i ' ■■"..■■ v.;:- '. ■-•^r/i -'''.•■■ . ' ' . *;•; '• ' ' •■ 'r;i Class Book Copyright N°. COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. "SINCERELY YOURS" VERSES BY NELL RANDOLPH BLOUNT 1905 4 LIBRARY of CONGRESS Two Copies Received DEC 26 1905 Copyright Entry LASS (X XXc. No, f COPY B. If- Copyright 1905 Nell R. Blount For me — I wrote False poems like the rest And thought them true, Because myself was true in writing them." — Elizabeth Barret Browning. CONTENTS A Helper 21 A Letter 56 A Letter from Santa Claus ■ . ' 91 An Answering Face 98 An Invitation 28 An Offering 17 Apology and Dedication 9 A Prayer 102 A Preacher 18 A Psalm of Truth 105 A Regret 27 A Touch in Passing 40 A Transplanted Flower 70 A Valentine 83 Baby Ellen 45 Calmed 67 Completeness 90 Dedication of Fish Pond 48 Entered In 10 For June's Autograph 24 For Value Received 66 Fragments 87 From Sequanota Boys 53 From Sequanota Girls 52 Galesburg Folks 54 Garden of the Gods, In 79 God Ktfows 109 Good Bye 26 Good Bye, Be Good, Little Girl 12 Good Bye Old Year 101 Graydon 32 Heard on the Corner 93 Heart Havens 41 Heart of the Home 16 CONTENTS — Continued Page He Got There 80 His Rest 103 If You Remember 37 In Arizona 36 Italian Weather 62 I Think I Must be Going 31 It is Written 99 It Wasn't in the Books 72 I Want to be Good to You 20 Ministering Spirits 68 Nature's Voices 25 Other Things . ' 77 Our Neighbor 39 Our Platform 29 Pop Corn Johnnie 88 Retribution 22 Remembered 30 Take Courage 38 The Best Reward 64 The Bridge 50 The Captain's Story 46 The Reason 35 The Silver Lining 75 The Way Appointed 59 Time is Short 94 Toast for Class of '79 33 To Mrs. Tweed 65 To The Puritans 85 To You 95 Understood 104 Unfading 89 Violet Voices 14 Wee William 42 What Matter? 69 When She Left 44 Worth While 96 SINCERELY YOURS APOLOGY AND DEDICATION. To the Stranger : If stranger hands should find this little book, And turn its pages for a critic's glance, Sure faults will show, which patience cannot brook, So here I give fair warning for such chance. This little volume came to form and light Not for the merit in its pages shown, But rather, that my friends have asked the right To have in shape which each may call his own. To My Friends: Reading between the lines which are but weak, Save in the lenient light of friendship's eye, Your hearts perhaps will see the truth I seek, And from your knowledge, all my lack supply. I did not write because 'twas good to read, But just to make my restless thought more still- Now you'll accept apology I plead ? I'm taking it for granted that von will. 10 SINCERELY YOURS ENTERED IK In memory of R. S. B. Out from the years of earth-life, from all its cares set free, Into the Home Eternal, just over the jasper sea; Leaving the weary body that weakness and pain oppress, To enter "newness of life with Christ," "robed in His righteousness." Taking in trust God's giving (great things no more than small), Her labor of love completed, she answered her Master's call. "Faithful in least" her standard, "ruler in much" His reward, Rich in the wealth of a greater world, inheritor with her Lord. Eyes that have seen His beauty in flower and tree and bird, Ears that have heard His music in summer winds that stirred, Soul that has felt His glory in faulty human clay, Must see and hear and understand heaven's won- drous world toclav. SINCERELY YOURS 11 Hands that were ever opened to help His "least of these," Heart that was e'er responsive to human, nature's pleas, Life that was never idle while yet a need was shown, Today in that better country find rest and joy at home. Sorrow ? Ah ! no. ~Not sorrow, for she has gained so much, But loneliness and longing, in hearts that miss her touch. By her life, so strong yet tender, by her death so brave and true, May we meet as she has taught us, each task that comes to do. 12 SINCERELY YOURS GOOD-BYE— BE GOOD, LITTLE GIRL. To J. W. B. Sometimes when I am so weary, And little things all go wrong ; When clays seem brief and dreary, And nights so hard and long, I hear in my heart soft whispers From out of my childhood's day, That come like the evening vespers Breathed over the troubled way. Then someway, my fierce rebelling All suddenly disappears Under that touch — compelling The banishment of all tears. "Down to the corner" I'm going "A piece with papa" once more, As memory's torch is throwing Its glow on days of yore. I see my father, walking In younger manhood's pride, I, with childish talking, "Going a piece," by his side. Then from the corner starting, (As he brushes back a curl), I hear his voice in parting, k -(;<.n, be srood little girl." SINCERELY YOURS 13 Tonight my thoughts reviewing The days passed by since then, Show his life strong in doing Of good, to fellow men. And while my duties lengthen, Amidst the busy whirl, There sounds his voice to strengthen, "Good-bye, be good little girl." Could clouclland glory open To pass his helpful word, I think the same thought spoken, Would come as I have heard. Out from the Heavenly Dwelling, Down through the gates of pearl, I think Fd hear him telling — "Good-bye, be good little girl." So, in the daily learning Of lessons hard to know, My heart is often returning To ways I ought to go. Hard tasks seem someway lighter Than once I thought they could, And all the way grows brighter As I struggle to "be good." 14 SINCERELY YOURS VIOLET VOICES. To M. D. Koses, lilies, carnations, What others have you there ? Ah ! yes, give me the violets, There's nothing to compare. Some way their sweet, bright blossoms Speak comfort, peace and rest, And shining from among them A face, of all — the best, It speaks from out their petals, The face of a mother gone, And bending my head above them My thought has quickly flown Back into childhood's playtime, On into girlhood's hours, Working with her beside me Among the treasured flowers. Again I see her prisoned By illness' tightening grasp, Smiling on dainty flowers Held in her gentle clasp. SINCERELY YOURS 15 And then there comes a memory, Sacred o'er all I keep — The precious form so quiet In its never-ending sleep. Resting against her garments A hunch of violets lay, Sent by an almost stranger From a house not far away. A graceful unvoiced tribute To a noble woman's name. As a fitting benediction On that last dav it came. And so these violet voices In fragrant tones so clear, Speak their tender message Of a sainted mother dear. Sweeter than any other To me must always be The fragrance of their helping Through that precious memory 16 SINCERELY YOURS THE UK ART OF THE HOME. Facing the row of maple trees That whisper sofl in the morning breeze, The old house stands in silence Jeep Almost as the lnish of eternal sleep. Ami some way, the look of all the place Is like to that on a dear, dead face. Scenting the air, the same sweet flowers, The same old shrubs and trees in bowers, But thiek at roots are grasses grown, And stirring the tops (almost a moan) The voice of the air make- sad refrain "It will never be the same again/' Into new hands it soon must go, This dear old ""home" we all loved so. Precions things beyond compare Will go from out our fostering rare. Scenes that seem but of yesterday, Will soon forever have passed away. The old moves off — the new draws near. Mantles of gayety cover a bier. So let it bo — The old home died. When the Little Mother left our side. The "past" is ours, to sacred keep In heart depth- holy, buried deep. SINCERELY YOURS 17 AN OFFERING. Naught have I, Master, now to bring to Thee Only myself, and what Thou gavest me. Heart, thoughts and efforts Such as I call mine O take and bless and make them truly Thine Put in my heart a wish to do Thy will, My thoughts and plans with love for Thee. fill, Thy Spirit grant to shine in act and word, That what I do, may be as to the Lord. 18 SINCERELY YOURS A PREACHEE. (To V. V. D.) Today I heard a sermon That has given comfort well. The "text" I think I cannot Just now exactly tell. The church that I attended Was not quite "orthodox" For the pulpit was a counter And the text-hook was a box; The face that shone above them With smile so warm and sweet Gave the message that was needed, My lonely heart to meet. These hours that are so idle, Away from homeland dear Have wakened frequent longings For the old familiar cheer. I have missed the friendly welcome That was mine on every hand And have felt myself a stranger Just sojourning in this land. But now, that "stranger" feeling Doesn't hold me quite so fast, Since I've had that helpful greeting Like those from out my past. SINCERELY YOURS 19 Formed carelessly it may be, Words I do not now recall, But the face and tone that shaped them Made the "sermon" cover all; They showed a soul of sweetness In harmony with life, Content with daily blessings, Keeping out of useless strife, May God's benediction touch her, This clear preacher of His light Who with lamp all trimmed and burning Makes other lives more bright. 