and daughters. THE OLD AND THE NEW. 115 And gave to man, ae sacrifice, The Christ, His Son, a martyr. The grandest Mediator known, The purest and most precious, Is Christ our Saviour. God's own Son — His life should beam within us. A happy thought steals o'er the mind As it views this dispensation, Of God's unbounded love for man. This matchless demonstration. Since Christ's sojourn in flesh and blood Man's ideas kept ascending Toward the perfect and the good, With thoughts of knowledge pending. Since all the mystic works of God Is science beyond comparison, 'Tis not so strange man's mind, when good, Should crave perfection's garison. The restless nature of mankind In striving for supremacy, Has caused the race to wander blind, And far from nature's tendency. Time after time God humbled man For vanity in planning, That he might see and understand The need of perfect training. The fall of great Jerusalem, The holy, holy city. Was wage of vanity and sin, And forgetting the Almighty. The minds of men are broad in range. Oft' led to plans astounding By influence felt but never seen, But sensed to nervous sounding. The trend of thought that oft' prevails And inspires man to action, Is more than wondrous to detail — The magic mind progression. 116 THE OLD AND THE NEW. Bold, brave Columbus must have sensed The mystic power, astrology, To plan his trip in confidence To far, unknown America. After months of grave suspense and toil The visionary land was seen. And the new sought world, so wonderful, Was real and not a dream. Again, in Newton we behold A marvel to his nation; He sought and proved to science bold The power of gravitation. And Franklin, too, dreamed not in vain Of the power, electricity, Like Newton's firm, untiring plan, Demonstrated its capacity. Tlie mind of Priestley and his pen. Endows true scienced themes — Adds oxygen and hydrogen To chemistry's domain. In times of Revolution war. In seventeen seventy-six, Famed Priestley op'ed the science doer, And wondrous seals affixed. 'Tis said our planet earth, is bound By power of gravitation. This theory seems in judgment sound. But no posititve demonstration. Again, great minds advance the theme That this terrestrial sphere Is held intact by heat within — An electric sea of fire. The force of heat is truly great When applied by scienced hands; The base of grandest brilliant light. And motive power's mighty band. Through focus glass the rays of sun Imparts igniting heat; The untold distance counts as none, Perpetually this search repeats. THE OLD AND THE NEW. 117 Renowned in scientific art And modern locomotion Is Robert Fulton, first to start The steamboat on the ocean. In eighteen liundred seven, On the famous river Hudson, The Clairmont's trial trip was given. First boat propelled by any engine. Oh! famous Fulton, could you see The mighty crafts to-day. That time and thought has ca,used to be Monuments to your theory. Progressive science strides along To transit by way of stage. Then to packet boat the traveler throngs, Before the railway of this age. Now, sliall we say gigantic power. Combined with lightning speed, Transports the throngs by millions o'er This earth, where pogress supersedes. The word gigantic don't express The incorporated powers Of combination railroad trusts — God save this land of ours! We'll leave this shocking age of trusts To work its own conclusion; And ramble o'er the historic dust Of the American Revolution. Here God revealed to mortal man His will that justice should Prevail in this and every land. Where righteousness was sought for good. The illustrious names of Henry Clay, Patrick Henry and Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Richard Lee, Franklin, too, and Livingstone. General Warren, brave and bold. Who fell at famous Bunker Hill, 118 THE OLD AND THE NEW. And Hamilton, whose aid foretold Success and courage and appeal. These famous men, well known to all, The patriots of this land, Their thoughts inspired for this call To lead the glorious band. Exalted high in minds of men, And admired by every craft, Is inventor Steinhill's famous scheme. The electric telegraph. The first machine by Steinhill, In eighteen thirty-seven, Wrote hierogliphics twelve long miles With very marked perfection. But lo! one Morse outdid this feat In eighteen forty-four. When he transmitted news complete From Washington to Baltimore. What then so wonderful and fine Has grown and multiplied, 'Til now ten million miles of line Unites all earth and ocean tide. In eighteen hundred