LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. ®]|apA.^-nlaj«jri5|l f o. Shelf,.b-l-tSl>7 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. BY / JAMES BRAINERD MORGAN, Author of " Song Sermons and Other Poems," etc. BALTIMORE, MD: '^ Qi^^ H. K. Cammaxn & Bro., Binders. 1893. / Entered according to act of Congress in the year 1893 by JAMES BRAINERD MORGAN. In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washinsfton. D. C. To My Only Sister, ■ MRS. SARAH McKOWN, Gerardstown, West Virginia, This little volume is inscribed with fraternal love and gratitude. Elloeen .... 1 Be Gentle Unto All, 7 A Brother's Tribute, !» Life's Happiest Day, n A Song of Winter, 13 The Beauty of the Heart, . 15 The Parting, . . . 17 It Always Pays, . 21 Murmur Not, . . 23 My Valley Home, 25 At the Altar, 28 To Spring's First Minstrel, 21) A Golden Hope 31 Thanks for Hope 33 Summer Night Musings, 35 Paddle Your Own Canoe, 38 The Beautiful Mountain, 40 One Little Year, •11 Flowers, .... 43 The Stream By Which 1 Played . 45 Contents. The Sunny Day 49 A Fireside Chaunt 50 Album Dedication . 52 Live For Me . . 53 A Thought .... . 55 To a Loved One Gone Before . 56 The Opening Day 59 The Closing Day 61 Who'll Be a Friend to Me . . 63 The Meeting of the Years 65 To a Bride .... 69 The Song of the Wind 70 When Thou art Near . 72 Unfurl the Temperance Banner 73 A Wish for Thee 75 Longing for May 77 The Return of Spring 79 Epithalamium . 81 Precious Gifts 84 Withered Roses 85 A Parting Rhyme 88 Start Now . , . . 89 The Brooklet Sang of Love . 91 Contents. Vil The Song of the Hours Our Birdliiigs ... 0-1 Borne Bway On Receiving a Boquet , A S'ummer Sunset 97 . ICO . 101 Dedication Hymii . 103 To My Sister .... The Maiden Whom I Love . . 105 107 The Roses Now Are Blooming At Easter-tide .... . 109 . 112 A Morning Ramble . . , 113 An Evening Stroll . . . . A Nuptial Wish . . . . To M 117 119 . 120 . 121 J_ U -LVX . • , , The Death of the Day Autumn Leaves . . . . 124 To a Young Graduate The Dying Mother to her Child The Vigil of the Stars Christian Batteries . . . . 125 127 129 131 On the Bridge . . . . . Through Memory's Hall Passed Away 133 130 137 VIII CaNTE.^TS - A Stellar Fancy . UO The Bridal . . . . 141 The Death of Summer . 145 To My Wife . 148 A Note of Warning . 149 In Memoriam . . 153 One By One . 156 To Lillian May . . 157 Joy to the Bride . 159 A Young Hero . . 161 My Mother's Chair : 166 On the Threshold . 169 Garlands of Roses . 172 Ildewile ... . 173 Love's Invitation . 175 Passing the Milestones . 177 Twilight Musings . 179 STROLLINGS - IN "- SONGLAND. STROLLINfiS IN SOl-LAl. ELLOEEN. Tang-led amid the waving grass the golden sun- beams lay, Scattered all o'er the emerald mead one sunny summer day: The blooming flowers upon the air their pleasant perfume shed, While every leaf did bend beneath the balmy zephyr's tread. The little rill that wandered by, did sparkle in the light. And rippled forth its merry songs of innocent delight. As o'er a well-worn, winding- path that through the meadows lay, A gentle maiden, fair and glad, with springing step did stray. She was as graceful as the birds that warbled songs of glee. And lovely as the beauteous flowers that decked the dewy lea; Elloeen. Sweet as the music of the rill, her voice was soft and clear, As pleasant words in gentle tones did fall upon the ear; A soul of purity and truth looked ever frankly through The sparkling glances of her eye of clearest, softest blue, And for true loveliness and worth upon this earth, I ween, That few could equal, none surpass, the fair young Elloeen. Onward along the well-known path, with wild flowers bending o'er. And by the glistening rivulet's grassy, verdant shore; Now. 'neath the golden's sun's bright smile, now in the cooling shade. That leafy trees cast o'er the path, her roving footsteps strayed. Until within a little nook, where fairies well might hide. Hidden almost by guardian hills that rose on every side. Elloeen. With woodbine clambering all around, a little cottage white, By sudden turning of the path appeared at once to sight. Within that humble cottage home, upon a bed of pain, Beneath the power of fell disease long had a • sufferer lain; The cheering hope of health restored had weary grown at last. And with its pinions all adroop had from that bosom passed. No more upon that pallid cheek the rose of health should bloom. Or gleam of earthly life and joy unto that dim eye come; No more those feeble, fainting feet should wan- der forth in glee, Along the brooklet's grassy bank or o'er the verdant lea. With gentle touch fair Elloeen caressed the aching brow, And fondly spake in tender love, with accents soft and low, Elloeek, Sweet words of comfort and of cheer that came like precious balm Unto that weary, suffering heart, its sad unrest to calm, Full many days she thus had come, unfailing and untired, With thoughtful care, and bringing oft some luxury desired. Her gentle deeds of tender love bright beams of comfort shed Around the path those aged feet trod downward to the dead. Surely her care was well bestowed on one who knew the worth Of such true, Christian charity, so rarely found on earth; The glad light in the fading eye and the sinking voice's tone E'er told how dear that kindness was unto the fast departing one. And a great and sweet reward was in full mea- sure paid, Of inward peace and happiness, by Him who long ago hath said: Elloeei^. "When to give a cup of water in His name ye do not refuse To those who unto Him belong, youi* reward ye shall not lose. -At length one early autumn morn, when shining dewdrops bright -Fro n the perfumed hearts of roses cast back the new-born light— The silver cord of life was loosed, the golden bowl did break. Free from all earth's sorrows the soul its heaven- bound flight did take. And in the mansions of the blest, before the Great White Throne, Amid the ransomed hosts, methinks the happy saint made known The kindly, Christlike deeds of one of rare and precious worth. Who'd cast the pearls of faithful love around her path on earth. 0, may we all amid the scenes of earthly life below, About our varied daily paths with cheerful spirits go; 6, Elloeet^t. By tender deeds of gentleness, and words of peace and love, Lay up unfading treasures in yon bright home above, AVhere moth and rust doth not corrupt, nor thieves break through and steal, But which shall there be ever safe when e'en the earth shall fail. So that when all our days and works shall be completed here, We'll go to reap the rich rewards of endle.