20 SINCERELY YOURS "I WANT TO BE GOOD TO YOU." "You are tired." — 'Twas just an inflection That spoke half in question, half fact — To turn my mind quickly to searching My spent day, with all I had lacked. "Tired V Well yes, I was tired — For burdens so sorely had pressed, But one only, of all my acquaintance, My trouble and need had guessed. Was I tired ( Ah yes ! so heart-tired ! I think even she did not see How great was the weariness bearing While yet she was helping me. Not always in understanding. Every burden and doubt and fear Is the help, — but in love that is saying "I want to be good to von, dear." And while she was whispering her wishes, Kind eyes looking into my own, — I knew, way deep down in my heart-thought I had found that for which I had come. Just a bit of sympathy given By a kindly and helpful face. And my prayer for strength was answered fn that chance meeting-place. SINCERELY YOURS 21 A HELPER. He whistles and sings at his labor, My cheery, light-hearted neighbor, 'Till sunshine seems brighter, And shadows grow lighter. Because of his song as he works. The passer-by hears him, and slowing The footsteps so hurriedly going. The song heard in snatches His own spirit catches, From the man who sings as he works. Far better the day and the duty. And fuller the world is of beauty, And truer the living, More helpful the giving For the song of my neighbor at work. I know not his name or his station, But greater than wordy oration, The sermon he preaches, The lesson he teaches, By his jolly song as he works. May he ever abide in gladness, Whore needy hearts burdened by sadness, His sunshine may borrow To lighten their sorrow, 'Till they learn to sing as they work. 22 SINCERELY YOURS RETKIBUTIOK The night was in June, The weather quite warm; The people to 1 cool resorts Moved in a swarm. At a table they sat, Eyes fixed on each other — She wasn't his cousin, He wasn't her brother. His ice cream all eaten, A second dish called — Her own but half finished, She looked up appalled. Then a bit of reproof Shone out of her eye As she caught his expression And heard a deep sigh. She waited a moment For best opportunity, And said : a Can you eat it With perfect impunity V 9 With superior smile He answered her soon, "Well, no — (since you ask) But I can with a spoon." SINCERELY YOURS 23 Some ten minutes after He said, smiling sweet — "Can yon, with propriety, Walk awhile down the street?" She taking his arm, While she smiled at the moon, Said: "No — (since yon ask) But I can with a spoon." 24 SINCERELY YOURS FOR JUNE'S AUTOGRAPH. (Dec. 25.) And there are other names, though unrecorded Upon these pages, for kind memory's thought, Which, written now above, their lives rewarded, Find Christmas joy of which our lives know naught. That joy which comes from in His presence dwelling Whose birth in Bethlehem so long ago Gave to the world the gladness earth is telling To lift from burdened hearts their weight of woe. And could the dear ones out from Heaven's portal, Speak to us now a word to write for them, I think the message from our friends immortal Would be the angel song, "Good will to men." So — while their names and faces we remember, In other days with us at Christmas tide, Let all our hearts by memory's touch made ten- der, Live out a charity more deep and wide. SINCERELY YOURS 25 NATURE'S VOICES. (To M.) The flowers that blow, Speak soft and low Of the God they know, To His loving child. The birds that sing, On quivering wing His love words bring To the listening ear. The falling rain Like music's strain, Chants o'er His name, In cadence sweet. The mountains high, 'Gainst azure sky His glories cry Who formed their slopes. Fresh blades of grass In waving mass Speak as I pass, Of power divine. Then how can I Let days go by, And still deny The praise His due? 26 SINCERELY YOURS GOOD-BYE. (To D.) So much I liked your cheery word, dear heart — Calling "good-bye" as quick you turned to go. And though it should not be for long we part, I wish that you might always speak it so. If just a few short hours should intervene, Or years should pass, before we meet again, I want the memory coming in between, Of your strong, helpful word as spoken then. So full it is of blessing, in the thought, "May God be with you" — and I need that prayer, If but to face the next day's duty brought, Or called to meet some heavy load of care. Then let me hear you speak it always, dear, When from my path another way you move. It seems to bring the Heavenly Father near, To shield and guide me with His tender love. SINCERELY YOURS 27 A REGKET. Where pleasure calls I would obey, And move with willing feet, But when necessity holds sway, I sometimes miss a treat. Tonight I sadly stay at home, But I'll not needed be, Since each girl calls her chap her own He takes the place of me. I know you will be just as nice As though I met with you, Enjoying fun and cake and ice, The jolly evening through. — Your Was to Have Been Chaperone. 28 SINCERELY YOURS AN INVITATION. Come ! Come ! You'd better run. Presents for everyone under the sun. Money will buy them, Low prices too; Just bring your purse and we'll satisfy you. New Christmas gifts that are pretty and funny, Better than others sold for same money. Don't you forget us, At five thirty-eight (538) ; Out on North Randolph, Your presence we'll wait. So gladly we'll serve yon, With many things fine ; Respectfully yours, Our names we would sign. — Ladies of Baptist Church. SINCERELY YOURS 29 OUR PLATFORM. (For Church Social.) Although "free silver'' is our call, "Sixteen to one" is not our cry. We've changed it so's to suit you all, Suppose you come and try. Our bill-of-fare is good and sweet, Sixteen less one, our price. !Now bring your purse to Johnson street And buy you something nice. Three-thirty is the number neat Tacked just above the door. Walk in and see, and you will eat, And quickly call for "mure." Bread and butter, cream and peaches, Peach in cobbler, cake and pie When your appetite this reaches A second course please try. Peaches pickled, peaches sliced Peachy cheeks and peaches spiced ; Peaches raw and peach preserves (Bring good digestions and strong nerves.) And then to end with "extra nice" Take a dish of rare peach ice. 30 SINCERELY YOURS REMEMBERED. (Sent with souvenir album.) Though memory's touch be tender, It is strong and sure and deep, So affection's voice will waken From a sometimes seeming sleep. Busy lives may seem neglectful Toward old claims of days gone past, But through every honest friendship Runs a fibre that will last. To you — our friends far distant — Memory turns our thought to-day, So we send this small reminder Of the cousins up this way. SINCERELY YOURS 31 "I THINK I MUST BE GOING." (Last words of Grace Willis.) Going — yes quietly going Away from the earth-life clear, Yet never a worry or question, And never a shade of fear. Going — e'en into Death's valley 'Mid shadows dark and chill, Yet never a murmur against them, And never a thought of ill. Yes, going to meet her Master Who died to show the way Out of the Valley of Shadow Into Eternal Day. Just going away from sorrow To the Home prepared above, To one of the many mansions Of endless light and love. 32 SINCERELY YOURS GRAYDOK (To Bess V.) To find a man like "Graydon Muir" I've done my very best, But it seems quite impossible Pie's so unlike the rest. Inclined to do the next best thing Within my power to please, I've sought and found his counterpart Among the forest trees. In general shape and style and mold Not large or deep or thick His character is fitly told — A very light weight stick. Blease accept. N. P. S. : If you don't get mad and send him back Just use him for a buttonhook rack. JST. SINCERELY YOURS 33 TOAST FOR CLASS OF '79. (Theme, "Uncrowned Kings.") iNot often in this world of toil, Do worthy deeds meet due regard, And kings and queens in daily life, !Not always find their just reward. Yet with its losses and its gains Life is worth living faithfully Look o'er our class as counted now, We "kept our Pace," a king is he Who claims a realm our country's width. While Callie in a lesser sphere Rules her small subjects perfectly, With scepter which they all revere A head uncrowned is Frank's indeed,- E'en nature has not done her best, But when it comes to brains within He surely equals all the rest. Then Laura brings to us her boys. To whom she is in truth a queen, While Livie rules the largest man Among our number to be seen. 34 SINCERELY YOURS See Ella Forest — Stock her trade, With gold and silver, Roy and Ed And Lizzie Gamage, — Beaver caught When she prepared to wed. Yes, kings and queens are in our midst And Dr. D. can make them crowns Just go to him when toothache jumps And let him drive away your frowns. Not all are here. In distant states Four classmates now have made their homes, While other three have entered in That "Country Whence Xo Traveler Comes." Kind words of all. Kind thoughts for each, In school day loyalty we give, May these few words but serve to teach That kings and queens among us live. SINCERELY YOURS 35 THE REASON. (To M. W.) u Why do I love you ?" Tell me, dear, The reason for my voilet here, Turning its leaves and dainty bloom Laden with sweetest of all perfume Away from the shadows of my room To the clearer light of my window bright. "Why do I love you ?" Tell, dear heart, Why, when the summer days depart, The little bird swift wings his way. Into the skies of southern day, To bask in the light of warmer ray And there in song, earth's joys prolong. As God's kind care in Xature's laws, Moved flower and bird, so I, because God guided me, turned, dear, to you Meeting a friendship strong and true, Changing old thoughts to pleasures new, Unto the end, I'll keep thee friend. 