THE Foreman * + -OiH'- J' -AND- OTHER LINES, BY FRED. C. KEIGHLEY. -THE- Foreman TEGEND ■AND- OTHER LINES, BY FRED. C. KEIGHLEY. r ■. ^ ^ ' V Entered according to Act of Congress in the j'ear 1892, by FRED. C. KEIGHLEY, In tlie Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington. -^^ ,gbN piTsoiiting the witliin matter to the publie, t the writer wishes to say that he is aware ^ that it is far from perfect and lacks polish. As this is the first attempt at authorship on liis part, he trusts that the public will be indulgent with him. In the near future the writer hopes to be able to do more and better work. The Author. CONTENTS. CANTO I CANTO II CANTO III CANTO IV CANTO V CANTO VI CANTO VII. CANTO VIII CANTO IX. CANTO X CANTO XI CANTO XII. CANTO XIII CANTO XIV. CANTO XV CANTO XVI CANTO XVII CANTO XVIII CANTO XIX. CANTO XX CANTO XXI CANTO XXII CANTO XXIII CANTO XXIV CANTO XXV. CANTO XXVI CANTO XXVII •THE MINES OF LEGEND 7 -LEGEND'S REVERIE 11 LEGEND'S DREAM, 10 - THE COURTS OF FATE ... 2.3 ■THE CONFLICT— LEGEND FALLS, .32 THE TALISMAN, 3« THE STORM 40 ■MERCY, 41 THE COURTS OF FATE ADVANCE, 48 ■THE GODS OF FATE .50 -THE GARDEN OF THE GODS, ... ."w PRUDENCE .59 ■ THE SNOW DROP and ITS DESPOILER 02 THE VOICE FROM HEAVEN 05 REASON, 07 -SATAN 71 ■PASSION, 74 -CONSCIENCE 80 -HYMEN'S BOWER. ..* 83 -TEMPTATION 88 -DEATH, 90 -HONOR, 93 -LOVE 98 -THE LILY, ... 100 -ESTHER 104 :TIIE RETURN OF HONOR 109 THE AWAKENING, ' 113 -THE- dVu&mO/w o\ ^^^:p^cl- CANTO I. ^^JITHE IilNE5 OF LEQENDJ^^^ Down in a lovely valley lay The eoal mines of Letrend, Near a rivulet bright and gay, O'er which weeping willows did bend. For many miles the streamlet w^ound Through thicket, copse ; then meadows fair ; Until at last it struck the ground That lay 'neath Legend's air shaft stair. So far its waters were cryst'line ; In silvery dimples had it danced, 'Midst flowers bright and grasses green, O'er mossy rock and pebble glanced. But soon a change came o'er the scene ; Tlie flowers died, the grasses withered ; Its waters, before so pure, became unclean, And vilest mud to its bed gathered. The gently sloping, eni'rald banks Merged into shoals of murky black, Thither thrown by mine water's pranks From the encroaching piles of slack. On past the air shaft's yawning mouth The now filthy wat(>rs flowed. Bent on their course from west to south. Thro' loam, slack, and shale it plowed On past Legend's other steaming shaft, — Whence dusky diamonds found their way O'er bars of polished steel, by man's craft Hurled forward to the light of day, — To the long and smoking oven row That struggling stream the gauntlet ran. To sulphry vapors made its bow. And disappeared in the forests' van. To Legend's village, east there lay A valley with wavy hill and dale, While to noi'th loomed up, blue and gray. The mountain's serrate flank and wale; Further to the south the forest strung A broad phalanx of living green Where leav'd monarchs with strong bough flung Towards Legend a mighty screen. In such a vale and such a scene Was cradled the nndens of our tale, And now we turn, not intervene. To paint in fancy, yet in reason's pale. One summer day, when from the west The sun had thrown his rays askew, \Yhen torrid heat had seen its best. At Legend's shaft a whistle blew. Thence from the dark gulf below The ^im, weary toilers rushed ; For a time they seemed to flow. Like a stream with rains flushed. At last the human stream was spent. But as yet Legend's foreman dallied ; At the low working face he bent, And with nature's wild ])rauks he parried. All day, with measures faidted, Within the coal seam's rocky strata, The foreman's skill had vaulted And strove to correct nature's errata. At last, with wearied head and frame, The foreman 'long the gangway started, Towards the shaft his footsteps tame Were ])ointed, where yet daylight darted. Now is heard a distant, rumbling sound, And later still the stair vibrates, Approaching foot-falls, winding round That spiral way, the dust gyrates. 10 A moment more and Legend's foreman stands At tlie dismal chasm's yawning month; The sun abont him flings bright golden strands As he slowly tnrns and faces sonth. What! Is that the foreman of Legend? No it cannot be! It's some illusion ! Where is the sturdy frame to contend With man's deceit and nature's confusion? Where is the rough, shaggy mane, The short, thick, stubborn neck? "* Or the Roman nose that pertain To the man that strides a deck? Where is the coarse, heavy fist. The strong, muscular, (;orded arm. That brings to bay and makes grist. That controls and violent spirits calm? 'Gain we look, yet see a slender slip, Straight as an arrow from Cu])id's bow. Square shoulders, slender waist and wide hip, Shapely chiseled face and broad white brow ; Long white hand, fingers taper tips, Clear com})lexion blent with rose; Thin, firmly-compressed, carmine lips, Steel gray eyes that scorn repose. What a sti'ange, startling incongruity. Yet fact is more than fiction strange ; 'Tis quite beyond man's perspicuity. And out of mortal's reason range. 11 Tliat .slender form ruled with iron hand, Olt had he with brute force clashed, Oft subdued the fury -passion fan'd And nuitiny's throat had grasped. On these occasions the roses fled ; In their stead came deathly white; The richly colored lips grew less red And the €!yes flashed dazzHng light. But now that face is clear of storm, The head is held in graceful pose, All is harmony and does conform With pleasing smile that now arose. Legend's arm a transit bore, His left hand a tripod grasped. In his cap a lamji he wore, 'Round his waist a belt is clasped. Now the day's labor and its weary care For a brief season are dismissed; He but a moment scans the oven's glare, Then turns to landscape sunlight kissed. Down goes the tripod and greasy lamp, The transit gently follows suit. And with a sudden, vigorous stamp Knocks off" the mud his boots pollute. Next with a light and graceful step To a grassy hillock wends his way, Heedless of the bees' honied skcp. Lies down amono- the flowers gav. 12 Rich perfumes about him rise, The bees are hummiDg all around, The birds soar the bright" blue skies, To him wafts more than one sweet sound. And now his gaze the rivulet spies, Far in the west a silver thread, Then a liroader band o'er rocks it flies Where its snowy foam flecks spread; Still nearer, where it narrow grows. Its silvery dimples flash and dash ; Then it rimples in sunlit glows And leaps the precipice with a crash. Up flies a misty, flufly fleece, The mimic rainbows revel wild. And foam en raps the swans and geese That were by its translucenceguil'd. On still it comes, now a placid stream, Now with rocks and rapids ruflled, Again, in whirlpools whipped to cream, Then in thicket and grasses mufiled. How sinuous is its varied course; And yet it always onward goes. Here by craft and there by force, O'er rocks, through shrubs and prickly sloes, Sweet scented herbs and brightest flowers. Green grasses, softest mosses, and tall rush. White lilies sit in its crystal bowers, Weeping willows its placid places brush. 