^3 blessing there. BE GEKTLE UNTO ALL. Be gentle uiito all — 'Tis pleasanter far To live with thy neighbor In peace than in war; E'«r do unto others As them ye'd have do. And friendship's sweet flowers Your pathway shall strew. Be gentle unto all — Kind words have a power To cheer the sad bosom, As dewdrops the flower, O, cast them about thee, Where'er thou dost go. And pleasure the truest Thy own heart shalt know. Be Gentle Unto All. Be gentle unto all — Oft dark anger yields To the magic-like power That gentleness wields; A soft, quiet answer The rising storm quells. And gentleness wins, Where harshness repels. Be gentle unto all, In thought, word and deed; The comfort of kindness All hearts often need; Oh, why should we ever, In anger or scorn, By unkindness make Another's heart mourn ? Be gentle unto all — And the kindness ye shoAv In rich fullness again Your own heart shall know; Like doth produce like, Where'er it doth fall; Then if you'd live smoothly. Be gentle to all. A BROTHER'S BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE. Amid sunshine and flowers thy birthday hath come. May sunshine and flowers be with thee for aye ! O'er life's earthly path thou hast traveled along, While full fifty years have glided away; The prints of their feet are now on thy brow, The down of their wings appears on thy hair. But all of them tell of victories won, And to hearts of love still make thee more dear. These fifty years have been changeful to thee, As one by one they have hastened along: They have rung in thy ears the varying notes Of funereal dirge and glad nuptial song; Love's sweetest blossoms they've gathered for thee. Have brought the sharp thorns of sorrow and care; Kindred's glad meetings thy hearthstone around, A daughter's farewell to travel afar. 10 A Brother's Birthday Tribute. They have gathered rich treasures of wisdom and mirth. In the Past's great store-house, no vision can see Save thine alone, when Memory comes And opens the portal with bright, golden key; Amid those fair treasures thy spirit may dream Of the gladness of girlhood, so sunny and gay— Of life's later years, unshadowed or dark. That forms life's record e'en down to to-day. The wings of old Time are never at rest, Unceasing he flies 'long life's checkered way; May he cast from his wings rich blessings to thee That brighter shall grow till life's latest day, And when even he has grown weary and died. May angels convey thy spirit in love, Where eternity's cycles no shadows do fling 'Mid the sunshine and flowers of heaven above. LIFE'S HAPPIEST DAY. Of all the days that form life's span, As here our mortal race we run — Each perfect as when time began — That come unto us one by one — Rich with the -morning's burnished gold, The noontide's gleam, the evening's rest, Which doth the purest joys enfold ? Which of them all is happiest ? O, when doth come life's happiest day ? Doth it appear with childish glee, In life's bright morn, and pass away Like some soft song of melody ? Or does it come when ardent youth Looks bravely up with kindling eye, Accepts Hope's prophecies as truth, Nor sees a cloud in all life's skv. 12 Liee's Happiest Day. Or does it como when the great sun, High in the zenith, shineth full. When Fame's or Love's rare prize is won, And Fortune's gifts are prodigal ? Or when the evening, calm and sweet. Sings its soft vespers to the heart. And we, life's changeful course complete, Await the summons to depart ? The happiest day of life, I trow. Is not confined to any age, And no estate, nor high nor low, Can claim it as a heritage; It dawneth fair for every one Who will its passing sweetness know. And walking 'neath its shining sun. Share in its gladness and its glow. The happiest day of life is known When truest deeds of love are done, Most kindness unto others shown. O'er self and sin most victories won; 'Tis these which give true joy, and make Our path through life a pleasant way. And bring, when done for Christ's dear sake, Heaven's endless, happy day. A SOKG OF WINTER, O, Winter has gaily come again, Witli its store of pleasures rare, And we would greet his frosty reign With songs of hearty cheer; And if we breathe a sad ah ! ah ! That summer now is o'er, We'll merrily trill a gay tra ! la ! That winter's come once once more. A mantle pure of sparkling snow Is stretching far and wide, As sleighers gay doth jocund go. In jolly mirth to ride; And oft there comes a glad ha ! ha ! Floating the hilltops o'er, AVhile jingling sleighbells ring tra ! la That winter's come once more. 14r A SoxMG OF Winter. Aud when we gather 'round the hearth. Withm our cheerful homes, We'll share bright hours of joy and mirth, Unknown till winter comes: With merry songs and gay ha ! ha ! The hours pass lightly o'er. And every heart doth sing tra ! la ! That winter's come once more. 0, winter has gaily come again, From his frosty, frozen shore; Warm hearts now join a glad refrain To see him back once more. Although we sigh a sad ah ! ah ! That summer now is o'er, We merrily trill a gay tra ! la ! That winter's come once more. THE BEAUTY OF THE HEART. A lovely form may charm the eye, With fairest comeliness and grace, And oft we are attracted by The witching beauty of a face; But there's a beauty far more true, Whose pleasing charms shall ne'er depart, But every morn and eve be new — It is the beauty of the heart. Beneath the weight of passing years The proudest form must stoop and bend, All outward forms that beauty wears Must fade away and have an end; The sparkling light will leave the eye, And from the cheek the bloom depart. But there's a charm that ne'er shall die — It is the beauty of the heart. 16 The Beauty of the Heart. This beauty scatters o'er life's path The gems of happiness and truth, And many charms in age it hath, As in the rosy bloom of youth; A charm that wreathes the earth with flowers, And doth the sweetest joys impart. And brightly gilds life's weary hours — The fadeless beauty of the heart. THE PARTING. Farewell, old coat ! For many months We've jogged along life's way together; I've found thee e'er a friend indeed, That did not change with change of weathe: Through weal and woe, 'mid sun and storm. Through sunmier's heat and winter's cold, Thou'st shielded me with ready web, And kindly didst my form enfold. Farewell, old coat I I love thee yet, Old as thou art, threadbare and gray, More truly than the sleekest coat That dandies sport on life's Broadway; A thousand pleasant memories rise Within my heart at sight of thee. Of halcyon days, when hope and joy Composed life's precious argosy. 18 The Parting. Farewell, old coat I Let others scorn, If so disposed, and say you're old; 'Tis true; yet old friends are the best, And age is venerable, I'm told; We've shared too many ups and downs. Have known each other far too well. To part because a stranger sneers. Or without sadness say farewell. Farewell, old coat I 'Mid checkerd scenes Which form life's record here below— Where bridal vows were softly breathed, Where burial prayers were uttered low — Where meeting gladness filled the heart, Where parting hours were dim with tears- Where Hope her golden censer swung And flashed a radiance o'er the years — The busy city's jar and hum. Its crowded pave and thronged mart. Where haughty wealth rolls proudly by, And poverty wears out the heart — The pleasant country's fairer scenes. Its blooming dells and fragrant heather, Its cordial friendships, heathful joys, We long have passed and stuck together; The Parting. m Farewell, old coat ! The cruel sun Hath sadly changed thy once rich hue. Frayed are thy edges and alas I A hole or two appears to view; Thou niight'st be mended, but 'twere hard To find the cloth with thine to match, Forced unions are not good, and, too, "A hole wears longer than a patch." Farewell, old coat ! Were language thine, Thou could' st a varied tale reveal, Of thrilling aspirations high, Of glowing thought and burning zeal — Of sad heartaches — of inward joys — Of dreamings far too bright to last — Of lofty hopes, of doubts and fears — Which ne'er beyond thy warm folds passed. Farewell, old coat ! Thou art a type Of what our mortal bodies are, On which we lavish so much thought, And cherish with such loving care; Like thee, they will grow old and fade, Despite our utmost love and pride, Until at last within the grave The wornout garb is laid aside. 