36 SINCERELY YOURS IN ARIZONA. "In the good old summertime" Of this Arizona clime Where roses grow and bloom the whole year round — Just tell me if you can Where you'll find a better plan Than to settle for a steady camping-ground. With its sunshine pure and warm, And bird music that can charm, With trees so full and green and skies all bright, Say — tell me, if you will, Any happier place to fill With joy, the hours of every clay and night. Winters warm or summers hot, Either way it matters not, (Save when a "most unusual spring" occurs) ? Tis the spot to find good health, ? Tis the place to spend good wealth, So the traveler over all the globe, avers. Are there flaws ? Well just a few — Not more than one or two, Like windy days and hurricanes of sand. But — who'll remember these, When in northern homes we freeze And long in vain for glimpse of this Southland ? SINCERELY YOURS 37 IF YOU REMEMBER. If the voice which has spoken tenderly Should change in its tone some day, And words that seem quick and harsh perhaps, Should answer some word you say, elust try to remember the truth you know, ? Tis a loving heart, — time will prove it so. If the hand which has clasped yours heartily Should loosen its hold some day, And the strengthening touch of sympathy Should seem to be taken away, Then try to remember that just the same ? Tis a loyal hand and will come again. If the face which greets yours smilingly, Should darken in sudden cloud, And just where you need companionship You feel alone in the crowd, Right there remember — that face is true And will turn again with its help to you. For the friend who is walking quietly In the path you daily tread, Perhaps has lessons harder to learn Than your life has ever read, And if you remember to trust in love That friend forever, more true shall prove. 38 SINCERELY YOURS TAKE COURAGE. Are yen weary in the Vineyard? Does your work seem all in vain, Yielding but a bitter fruitage Of lost hopes, mistakes and pain ? Would you stop ? Ah! but listen! "Be not weary In well doing. You shall reap, If ye faint not. In due season ( !omes the harvest." — do not weep. Try again. Have you spoken to some dear one, Feeling that you'd gladly give Anything within your power If for Christ that soul should live? Don't give up. Has the burden proved too heavy For your faltering faith to bear? J Tis Tils work and you His worker, For His own He shall well care. Trust Him yet. Would you reach the Heavenly Mansions Bearing with you precious sheaves? Patience then — He, loving watches And the faithful child ne'er leaves. So keep on. SINCERELY YOURS 39 OUR NEIGHBOR. (To Mrs. Hughes.) Who lives across on Center street. Where honeysuckle grows so sweet, And smiles on us whene'er we meet \ Our neighbor. Who comes to sit awhile, and speak Of various things that till the week, Helping to keep our spirits meek \ Our neighbor. Who sends us doughnuts fresh and good, Sweetening for us our daily food. And leaving us in happy mood \ Our neighbor. Who takes us in at dead of night. And makes our troubles all come right, Relieving us in serious plight? Our neighbor. Who merits everlasting praise, "For kindness shown in various ways That we'll remember all our days? Our neighbor. V. V. D.— 'N. R. B. 40 SINCERELY YOURS A TOUCH IN PASSING. A toucli and smile as she passed along; A glimpse — a word — and in the throng She was lost to sight, but my heart grew strong Because of her passing there. My face was turned, and I had not known A friend was near, till she had gone. And left me feeling less — "alone" After her greeting swift. Such a little thing it was quite forgot By her who gave it, I question not, — But it marked for me the brightest spot Tn the hours of my day. I wonder how oft in life we stand Close to some hungry heart's demand, That we might answer with touch of hand If we hut looked for such. 'Tis the thing of all this great world needs, Far more than doctrines, forms and creeds The helpfulness of kindly deeds In hearty friendliness. 'Tis the most we can do, after all you know. A passing touch — and on we go. Then why not give it often so, In warmth of heart and hand ? SINCERELY YOURS 41 THE HEART'S HAVEK (To B. I, B.) In many climes my footsteps roam, Up steeps, down dales where beauties are, But whether it be near or far My journey runs, 'tis best toward "home." I love old earth. A touch divine Has given us glory everywhere; Yet nothing seems so good, so fair, As the home roof-tree and its vine. Wonders of man inspire my mind, Wonders of God uplift my soul, But through them all, to one sure goal My heart turns back to home, I find. Health, friends and pleasure. Yes, all these May meet me in my pilgrim way, And for them all, praise God to-day, But most of all, for home's sweet peace. 42 SINCERELY YOURS TO WEE WILLIAM. (Eight Weeks Old.) Helh Wee William! How's the world? Does it strike you pretty well. Or art' there lots of troubles You'd like to try to tell ( Does grandma trot and rock von \ Do aunties pull your nose \ Does mamma stick von full of pins In putting on your clothe- \ Does papa toss and bounce you And twist you into curves That threaten quite to break your neck Or shatter your young nerves? Does grandpa talk big words to you That most distract your brain? Do cousins whisper "baby talk" That really gives you pain \ Well, never mind, wee martyr, There's a fine day coming yet. When just a little older grown, A sure revenge you'll get. When colic strikes, and teeth crop out, And croup and measles come, With chicken pox and whooping cough You sure can make things hum. SIXCERELY YOURS A3 Insist on having meal time, In the middle of the night, Then make your time of rising One hour before daylight. Just keep them going lively, For yon owe it to them all, And when there's nothing else to do Fill up your lungs and — bawl. J Tis a large responsibility Your family to raise, But I think you will eventually, Succeed, deserving praise. (To Wm. Blount Provine.) 44 SINCERELY YOURS WHEX she left. (For Bess V.) When she left ! O, wondrous leaving Of this life so bravely borne, 'Mid the burdens of frail body. Oftentimes so weak and worn. And she left them all — these burdens ; Left them in the "shadow land;" Questioned not, but at His bidding Reached to take her Master's hand. Even though her dearly loved ones She must leave to work alone, She was ready still to answer To His calling, "Child, come home." Hearts are sad and sore left lonely In the place she made so dear, Yet, could I call her back to you I would not bring her here. When she left this earthly dwelling For the one not made by hand, Ended then all pain and question She had failed to understand. Found, instead, Christ's blessed sunlight, With no good thing else denied ; In His presence there awakened, In His likeness "satisfied." SINCERELY YOURS 45 TO BABY ELLEK What shall I write for baby's eves, That shine with light from God's bright skies? What shall I say for her pink ears \ It must be sweet, if baby hears. What shall I wish for her wee hand, That soon shall rule by love's command ? A loving word I long to give Of the place where she has come to live. A hope that her eyes may ever see A beautiful world in her life to be. A wish that to her ears may come Earth's sweetest music — that of "home." A prayer that her hands may find and do The work of a woman strong and true. 46 SINCERELY YOURS THE CAPTAIN'S STORY. (To A. Eads.) The evening had been a jolly one, Where fun held full command Till, just as the program was almost done, The "Captain" was called to stand. Surprised hut vet unquestioning, He rose before us all To speak as only a man can speak Who has answered his country's call. The story, perhaps a common tale, Of soldiers who fought and died. But the heart that spoke through the captain' voice Opened our vision wide. We saw, as before we had not seen, Brave boys, full grown to men, In moments of quick decision That won our victories then. Battlefields passed before our eyes — Horror of shot and shell, And suffering none but a soldier's word And a soldier's heart could toll. SINCERELY YOURS 47 We felt that break in the captain's speech Told pain Ave had never known. As he lived that moment miles away, In a world that was all his own. A world of anguish, carnage and death, Where nioit — just boys in years, Could dare and do unflinchingly Deeds moving yet, to tears. Our hearts were touched to a deeper strength, Our eyes to a larger sight, Our lives to a higher, nobler aim, By the captain's words that night. May the God of Battles, leading now Keep us in ranks as true Till the pearly gates shall open wide For His soldiers to pass through. 