13 But now with knitted brow he views The point where its pnrity is marred, Where the turbid filthy fluid brews And its banks by death are searred. Still with o;rievous glances he doth follow The now squalid and siek'ning stream As it skulks down the sulphurous hollow, Like a mortal in horrid dream. CANTO II. (^^^LEQENb'5 Reverie. fe^^ Ah ! how like my own life is tliat rivulet ! Once was I as pure as it is further back, But now like it, in tlie mine a drivelet, Purity sullied, thoughts and ambition slaek. Stop! let me think ! that stream flows on. Falters not at filth or mud and dallies not, But to forest rushes, there to don Other hues, and later still a happier lot. Onee within that mighty em'i-ald shield Its impurities are swiftly dropped ; Jungle, swamp, morass and thiekets yield And are of their limpid moisture cropped. On, on, on, with many a crooked turn, On over the fallen forest monarch's trunk; Many a tangled barrier doth it spurn. And in its course at every pool hath drimk. At last, two hundred leagues or more away, From out the forest a mighty flood. Sweeping grandly forth to greet the light of day, It rolls on, flushed with Neptune's blood. 14 IS Nothing now can stem its tide, Xo more a riv'let, no more a si)ort, Filth and trash are swept aside, And noblest vessels flock to its jDort, How small a beginning, how grand an end! Surely mine is small enough, but yet can be, If I my gifts and energies rightly spend, As grand a tributary to a mightier sea. I will, I will, my galling fetters burst! From me vile thoughts shall ruthlessly be swept. From this day forth shall purity be first And excelsior burnished on my standard kept. Well, now, of good resolves I liave made a few. And these I mean to keep and follow out; J^ut now I'm weary, my eyes for slumber sue. So to Morph'us arms I'll now turn about. CANTO III. The sun went down in a blaze of golden glory, -Burnishing the western skies with tints, Now crimson, then purple; a vivid allegory Of the beauteous shores it brightly glints. Soft, refreshing, airy currents spring, Ijiko Chinook's spicy-laden breeze. And the leafy monarchs fairly sing, As from it new life quick they seize; The waters of the silv'ry riv'let Send forth sweet and soothing murmurs As the nightingale doth gently wet Her bill, then trills in joyous tremors. Soon the azure dome above. From dim horizon to tow'ring zenith, Is brighten'd with glints of love Darted forth by soft eyed Venus. Still later the canopy of blue With many stars is gemmed, And the constellations' golden hue By milky way is hemmed. 16 17 Yet Legend on the grassy hillock Is in balmy slumber wrajiped, As heedlessly as the woolly flock By a gentle shepherd trapped. Ah ! o'er his face a smile is spread, For now a vision doth him daze Woven in gold and silver thread, A brilliant, soul-enraptnriug maze. Later a melodious voice lie hears : " Arise I>cgend ! Arise Legend ! Cast off all thy foolish mortal fears And to my commands now attend; For I am from the courts of" fate. To thee my master hath' me sent. Thou art to enter now th.e gate That leads where destinies are bent. Arouse thee ! Arouse thee, lad ! And these silken garments quickly don, Drink this nectar and be glad That the favor of the fates is won. Few like thee are favored And their future allowed to see, Ne'er before hath fates wavered, As now it seems tiiey have to thee. Here take this belt and firmly clasp Close to thy slender waist and side, This golden scabbard in who's grasp Ifi held a blade both true and tried. 18 Ah ! now thou art for once arrayed As befits thy shapely form, But thou must not my call evade Or I will invoke the storm, — The storm that by fates is hung O'er mortals head ; a naked sword That at many has oft been flung For disobedience to their word. " Legend now with new born spirit Doth his new found friend address, And asks why and for what merit Dost on him such favors press. "And how came I upon this strand That by such em'rald waves is kissed? I ne'er saw such bright golden sand Nor such a light and fleecy mist. Then again whence came that fairy bark With silken sails and silvery shrouds, That is lying now like a glowing spark On the beach and upon the corals crowds? What is thy name my noble friend? For surely thou a friend must be Or thou wouldst not on me attend As thou hast so kind and so free?" "To thy inquiry, Legend, I cannot list. Nor dare I my commission exceed. As to the fairy bark in yonder mist, Thou soon on her shall gallantly speed. 19 Soe now and watch her qnictly jihime Her snowy-white and qniv'ring ?ail.s; See how the waters chafe and fume At her bow, in pulsating wales. Soon she will her pinions train And, like a awallow, swiftly fly O'er the shira'ring azure main With pennants streaming in the sky. Ah ! hush ! hush thee now. Legend. Hark ! To the l)ugle's silv'ry cadence! It is the signal to embark. No more parley, but get thee hence!" The twain now hasten to the beach ; Their silken garments are all a flutter, For the fresh rising breeze doth reach And strike them with a soften'd mutter. To them it whisper'd : " Make ye haste, For the fairy bark her wings will spread. And will with her prow wild waves baste. Be ye fleet if ye would her white decks tread." E'en now like a young and fiery steed The bark doth her golden moorings pull. White flecks of foam and green sea weed By her prow are tossed o'er screaming gull. From the bark a glit'ring pinnace glides. Then to the beach it swiftly flies, Tossing showers of em'ralds from its sides, As with the rolliny; surf it vies. 20 Legend and guide the pinnace board, ' Then to the bark it doth return, Cleaving the waves like stont broad sword That can all resistance spurn. One moment more and the bark is gained, Quick to the davits is the pinnace swung, With a sweep are shrouds and canvass strained. And then on high the gilded prow is flung. A mighty surge and clouds of spray Upwards to the sky are dashed. Like a steed eager for the fray. The bark through blue waves crashed, Now with stem plunged in briny deeps. Again with stern settled low; Half heeled over her broadside sweeps And make her copper fairly glow. At her masthead gay pennants stream. From every }"ard and brace are flung Ribbons of silken bunting that gleam, And o'er her decks are garlands hung. The bark by a fairy crew is man'd, Whose garments of scarlet, blue, and gold Set off the burnished shields that stand With rainbow hues, from quarter deck to hold. While o'er bright hues the eye is glanced Legend's ears are ravished and 'lectrified, For by sweet chords is he entranced And with music's charms spell-bound and tied. 21 For many hours to naught else gavo he liced, But eagerly those melodies absorbed, Like draughts of frothy, sparkling mead That ai"e poured forth at festal board. Nor little did he of time take note. Nor of the distance o'er which they flew, Until his eyes were by new light smote Which every moment more brilliant grew. ^^^ith startled gaze he now beheld A rising bank of vivid, dazzling hue; First, deep "purple with crimson weld. Then, scarlet, orange and deepest blue. All this was in liquid emerald bathed, In zenith high a rainbow hung. With feet that in fleece-like mist were swathed, From which it seemed the arch was spriuig. Still later gilded spires, with silver shot, Began to pierce the bright blue sky Set in what first appears a golden spot, But which proves to be a dome flung high. Still on, shot the bark with lightning speed AVhile, as it wrestled with the waves. Legend to the shifting scenes gave heed And wondered what shores this ocean laves. Now a point, that oceanward reached out, Is rounded by the fairy craft, Which from the wind is brought about, Then heads to shore with slackened draft. 