20 The PARTixa, Farewell, old coat ! To don a new I sadly lay thee now away; Thou'st sei'ved me well and much I grieve To see the ending of thy day; Thou hast grown old and thin and gray, I know "tis more my fault than thine, And real comfort now demands That I should thy embrace resign. Farewell, old coat ! I breathe a sigh To think ITl feel thy clasp no more, Shielding my form in sun and storm, As in the changeful days of yore; I've worn thee long, I love thee well, For all that thou to me hast been; I lay thee by, but in my heart Thy memory shall long be green. IT ALWAYS PAYS. It always pays, 'Mid blame or praise, To do the right, whate'er betide, 'Though worldly wisdom may deride. The right at last is sure to win The victory over wrong and sin. It always pays, On brightest days. To heed the truth that clouds oft rise And darken e'en the sunniest skies; So for a change in time prepare, jSTo life is ever bright and fair. It always pays, On darkest days, When troublous cares and deep distress On every side about us press. When fortune and false friends depart. To labor on with dauntless heart. 22 It Always Pays. It always pays To tread the ways Of duty, purity and truth. In childhood, age and hlooming youth; All such, to faith and virtue true. Are blest, 'though skies be black or blue. It always pays, On all our days, To seek the light and do our best, As conscience dictates in the breast, And heaven's smile will crown our ways If thus we act-="it always pays. MURMUR NOT. Oh ! murmur not, 'though life seems dark. And gloomy clouds enshroud the sky. Be strong in hope and light will mark With brighter beams the bye-and-bye. Oh ! murmur not, 'though often here Should trials unto thee be given; The crosses that we rightly bear But brighter make the crowns in heaven. Oh ! murmur not, 'though those you love Should faithless prove when sorrow lowers. If you but trust, there's One above Who changes not in darkest hours. 24 Murmur Not. Oh ! murmur not, that fairest flowers That wreathe thy life should fade and (i: Such loss amid earth's sin-stained bowers Doth make a brighter crown on high. Oh ! murmur not, for over all Is one who knows each life full well, Who marks each little sparrow's fall. And ever "doeth all things well." Oh ! murmur not. With hope and strength Thy crosses bear and ills endure; Tread duty's path and know at length The day of full reward is sure. MY VALLEY HOME. I've wandered far away from thee, Valley Home, my Valley Home. O'er mountain, river, hill and lea. Valley Home, my Valley Home. Yet oft in loving fealty My thoughts go gladly hack to thee, And precious is thy memory, Valley Home, my Valley Home. Famed Potomac's glittering tide. Valley Home, my Valle;f Home, Doth proudly 'long thy borders glide. Valley Home, my Valley Home, Tall, towering mountains in great pride Guard thee in love upon each side. And matchless beauties 'bout thee bide. Valley Home, my Valley Home, 26 My Valley Home. The shock of war, the cannon's roar. Valley Home, my Valley Home. Where brave men met, have echoed o'er Valley Home, my Valley Home, I'm prouder of and love thee more, For richer in historic lore Art thou than any land before. Valley Home, my Valley Home, Thy rocks and rills and dells I love, Valley Home, my Valley Home, Thy mountains grand and shady groves. Valley Home, my Valley Home. O, wheresoe'er my footsteps rove, Fond ties about my heartstrings wove Doth bind to thee with deathless love, Valley Home, my Valley Home. Thy children's hearts are warm, sincere. Valley Home, my Valley Home; Thy sons are brave, thy daughters fair. Valley Home, my Valley Home; With thine no people can compare, May choicest blessing man knows here, Be richly theirs, now and fore'er. Valley Home, my Valley Home. My Valley Home. 27 To thee I fondly hope to come, ValleY Home, my Valley Home, There to renew the joys I've known. Valley Home, my Valley Home, "Mid thee my race of life to run, ']ylid thee to rest when life is done, Thou fairest land beneath the sun. Vallev Home, mv Valley Home. AT THE ALTAR, Upon this fair, auspicious day, Bright, beaming joys arise. As mortal lives are linked for aye In wedlock's holy ties. With tender trust fond vows are breathed, No shadow now appears, Sweet Hope with garlands fair has wreathed The smiling future years. Oh ! may thy hearts, while here below Thy paths run side by side, Retain the gladness and the glow Of bridegroom and of bride. May Joy its snowy pinions fold Where'er thy home shall be, And Fortune's jewel'd chalice hold No bitter draught for thee ! TO SPRING'S FIRST MINSTREL. Sweet musical warbler, first minstrel of spring. With joyous surprise now thy coming I greet, As thou dost fling upon the cool, matin air A full leaping flood of soft melody sweet; The sunbeams of morning that tip thy slight wings, And are shattered the tree's laced branches among, Seem filled with strange wonder and delight as they meet Thy clear, liquid notes of mellifluous song. Like delicate ruffles the spotless snow lies Along the fencerows, on the shady hillside, King Winter still lingers with loM'ering skies. And clings to his throne with an obstinate pride; But thy song is full of rich promises true Of bonnie blue skies, bursting buds and sweet flowers, Of the beautiful spring, virgin queen of the year. Who's making her way to this region of ours. To Springes First Minstrel, O. brave little wanderer, I fear that too soon You have left the fair land of blossoms and vines. That cruel Jack Frost will treat you unkindly For venturing" so soon within his drear lines; But should he presume to e'er reprimand thee, To stop thy free flight or do thee a wrong, Then come and receive safe protection with me, Or melt his cold heart with a sweet, happy song. A glad cordial welcome to thee I do give, Mistrust not my friendship, 'tis earnest and free; A wish in my rhymings for thee I would twine, As thou hast so joyously warbled for me. May the tall, graceful tree on which thou dost sing. Soon be filled with green leaves to curtain thy nest, Where thou may'st repose, 'mid the pause of thy songs. As the summers soft zephyrs shall rock thee to rest. 4 A GOLDEN HOPE. When fragrant flowers shall stand again In blooming beauty o'er the plain, Again shall robe, through sunny day, Dingle and hill in bright array. My heart shall be with deep joy filled. My soul with truest pleasure thrilled. And life be but a song of glee. For then thou'rt coming back to me. How sweet and bright will be the day, When wintry storms have passed away I How full of gladness and of mirth. When spring shall come again to earth ! My eager eyes in shining hours Will closely search for buds and flowers, For when they stand upon the plain To me thou'rt coming back again. 