seventy-seven Science past seemed quite outdone, When inventors Bell and Edison Conceived the telephone. The names of Reis and of Gray, Must share this glorious race, For records show in great array Their competition in the chase. The magnitude we now behold In the telephonic sphere. Shows God's great wisdom yet untold Which unfolds beauties every year. The time consumed in news transport In seventeen ninety-four. From Boston's coast to Frisco's port Was four long weeks or more. Now man can 'phone in Boston town To friends in California's State, In half a day the news has found His friend within the Golden Gate. THE OLD AND THE NEW. 119 While on thus grand electric plane Of the 'phone and 'graph so bright, The dynamo of modern strain Makes arc and incandescent light. This latter phase of inventive skill. To human need surpasses all The previous mark« of God's good will, To comfort man at every call. The natural light, God gave to man, Is only brilliant through the day, But man's progressive mind gives birth, To needs at night of light display. Famed Edison's historic gem, The wondrous dynamo, Unlimited, in use to man, Transmits its power in endless flow. The popular city transit Some two decades ago. Was horse cars, scant in comfort. And oft times very slow. Now the famous dynamo, And massive power station. Makes power, and transmits it too. Through wires in insulation. The trolley car, commodious van, Your advent we celebrate, For rapid transit like a span, Make distance short, and traffic great. The untiring brain of mortal man. Through influence discovers, And e'en creates, the mystic plan jf or comfort and for pleasure, We here review with briefness. And with thoughts of true devotion. And measure the completeness. Of animal locomotion. No inventive skill however fine. Complicated or accomplished. Has touched, or even neared God's plan Of breathing clock-work nerved and finished. In every age we find no change, Man moves on biped standards, 120 THE OLD'AXD THE NEW. The niacliiue, perfection pre-arranged, By God the sole commander. Many themes and grand inventions Man has wrought to nature's aid, While nature broad in comprehension. Returns the compliment^ so paid. When first the famed velocipede Was utilized by man, For easier and greater speed, His local rounds to span. The sporting world in amazement stood. At the thought of treadle measure, W^hen rider turned the wheels he rode And <5ped to suit his pleasure. This scientific theme proved good, In every minar detail, Man delved e'en deeper in the groove And made the modern bicycle. This modern bike has been applied In every land and nation, The rich and poor, alike can ride Regardless of their station. And many thousand ladies too, Use the wheel with double action. To business, and for plea^^ure go With ease and satisfaction. From pedaled crank direct to wlieel, When first we view the cycle. The sprocket spur with chain of steel Gives triple speed to pedal. Progressive still on line of bikes, And genius wins the raffle By placing on the streets and pikes The flying motor cycle. The superb horseless turnout And wonder of the age. The flashlight speeded chariot That halds and leads this rage — THE OLD AND THE NEW. 121 Gives rise to visionary dreamei Of progress of the motor; Perhaps, when man the azure spans In windships of the future. Among the wonders of the world. Wrought by slvillful architecture, That stand as monuments unveiled. Are the bridge spans o'er the rivers; The Girard, that brazen tension. Arched of masonry and steel, And Niagara's great su.^pension O'er the unmatched whirling pool. Many scores of stately structures Span and join the river shores, Which only scienced minds could venture To dream, or plan, if nothing more. The worthiest of this architecture. Without a pier 'twixt ^shore and shore. Is the New York — Brooklyn structure. Planned in eighteen seventy-four. But far ahead of paet achievements, And modern in every way. The mamouth structure scarcely finished — The East River highway of to-day. While on architecture's greatness, Kindly the advancement note: Ancient structures in completeness Were just one story to the roof. Now, we see the massive buildings Of New York and other sites. It is strain to optic's fillings To view the top and lofty heights — Of structures thirty stories high, And monumental shafts still higher; The natural vision is cut shy Of viewing points on high church spires. Modern homes, we note with pleasure. Moving in progressive line. Buildings