22 Here to Legend there are entrancing views; For before him a castle lay Environed by a grove of stately yews Tlirong'h which perfumed zephyrs play. CANTO IV. (^^^The Courts of Fate-i^i^^ A tlioiisaiitl spires, a limidred eloines. Skyward are thrown with glit'i'iiig- ray, While terraees peopled by onomes Face outward to the sparklino- bay. A score of towers rear their lofty heads Far above the alabaster walls. And over all a grandeur widely spreads Before which the mighty ocean palls. Malachite columns, with sculptured crown. To spacious balconies afford support, While at each gate bronze lions frown Like ma.ssive cannon thrust out of port. \\'hcre'er the walls are loop-hole slit Crystals are set in frames of purest gold. Through which the day beams dance and flit And all embrasures with soft hue enfold. Before the castle numerous fountains play, Sending starward, in silver showers. Pulsating volumes of riehly i)erfumed spray. That paint in rainbow hues the towers. 23 24 From the palace to the beach is a marble way Laid between two lawns of brightest green, That for smoothness rival the waters of the bay And over which the fallow deer careen. Suddenly Legend hears a call, Then turns to find close at his side A figure, courtly, slender, tall. And forthwith sees in him his guide. ''Well Legend! what thinkest thou now? On what is thy gaze so firmly set That thou failest to see the sails are low And that the anchor with sands has met? The bark lies before the Courts of Fate, And thou must now to them repair; So compose thyself to enter the state That to so many brings despair." At this the pinnace from davits, swing And in a trice 'tis fully man'd. Then guide and Legend into it spring And are quickly rowed to land. The guide leaps out and Legend follows, At this the pinnace turns about, And gives chase to the swallows That hang above it and threaten rout. Left alone, l)oth to the palace face, Then toward it o'er the marble walk; The guide, with quiet and stately grace, To Legend softly begins to talk : 2S " At yonder gate of thee I take my leave, For on reaching it my mission's o'er; l)Ut at this thou ranst not shrink or grieve, Nor think that there is evil beyond the door. Now ere we part to thee I'll give A charm for thee on thy breast to wear, Henceforth hope shall with thee eveu live, And naught from thee can it rudely tear. Still more, thou cans't some day confer Upon another this sweet precious gift, But yet with thee shalt hope repair, And from thy heart many burdens lift. J5ut only once thou cans't bestow, So bear in mind what thou art told : If to more than one this charm dost show, Hope shall flee and thy heart turn cold. Here, I^egend, take this heavenly charm. See, it is a golden, diamond-studded anchor! And may it thee preserve from harm. I know it will banish from thy heart all rancor, Thou didst ask my name when we first met, But then I could not it to thee give, For we were then where mortals are set For a brief, uncertain time to live. I dared not tell thee until we had arrived Upon the shores where lie the Courts of Fate. For if I had thou wouldst not have survived. Nor have entered into this golden state. 26 I am named Hope, and am a guide To mortals while on earth they stay, And I through life with them reside, If to their vows they attention pay." As Hope these last words gravely spoke The twain arrived at the castle's outer wall. And ere Legend his silence broke, Hope had vanished and he began to pall. And well he might, for at the gate Two wheels, with swords for spokes, Swiftly revolved without abate, And threw out lightning strokes. To add to Legend's agonizing terror, The bronze lions, one on the right and left. Began to quiver, and fill him with horror. Then for a time was he reason reft. There, like a statue, to the ground rooted. Legend stood with face to marble frozen. And though with belt and sword accouter'd. Fearful thoughts flocked to him unchosen. He knew not how long he there stood Ere at his side a form he found. Which he thought to him boded good. For the face with bright smiles was crown'd. Legend's fears now from him fled. And to the new-comer he turned ; To him he looked and quickly said ''Who art thou? Is it Hope returned?" 27 "Yes, hope is rctiirnecl and it shall dwell With thee, as long- as life exists. J5iit Hope herself is not here to quell The fear that around thee twists. To fill her j)laee, though not her spirit, I am sent to thee a further guide. If thou heed'st me, it will be thy merit, And a star shall on thy head reside. My name is Courage and I'm staunoh and strong. By me thou shalt glorious victories win, ])Ut I warn thee now not to list to wrong, For if thou dost thy fame wilt die in sin." Legend now Courage and his raiment sean'd. And beheld a frame of massive build, Upon which muscles like steely wires stand In bunches upon limbs roundly filled. A suit of silver-plated mail he wore, Upon his head a brazen helmet sat, Whilst at iiis side a damask blade he bore, Across his breast, of golden chains, a mat, In his right hand, a huge spear found rest. While his left a bronze shield held. That close to his mailed side was pressed. And through which all attacks repell'd. The face was smooth and closely shaven, The brow was white, high, and wide. The eyes were with clear, bright hues laden, And over them silken fringes glide. 28 The nose straight and cast in gen'rons mould, With nostrils large and widely distended, The upper lip, short, with carmine fold, And on it Cupid's bow sharply bended. The chin, massive, strong and solid set, The head with glossy auburn curls was crown'd, In the mouth two rows of ivory met. The wdiole to square shoulders by stout neck bound. But Legend had his survey cut short. For Courage said: "Why tarry here? Thou hast both hope and courage caught, On! forward, march — dismiss fear!" So then Legend with Coui-age started, And as both toward the gates trended. At them a salamander darted With hideous screams and mouth distended. At this Legend would fain have fled. But Courage bade him draw his sword, ''Then stand your ground," he firmly said, "And see the monster with spear bored." At this Courage lowered his spear. And braced him for the charge. On came the monster with frightful leer. And to blue flames gave discharge. However Courage stirred not an inch But to his spear he gave a fling, Which made the monster quickly flinch And turn to his lair, with the sting. 29 "Now to the gate, Legend, with baste! To the quivering lions ne'er give heed, For tliey are chained and time we'll waste If to them our swords we should feed." "What! through those wild flaming swords of tire!" Legend loudly cried. "Yes; on you go!" "But they will cut my body in their ire All to pieces — like a vicious foe." " Legend ! Thou saw'st me the monster vanquish ; Why shrinkest now thou at the very portals Of the Courts of Fate? Why give way to anguish That fear creates in all you mortals?" Ijogend onward rushed with wildly beating heart, And through the wheels of fire he darted, ]kit to his amazement he felt no pain dart Nor from his body was vestige parted. Bewildered, now, he stood and looked At the wheels which still revolved With never ceasing speed that brooked At nothing, and fierce flames evolved. Courage laughed and said, "I will follow !" So through the whirling swords he passed Like swiftly-flying homesick swallow. And not a glance behind him cast. "Ah! Legend, what thinkest thou now, The monster, vanquished, flames defied, And thou hast yet to strike a blow. Dost think that thou art sorely tried? 