48 SINCERELY YOURS DEDICATION" OF THE EISH POND. On the hill-top by the water. In the great Club House front door yard, Stood the white man from the prairies, Who had come for summer fishing To the land of Sequanota. Stooping was the white chief, busy Fashioning a fountain wondrous In the midst of the new fish pond, On the Sequanota hill-top. Through the tall grass by the sand-road Came a band of strange new people. Swift and stealthy was their coming, Chocolate was their complexion ; Wild their eyes and wierd their costumes, Striking silence to the white men And their wives and children gathered Round about their chief stone mason, Who, so busy o'er the basin Saw them not, nor heard their coming Till he finished. Then uprising Stood confronting that procession. Speechless stood he — wondering, staring. SINCERELY YOURS 49 Sudden then, and harsh, blood curdling Pngitahi raised his war whoop. — Raised it high, and cleft the azure, While each squaw by way of greeting Grunted "Ugh!" and wierdly chanted Strange new words of hidden meaning. To the front, then came the big chief — Cheeky Ankining the mighty, — ■ Cheeky Ankining the hghty, — With a pipe of great dimensions Tilled with coffee, ground to fineness. 'Twas the peace-pipe, and he, lighting, Smoked and passed it to the white man, Saying in his Indian-English: "White man come — big chief feel happy. Like white man for making fish pond. When white man go hack to prairies Indian like white man -till better. Leaving fish in pond for Indian And his squaw to catch and eat them. — Take this pipe, be friend to big chief, Other white man — this bridge-builder — ■ Big chief likes for building bridges, And this tomahawk lie gives him. That more bridge- he may fashion In the land of Sequanota, Won deraus land of wondrous people.' 7 50 SINCERELY YOURS THE BRIDGE. (Sequanota version.) They sat on the bridge at noon-tide As the people were passing by, And the sun shone over the "Lake Front" From out the autumn sky. T. wondered what was doing, And could not help but look, When sudden it dawned upon me, "They are having their pictures took." Miss Myra, Kellogg, and Lulu And Alice and Mary and "Tom" Miss Boult, Miss Atwood and England With pennant tight pinned on. Against the long, gray rafters The wavering shadows swung Clouding three acres of landscape That 'neath their shoe-soles hung. And sweeping up from the houses There came the old refrain "How dark the air is growing, — It must be £oh]o to rain." SINCERELY YOURS 51 Then I thought how very lucky, That the launch ride failed to he, For that mighty load of foot-gear Would have swamped it fatally. So, will that broken engagement A source of rejoicing appear, Since all that launching party Is saved from a fate so drear. 52 SINCERELY YOURS FROM THE SEQUAKOTA GIRLS. Here's to the boys, the little hoys ! The fellows who run, and make lots of noise. We have them, we like them, — we claim them our own. Fine manly chaps they will make when they're grown. The little boys. Here's to the boys, the older boys! The fellows who double all of our joys. We want, tbem, we'll keep them — but they are so few, To increase the supply, say, what would you do Tor more big boys ? Here's to the boys, the absent boys! The fellows who must stay in Charlevoix. We miss them, — we'd like them, why don't they come near To help on our summer of rest and good cheer, — • The absent boys. SINCERELY YOURS S3> FROM THE SEQUANOTA BOYS. Here's to the girls, the little girls! Who wear their hair in braids and curls. We have them, we'll keep them as long as we may, To brighten the hours in many a day. The little girls. Here's to the girls, the younger girls! Our colony's jewels, her rubies and pearls. We have them, we like them, we want them for good, And would not give them up if you ask that we should. The younger girls. Here's to. the girls, the older girls ! Who smile and look sweet, till a fellow's head whirls. We want them, we'll get them — just give us a chance, Then keep your eyes open and look for romance You older airls. 54 SINCERELY YOURS GALESBURG FOLKS. (A tribute from Macomb.) When the pleasant days fast flitting Have left ns winter's chill, And we gather round our hearthstones In the evening" hour still, Thinking over all our comforts Quite forgetting every ill, Then will come a thought inspiring- One that certain joy invokes, When chief of summer blessings We remember Galesburg folks. We have felt quite like "relations" In one big happy home. May that feeling be continued Though paths apart must roam, 'Tis a comfortable notion — That of kinfolks from Macomb, And there comes a thought inspiring, One that certain joy invokes, When chief of summer blessings We remember Galesburo* folks. SINCERELY YOURS 55 When the future years on-coming With toil and care are rife, So we need to turn aside sometimes From out the toil and strife, Looking hack to Sequanota With its hearty wholesome life. There will come a thought inspiring, One that certain joy invokes When chief of summer blessings Wo remember Galesburg folks. 56 SINCERELY YOURS A LETTER Phoenix, Ariz., Feb. 24. To Sequanota Club, Galesburg, 111. : Across the miles that stretch between Your winter white and ours of green, Glad thought returns to pleasures found On Sequanota's camping ground ; And we would send "our best' 7 to greet Our summer friends' midwinter meet. In midst of waving palm trees' shade, In atmosphere that songs pervade From gorgeous red-winged blackbird's throat, We move in joy and scarcely note Time's passing swift, till day has flown And evening dons her silvery gown. All star bedecked, in glory bright, The beauteous Arizona night Speaks soft to us, in undertone, Of other nights that we have known, In Sequanota's borders dear, When you, to whom Ave write, were near. From 'neath the graceful pepper tree, By memory's eye, afar we see (As of past days we think and talk) The birches, near our Pine Lake walk. !Not apples in "the orchard" nigh. But dates from branches hanging high. SINCERELY YOURS 57 A wondrous land of fruit and flower, Of orange, olive, rose-clad bower; Sweet oleanders, growing tall (In pink and white the blossoms fall), While like old sentinels of night The giant cacti meet our sight. At early night (no day is long) There comes to us the burro's song, Recalling many an evening spent In clubhouse, where the air was rent By solos, wafted strong and high Against the Sequanota sky. Sometimes we ride abroad, and fast Beside the way has sudden passed That hero of the eastern child, The bold and brave a cow puncher" wild. Astride his bucking broncho, he Scorns folks who look so tame as we, And brings a memory — hard indeed — Of Dr. Becker's fiery steed Attached to equipage so grand That, driven with a haughty hand And head upraised (intent to "snub") Took Anna's "dummv" to the club. 58 SINCERELY YOURS The Navajo, so tall and straight, Like Pugitabi, towers great; The fierce Apache, seeking foes, Reminds of Cheeki's broken nose ; While "Hot tamales !" — warm as toast — Suggest to us "Marshmailow roast." So many things, so many ways That speak of those departed days, And, thinking of them now again, We're glad Ave lived those hours then. To you, who helped to make them good, We write these lines in grateful mood. Sincere] v, your friends, Per K P. B. SINCERELY YOURS 59 THE WAY APPOINTED. (To M. S.) (Thine eyes shall see the King in His beauty; they shall behold the land that is very far off. — Isaiah xxxiii, 17.) "Could I but catch some glimpse of that fair heaven, While striving in the daily battles here, — Could I but taste sometimes the blessed leaven, I would forget so much of doubt and fear. If Christ but walked to-day among earth's lowly, Sliow'ring His blessings freely upon all, I think then I could make my life more holy. When on my ear His words of help should fall." So reasoned I with self, one twilight dreary, When half-wrought duties dropped from tired hands, — Eor in "well-doing" I was near grown "weary," And "pastures green" seemed like to barren sands. Eor labor in His vineyard I'd been longing, Feeling that largest tasks would seem but small, — When