32 A Golden Hope. Oh I may the hours all swiftly fly — The days in quick succession die — The weeks and months in rapid flight, Fleet o'er the earth on wings of light, Until the happy hour shall come When I shall greet thee at my home, And purest joys shall live again, When blooming flowers stand o'er the plain. THANKS FOR HOPE. I am thankful I can hope — Ciias. VV, McKown. AVell may we give true thanks for Hope, That constant comforter of man. A bright-faced friend whose winsome smiles Gladdens the heart throughout life's span. When shadows fall o'er heart and home. When fortune frowns and all is drear, New strength and courage to us come As Hope's enlivening voice we hear. When life is bright 'neath cloudless skies. And blessings full and sweet abound, Hope whispers with alluring tones Of futures yet more richly crowned. 34 Thanks For Hope. 'Mid all the changeful scenes of earth, Hope fondly nestles in man's heart, And with bright prophecies of good Doth comfort, joy and peace impart. When strength departs and health is gone, And death's dark shadows 'round us rise, Hope lingers still and points the way To fairer scenes beyond the skies. SUMMER NIGHT MUSmGB. O. soft and sweet is the evening air, The perfumed breeze floats by, And gentle Luna, bright and fair, Smiles kindly from a cloudless sky; Beneath her glance the dewdrops bright, Like gleaming pearls about my feet, Are shining with her silvery light In the hearts of roses sweet. Beneath these star-gem VI skies so faii'j Caressed by zephyrs soft and light. My heart drinks in the beauty rare Of this lovely summer night; And sitting here in solitude. I yield unto its wierd control; As in a quiet, musing mood. Sad, solemn thoughts steal o'er my soul. o(j Summer N'ight MiTsfNGS, How many millions like to me, Have watched nig-ht's empress, fair and pale, Shed forth her soft light beauteously O'er limpid wave and verdant dale ! And on sweet, dewy eves agone, Have marked with tender, loving eyes, Those sparkling stars as one by one They strolled out on the deep blue skies. Those eyes long since have closed below. And ne'er again these scenes shall view; The hearts that oft did warmly glow With love and adoration true, » As they watched you planets roll. And read the lessons that they taught, Of truth and power unto the soul. Have passed away and been forgot. But yon fair moon and stars so bright Yet move in beauty through the sky. And give as fair and pure a light As when they first were placed on high. The balmy breeze is just as mild. The flowers the self -same perfume give, 'Though millions that have wept and smiled Amid their charms have ceased to live. Summer Night Musings. o7 So will it be when I am gone, And in the grave's deep silence rest; The busy world will still move on, With its toil and song and jest; Other fond eyes will view these skies, Other glad hearts with pleasure glow. The flowers will wear the same bright dyes. The same mild zephyrs softly blow. Oh I who will care that one wave more, Unnoticed 'mid the sea's grand chime, Doth break upon the shadowy shore That forms the boundary of time ! 'Tis but the common fate of all, Whate'er their station, fame or power, To each the sombre bier and pall Must come at the appointed hour. Yet far beyond those bending skies There is a land all bright and fair, And though this mortal body dies. My nobler part shall live fore'er. So may I spend earth's hastening hours That I shall live in endless day When moon and stars, sweet birds and flowers Have passed forevermore away. 'PADDLE YOUR OWN CANOE.'' O. reader friend, pray now attend, To this old maxim lend an ear, As o'er the tide of life you glide Be ever careful how you steer, And if the sky be black or blue, Ever "paddle your own canoe." Let none beside be left to guide Your vessel o'er life's mighty main, Lest in the hour when storm-clouds lower You find your trust in them prove vain; For oft are false those we deem true. Be strong and "'paddle your own canoe." Though some mistakes you chance to make, Yet such errors you may retrieve, And 'tis better far at times to err Than be pinn'd to another's sleeve; So all thy checkered voyage through. Be wise and "paddle your own canoe." 39 "Paddle Your Own Canoe.' With hand of care and conscience clear. Looking for light and strength above. With spirit strong to stem the wrong. And heart all filled with hope and love- With honor high and valor true, Do right and ''paddle your own canoe." And when at last you shall have passed Life's smooth or boisterous ocean o'er, O, may you land upon the strand Where storms and troubles are no more, And in the haven of pleasure true. Safely anchor your own canoe. THE BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAIN, How lovely is yon mountain now, To our fond, admiring- eyes, Arrayed from base to loftiest brow In gorgeous robes of autumn dyes ! Like to a monarch richly drest. It towers aloft in regal pride; An emerald crown upon its crest. And countless beauties deck each side. The lofty oak and pine tree green. The late wild flower with fragrance fraught, The dark blue rocks, the rills' bright sheen, Are all in witching beauty wrought. ONE LITTLE YEAR. One little year has flitted by, My bonnie wife, since you and I Together at love's altar stood — Since the beauteous bud of hope Burst into flower, and life's fair cup Was brimmed with full beatitude. One little year, whose jeweled hours. Enwreathed with joy's unsullied flowers. Have glided laughingly along; Each strengthening love's golden chain. And adding still a sweeter strain Unto life's thrilling anthem-song. One little year, how swift its flight I Its record, beautiful and bright. We now with thankfulness review: Hope's glad fruition it did bring, And o'er life's path did ever fling Rich blessings bountiful and true. -£2 OxE Little Teak. How much of happiness and glee,. Of heart-content, from sorrow free, This little year to us hath brought ! With argosies of beauty rare. And treasures choice, beyond compare. Each happy, hastening day was fraught. Should seasons of distress and woe, As mortal man must often know, By fortune's changes come to me. Thy sunny smiles shall gladden still. For every sorrow, every ill, I'll find an antidote in thee. One little year of beauty bright. Of love and song and sweet delight. Has flitted rapidly away; Oh ! may it but an earnest be Of brighter ones we yet shall see Within the smiling