30 See how trivial was thy mortal fear, For from courage, terror, and danger fly. And all difficulties disappear Like brambles that under the ploughshare die. From this time forward all fears banish, And to opposition give disdain ; Bid foolish nightmares quickly vanish. Sweep such cob webs from thy brain. As of thee now I take my leave No more to meet danger at thy side, To thee I shall firmness bequeath, With which thou canst surely stem the tide, The tide which shall shortly on thee roll In thy journey through this state. For thou wilt have on it to give toll Just as surely as thou'll meet fate ; There is no royal road through this land. Of barriers varied and many there will be. And oft before them amazed thou wilt stand. Until thy resolution sets thee free. Here let me on thy face set this seal, For all who v.ould success achieve Must bear it there through woe or weal And through distended nostrils breathe." Uttering those words Courage turned. Again he passed through the whirling flame That at the gates in fury burned. And surrounded him with p-olden frame. 31 Once more Legend hevvildered stood And knew not what next to do, Then he thonght of" advice so good Given by Hope and Conrage too; So at once he from his stupor rose, Tiicn quickly on his surroundings ghmccd, Began his confusion to compose In the sunbeams that around him danced. And exliiliration with vigor through him shot Like chords from old time melodious lays, That ravish the heart and make cold memories hot, And these do in him new-born hopes raise. Behind him lay lions, salamander and flaming sword, Before him a glorious landscape spread In which the Courts of Fate were immur'd, From which he shrank M-ith quivering and dread. "Oh ! how would I this scene enjoy If my mind was free from foreboding," Thought Legend as he tried to alloy The feelings of fear that to him cling. "Where is all the courage and the hope That on me have been late conferred? '^Why should I so basely, weakly grope AYhen on by them I should be spurred?" CANTO V. ^^!The Conflict— LEQENb FALL5.!a^^ Shall I ever reach the Courts of Fate? For, though I've already passed the gate, It seems as though the distance grows, And some sprite o'er me enchantment throws. When on that fairy bark I stood And saw this landscape's bursting bud I thought yon castle was. quite near And that I soon my fate should hear ; But now it seems to be on wings And impatience about me flings Discontentment and lethargy, Vacillation 'stead of eneriJ:;v. But a few moments or so past I felt within me rising fest A new born spirit of great strength That would carry me any length, Until by chance I hap'd to cast My eyes on yon castle that's mass'd And in the distance grimly looms AVhere the deadly night shade blooms. 32 ^ 33 What is this sinking of my heart That strikes me like a poisonetl dart? What is this mist before my eyes That didst so snddenly arise And sluit out the sunbeams that fell • Upon me before I felt this spell ? Yes, now my head begins to swim And my eyesight is getting dim. Oh ! Ah ! What fiend is drawing near? I'm sure I felt a elanmiy spear; — He strikes at my poor sinking heart ! And he will foree my soul to part From the house wherein it hath dwelt. And now I feel my reason melt ; No! I will not die — without a fight I will tear the phantom hand that's tight Upon my throat and makes me gasp With its deadly, tightening grasp ! ^\'here are Hope and Courage now? Will they see me strieken low? "Down! Thou terrorizing fiend ! Not yet shalt thou slay I^egend ! For I am too young to die Without a hope of Heaven high. I must — I will from thee tear, And heaven shall witness bear That to thee I did not yield, Nor lay myself on thy shield. 34 Down, I say ! My sword I'll draw, Me thon shall not overawe. Here's my gauntlet in thy face ! From thee I'll back not one pace ! Draw ! I say, and like a flash Upon thee my sword shall dash." At this the fiend grew livid, And like lightning's flashes vivid He threw a naked sword on high And shouted, "Dost thon me defy?" ''Yes; and at thee I fling my blade For of scabbard it is flayed. And now, as I upon thee spring, This sword shall death or victory bring." At this the swords together clashed. And from them blue sparks brightly flashed; The blades as they met swiftly rang A peal of hard metallic clang; Fi'om i)oint to hilt they quickly flew And hotter now the combat grew; At times with arms far outward flung And bodies on the toe tips hung ; Again with head thrown sideways and back, Until the muscles loudly crack ; Now a plunge is made and carried Only l)y the other to be parried ; A downward stroke is sudden brought, And as quickly by the other caught; 35 Still the blades witli ind'oasino- speed Seem to both, strength and passion feed. The eyes of eaeh are gleaming now, And in them hate and rancor glow; The faces flnsh with heightened flame That throw a brilliance over the game. Which by the swords is now pursued iVnd gore will soon on the ground be strewed. Such fury could not forever last, And Legend's breath came short and fast ; No longer was he the offensive, ]jut in weakness became defensive, For the fiend gave a swift swecj) That made Legend's flesh fairly creep, And he vainly tried to ward the blow That dashed his sword against his brow, And, though it struck him with its side, It overturned him in its tide. And to the ground he senseless fell. As his foeman montlicd a devilish yell. The fiend to Legend's body flew, And from his hand the sword he drew. The glit'ring blade he viewed with scorn, Then flung it to the winds of morn ; Around that prostrate form he sjiun, And wildly crowed over victory won : "Ah ! Legend where is thy valor ? 'Stead of victory, see this pallor I 36 Where's the flush that donned thy cheek? And what now makes thy pulse so weak? What a pretty boy art thou, To wallow thus like a sow ! Thy silken garments and flnery Shall shortly carpet a swinery ; Thy form, that was so full of life, Shall soon wither before my knife; And from thy heart the crimson flood Shall pour to mingle with the mud; Those eyes that were so full and bright. Shall soon be clothed in murky night; No more shall thy voice be heard. No more by sound thy ears be stir'd. Thou saidst thy sword should death or victory bring. So thy corpse shall be fanned by vultures' wing. And thou hadst hopes of heaven high, Well, in hell thou shalt sob and cry. And Courage told thee that through him Thou shouldst the cream of victory skim. Now thou hast learned it will not prevail. For the mighty cause the weak to quail. As thy weak, mortal, puny, arm Was not proof against Satan's charm. So now thou art his lawful prey. For thou art loser in this fray. This flesh of thine shall maggots feed And to the pit thy soul shall speed ; 37 There flames shall thy irarinents he, And iVoni them thou eaiist not flee, But 'round thee they shalt like seri)euts twist Whilst red demons wilt with thee keep ti-yst. .So now thou slialt meet thy fate And thy blood my thirst shall sate. From thy breast I tear this gow'u, And thv heart my knife will erown. CANTO VL (^^^The Talisman. 