homely duties to my hands came throng- ing, I felt I was not fit for work at all. 60 SINCERELY YOURS Taking then the Book of Comfort, from its page I read of "rest;"— "Come to me ye heavy-laden, leave your cares upon my breast; Ask, and to you shall be given ; seek and know that you shall find." Seeing God in all your life-work, pure of heart and j^eace in mind. Longing for a sight of heaven, — look within., God's kingdom lives ; Asking for the hidden manna, — to Him who over- comes, Christ gives ; Needing Christ for daily helping, — "with you air way to the end ;" Owning then His blessed presence, "not His ser- vant, but His friend." Would you do Him loving service, — to His "least" is unto him ; Would you feel His hand in blessing, — turn a wan- dering soul from sin ; Would you reach the heavenly mansions, in His likeness "satisfied, — " Hold the hand that He has given ; — ■ in His love and care "abide/'' And now I thank thee, Lord, that thou are show- ing, In daily walks, small worries, pain and strife, The way thou hast appointed for my going. Ere I can claim the sift. Eternal Life. SINCERELY YOURS 61 'Net through the martyr's flame, or flood to travel, Or facing heathen foe in foreign lands, But little trying puzzles to unravel, — Just the fulfilling of each day's demands. And since it is the "mission" thou hast given, Teach me to feel that it is planned in love; — As thou didst visit earth to point to heaven, Guide me through lowly work to that above ; As done for thee, help me to do each duty. Seeing thine image in the lives I meet, — Until — one day, I'll see the King in beauty, And leave "my mission" finished, — at His feet, In "Standard' 1893. K E. B. 62 SINCERELY YOURS ITALIAN WEATHER. I have heard quite a dry story, Of a lovely western town Where a mackintosh goes begging And umbrellas are unknown ; Where the rubber shoe abides not, And gum boots ne'er appear. For "three hundred sixty-five days The sun shines in each year." There they have no need of crossings, !Xor sidewalks do they use, While the scraper and the footmat ^sever meet with Phoenix shoes, That's why I heard the story By truthful' ( ?) people told, ' But 'tis looking just the least bit Like some one had been fooled. The dusky storm-clouds gather Over peaceful Phoenix homes And from the clouded mountain tops Condensing "moisture" comes, The flying dust is flowing now. In rivers wide and deep The dry and healthy atmosphere Is laid away to "'keep." SINCERELY YOURS 63 Now — mackintosh and rubber shoes Are worth their weight in gold ; tk Xo need of walks in Phoenix'' Is a tale that once was told. To clean the traveler's muddy shoes, Footmats and scrapers? No indeed ! A ha tli tub of clear water And a sponge, best suit the need. "Just three hundred sixty-five days You'll find the sky is clear," Is the story oft repeated Of the Phoenix atmosphere. There seems but one conclusion Where the mind can safe arrive That Phoenix has five hundred days To our three sixty-five. A Tourist. 64 SINCERELY YOURS THE BEST REWARD. So softly spoken, low and sweet, It fell on my ear as I took my seat By my dear big girl, to just repeat In my heart, her "Thank yon, dear." A word for Christ, in longing' pure That, by His strength it might endure And find a lodgment firm and sure, I spoke in His dear name. 'Tis good to know a help is given, To lift some soul yet nearer Heaven. 'Tis worth the having toiled and striven To learn how to do that. But dearer, better — even best Of all response to prayer's request To find a help at home, at rest In the heart of a preeions friend. Such joy is mine this Sabbath night. Seeing her face in its tender light Of true desire to better fight The battle of life God gives her. It is sweet and strong and childlike too, This face of "my girl," — and as few things do, It holds my heart to the good and true And for this — I thank her now. SINCERELY YOURS 65 TO MRS. TWEED. Lessons learned we oft forget, But since the other clay I met The article before you set, I will remember, Put in it eggs or beef or fish Or any other thing you wish It still remains a salad dish. Yours most sincerely, Nell R Blount. 66 SINCERELY YOURS FOE VALUE KECEIVED. For pleasant word and smiling face, For easy, hearty, helpful grace, Cheering my mood in many a place, My thanks accept. For music's charm, so soft, yet sure, Winging my heart to heights more pure, In strong desire that must endure, My thanks accept, The uplift needed oft, may come Not voiced in words, hut spirit shown, The touch of yours, has helped my own. My thanks accept. Sincerely, 1ST. E. B. SINCERELY YOURS 67 CALMED. There's a storm upon the waters, And its angry rush and roar In the hi Hows plunging, leaping From the distant farther shore, Strike dismay to hearts discouraged When the dark waves threaten high Quick the call, "Awake ! O, Master ! Carest Thou not that we shall die?" Speaks a voice of wondrous power To the heaving, surging sea, "Peace. Be still." Then all is quiet On the raging Galilee. Comes a tumult in thy living? Threaten mighty waves of woe ? Does the sky grow dark about you, So you cannot see to go ? Beats the wind of unjust judgment Cutting deep into your heart? Call to PTim who once so felt it. He of all your life is part. Hear His voice in benediction, As your cries to Him ascend, "Fear ye not. Lo, I am with you, Always, even to the end." 68 SINCERELY YOURS MINISTERING SPIRITS. A gay little bird whose active wing Carried him close to my window here, Sang as happy birdies sing, And troubled thought was soon made clear. My heart uplifted in quick praise For help that comes on hardest days. A dear little girl, whose loving thought, Slipped into my own, her clinging hand, Spoke as sweet lives, Heaven-taught, Give message sad hearts understand. My soul responded in a prayer, . .■ Thank? giving for God's daily care. While the little bird had never pressed His wing through clouds like dimmed my sight, Yet on the darkness in my breast, He flashed Heaven's pure sunlight, While the little girl knew not what tried, Her hand led straight to the Helper's side. SINCERELY YOURS 69 WHAT MATTER? In many paths on life's long road, From these homes of earth to the Home of God, What matter, clear, which way we tread So our aim be straight Toward the narrow sate, And we walk as we are led ? And though sometimes we quite lose sight Of each other's way in the dark of night — What matter, if when sorely tried We see His face At the crossing place, Though we miss all else beside ? 'Tis a narrow road and the veil between Your path and my own, is just a screen, What matter then if we see not through ? I know you are near, And you need not fear, But that T will come to you. Keeping with Him, there is but one end To this road of life we must all trend. What matter how our pathways wend If out of the strife Of the earthly life, Our Master we learn to know ? 70 SINCERELY YOURS A TRANSPLANTED FLOWER (To the memory of Helen Rogers Armstrong.) The master walked in his garden, one chilly aut- umn day, And beckoned to the keeper — "I'll take this flower away. The winter winds are coming, and in the biting blast, 'T would quickly droop. I'll move it, where it shall bloom and last. In one of my bright south windows, transplanted carefully, 'Twill shed its helpful fragrance, and gladden all who see. It mars the garden's beauty to take the best away, But in the sunny window see what is placed to- day. And when the Spring shall open, all fresh, and bright and sweet, This flower shall greet your vision, its beauty all complete." The Master, Christ, in His garden, walking one sad, dark day, Spoke to His garden-keeper — "I'll take this flower away, Eor life's hard winds are coming, and in the bitter chill SINCERELY YOURS 71 'Twould suffer much. I'll move it, where comes no hurting ill. In one of the many mansions, transplanted by my care, 'Twill live, and grow to beautify the Heavenly Home so fair. It robs the home of beauty, to take the flower of love, But, in eternal gardens, 'twill wait for you above. And when life's winter ended, safe in the Other Home, In wondrous beauty glorified, you'll find your precious one. 72 SINCERELY YOURS "IT WASN'T IN THE BOOKS." (To C. A. J.) He came from eastern prairie-lands, All covered white with snow, To seek the Arizona sands Where stones and cacti grow. He studied well his railroad guides, The whole long journey out, Until the western country He knew everything about, As printed in the books. The cowboy and the broncho gay, The burro and his song, Sweet music of the birds all day The green tree boughs among, The perfect roads with driving good, Throughout the whole long year ; The pure, unclouded sunshine Full of health and hearty cheer, These were printed in the books. SINCERELY YOURS 73 He raised his head and spread his chest Arrived in Phoenix town, Endeavoring to see the best In redman, white and brown. To curio and ostrich farm, To mines and orange groves He went in eager spirit, That the pleasure-seeker knows, When following out the books. Awakened one dark morning By sound like dripping rain, He turned (such thought quick scorning) Closed his eyes and slept again, Till a good half hour after He heard the "breakfast" call, And raising high his window, Saw the earth in darkest pall, Such as wasn't in the books. Kain in drops, and sheets, and rivers, On the Phoenicians came, And through four days gave them shivers Though they wouldn't own the same. Mud, adown the perfect roadway In flowing torrents broke, While the earth remained enveloped In an atmosphere like smoke. Not mentioned in the books. 