future's day. T^^LOWERS, The lovely flowers, so sweet and so fai'f , Are blooming- in beauty o'er hilltop and delb Filling with fragrance the soft, summer air, -And teaching bright lessons no tongue can e'ef telL They talk to our hearts of vii'tue and truth, Of innocence, gentleness, purity, love, And point old age and glad, hopeful youth. To their own native clime, fair heaven above. How bright do they seem when morning's pure beam O'er their beautiful heads is lovingly shed. And on their soft leaves sparkling dewdrops do gleam, Like diamonds set in a rose-tinted bed I And when o'er the earth eve's dark shadows creep, How charmingly fair are they then to the sight. As their soft eyes are closing so cahnly to sleep Beneath starry skies through the short summer night. O, is there one heart so callous and cold, That sometimes does not, 'mid life's weary hours, Turn from its worship of self and of gold, To love and admire the dear, precious flowers, 44 Flowkr^!. Ever to me they've a power to impart Rare pleasures the purest that earth can bestow, To fill with deep gladness my fond, loving heart, For ""my soul doth love and admire them so." Should sadness and sorrow mark the dark hours, And trouble and care be my portion below, Yet all is not gloom while the sweet, guileles flowers Their cheering influence about me doth throw. And when upon earth my life's work is done, 'Twould be a source of enjoyment to know That over my grave, though lowly and lone, Sweet flowers in their grace and beauty should grow. THE STREAM BY WHICH 1 PLAYED, The stream by which I played. In boyhood's golden day, Still glitters through the glade, Along its winding way : Its waters gleam as bright, As sparkliugly they flow, Their song is soft and blithe, As in the long ago. The Day~King did delight To gild its limpid sheen, A silver ribbon bright, 'Mid grass8y banks of green; The graceful willow tree. With yellow garlands drest, Bowed down in friendly glee To kiss the crystal crest. l^HE STR^bTAM By W'hIC'H I PlaYED\ The balmy breezes oft Did o'er it love to play, Dimpling with fingers soft, And tossing the light spray:, Each leaping wave that curled In beauty on the air, With jewels was impearled When sunbeams lingered there. A host of memories throng In pleasing guise today, As now I stroll along Old Mill Creak's winding way; Into the heart they steal, With a full tide of joy. Making me almost feel Myself again a boy. Full oft in boyish glee Unto its banks I've sped, With pants rolled to the knee, Have waded o'er its bed. And when bare feet I've splashed To make the white foam run. Each little wave so dashed Seemed giggling at the fun. The Stream By WfficH 1 Played. 4" "W'hat happy times I've kno\vu. With sense of skiU impress'd. As pebbles smooth I've thrown To skip along the crest. And make the ripples ride. Half a score or more. In circles far and wide, Till shattered on the shore. Por long, still hours I've sat. Till patience perished quite. Tempting with fitting bait The cautious fish to bite; Or with some pleasing book. Or caught in Somnus net, Time, place, and fish and hook. And self I would forget. O, golden boyhood's day I O, care-free long ago 1 Ye quickly passed away. E'en like the streamlet's flow. But while its waters run, 'Mid mead or woodland shade. The joys by it I've known From memory cannot fade. 48 The Stream By Which I Played. I've roved by singing streams, Aud rivers grand along, But none so brightly gleams. Or sings so sweet a song As the stream by which I played In boyhood's golden day, That glitters through the glade. Along its winding way. THE SUNNY DAY. The day is warm and bright and cheery, It shines and the light is never dreary; The roses bloom where the sunbeams fall. Giving sweet joy and fragrance to all, And the day is bright and cheery. My life is warm and bright and cheery, It shines, and the light is never dreary. My thoughts recall glad scenes of the past. Around the future fair hopes are cast, And the day is bright and cheery. Be glad, my heart, and still be singing, Rejoice in all that time is bringing, Though care and sorrow come to all. Into each life rich blessings fall, And the days are bright and cheery. A FIRESIDE CHANT. The flowers of summer have faded, The long, sunny days are now o'er, And winter snow -mantled and frosty, Has come forth to greet us once more. The soft, balmy breezes have left us, The blast is now bitter with cold. And snowflakes like phantoms are flying" In wildness o'er woodland and wold. But though cold storms may now gather. And the air be biting and keen. WeTl draw up around the warm hearth, And still have sweet summer within. The voice of sweet laughter shall gladden. As lightly it falls on the ear, The smile of afl'ection shall brighten, And each heart true pleasure shall share. A Fireside Chant. 51 The ^lad, merry song shall resound. And tones of fond friendship shall fall. Sweet enjoyment shall garland the hours. And peace fold its wings over all. Then, though the sky may be darkened. The winds be all piercing and keen. And without be the coldest of winter. We'll still keep sweet summer within. ALBUM DEDICATION. Go, little album, gather beauties rare, And bind upon thy pages fair, Sweet messages of love, That oft with happiness shall cheer Thy owner's heart when all is drear. And richest blessings prove. Go, and from Poesy's fair stores Cull brighter gems and richer ores Than Ophir's mines e'er knew; Gather the gayest flowers of wit. Fond love's warm words, and tokens sweet Of pure affection true. Go I and as no ruthless hand shall dare To pen upon thy pages fair False friendship's treacherous vow. So may the passing years ne'er bring To thy owner's heart one grief, nor fling A shadow o'er her brow. "LIVE FOR ME." Dark, gloomy clouds did veil life's sky. And hid each ray of cheerful light; My troubled spirit prone did lie. Wrapped in the shades of sorrow's night; My heart was filled with deep despair. Forsaken, sad and all forlorn; The earth seemed but a desert drear, And life scarce worthy to be borne. But, coupled with a cherished name, Bearing new light and joy to me, Upon the written page there came This little message: -'Live for me." Then from my heart the shadows fled. Beamed o'er my path a rosy ray. And faith and hope that but seemed dead. Trilled forth again a cheering lay. 54 "Live For Me." These tender words, so short and plain, Came unto me with magic power, They nerved my heart with strength again To battle through the darkest hour; I felt that life had still a charm That from dark care my soul could woo. And that my mind, my heart and arm Had still a mission here to do. And so have all some useful part To play upon life's active stage; A power to cheer some lonely heart, Some joy to give or grief assuage; Then, weary brother, ne'er despair. Nor think that life is vain to thee, For some fond heart, with faith sincere, May now be bidding: "Live for me." A THOUGHT. 'Twas born iu a moment, but what mortal can tell The wonderful power, the magical spell, Which over the mind of man it doth hold, Unpurchased by wealth, more potent than gold. 