16^^© Ah! What is this that turns my blade? A bauble from some pretty maid? • I'll warrant 'tis some love token. Well, it's ties are now all broken. It also shalt be cast aside In the flood of that crimson tide. What is this! the cross and the crescent? The symbol of Hope, in anchor bent ? I'm all undone, the fight is lost, By it my efforts aside are toss'd. Cursed fool was I not to know and see That Legend was not my prey to be. What mortal could, have before me stood Without the charm that makes wicked good ? How gladly would I trample in the dust That symbol of the mighty and the just! But before it doth even Satan pall, And none who possess it ever fall. If I would this anchor tear, Mightier symbol would appear; 38 39 For the crescent would leave a cross, And keener stillTd feel my loss. Back I will place it in his hosom Before more charms on it doth blossom. To my Satanic master I will <^o To receive failnre's curses and its woe. Full well I know what to expect, For the orders I have o'er leapt. I should have let Legend pass by If I had learned that charm was nigrh. I^egend now is the victor in this fight And nearer it takes him to Heaven bright. Satan no more will give him battle, But he will snare him with his prattle. For Legend need not think that now The ground is fallow for his plow. If he should reach the Courts of Fate, He will find trials within its gate, In which it will be harder still To gain the victory in the mill; Yes, the mill by which fates grind And try mortals till they're "refined." On saying this the fiend went his way And left Legend lying in the clay. CANTO VII. A strange calm now stilled the air, Whilst in the west dark shadows shot^ Reaching ont with long fingers bare That terminate with gloomy blot; They with convnlsive movement shut And in their grasp they hold the sun, Which one n)oment doth feebly put On all around a deathly dun. Now it throws out a ghastly glare, As it struggles with frantic start To shake off the dreadful nightmare That forces it with day to. part. Darkness now swiftly casts a pall O'er all the landscape far and near, And shuts out with its high thick wall All that would tend to banish fear. Soon a low moan is feebly heard That terminates with sickly sobs; Again it rises — sound waves spread And bring to life heart i-ending throbs 40 41 Still liioher, with a piteous wail, It doth ri.se in pulsating ehord That betokens approaehing gale, Which soon will nnsheath its cruel sword. Now a shriek wildly rends the air, As though the blade its vitals shrove, And it begged — its soid to spare Ere from existence it was drove. Moaning, sobbing, shrieking, tearing, On through darkness came the storm fiend, Sweeping, hurling, hnrin'ng, whirling O'er the spot where lay I-.egend. The storm fiend with-'lucifer held High carnival that dreadful day, And between the two a new weld . Was made whilst over him they did plav. A bolt was forged — hurled on high, And in glitering streaks forth it shot. Ripping through the curtain of the sky. Then returning glistening hot; Again it was thrown in zigzag conr.'^e AVith forked tongues wriggling out That traced in flame its hellish source. As through the space it cast about. Another bolt is flung with great speed And wildly whirls right and left, Scattering blue darts — fiery seed To take root in the clouds it cleft. 42 A hundred holts are quickly sprimg, And, whilst with livid heat they flash, From horizou to zenith flung;, To meet there with terrific crash. The windows of the lieavens high Are rudely torn wide asunder And torrents downward swiftly fly To augment the pealing thunder. But ere this stream is fallen far, And whilst yet in zenith's high dome, It meets with an unyielding bar. For a myriad bolts drive it home. Hissing like serpents, in they plunge, And before them the torrents quake, Then rush upwards with sudden lunge And into steaming vapors break. In vain the heavens tried to weep, For not even a scalding tear Could over the fiery barriers leap Or a single drop of moisture bear. For hours the vivid lightning flashed. For hours the torrents downward poured. For hours the vapors upward clashed. For hours the thunders madly roai^ed, For hours the bolts by hundreds flew. For hours they hissed and wildly screamed. For hours in number grew. For hours and hours they upward streamed. 43 The licavens like a cauldron hoilod, The clouds into high mountains grew, The winds like Satan's own imps toiled And fanned up this hellish brew. CANTO VIII. The storm at last its fury spent, The winds sunk down to murmurs low, The heavens that were so lately rent, Began by starts a gleam to show. Still o'er the spot where Legend lay There hung a darkness like a pall, That wrapt him in a shroud of gray (3n which the shades of death did fall. A gentle rustling now is heard. Through the darkness a figure looms That is with trailing garments gird Like a mourner amid the tombs. As to Legend it wends its way, A finger of light falls swiftly down From a star that to zenith's bay In a happy moment hath flown, Halos of light are breaking now About the figure as it glides. And by their sofl, subdued glow, Reveal a form where grace abides. 44 4S Tall and slender, with swan like neck, And a face of rose-tinted cream With dark eyes that like jewels deck The one of which lovers oft dream. Yes, it is a woman's sweet face And now we learn of her mission As she casts her eyes on that })lace And sees Legend's sad condition. She softly exclaims, " What, Ix'gend ! Art thon lying cold in death? ^^'hcn last to earth I saw thee bend Thon wast full of ([nickening breath." Now she stoops and looks at his face And on his brow she sees the wound That forced him down to earth's embrace, And dulled his ears to every sound. "Legend ! Legend ! thou must not die! This cruel cut upon thy smooth brow Ls but the first furrow to lie Upon thy face, and will but show That thou hast fought thy battle well. In time other lines will appear,* lint none can more eloquently tell Of thy victory o'er craven fear," Now she draws him to her pure breast, That to him she might life impart, And to his brow her lips were press'd, Whilst the warm blood surged through her heart. i 46 P^rc long LegcMid's chest gently hove And a low sigh from him escaped ; From his lips a soft vapor drove The chill blue in which they were draped. His eyes now slowly opened wide And in surprise and wonder fell, But only for a moment hide The gratitude that in them well. At Mercy's face, yes, Mercy's face ! Again they wonderingly glanced And the wonder to joy gave place As through his veins the warm blood danced. "Mercy! Mercy!" he faintly cried, "I know that thou art Mercy sweet, For none else could me o'er death tide, Had I the strength I'd kiss thy feet. Though ne'er before I have thee known Yet in thee all my trust is stayed. So in my heart erect thy throne For thou hast o'er me watched and prayed. Oh ! how weakly and faint I feel, I gladly to thy bosom cling For now by starts my head doth reel, And in my ears such strange sounds ring." Legend for a time now swooned away And Mercy took him in her arms And on his cheek her soft cheek lay And her warm blood his cold blood warms. 