74 SINCERELY YOURS This poor, deluded mortal From snowy lands so cold, Began to smile and shake his head At stories that were told. "Yes, quite unprecedented; Oldest inhabitants Haven't seen the like of weather Since the days of Indian dance, That von read of in the books." But, being a philosopher, (As tourists mostly must) He waited for the sky to clear, And dry the flowing dust, And now, in sunshine bright and warm He basks and meditates, "Well, after all, it matters not "Wha1 anyone relates In the pages of the books. "Because in ' Arizona air' There's something fine and pure, That through all kinds of weather Has a strength that will endure. Just call it anything you wish, Locate it as you may, Words can't suggest or picture it, Or drive its charm away, Or vet tell it in the books." SINCERELY YOURS 75 THE SILVER LINING. These days of autumn splendor, When earth seems glad and bright, My thought., uplifted, reaches A larger, purer height. My heart grows strong and eager; My mind seems quick and clear, To think and speak God's praises, When only joy is near. But when the darkness gathers, And cares make long my day, Do I then as surelv thank Him Eor leading all the way ? When tired brain and body, Under burdens sore, have cried, And anxious hope is weakening For the boon that seems denied. When hands outstretched and trembling Just fail to reach the prize, And precious treasure slips away Before my longing eyes, 76 SINCERELY YOURS When words unjust are spoken, And aims misunderstood, While but mistaken effort Seems the work I meant for good, Then — can I say as quickly, "Dear Lord, I take Thy will ; Whatever comes, e'en darkness, Ts thy benediction still ?" I plead, O, Heavenly Father ! For Thine all abundant power To give me strength in weakness, For each hitter, testing hour. Grant me the sweet possession Of an ever present Lord, To quiet my life's tempests, By His softly spoken word. Give me faith to pierce the shadows That but veil His glorious might, So I may work in patience, - 'Till the dawning Morning Light. SINCERELY YOURS 77 OTHER THINGS. (To F. B. P.) "You see, it was my first Thanksgiving away from home, and then — some other things — well, never mind." Heart speaks to heart Of thoughts that filled a long and lonely clay, Faced bravely in that strength each hour brings ; Tells of a burden found along the way And then, impulsive, adds — "Some other things — Well ! never mind !" Could we but tell, Ah, yes ! — These "other things" if we but knew, How deep would probe our vision into life. If w T e could read the heart-thought clear and true How much would be revealed of deep soul- strife. But "never mind !" Some things there are Touching these lives, not meant for friendly shar- ing Because the Father would a lesson show — A lesson just for self — whose patient bearing Gives strength the battling soul alone can know. Then "never mind !" 78 SINCERELY YOURS ; Tis better so. And when shall come that day of last reward, For burdens we have borne through love of Him, I think the dearest "well done" from our Lord Will be for "other things" that He has seen. So "never mind !" SINCERELY YOURS 79 IN "THE GARDEN OF THE GODS/' MANITOU, COLORADO. What hand has shaped these outlines Of man and beast and bird? Was sound of the workman's chisel Within these gates once heard 1 What painter's brush has traced them In tints of red and gold? What voice had power to call them, These wonders manifold ? Born at voice of that Master Who said— "Let there be light." Trained by hand of that Workman Who made the day and night. 'Neath the sweep of that magic brush Which painted tree and flower A garden of the gods in truth, Tor here is Godlike power. lfi_ e — AV h a t night looked on his work And saw that it was "good," Has left His presence lingering here In blessing where He stood. The peace of Nature breathes on us Trom distant mountain peaks. The loving heart uplifted here, With its Creator speaks. 80 SINCERELY YOURS HE GOT THERE. Up the garden pathway, slowly, Her hat back on her head, Comes a sorry looking maiden. With hands and face all red. As mamma sees her coming, She waits with sober face, To hear from Nan the story Of this — the last disgrace. The week has been full of trouble; Each day, from morn till night Some tangle to be straightened, Some wrong to be set right. The busy traveling feet, And inquiring little head, Into forbidden pathways The naughty girl had led. She'd cooked the stuffed owl for "turkey," "Playin' Thanksgiving yon know," And put feathers in the flower bod, "To have some chickies stow." SINCERELY YOURS 81 Her kitty will remember Throughout his nine-lived age, The day ho helped "play circus" As a lion in his cage. The cage was the warming oven. And little Nan "forgot" Till Mary built a fire That made poor kitty hot. J Twas one thing then another All done in thoughtlessness, And now — the last and hardest — She comes — faults to confess. A winsome little face she has — A merry heart is hers, But something much like sorrow The childish spirit stirs. As mamma looks upon her. Sees stains on face and dress, She thinks of a recent promise And the trouble she can guess. In one corner of the garden The bush of berries stands And, bending head before her— Is "Nan witli tell-tale hands. 82 SINCERELY YOURS "What does this mean, my daughter; Couldn't you keep away; Did you forget your Sunday verse That you had learned to say ? That 'Get behind me, Satan/ Did you remember then ?" "Mamma, I said it hard's I could And then, I said it again ; And, mamma, he DID get behind me And gave me AN AWFUL PUSH, And before I could try to stop him He'd pushed me right INTO THE BUSH." MORAL. — Keep away from the bushes. SINCERELY YOURS 83 A VALENTINE. (To W. J. P.) You may talk about your roses red, And dainty violets blue, And Cupid with bis arrows Through hearts of naming hue ; Of lovely maidens, dreamy-eyed With peachy cheeks and brows of pearl, But when it comes to valentines My thought reverts to "just one girl." She may not look as some folks do, "Ten thousand beauty" style, But there's a — something strong and fine In glowing of her smile. It shines so warm and helpfully, With message of good cheer, That pleasures of one's life increase And sorrows disappear. A wholesome personality, Whose pleasant, hearty voice Can talk good, common sense at length, Or sing sweet strains at choice. And when it comes to working hard She demonstrates her right To teach a school, or keep a house Or shine a higher light. 84 SINCERELY YOURS She is just a. "common" body, Yet quite uncommon too ; If all the rest were like her The world would he made new. A typical American Is she, my valentine, And the best that I can wish you, Is to find one just like mine. SINCERELY YOURS 85 TO "THE PURITANS." (Per Edna J.) To the honored pale-face sisters On the Hill Top of the West End, Pocahontas sends a message By the hand of squaw most trusty. Sends her band of loveliest maidens Found in all the prairies' borders. Maidens trained in every good deed Known in tepee, field and forest. From her wigwam in the First Ward, Pocahontas thinks upon you At the hour of falling darkness Sees you gathered by your wood-fire Where she much has longed to greet you, But must linger sad and lonely By the firelight in her wigwam. Till the night air, chill and grippe-y Has all vanished into sunshine. — In her stead her maidens greet you With the vow of peace and favor, Toward their noble pale-face sisters Who so kindly join to welcome To your home on Baker Hill Top. May the sunshine and the moonlight Send their spirits through your roof-tree, And the laugh of rippling waters Mix and mingle in your talking, — 86 SIXCERELY YOURS That this night-time long remembered, May give thoughts of joy and gladness Which will stay with every maiden, (Pale-face squaw or copper-colored) Through full many days of living On these prairies, or in far lands, Whereso'er their footsteps wander. — Take this greeting, pale-face sisters, From the hand of faithful maidens Who shall hear this message to you From the heart of Pocahontas. SINCERELY YOURS 87 FRAGMENTS. In His good time, in His own way God