handsome, which we treasure, And furnishings are up to time. 122 THE OLD AND THE NEW. Cou.ld present generations view The popular homes in ancient times. When only royal people knew Or felt the glow of comfort shine. To-day, the American peasantry Are truly numbered with the blest; Home conveniences are pleasantry, And furnishings are of the best. Reviewing the supremacy And works of mortal man; We see an upward tendency, Like verdure toward the sun. We dimly sens0 the misery Existing long ago, When man knew not plan or theory — - Wild, unclad, and savage, too. Of his origin 'twas naught he knew, 'Ere God revealed to Abraham, And made the promise to outdo And rear a nation of his clan. Many trying centuries This chosen seed saw pass their way; Trials sore, and miseries, E're God's wisdom come to stay. God's glorious promise so elated Aged Abraham and wife, And to their faith was compensated A blessed son to lead the strife. From Issac passed the mantle real To Jacob, shrewd in actions, God changed his name to Israel, And renewed the promised sections. For reasons just, God scourged the land With seven years of famine; But shrewdly meted out a plan To save Israel and his children. Ten years before this famine came God led from land of Canaan Wise Joseph, Israel's favorite son, To Pharoah's earthly kingdom. THE OLD AND THE NEW. 12a God sent wierd visions to this king. Figurative of the future; He sought the wise meu of his realm To solve this mj^stic feature. God willed that only Joseph should Interpret Pharaoh's visions, And thus he paved the magic road For Israel's provisions. The shocking deeds of Israel's sons To Joseph, their envied brother. Seemed more than cruel, worse than sin, To thus agrieve their father. But time soon proved a wondrous plan, To preserve through years of famine The people, and their flocks at hand, And to Joseph came this mission. Scores of generations passed And wondrous lapse of time. From Israel's leaving Canaan's dust To the Israelites return. They numbered when they left the land Four score souls in all; Returning, Moses led the band Of ninety thousand Hebrew souls. When back to Canaan's paradise God showed His preference, To the remnant of the Israel host By growth unmatched by precedent. ^ The temple at Jerusalem, The work by Him appointed; Almost too grand to comprehend, The city God annointed. As time sped on so fruitful, These Israelites grew vain, Self-righteous and deceitful — Their hearts on earth's domain. The time at hand, to be fulfilled God's vow to Abraham, 124 THE OLD AND THE NEW. His precious gift they sought to seal And sacrifice without refrain. Now, 'tis nigh two thousand years Since God redeemed mankind; Yet, .Tudeaites still firmly bear A hatred to the Christian mind. Science, the theme of all creation. Doubly reflects through minds of man, Purest minds hold best relation To the Ruler of this perfect plan. The human mind, so broad in range, So progressive and so fruitful. Oft' decoys the man to actions strange, When heart is true and faithful. Columbus, the hero cf his age. So sure of gaining glory. Chanced his life in rare courage, His cruise an oft told story, Newton's name is banded down To following generations, Since he gained the great renown Of discovering gravitation. Franklin's greatness never fades. His sayings and inventions. And Priestley's themes, still *?taunch and staid, ' Portrays his mind dimensions. Like precious gems, this brilliant mind Illumes our nation's glory , And brighter still reflects his time. And renown^ his famous theories. Fulton's steamboat panorama, In his time the leading rage, Has marched ahead of every drama. And still a wonder of this age. We proudly note progression In travel's popular ways; From pedestrian and equestrian To the railway now-a-days. THE OLD AND THE NEW. 125 The unprecedented progrci-s Since the American Revolution. We note with pride unselfish The U. S. Constitution. The freedom of the American mind In creed and education Has wrought a nation most refined. And of grandest inspiration. Stednhill's and Morse's telegraph, With the matchless telephone, Have added links and paragraph^?, And aims for time to come. The illustrious fame of Edison, America's radiant star, Illuminates the horizon With wonder, near and far. The bicycle and motor bike — Likewise automobile — With man thel)alance, so to speak. But lacks a balance wheel. Direct from throttle speedcs these gems, These vans we so adore; The rider wills the speed he runs. His will the governor. The