47 Again to life is Logeiid wooed, Again his e^'es drink in the h'ght, And tlirongh his lips warm vapors flowed As for life ho makes another fijjht. Again on Merey his eyes rest, And she with smiles his glanec retnrns As she snpports him on her breast And in his veins a new life bnrns. "Legend! Legend! thon'll soon be strong And now we mnst from here depart, For I intend to right thy wrong And before the fates take thy part. Here, rise and take my arm in thine And I will thy weak form uphold. Soon the sun will with brightness shine And about us east a golden fold. There, dost thou not see yon bi-ight beam That cleaves for us this murky cloud, And pours forth like a silver'd stream O'er the spot where lay gloomy shroud? Ah! there the sun in glory shines And yonder lie the Courts of Fate, See the bright quiv'ring ivy vines That in wreaths drooj) o'er the gate." CANTO IX. ^^JITHE C0UKT5 OF FATE AbVANCE.lS^^ "See the Courts of Fate now advance And sweep upon ns like a tide. Glit'ring beams from its towers dance And toss the waves of light aside." Legend was by the brightness dazed, To Mercy in alarm he tnrned, Then in her arms he fell amazed And cried, "I fear my eyes are bnrned." He laid his head npon her breast And her drapery tightly gripped, Then said, "Mercy, I fain wonld rest Ere fate's chains are on me slipped." "Bear np!" Mercy softly replied, " Thy trials will not be so severe But that now thou canst them o'er tide So do not yield to thy weak fear. I will carry thee through the gate And lay thee down within the court. Then to the fates thy case I'll state And I will thy weak form support." ■ 48 49 Mercy carried Legend in her arms, Passed tlirough the gate into the palace, Silenced the grim guards with her charms And at the fount filled her chalice. Mercy spoke and said, "•Oh! ye fates! The waters of life my hand now bears. Open to me the inner gates And let me pass the iron stairs," She now emptied the waters out And they swiftly ran o'er the floor Roaring like a huge water spout Until they struck against a door, llei-e for a moment they were checked And into foam were quickly dashed. Then with fury the door they wrecked And onward through the doorway splashed. This wild stream Mercy followed now And by it alone her course steered Until the waters ceased to flow And then the iron stairs appeared, Down the stairs Mercy swiftly flew Bearing Legend in her strong arms And as she went the darkness o^rew. But it could not resist her charms. The foot of the stairs soon was reached And there she laid her bniden down, And though a harpy at her screeched. She did not shrink or even frown. CANTO X. ^^^!ThE Q0b5 OF FATE.^^D Before her now a throne arose And on it sat the Gods of Fate Who spoke before she could compose Her thoughts, or ere her wishes' state, " Mercy, what now dost bring thee here? Again hast thou on some mortal Bestowed thy favor and thy cheer And brought him now to our portal." "Oh! Ye Gods of Fate!" Mercy cried, "At your feet now lies one Legend Who was on his way sorely tried, I ask ye now your rule to bend." "Mercy, thou well dost know our way So why ask thou such a favor." "Oh ! Ye Fates ! list to what I say And then your law ye will waver. On my journeys through mortals' place One eve I passed down Legend's vale. And there I saw old Satan's face Bearing a look that made me quail. SO SI Satan was hid bohiiicl a stone And but a short distance beyond Lay Legend with his thoughts alone, Musing of that he was not fond. There he for tlie future resolved To fearless, strong, and manly be, And that dark stains should be dissolved By spurning what lacked purity. As this I heard my heart went out. To Legend I a friend became, So to Satan I turned about And bade him stay his swords of flame. Satan in fury on me turned And said, ' Mercy, get thee from hence I I'll take Legend and have him burned For his resolves are all pretense. Why take from me my lawful j^rey ? These mortals all are damned by me. I do not listen to their bray But do immerse them in hell's sea. If yon prating fool stayed on earth His ways he ne'r would change or mend For all mortals are fools from birth They often break, but never bend.' To Satan then at once I said, 'Legend thou shalt not this time take And I will answer for his head, If he fails, his soul be the stake.' S2 Satan said : ' With thee I'll agree For well I know that soul I'll get, From my toils it will ne'er get free, On every side my traps are set. So take Legend under thy wing For onee I will let go my prey, For once I withhold ray sting. There, go and take him, quick, I say.' In return to Satan I said : "Thy inpps will Legend quickly slay, So before thou hast from here sped Their hand thou must agree to stay. List ! to Legend I'll send a charm, It shall be a jeweled anchor. Tell them for this to stay their arm And withhold their hellish canker. Thereupon Satan winged away And Hope to Legend I did send. Hope, then, was his guide to the bay Whose waters on your shores doth trend. Hope led him to your outer gate And left him till Courage came, For Legend needed such a mate To help him pass your wheels of flame. Courage with Legend stayed until The outer walls were safely passed, Then he left him before the hill Near which the Courts of Fate are massed. - ' 53 There Legend was met by an imp Turned loose by Satan's own command, And at first with fear he was limp Then became firm and did dtinand That the imp should fight or withdraw, Then threw his gauntlet in his face A nd said tliat he should not o'erawe Legend, or make him back one pace. Legend then like a demon fought And for a time the imp was pressed So that he an advantage sought For well was he matched and distressed. Legend could not fight hell alone And the imp pressed him to the ground. It would, I trow, turn a heart of stone To sec Legend to Satan bound." Mercy now turned toward Legend, And seeing that he had fainted. Did for a moment o'er him bend To note the pallor fear had painted. She quickly took him in her arms His head lay upon her shoulder. This did not detract from her charms Xor make her appear much bolder As she said, " Ye Gods of Fate ! See what this poor mortal endured. After passing your outer gate Surely favor should be secured.." S4 With her soft, white, and shapely hand From Legend's brow she swept his hair, Then she softly, sweetly fanned The cruel wonnd she thus laid bare. " See, the youth is fair and handsome And his face of the finest mould, Whilst that may not be his ransom Yet beneath there's the purest gold. Let him but live and ye shall see, As surely as Mercy now stands, That for good a power he'll be Ere he treads eternity's sands," The Gods of Fate to her reply : • "Mercy, thou hast made us waver, We cannot thy request deny When with pity thou dost quaver. Lead thou Legend to our garden There he may choose one flower Whilst there thou must be his warden. But do not there thy mercies shower." CANTO XI. <^fe^TriE QARbEIS OF THE Q0b5.!&^® "Legend ! Legeiul ! ()j)cn thine eyes, See yon glorious paradise, Thine eyes before grim fate were closed, See now where thou hast been transposed. Come, come, thy fears are groundless here, So let thy gloom give way to cheer. For the Gods of Fate have wavered And thou of all art most favored, lli.se quickly and see the beauties And fruits of well performed duties." "Oh ! Mercy ! say, am I dreaming? Just now I'm sure I was .screaming, For with horrid nightmare I fought And r dreamed Satan had me caught. What am I? Where am I? Life! Death! Oh ! dread mystery ! There I have breath ! Yes, I still live! My blood flows on, It does not flow when life is gone. What confusion doth o'er me roll ! 