'Twas born in a moment, and from its dim home In the mind's deep cell it brightly did come. To break the dark bands of passion and error, Make honor and duty shine fairer and clearer. Until, led by its power and sweetness along. The world should awake to pleasure and song. 'Twas born in a moment, but when shall it die ? When the cheek shall grow pale and sunken the eye ? When the hand that penned it shall mouldei- iu dust. As moulder ere long it certainly must ? Ah, no I but its cheering and musical chime Shall echo and ring through the aisles of all time, Through the dark, dusty corridors of swift roll- ing years, Undimmed it shall linger when earth disappears. Thought is immortal, and when time is no more Its fruit shall be seen on eternity's shore. TO A LOVED ONE GONE BEFORE. Thou art gone I Death's all-triumphant sword Hath crossed thy path and 'loosed the silver cord Of thy young life and called thee hence In all thy blooming youth and innocence. Heaven claimed its own, and 'twas not strange that thou should' st die, Each grace of mind and heart had marked thee for the sky. Love could not shield thee from the cruel dart, Else it would ne'er have pierced thy guileless heart. Nor beauty nor high gifts nor hopes could save Thee from the cruel, selfish grave. Thou art gone ! Oh, how sad the thought ! The hours are now with sorrow fraught. And all the world seems dark and drear Since thy dear presence ceased to cheer. Thou art gone ! But still our souls do meet and mingle with thine own. Around* our hearts thy memory sweet doth cling like softest tone Of gentle music and shall ever be A talisman ic melody. To A Loved One Gone Before. Thou art gone ! The morn of thy .young lovely life is palled ! Away from earthly care and pain thy gentle spirit has been called, And borne by angel wings to a brighter, happier shore, There to meet thy loved ones who've gained the crown before; Who stand with songs within that happy land. And smiling bid thee join their loving band. While sister spirits sweetly bid thee come. And seraphs guide thee to their sinless home. To share with them their blest abode. And the sweet presence of a smiling God. Thou art gone I But in the shining realms of bliss Angelic hosts have met thee with a smile and kiss, And there forever shalt thou rest, 'Mid all the holy and the blest, While heavenly pleasures 'round thee roll. And joys celestial fill thy soul. "An amaranthine chaplet wreathes thy pearly brow," Attendant angels stand and wait upon thee now. And cull for thee ambrosial joys above. And fadeless pleasures in the courts of love. 58 To A Loved One Gone Before. Thou art gone I And though we ne'er shall meet again In this dark world of sorrow, care and pain, Yet we shall meet upon a happier shore, When this "vain parade of life" is o'er; In that bright home beyond the sky, Where parting tears ne'er dim the eye — Where sorrow's sun has never shone, And farewell is a word unknown, Where naught fond spirits e'er shall sever — There we shall meet and live forever. THE OPENING DAY. The gold-dust of the opening day Is strewn along the eastern sky, Bright rosy beams of new-born light Over the earth in beauty fly; The silver stars that for long hours Of darkness kept their vigils true, "Withdraw their guard and sink to rest Behind a canopy of blue. The seals of slumber once more break, As morning light salutes our eyes; With heart and mind and frame refreshed, With vigor new may we arise, And through the shining hours that mark The passage of this fair, new day, Go gladly forth to do or be. Wherever duty points the way. 60 The Opening Day. While day's bright hours a,re with us here, To useful labor may we go. And as our record of their flight True thoughts and worthy actions show; For they are passing swiftly by, And from earth will soon be gone, Then shall come the shadowed night, When no labor can be done. THE CLOSmG DAY. Again the sun has sought his couch, And hid his rosy, beaming light, Now once more the darkened shadows Fall from the sable wings of night. Another day has quickly fled To join the centuries gone before, Bearing all its joys and sorrows To the past's dim, mystic shore. Let us pause while now the shadoA, s Doth gather o'er each hill and dell, And ponder what is now the record This day before the throne doth tell. Is it one all bright and glorious With gentle deeds of peace and love, Or have sinful words and actions Formed the record borne above ? 62 The Closing Day'. Have we written o'er its pages Bright, sweet records that long shall live, That in future days shall bless us, And lasting joy and comfort give? Or shall it bear forevermore, Through all the weary, coming years, Dark records that we'd fain efface With many bitter, bitter tears. Full soon along the eastern sky Shall come the golden morning light, And another day shall brighten, Triumphant o'er the reign of night. So let us live that when 'tis gone, And doth fade its latest ray, Approving conscience shall reward us, And heaven's smile rest on our way. WHO'LL BE A FRIEND TO ME? Amid the checkered scenes of life. Of calm repose or raging strife. Of sadness or of glee — When pleasure's wreath is o'er me thrown. Or when my heart is sad and lone. Who'll be a friend to me ? Who with friendship, fond and true. My path of life will gladly strew With flowers sweet and rare; And when all others turn aside With looks of coldness and of pride. Will ever prove sincere ? O, who with sweet and witching power Will to life's sad or shining hour A rare enchantment lend ? Who will my sorrows care to share, And e'er entitled be to bear The hallowed name of friend. G4 Who'll Be A Friend To Me? Whose loving word and gentle smile. Will every passing day beguile With dearest joys below ? And when dark, gloomy clouds arise. Will point me still to smiling skies — The silver linino: show ? Who my halting feet will guide Through whatever may betide, In this cold world of care ? Who will lead me in the right, O'er smiling valleys, fair and bright, Or deserts dark and drear ? And when life's close at length draws near, O ! who will be the loved one dear Shall then sad vigils keep ? Who will receive my parting sighs, O ! who will close my weary eyes In death's long, dreamless sleep ? THE MEETING OF THE YEARS. Another year has run its course. And having- filled its mission here. Hath sunk to its eternal sleep With all the countless years Beyond the flood. Its days and weeks Are lyiny- cold and still Along the path of time. They all Have filled their places in the line And passed forevermore away. The records they have borne of us Must stand unchanged. The worthy deeds. If any such there were, with joy May be reviewed; the wrong shall mar Our future happiness, unless The bitter tears of penitence Shall fall upon the crimson stains of sin And wash them out forever. GG The Meeting of the Years. And now The glad new year, in bridal lotcs Of beauty and of light To us hath