stalwart structures that unite The shores of roaring streams Are lasting emblems of the might, Where studied science intervenes. True science leads progressive minds, And leaves a firm imprecision. Which tends to elevate mankind — It knows no retrogression. Along progression's flying scale, And really overwhelming, And to every thoughtful mind appeals, Ig our modern massive buildings. From tents of modest structure, In ages long gone by, To modern architecture, And structures large and high. 126 THE OLD AND THE NEW. Since every thing in nature shows An aim toward future greatness, Man should consider what he knows And aid to reach completeness. The time that's past we must admit Leaves pictures grand to nature; The present mirror that reflects Our visions of the future. So don't retard the tendency Of scientific nature, By living o'er past agencies, But seek the grander future — The records of each day are sealed, And repining never ventures To change an item or appeal — Seek the brighter, better future. God's will and word created light, The seas, the heaven, the land, And every object small or great From insect up to man. From dust of earth he formed the clay For man's ideal mould. And breathed therein His breath that day, And man became a living soul. When earth was new God was well pleased With harmony so ideal; His wisdom smiled at nature's ease. His bounteous hand filled each appeal. In man he planned to represent And endow with mystic power, To enjoy the earth to his content — Almost God's equal was man's dower. God tells us by inspired pen That His image true and real, Refiects through form and life of man — This sacred record bears His seal. The earthly house of Jiving clay, The life perpetuation, The breathing clockwork of that day, The one machine God gave creation. THE OLD AND THE NEW. 127 His wondrous science so arranged And lias so perpetuated, That nature's themes have never changed, Or failed in action since created. The ideal garden of the earth, Perfection's comfort, there sufficed The chosen bed for man's first birth — Eden's sacred paradise. This ideal place God made for man To enjoy creation's themes; Without a care to vex his brain — Not even a machine. A thought of real anxiety Within this crystal garden, Was act of impropriety, So perfect was this Eden. Alas, for man in perfect bliss, His mind knew not suspicion; Attracted by the serpent's hiss. Wag led to first transgression. i By mechanism, it would seem, First evil came to man; ' Prince Satan's vile, ingenious scheme ' To destroy God's grandest plan. The rest of God's ideal work ', * Pertaining to creation Was never harmed, or even marked. By Satan's desolation. This present age we say is blest ' By man's inventive skill. Days of hand work long have passed For machinery and the mill. The more enlightened man becomes - ■ The more refined he seems; But, — can we reckon all as one — The real, and seeming things? If God's intent, when forming man. Had been progressive life, 'Twould seem some duty would attend, Or some friendly, harmless strife. 1 * 128 THE OLD AND THE NEW. But when creation was complete, The Creator, content and pleased — He formed the man, not to compete. But to enjoy with perfect ease. Records of the ages past Show unrelented toil In every manufacturing task, Or tilling of the soil. Mankind saw more contentment then. In every walk of life; He wrought each day from sun to eun — No time for causing strife. A century ago we find A structure for a home Was wrought to finish all by hand; No machine made work put on. Then the cost of building even less Than now, in days of great machines; And larger portion of this cost Wag benefit to working man. House furnishings, when made by hand. Were less elaborate, 'tis true; But let us rightly understand Mechanics then more honor knew. To-day, machinery owned by trusts, And manned by unskilled crews, By graded piece-work lowers cost. But sacrifices labor views. The saddler's leather, years ago, When made by hand process. Was grewsome work all tanners know — Oft' took a year a hide to dress. But when complete, the leather prime, Made foot wear water-tight; Which can't be said since steam and lime Tans hides complete in one fortnight. The merchant baker was unknown Two centuries ago, When progressive women sought renown In kitchen work as well as show. THE OLD AND THE NEW. 129 To-day. the merchant baker In every town or city, Is more sought than the butcher — Less home work, and more pity. In days gone by, the pantry shelves In