'Tis said the mind — that is the .soul SB 56 Never dies. Perchance my mind deceived And I am dead, but ne'er perceived The change that dissolution brings, Hence, this enchantment o'er me flings The vagaries that now enthrall And surround me with bit' rest gall." "Legend ! thou art alive and well And thou art not held by any spell. But tliou art here to learn thy fate And further, see thy future mate. Thou art to choose one fair flower And place it in Hymen's bower. So rouse thee now and make thy choice And if thou choose well thou'll rejoice. But let me warn thee ere we start To steel thyself 'gainst passion's dart, For Mercy cannot help thee there. So of passion's promptings beware. Come, Legend, let us now proceed And our eyes on yon beauties feed. There, now place thine arm in mine, Then we will enter purity's shrine. Of flowers many thou wilt see And their charms will bewilder thee. So take my counsel, haste thee not. But be sure of what thou hast got Before thou pullest any flower. Or all thv sweets will soon be sour. 57 We are there ! The gate is open ! That to us should be a token That our presence is expected, So keep thy senses collected. Legend ! that tree that stately stands In yonder bed of golden sands Is the wonderful tree of life Over which there is so much strife. For countless ages it hath stood As an emblem of all that's good. Satan in vain oft hath tried Its virtues and fair fruits to hide. He would cut it down if he dare And he curses all it doth bear. See, it is a beauteous tree With all its branches swinging free, No two branches are near alike. And all forever heavenward strike. Every twig doth a blossom bear ; Every blossom yields a fruit that's rare ; Each fruit Represents a quality That somewhere is born in humanity. These flowers or fruits can't be pulled And by mortal are never culled. So pass this tree for yon bright flowers. Hie thee now to beauty's bowers." At this Legend pressed further on And noted not Mercy had gone, S8 For o'er his path roses swung And on their petals dew drops hung. Their fragrance was by him inspired And their beauty his heart soon fired. New sensations Avere in him born And all caution was from him torn. He tried to pluck a full-blown rose, But he missed it in its throes As the soft wind tossed it about, And dew drops shower'd in its route. Now a rose swept down o'er his face, Then another one joined in the race. It lightly touched his fever'd cheek. Then as it passed him seemed to speak. Again one swung right to his lips And fj'om it the dew drops he sips, For he caught it and held it tight. Then his lips pressed the petals white. Its fragrance almost o'erwhelmed him And for a moment all was dim. He cried, "I must pluck this flower Yes, pluck it, now, this very hour." He moved his hand to find it stayed And turned to see in white arrayed A form he ne'er before had seen That said, "Too late, I near had been. A moment more thou would have plucked That rose and all its sweets have sucked." CANTO XII. "Legend, wliat did Mercy tell thee? It will grieve her greatly to see That so soon thou hast all forgot And art giving way to passion hot. Thon niayest ne'er see Mercy more And sh(! has set on thee great store; 'Twas she that sent ine to thee now, So I, her sister, to thee bow. ]My name is Prudence and I will, If thou but listen, save thee still ; Thou must not be in haste so hot To pull that which will suit thee not; The rose is a common flower And thou wilt see them every hour; They are of many shades and size. So do not let them fill thine eyes. In the garden are rare flowers Jk'tter fitted for Hymen's bowers. Let go that rose ere thou bruise it And let it with its mates still sit. If, perchance, its stem should be broke Take it thou must, or thou wilt choke. S9 60 Remember what the Gods of Fate Said, ere it be fore'er too hite." Legend at once the rose set fr(.'e And with it died out all his glee. The sun darted under a cloud Which threw a shadow like a shroud, O'er the roses that were so gay, And their petals turned ashy gray. A cold wind then passed over them And made them shrivel on their stem. Legend also felt the clammy air, Then at his head began to tear. "Oh! what cursed land am I now on, A glimpse of sweet joy, then 'tis gone. Roses that seemed so fresh and sweet Now drop their leaves upon my feet. Prudence, why bi'cath such chilling air? Didst same womb thou and Mercy bear?" Legend turned as the words he spoke But no reply the silence broke. For Prudence was no longer there And Legend's face a frown did wear. "Cursed I must be or dreaming much That savors of hell's canker'd touch. First Hope did come to me unasked And many things she then unmasked. Hope left me, then bluff Courage came, And urged me througnh the swords of flame. 61 But even he left me in the vale Where strongest mortal sure wotikl quail, And I met the foulest foul fiend That e'er Satan had from him wean'd. He with fear my very marrow froze, And nought hut battle eould I choose, So at him in despair I flew With sword Hope said was tried and true. At first right well my ground I held Then grew faint and was quickly fell'd. How long I lay I know it not But Mercy found me on that spot; She pressed me to her soft, warm breast And life returned at her request ; She bor(3 me to the Courts of Fate And there she did my woes relate. By her good graces now I'm here. But why she left me is not clear. Here, Prudence came — now she has left, Surely I'm of reason bereft. AVhy ! yonder cloud is breaking fast And warm breezes about me cast A fragrance that soothes my very soul, And the blood through my veins doth bowl. Through the garden I now will walk And view the flowers on their stalk ; I'll heed what Mercy kindly said. And the lesson that Prudence read." CANTO XIII. (^^UTHE 5N0WbR0F AND 1T5 bE5P0ILER!Si^^ " Why ! here is the sweetest flower Ere wept o'er by April sliower. Surely it's no common blossom, See ht)w (ioj'ly it playest 'possum, And hangs its snowy white face down To show its pearly bell-shaped crown. Oh ! thou pure and dainty snowdrop, I^et me thy sweet head gently prop, For I must look in thy fair face,; That may est be my fortnne''s place! Whilst in thy cradle thou didst lay All earth was bleak as barren clay, A soft, snowy blanket o'er thee s])read And by its meltings thou wast fed. As that white canopy o'er thee laid A game of hide and seek thou play'd, And e'en thy small form thrust aside The melting snows of April's tide. Then, when earth's dark face thus was washed, Thy pure white face thou o'er it tossed; 62 63 Thus the first flower of'sprino- was born Just as oartli of her fleece was shorn. No wonder thou art a sweet child And makest the hearts of mortals wild, ]^^)r of that nuiid, beautilid snow, Thou art the soul and so didst grow." Legend stoo])s to kiss that flower, But is pushed aside with power, For another hand reaches, forward And tears from earth its gentle ward. 'Tis done with rude hand, without care, And it is borne ott' with a glare From a dark face of coarsest mould. That hath a look i)oth bad and bold. As this figure passed by Legend His heart sank and his head did bend, For he saw that flower, pure and sweet, Droop and quake as though struck bv sleet. A moment more and all grew dark, A bolt was hurled from Vulcan's park And it laid the despoiler low. For through his body it did j)low. The corpse became swollen, then burst Ajid from it issued ivptile curs'd. That wriggled and writhed in flame, Then darted oflMike hunted game. The flower .still held in that hand (As yet death had not burst its band) 64 For a moment feebly quivered, The shrunken petals were shivered And a tiny seed gently fell, Like a tear drop from some heart's well. To the now crumbling corpse it roll'd, Then disappear'd within earth's fold. The gloom increased — a deathly calm Seem'd the whole o^arden to embalm. CANTO XIV. (^feiiTHE Voice From Heaven. la^^ Ijcgcnd now hoard a i^olemn voico Tliat sadclen'd, yet made him rejoice. . It said : "Man oft proposes, but God disposes. Tiie wicked for a time seem to flourish ; Their evil deeds by man may be overlooked, But on them His venj^eance surely falleth. Yon vile lump of clay stretched forth its hand; In its impure grasp it took a flower, By that evil action this flower withered. This flower was a