come. Rich promises Fill both its hands, and rosy hopes Do cluster "round its brow and cast A cheering light along the path It here must tread. At this auspicious hour — This solemn meeting of the years — Now when the Old and New have met And kissed, and morning stars do sing The advent of another year, In mercy sent unto our earth, 'Tis fitting mortal man should pause In earnest thought. E'en like a dream, Or tale that's told, the vanish'd year Hath passed away. But while it sped, Alternate light and shadow fell Athwart our paths, like changeful moods Of Aprir day. The sky, at times. Did bend in smiles, serenely fair. And from its azure depths the sun Of prosperous peace shone forth The Meeting of the Years. (i7 With undimmed light; within our hearts Song-birds have nestled close And waked sw^eet harmonies; flowers Around our way have softly shed The sweetest odors, and life seemed A glorious heritage. Anon The clouds of sorrow gathered thick, And over all the radiant scene Their sombre shadows cast. The sky grew black, the cruel winds Soughed sadly by, and at their touch The flowers of hope and joy grew pale. And from our hearts and homes The light departed, Rich benisons Have come to all, and every heart Has shared in good. But not alone When prosperous gales did fill the sails, And the sea was smoothe and calm Were precious gifts bestowed. Often In deep disguise tha blessing comes. In darksome mine the jewel lurks. So from the providence that seems The most adverse the soul oft gains Its richest legacies and plumes its wrings To loftiest flight of joy. ()8 The Meeting Of The Years. Before us now The new year stands. Its pages fair Are all unwritten still. To us Doth come the work of penning there The record of our lives. Our thoughts, Our words and deeds shall make The entries there, as fateful hours Speed swiftly by. The past has gone Beyond recall. Oh I may we all Learn well the lessons it hath left, And in the new year's volume fair Avoid the blots that mar the old. And multiply the worthy deeds That have been written there. To A BRIDK. Fair friend iu summer's golden hours. Upon thy bridal eve I'd bring- True friendship's votive offering. May smiling pleasure's thornless flowers E'er strew thy path, as through the bowers Of life thou goest; may joy -bells ring Within thy heart, and true love fling A fadeless radiance o'er life's hours. May every star in hope's bright bow. That cheers with promise bright, E'er in unshadowed beauty glow, Till in fruition's fuller light It melts away, as on day's brow Doth pale the silver stars of night. SONG OF THE WIND. Gaily and gladly forth I come Wandering away from my unseen home Flying on pinions, light and free, Over the earth and over the sea. A thousand freaks I merrily play, As I haste along my roving way: Whispering amid the forest trees, Sighing in the summer breeze, Flying on the dashing gale Through the flower-scented vale; Through the bustling city street. Over the country, fair and sweet. Dancing o'er the green-clad hills. Wreathing with curls the silver rills, Bowing the heads of golden grain, As freely I wander o'er the plain; Playing a merty hide-and-seek With blushes on the maiden's cheek, As 'neath my kiss they come and go. Tossing her curls from brow of snow, Song of the Wind. 71 Snatching soft rose-leaves from the stem. With breezy fingers carrying them, Tossing them about in merry play. Till tired I grow, then flying away. Catching the kite of the playful boy. Filling his little heart with joy. Driving the clouds in gladsome glee. Chasing their shadows o'er the lea, • Sipping bright dewdrops on the heath, With fragant flowers scenting my breath. Dancing o'er the river's breast. Lashing its waves to wild unrest. Thus freely I wander where I will. With none to curb or to keep me still. Now rushing in wildest fury along. Now soft as the close of vesper song. Now sad as the wail of dark despair. Now joyous and gay as a Highland air. Unfettered I go o'er brakes and bowers. O'er northern snows and southern flowers: On viewless wings I come and I go. So my fairy home seek not to know. My dwelling-place you never can find. For none have seen the roving wind. WHEN THOU ART NEAR. When thou art neai , o'er all my soul A sparkling stream of joy is poured; The fleeting moments as they roll. Are each with truest pleasures stored, When thou art near. When thou art near, no shade of sadness Can ever fall from sorrow's wing; Its sweetest songs of joy and gladness My happy heart doth ever sing, When thou art near. When thou art near, not e'en one thought In quest of good doth wish to roam; It seems to me the world hath brought Its choicest treasures to my home. When thou art near. When thou art near I seem to know All of sweet bliss the world can hold; My life is wreathed with pleasure's glow, With truest happiness untold, When thou art near. THE TEMPERANCE BANNER, Unfurl the temperance banner. And let it proudly wave, O'er hilltop and in valley, From rum's dark curse to save, Bid tempted youth and manhood Beneath its folds to haste, If they the drunkard's sorrow And shame would never taste. Unfurl the temperance banner, With bright hopes blazoned o'er. Sad hearts, long sunk in darkness, Rejoice in hope once more; The claims of truth and duty. And precious joys of home, Grow strong with love and beauty Wherever it doth come. The Temperance Banner. Unfurl the temperance banner. And bear it bravely on, With dauntless hope and courage. Till victory is won; Unfurl the temperance banner, With earnest song- and prayer, And in its spotless beauty, 'Twill triumph everywhere. A WISH FOR THEE. lu life's bright morn, when the rosy glow Of youth upon thy path appears, And smiling hope's bright, beauteous bow Doth sweetly span the coming years; When life is like a merry song, And 'round thy pathway thickly throng Sweet pleasures rich and rare. May smiling skies e'er bend above thee. And faithful friends who fondly love thee, Thy spirit sweetly cheer. When life's noontide sun is beaming In bright effulgence o'er thy way, And thou, past the age of dreaming. Art nobly mingling in its fra}', When 'mid the scenes of human life, Of active duties, toils and strife, Thy portion thou dost bear, 76 A Wish fjr The:*: May smiling skies e'er bend above thee. And faithful friends who fondly love the^ Thy spirit sweetly cheer. And when the shades of closing life Are o'er thy pathway thickly cast, When youthful hopes and manhood strife Are garnered with the mighty past; When life's curfew bell is ringing, And each feeble breath is bringing The last, sad parting here, May smiling skies e'er bend above thee. And faithful friends who fondly love thee, Thy spirit sweetly cheer. LONGING FOR MAY. While winter vlid linger, bleak and cold. With sullen clouds, 'neath a scowling sky. And icy storms swept the frozen wold. As the dull, dark days crept slowly by, A dear one asked, at that season drear. As her spirit longed for spring-time bloom, Its song of birds and its balmy air: "Will the beautiful Mav