answers prayer we voice to-day And though the "waiting" long should prove What matters it, since 'tis His love Withholding, that the hour supreme Shall but perfect our holiest dream? For every "giving up" that Ave have done, If great or small, When in the name of Christ the Blessed One, God sees it all, And counts to us, for idols overthrown Treasures far greater than we vet have known. SINCERELY YOURS POP CORN" JOHNNIE. (Sent with man made of ear of pop corn.) To see you safely home this eve Would please me beyond measure, So if your heart it will not grieve I'll gladly take that pleasure. You see, I rather like your way And hope you think I'm "sweet," Because most folks who know me, say "Quite good enough to eat," Perhaps some things that bright men know Are far beyond my reach, But there's one thing that I can show If they'll but let me teach. Name their accomplishments all through, Then let me place on top One which shall crown all worth to you, Ability to "pop." SINCERELY YOURS UOTADI1S T G. (To M.) "Why do I keep dead blossoms _ When so many fresh and fair Hang fragrant on the hushes Scenting the summer air V 7 89 Yon call them dead and worthless, Wilted and brown and dry. Yes,— but they waken memories That will not fade and die. Quick hands outstretched and eager, To give the blossoms sweet ; A young face bright and loving My welcoming smile to meet; Soft, tender fingers touching Each flower caressingly Complete the memory picture In these faded flowers I see. "My little girl," I name it And in my weary hours I see it flash before me From out the wilted flowers. 90 SINCERELY YOURS COMPLETENESS. ("I live my life so incompletely!" — B. F. A.) Incomplete ? Yes, even so, If v T e measure results by garnered grain; And failure oft-times seems our dearest plan As we look over fields of pain. But the Maker, whose love designed it, His work will perfect in each If we but try in patience The lessons He would teach. He gathers each earnest effort; He numbers each kindly word And the heart-thought true and tender, He counts as if 'twas heard. The motive that prompts the action Misjudged by others may be, But the all- wise Heavenly Father The wish of the heart will see. Omissions, mistakes and failures That discourage and try us so To Him are loving offerings If we do the best we know. SINCERELY YOURS 91 A LETTER FROM SANTA GLAUS. (For Christmas eve exercise.) (A little girl speaks, with a letter in her hand.) Dear friends we're glad to see yon here, And hope you're glad to stay. We shall try to entertain yon But are very sorry to say Old Santa Clans can't help us As he has done every year, But sends instead a letter To say why he can't be here. I'll tell yon all about it And I'm sure you'll say its right, Though I know you are disappointed That he is not here tonight. (Turns to bear, who come? walking to the front.) Before I speak any longer I think it is only fair To give an introduction To our good friend ".Mr. Bear/' (Bear makes his bow.) He comes from where old Santa lives And brings us from his store Boxes, bundles, books and toys More than ever came before. With them he brought a letter From Santa's great big hand. I'd have him read it to you, But you could not understand 92 SINCERELY YOURS So / will try to do it As it came addressed to me. Now, hear the reason given Why no Santa Clans yon see. (Tears open letter and reads.) North Pole, America, Dec. 18, 18 — . Dear friends, with great regret I take my pen to write That I must stay at home and rest This coming Christmas night. Through all the year I've labored And haven't I been busy ! Hurrying round at such a rate It almost made me dizzy. I've made so many presents I had to build more room And jam it full of Christmas gifts In fact, I've had a boom. Business was good, hut I'm tired out, And almost sick in bed Dr. Frost says, "Stay at home, Or next year, you'll be dead." So here I am, and here I'll stay \ For some three months, and then I'll set my work shop going For Christmas work again. Just look for me next Christmas And surely I'll be there. Now, in my place please to accept My fviencl and helper — Mr. Bear. (Bear bows and begins taking presents from tree.) SINCERELY YOURS 93 HEARD 01$ THE COPPER. They stood at school's dismission To talk at the corner awhile. Her face downcast and sober, His, beaming 1 broad in smile. "Thanksgivin' Day tomorrow — Jolty ! I'm glad its come. "No school again till Monday. And heaps o' fun at home. "We're goin' to have a turkey And cranberry sauce and pies. And — Say! Why you lookin' so cross-like And kind o' mad in your eyes V "Guess you'd look mad in my place, With no turkey or nothing good, And just to have an old dinner, Of meat and potatoes for food. "How would you have Thanksgivin' With nothing to 'thank you' about? If you just lived at my house, I guess then you'd find out." Slightly nonplussed, he faltered — Then with quick protesting face, Questioned : "Well, ain't your father Just got him a good sure place ? "Ain't your mother well o' the fever ? Gee ! That's Thanksgiving enough. I'll bet I could have a good one Without anv turkev and stuff." 94 SINCERELY YOCRS "TIME IS SHORT." Yes, the time is short — so short, my friend, We should not keep its shade, For soon — so soon must come the end To all that life has made. The things we leave behind us, To count when life is done, Are the loving deeds that bind us To the dear ones left at home. Yes, the time is short — so short, dear one, That our tasks are over-planned; Many we know are poorly done, As they fall from a hurried hand; But the Maker of All, Who knows us, "Remembereth that we are dust." Let us live as we think He shows us, Leave results with Him, in trust. Yes, the time is short — so short, clear heart, We d;irc not make it vain, It seems so little is set apart For joy — and so much for pain ; So many to need the sunny smile And words that are kindly said ; Flowers given to the living Count more than to the dead. SINCERELY YOURS 95 TO YOU. ( Non-subscribers. ) Have you seen it \ Have you read, it ? Tf you haven't, hurry then, For I tell you that Gazette man Doesn't stop and bite his pen. When the news is in the air, Quick he settles down to work, Buffles up his smooth front hair And goes at it like a Turk. That's the reason that the items Are bright and fresh and new; That's the way yon rind what's doing And where and when and who. And the day that things have happened That same evening they appear In the columns of his paper, Plain and straight and true and clear. "Hustler V well now you are talking, For that paper leads the wax- In the boom that sure is starting And is headed straight this way. If you want to keep things moving For Arizona's fame Just pay in your subscription, And srive your street and name. 96 SINCERELY YOURS WORTH WHILE. So swiftly move the passing years, So close are blended hopes and fears. So full is life of bitter tears, We may forgive,- — we should forget. Not ours to pay the avenger's debt. So many lives to need our aid, So many hearts weak and afraid, Let's leave that injury unpaid. God makes it right, someday, somewhere. And vou and I can end it there. ~No time for aught but loving toil. We must not waste — we dare not spoil The days that come, nor e'er recoil, If they demand some sacrifice That seems perhaps a costly price. Things worth the while, must always cost. Things "given up" need not mean "lost" Bread on the waters freely tossed, After long clays shall come again With sure reward that shall remain. SINCERELY YOURS 97 So many graves in Oakwood now. That were not made one year ago, And you and I may never know How close upon the border-land Our wayward feet today may stand. Putting behind those hurts and stings, Forgetting all but helpful things, Welcome each day with good it brings. The past, all gone! — the present here. Live to the full a glad New Year. SINi ERE1 ) YOURS \\ ANSWERING FACE. Across the crowded li;iil my glance had wandered, As waiting music's sweel toned voice again, A little while in dreamy thoughl I pondered, Longing to put in words thai wondroua strain. Aimless, I looked qoI heeding, little caring, Where tx>ved my eye. Thai liarp voice had reached down So deep into my heart, that I was sharing In heavenly visions !