regulated families Were crowded full with jams and jells, Canned fruits, pretserves and dainties. AJas! to-day the preserving trust Does canning for the million, At cost perhaps a ilittle less, While kitchen pride is falling. How well do we remember When beef and poultry trusts Were unheard of schemets to plunder And make prices so unjust. When pork was raised and marketed Without the packing house; The producer always profited. And consumer's price was less. By the^se thoughts 'twould indicate On the merits of machines. That their use repudiates — Rather than real comforts bring. But a second thought redeems Inventive progress, if you please, 'Tis management and not machines Invented for our greater ease. To enumerate, by name or class, All machines and great inventions. Would be an almost endless task. And beyond the comprehension. A few of merit, here will note, With knowledge somewhat scant; If choicest themes should fail to quote A generous pardon may you grant. To complete the family sewing, Or the merchant tailor's quests. And the million garments doing, StitcTiing, quilting, and the reS't; 130 THE OLD AND THE NEW. How impractical it would seem, And how aimless be the mark To try to make without machine, The endless needle-work. Can one comprehend the value Of the fabric made from thread? Muslins, ginghams, silks can tell you. Carpets, rugs and tablespreads. Linens, lace and ribbons fine; Broadcloths, too, of high esteem; And scores of other weaves we find From weaving and the thread machine. A grand invention to the art And science of garment fitting; One of go>od and rapid work, The machine for perfect knitting. An implement of household worth, And one quite labor saving, In any laundry eases work, The machine for family washing. An article of high repute To the tidy household keeper, And one she's loth to do without — The dustless carpet sweeper. The modern kitchen range Ave find A model of completeness, Which does its part to ease the mind. And aids to household neatness. Without machines for making lumber Of the many moulds and shapes. Which, indeed, are growing wonders Of our present age and state. Could we have our handsome dressers, Cabinet sideboards, bent wood chairs. Pianos in their upright cases, Carved and inlaid, fine and fair. Yes; but handwork is expensive, Many times the present cost, Only those with incomes massive 00UI4 afford th^ first awd best, THE OLD AND THE NEW. 131 Machines for working steel and iron Are so massive and so great, And of such gigantic bearing, Incompreliensible to state. The iron structures so admired By every race of human kind, < Owe all their grandeur go inspired To machines and skill combined. The machines are scarce indeed That know not iron, steel or brass; So all inventors should concede Honor to the metal class. The money basis of the world Is coin lof precious worth; And here we find the metal mould Predominates throughout the earth. The many grand devices Of the modern printing press, Combines our work and wishes And progressive aims express. The type is cast almost at will, Automatic, plain in sight; The operator works and feeds the mill — The magic linotype. Frequently great incidents Are put in print and spread In half an hour from events. Papers issued, sold and read. This marvelous linotype in use. The greatest wonder of the world. With complicated springs and screws. Speaks endless progress yet unfurled. The endless carriage called the web Transfers o'er rolling type The snow-white paper, smooth as thread, To printed papers quick as sight. One curious thought I must express 'Ere I leave this wonderland — The renowned and marvelous printing-press Holds all earth's interests in one hand. 132 THE OLD AND THE NEW. Through machinery's mystic mirror We proceed to bless our path, The camera, or likeness bearer. And endearing photograph. This luxury, to us so dear, Would be an aimless dream If science had not taried near. And invented the machine. Machines for writing are indeed Of grand ingenious art. And supply a long-felt need. That commerce plays a part. The lines so true and legible Reduces office cost, Arid time thus saved is valuable — No word expressed is lost. One fine machine we think a blessing, An automatic worker, too; It's work is ever prepossessing, Yet the old style can't outdo. It has many thousand rivals. Though most friendly do they seem; All have interest in this shuffle Of the talker and machine. Beaming forth from mystic science, A magnificent machine; Next to perfect in