messenger from God ; Yon vile body was the tool of Satan. In righteous indignation, (jlod laid it low. From corruption shall rise incorruption ; Hell blackens, but for Heaven to brighten. It was, and it is, ever shall be. Amen." The earth where the tiny seed fell, Now began to upheave and swell. A beam of soften'd light fell down And to Ivcgend reveal'd a crown 63 66 Of snowy whiteness peeping out, As though of some plant 'twere the sprout. It quickly rose, became a form, That took his heart and soul by storm. He saw a figure dazzling bright Whose face was radiant with a light He ne'er had seen or known before, For it the seal of heav.en bore. The pure face was to zenith turned Which like a chasten'd Venus burned; The eyes they were upward glancing As though the gloom they were lancing; The right hand stretched forth, with finger Pointing' to an angel singer, That now appeared in heavens high With harp o'er whose strings zephyrs sigh. For a moment the figure stands. Then poises snowy wings and hands. And with a flutter of delight It leaves the realms of murky night. The sun in brightness doth now burst out And doth the darkness quickly rout. Whilst Legend stands with hands to face Looking into the bright blue space. And nothing now can he see there But the crown that the sun doth wear. CANTO XV. LegcMid s>;azecl until struck blind, For the rays of" o;listening- light Conld not be by his eyes confin'd Without destruction to his sight. So for a time he blindly groped In darkness — though immersed in glory, And to himself muttered and croaked O'er and o'er his own mournful story. Whilst with himself thus occupied Another form at his side arose, With a voice stern, but void of pride, And calm as a lake in repose. "Legend! I^egend ! Why mournest thou? Is it because that flower's gone? Ivemember it in death did sow And thus a crown of glory won. There still are other flowers here, And though for that pure white flower Thine heart would be cold and drear, ^Farch cold blast proceds April shower." 67 68 Legend turned and quickly said : "May I ask of thee, who art thou? Canst thou tell me whence yon soul sped, And why death laid that flower low? Why should it on melting ices feed And purest snowy sherbets sip. To he cut down like vilest weed, And be pressed by infamous lip? Can I on other flowers look When I know that they may be torn By rude hands, cut down by cruel hook, And be by foul fiends boldly worn? Can my heart be aught else but cold ; My thoughts be but bitter and sore, Wlien purest crystal cup can hold Is wallowed in by any boar? No flower will I from here pluck. Neither on them shalt cast my eye, For others from them their honey suck And then — yes, cast them off to die." "Legend, surely thou art soured. But few flowers thou yet hast seen. This place is with many dowered, Near the brightest thou hast not been. Then again, thou art too hasty And wouldst most any flower pluck, Thou hadst better be more tasty And be sure what thou art to suck. 69 T>ot ino toll thee tlmt the flower That thoii at first did wildly gra.sp, Would not have pleased thee an hour, For soon its thorns thy heart would rasp. Now thou showed better, more true sense When thou didst not the snow drop pluck And whilst thy mind was in susj)ense By another fi-om thy reach 'twas struek. O'er this thou art deeply grieved And with thy sorrow I condole; Still, if thou couldst have perceived Tiiou art equator, it the pole. If thou had plucked that flower first, It would have drooped, wither'd and died, Just as surely, as in hand cursed, For by thy heat it would be dried. Some flowers are not grown to pluck. For their nature none can ever read; And they who would their honey suck. Will their passions on ashes feed. Now, as thou hast listen'd to me, I'll tell thee who and what I am. My name is Reason, and to thee I'll be a guard from all that's sham. Legend, to thee I said before. Thou hast yet tp see more flowers For in the garden there's great store. But most are beyftnd thy powers. 70 Legend, each flower is a maid And somewhere, I may not say. Is one on which thy soul is stay'd, She will turn thy night to day. Thou mayest find her quite quickly. Or may be not for a time. So guard thy heart all times strictly Or Venus' hill thou mayest not climb. Wiien once thou hast that flower found Thou wilt never crave for another, For joy thou'll sow" in fertile ground And for thee she'll be a mother. Now, Legend, before thee I leave, I beg thee to chose with reason. Do not let passion from thee cleave The blossom that is thy season." "Ah ! like the others Reason's gone, .Why do all these friends leave so quick. Why do they not stay — help me on When in the sloughs of doubt I stick?" CANTO XVI. "Wlu) is this that is comint^ now, Witli sprightly ^tep and winning grace; ^\'ith sparkling eyes, a pleasant brow And radiant smiles spread o'er the iiicoi ^ris not Hope, nor yet is Courage, Neither can it be Mercy sweet. I wish it .were, I would engage To pay my homage at her feet. " " Ijegend, thou hast guessed aright I am not Hope, Courage, Mercy, Prudence or lleason — take no fright. Thee I will treat with courtesy. I will not thee with sermons bore, Nor spoil thy pleasure by advice, But I will show thee the door That leads to joys that have no price. Come, Legend, let us go and walk Among yon sweet scented flowers. Then of their joys to thee I'll talk And w^hile away the dreary hours. 71 72 Why, Ijogend, thoii hast no boqnet ! What a silly lad thou hast been, To roam at will 'mong flowers gay And none of their sweet pleasures seen. All yon flowers are grown to pluck. Their sweet incense invites thee on And tells thee of their sweets to suck, So haste — take the chance ere 'tis gone, Ha ! Ha ! how sober dost thou look ! Still 'tis no wonder. I^et me see ! It was Prudence that would not brook The joys that herein welcomed thee. With her cold, hoary, blighting breath She froze the warm hopes of young love, As he struggled to burst the sheath That held him back from treasure trove. No fairer field could love behold Than that which lies before thee now, So why dost thou remain so cold When virgin soil invites thy plow? List ! Legend, I will a secret tell. Hidden in these flowers there is joy. Fountains of rapture in them well. Nor doth their sweetness ever cloy. Drink, then, of their sparkling nectar, And the blood in thy veins will dance. Prudence and Reason may hector. But show them thou art a free lance. 73 Come, Lo<2;encl, draw near a flower, See, there is one in perfeet bloom, 'Jliou needst not fear Hymen's bower, Thou art not foreed to be a groom. What, wilt thou not look upon it! Do8t thou my kindness now disdain ! Why triflest thou wiien moments flit And there are joys lor thee to gain? Legend, I see tlK)U nceds't company To chase away this gloomy mood, Much Prudence hast made thee canny And too much Reason makes thee brood. Come, I will intr.oduce to thee A bright, handsome, sprightly maid, Who from all care will set thee free, And teach thee to enjoy a raid — Yes, a raid amongst flowers gay Where sweet perfumes thou canst inspire, Whilst other joys turn night to day And rapture sets the soul on flre." CANTO XVII. (i^ii! P A55 ION . !6^5© "See, here she comes, like summer's flay, Melting all by her bright warm glanee. To thee she will her respects pay, Then with delight thy soul shall dance. Now, adieu, Passion's at thy feet, Two is company, whilst three is none, When there are joys to feel that's sweet. So drink thy fill and I'll be gone." Ijcp-end looked d