<> the world, unknown. Uplifted far above the commonplace As though a veil, 1 gazed on all around, When, in one glance, I saw an answering face, Another heart, the music's soul had found. It -poke through softened glance and tender light Of features I had lately learned to love. My new found friend did your thought know to- night How close with it my own trod courts above ? Oh, sweet companionship of kindred sonls, By which in pleasant paths our feet are led To find that deepest thought is understood, Although oft times no spoken word is said. Communion closer such than many know, When hand in hand and face to face they talk, For heart to heart in friendship's path we go, Though far apart our daily steps may walk. SINCERELY YOURS ' , '' IT IS WEITTEK (Dec. 31.) "What I have written, T have written." — Pilate. Have I written on the pages Of the year so swift gone by, Thoughts to live through endless ages Or in deep oblivion die \ Eave my days been worth the living To my friends, in helpful giving, Keaching to the fullest measure, Good, thai deeper is than pleasure? Have I written on the faces In my daily walk in Hie. 1 [ope and pence or are there traces Of a burden, or of strife? Sympathy so much is needed— Have I seen and have I heeded? My loss greater than the ether, If I failed to help a brother. Have the little children brightened At my hearty, welcoming word, Or tender hearts been frightened By some quick reproof they heard? 100 SINCERELY YOURS Was the stranger in our meeting Gladder made by earnest greeting, Or, blinded selfishly, have I Erred in path of charity 1 What is written I have written — And my hand cannot erase Many things — that conscience smitten — I would gladly now efface. Words unworthy, actions hurried, Things I wish were dead and buried. But thev live — and I regretting, Long to know of their forgetting. Only God can make it whiter, All the record I have scanned, And my heavy heart grows lighter 'Neath the shadow of His hand. Clean and new the page He's turning, While my soul in honest yearning, Lifts to Him its eager "pleading, For His constant, kindly leading. SINCERELY YOURS 101 GOOD-BYE OLD YEAR So 'tis "good-bye," old friend, — You've done so mucb for me. In days all told, more rich tban gold Your kindly gifts I see. In quiet now, I face tbe end Waiting to say, "Good-bye, old friend." Good-bye, old year, — good-bye. 'Tis hard to let you go, For there are ways in your past days That just we two may know Ways leading far o'er mountains high, But now to them must be good-bye. And words — heart-words so true, Whose tones could tell so much, Eyes brave and clear, strong hands so dear, E'en yet I feel their touch. And shall they go with me or you ? Tell me, old year, must they go too ? You claim them for your own 2 Ah, well ! So let it be — But of my heart, they form such part You cannot take from me. So take your own and I take mine; I would not give what's mine for thine. 102 SINCERELY YOURS A PRAYER. O, Father ! Lead Thy child, While the fierce storm and wild Blows round about me! — Let me ne'er doubt Thee ! My hand in Thine safe hold, Shield me in night and cold, Till safe within the Fold Thy care hath brought me. 0, Master! Come to me ISToav in my need of Thee! Quiet the storm within, Save me from self, again," Take Thou my wayward will, My heart with peace now fill, That I may follow Thee On path of charity! SINCERELY YOURS 103 HIS REST. Have you heard his invitation Weary heart, by care oppressed ? Have you told to Him the conflicts That have raged within your breast? He is waiting to receive you And forever grant you peace ; Turn to Him and let His helping From your burden give release. .Not a peace that means forgetting, But a strength to bear and use, Every circumstance that enters In your life, — as He shall choose. Pain and failure, sorrow, sickness Such as come to every life He will touch and turn to blessing Yielding strength from all the strife. Strength that only comes with battling ;- Peace that follows victory. Would you have them? Let the Master Lay His "easv 104 SINCERELY YOURS UKDEKSTOOD. It is not for explanations Or the why to prove pain right ; It is not for kind assurance That I've bravely met the fight,- But 'tis left the quiet heart-tone Or loving clasp of hand To bring the needed comfort From one who can understand. Kind friends with grateful praises, To speak the help I've given, Seeming to think my journey Is easier turned toward Heaven, — And few — so few, remember That every life must bear Its portion of pain and sorrow, — Its weakness — sometimes despair. So when one meets me, knowing That I am of common clay Tired, discouraged and lonely, And will simply, kindlv sav — "Ah, yes ! I know— I have felt it," Some way it lifts my load, To clasp the hand of this other Traveling the selfsame road. SINCERELY YOURS 105 A PSALM OF TRUTH. (Apologies to Longfellow.) Tell us not in many voices, To "go south and then go east," For we followed those directions To Miss Miner's wedding feast. Mud was deep and mud was sticky, And we traveled several hours Just to view the lovely landscape And eat lunch between the showers. Much enjoyment and no sorrow Was our destined lot that day, Although each succeeding corner Found us further from the way. Roads were long and time was fleeting, But we wanted all the fun To he found inside the county So we gayly traveled on. Miles and miles and miles we journeyed Just to breathe the country^ air, And our joy had been perfected Tf we'd onlv seen Adair. 106 SINCERELY YOURS On thai morning of the wedding 1 11 thai journey to southeast, We were taugh.1 full many a lesson Which the following was not least. This! no! Miner, however certain Ee may seem to know the way, For lie sure will misdirect you, Ami in quick derision say, "Did you go south and then go easl And watch the telephone wires in air? Why sure you lo^si ijour wwy four miles And must have seen Adair." There were also other torments, George's "Number One" — and "Two," Who must every half ;i minute Each presenl his special view. • Heed them not. They are aol worthy Of a passing, slightest glance. Long black bottles their companions, And they steal when given a chance. Cherries, chickens, even turkeys Were not safe within their sight. And the bride was boldly robbed too Of a kiss, George claimed his right. SINCERELY YOURS 107 Trusl no Georges, however seeming True and honesl in their speech. They are simply waiting, watching For some tease within their reach. "1 )id you go south and then go east And watch the telephone wires in air? Why sure — von lost your way four miles And must have seen Adair." Novor mind, deluded mortals, All your words are but ;i waste, For we drove .is we desired, And found fun to suit our baste. All the journey and the wedding, Bride and groom and guests and home, Kepi us many i Lines remarking "We are surelv fflad we've come." Roses of the bride remind us Of the pleasures of the day While the <\"^> thai chased behind us Lead us now to think and say, "Life is sweel and life is bitter Some things good and some things sad, And we've learned to never listen. When unl ruthers fool us bad." 108 SINCERELY YOURS Words of such men will remind us, We can do our driving best And departing, leave behind us Wheel tracks that shall guide the rest. Wheel tracks that perhaps another Driving through some rainy day, May take heart, on seeing plainly, Follow quick, and find the way. Let us, then, discard directors And insisting we are right, Just go on as sense commands us And get home before 'tis night. "The Big Fouk. SINCERELY YOURS 109 GOD KNOWS. Over the grave of the unknown sleeper was placed a simple headstone, bearing the words, "God Knows." God knows — Ah, yes ! What countless things Are hidden from this human sight, That we can only leave with Him Till dawns the glorious Morning Light. Unnumbered graves on unknown hills, Like that on lonely RTebo's mount, Forgotten or unknown by man, And only God Himself, keeps count. God knows — Ah, yes ! The mysteries That weary many an aching heart, By Him are seen and understood Before the bitter tear-drops start. He knows just why that good must go ; Just why that hurting ill must stay. We cannot know. We only trust, Remembering that God guides the way. God knows — Ah, yes! What comfort 'tis To know the eye that never sleeps Sees all that is, — and every life In constant watchful memory keeps. He knows the hopes yet unfulfilled ; He knows the plan, the loss, the gain. He sees the depth of every soul And understands its joy and pain. 110 SINCERELY YOURS Gtad knows — Oh, yes! He knows each heart, And looking beyond that seen by man He reads the motive pure and true That lived before mistakes began. He sees the aim and not thei deed, And "wrong" in man's sight, oft may claim From His just judgment, the "Well done! For thou hast labored in My name." God knows — Ah, yes ! Our Father knows The least one of His children's needs, Seeing the want of every heart Far better than the heart that pleads. He knows all things, and this we know, "He doeth all things for the best." Then gladly let us leave all there Safe in Our Father's care to rest. OtC 26 \905 < • ''■':' ~k~W:'?&- l't . • ••...■ ■ • • • V'. . i ■I -\;v" ■•■ ' .■■>■- nh r . ■■'/'■ v ; .'<--\ ■'." .■. '."'.■ ■"'•'. y ' ■ •.• : :: ■'.''."■ ';.-. '. • ; v.."~".- .'.'•'■' "•.-,-: /■■;-, • ,. ■ ■' . ■ ■'iy ■ '■■ ' ,V.i '% ■' / '■■'■ • h ■ ■•;'■:,.'. '•■ .'.•.,'. V • ■ • ... •, - l--\ • ;j;jj ilji;! [] :; '.- .