appliance, Is the Burroughs wondrous theme. This machine adds countless numbers In an almost endless line; And records like perfect wonder Each number as it notes it down. It's notation, true and perfect, Of the popular aj-abic type, Bears awards of highest merit And rivals vanish from its sight. Is work so accurate and true In hands of skillful operator; It never fails its part to do. This Burrough's Calculator. THE OLD AND THE NEW. 133 Beside inventive mechanism A grave machine appears, Which clouds the legal horizon. And gives riee to shocking fears. It moulds and tempers human minds To fit the vilest schemes; Ignoring conscientious strands — The Political Machine. The last machine I'll try to show With this rambling panorama, To me seems purer than the snow — It bears aloft our freedom's banner. This fact alone endears the theme To every freeborn patriot; To vote in secret by machine Tends to purify the ballot. This grand machine for polling votes. Made perfect by the planning.s Of a pure and moble-minded knight, ', The inventor, E. B. Cummings. Mr. Cummings, learned and gifted, And endowed with future sight, For many years he gleaned and sifted Facts pertaining to the right. Gave not alone his famous talent. But vanquished time and money too; And to his honor, grand and brilliant Lives this emblem firm and true. The Universal Voting Register Truly merits highest praise. And may our high esteemed inventor Long enjoy his fruitful days. The few rude pictures herein shown Of machines in current use I think has riot been overdrawn. Though of really poor excuse. I might enumerate in rhyme Hundreds and thousands more; But even then progressive time Would leave unmentioned many a score. 134 THE OLD AND THE NEW. The machine for paper making, For stamping colors rich and rare, And for real artistic printing, And macTiines for cutting hair. The machine that measures distance, And the searching, keen X-ray; Ten tbousand others in existence. With more to follow day by day. WILLIAM C. REED. 135 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE AUTHOR'S JOURNAL AND ITS CONTENTS. The author of this little volume is one who toil*; daily as a carpenter, is of limited education, and past fifty-four years of age. The selections herein published are from his Journal, and not any more than one-fourth of its contents. One quite inter- esting (Section of the Journal is devoted to Patriotism. The Administrations of every President of the United States is written separately and in poetry; and mention is noted of the chief events of each Administration, and the growth, progress and development of our beloved United Statevs, from the beginning of Washington's first term as President to the end of William McKinley's Administration, when he was assassinated in Buffalo in September, 1901. Each Administration is separate and com- plete in itself, and all combined makes a portfolio of nearly three hundred verseg of eight lines each. Quite a number of other patriotic pieces that would contain, perhaps, one hundred or more verses of eight lines each. Then this Journal contains a large collection of miscellaneous poems on various subjects: A pen picture of a golden wedding, tracing fifty years of married life in Central Pennsylvania, show- ing how thrift developed poverty into grand prosperity. The substance in prose contains about sixteen pages type- written and the substance in poetry contains about twenty-five typewritten pages. A Eulogy on Pope Leo of several pages, and several pages on thoughts on matrimony. Quite a variety of eulogy and tribute to personal friends. In ail some five hundred or more pages, such as contained in this voiume, and most of it equals the work in this book. Quite a number of pieces of music, pen copies with words: A Memorial Anthem. Blessed New Jerusaiem. A Spiritual Anthem. Ideal America. National Hymn. Voice of Old Glory. And some others. Not one page of the described work has ever been copy- righted, or given out for publication. The author, owing to limited means, would like to (Jisp»s§ ot 136 all this work outright or for royalty. TTie copyright of this volume is also for sale in the same way. The author contemplates writing a brief history of each State in our National Union in poetry in the near future. He also has other subjects under consideration. No author- ized agent or agents. Address all inquiries to WILLIAM C. REED, No. 16 Madison Ave., Jersey City, N. J. AUl f©'Oif LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 018 349 743 1 #