ever come ? "" Oh I often above life's pathway here Are sullen clouds and a scowling sky. The hard, selfish world is cold and drear. And trouble-filled hours creep slowly by As amid the shadow^s within — without — Saddened in heart and lonely in home. We ask w4th commingled hope and doubt: " Will the beautiful Mav ever come ? " 78 Longing for May. Gone will be winter, in season due, Soon sullen clouds will all take their flight, And the scowling skies grow soft and blue. When the springtime conieth, fair and bright; But the storm and the cloud come not in vain, And the dull, dark days, that cresp away, If rightly improved, will bring us gain Of light and joy in beautiful May. The fair, gentle one whose heart longed so For beautiful May again to come, Was borne by the angels years ago Unto a fairer and better home; No sullen clouds and no scowling sky Doth dim the light of heaven's sweet day, But joy-wreathed hours pass endlessly by. And all the year is beautiful May. THE RETURN OF SPRING. Cold-winter's reign at length is o'er. And all his power is gone, His frosty mace turns to a rose. As young spring takes the throne. With sunny smiles she waves her hand O'er hills and valleys green. While flowers' bloom and zephyrs* song- Proclaim the lovely queen. Her gentle voice is gladly heard Where turtle-doves do coo. And in the leafy bowers o'erhead. With songs the robins woo. 'Mid meads and gardens, perfume-laden. Trill anthems through the grove; O'er beds of bud, and spray and blossom. The balmy breezes rove. 8v) The Return ov SpKr^G. The babbling brooks, with limpid sou^. From icy fetters free, Now ripple joyously along. In melody and glee; The forest dons green garbs anew, Fresh robes the hilltops wear, And daisied dingles smile to greet The young queen of the year. The opening flowers now freshly bloom, With beauty bright and gay. And strolling zephyrs proudly bear Sweet perfumes all the day. O, winter 's gone and none will grieve. For spring is with us now, Let every heart a chaplet weave, To wreathe her virgin brow. EPITHALAMIUM. "Tis thy bridal eve, aud a radiant gem Is set for thee now in life's diadem, A solemn hour that life's stages divides — A sentiment into a sacrament glides I 'Tis a fitting hour love's promise to plight. When stars twinkle out on the brow of the night At the calm, holy hour when curfew bells chime And life seems set to a musical rhyme. Thou art leaving us now, but hope's brilliant ray Doth brightly illumine thy future's fair day. And love's sweet trustfulness, unshadowed and bright, Makes thy pathway all agleam with beauty and light. We would not detain thee, or mingle a tear In the cup of thy gladness, so sparkling and clear, Aud yet a touch of deep sadness doth steal About our hearts 'mid the joy that we feel. 82 Epithalamium, Thou art leaving the home where so long thou hast dwelt, And the altar at which so oft thou hast knelt, A fond mother's love, a kind father's care. Oh, may they by contrast seem never more dear ! Fond brothers and sisters, who've encircled thy way With garlands of love which can never decay, And dear happy scenes as joy-freighed years Flew swiftly away with their hopes and their fears. Thou art leaving us now and the joyous band That in the dear by-gone did hopefully stand On childhood's bright plain is broken once more, Ah, those ranks upon earth shall be full never- more ! Oh, true, loving hearts with sorrow sincere, Shall sigh for thy wonted companionship here, While memory sweet, in garments of light. Will sing of the past and mourn o'er its flight. With gladness we think that the hour will come When thou shalt return to thy childhood's glad home, Shalt wander again, as in bright days of yore. And list to its song by the brook's grassy shore, Epithalamium. 83 Shalt pause with full heart aud muse on the scene Of tasks and of plays at old "Willow Green:" Shalt gather wild flowers within shady grove, And revisit the haunts we ever did love. 'Tis thy bridal eve. May this hour so bright, A prelude prove to a song more blithe, And the blossoms of joy that now brighth'^ glow, No withering blight in coming days know I Peace ever attend thee, whatever the way Thy footsteps shall tread in life's future day. And all that is best by our Father in Heaven To thee in His goodness be constantly given I PRECIOUS GIFTS. How sweet and precious are the gifts The Saviour doth bestow I More precious far than gems or gold, Or aught that earth can show. Joy, love and peace He freely gives To those who heed His word. While purity and heaven await Those who obey the Lord. Oh I may these gifts of Christ, our Lord, Inspire us all to give The service of our lives to Him, In whom alone we live. Here for His rich and precious gifts Our grateful songs shall rise, Until we sing, in glory given, His praises in the skies. WITHERED ROSES. Through the woodlands, 'mid the meadows, And o'er the breezy hills — In gardens fair, 'neath cottage eaves, Beside bright rippling rills — Where'er the beauteous flowers bloomed. Through summer's sunny day, The frost-king passed, and in his path Pale, withered roses lay. The curse that fell, when time was new. On Eden's lovely bowers. Yet lingers over all the earth. And blights its fairest flowers; So, too, in every human heart Dead, withered roses lay, And sadly rustle whene'er stirred By the breath of memory. Withered Roses. The sunny hours of childhood's day, And youth so fair and bright, With beaming skies and balmy air, Have gone in rapid flight; But many hopes which cheered the heart, Bloomed but to fade away, And 'long the pathway of the years Dead, withered roses lay. Hearts we have loved have ceaeed to beat, Hands we have clasped, grown cold, Lips we have kissed are mute and still Beneath the churchyard mold ! In sorrow dark the spirit kneels. With piteous sigh and moan. By tear- wet graves in lonely hearts, With withered roses strewn. 'Though wealth and pleasure hold gay court And cheat the heart awhile With pleasure's counterfeit, and seem Blest with earth's fairest smile, Yet when the song and dance are done, Beneath the outward sheen Of festal joy and careless mirth Are withered roses seen. Withered Rosses. Where'er a human foot hath trod. By mountain, vale or stream. Where'er a human heart hath loved, And dreamed hope's syren dream. In every state — in every age — 'Mid poor and rich, 'mid low and high. Sad hearts are often called to weep Where withered roses lie. But there's a fairer, better land, Beyond death's chilly river, Where friend meets friend in perfect love, To live in joy forever. There no sorrow e'er shall come. No sin — no curse — no care — No farewell tears — no breaking hearts — No withered roses there. A PARTING RHYME. Farewell, our joyous, sparkling friend I As hence thy homeward footsteps trend, No shadows of the summer flown Now be on memory's canvas thrown; In radiant light may all appear, E'en as its noontide sunshine clear, Pleasing for many a future year. Cull from life's stores and closely bind All precious gems on heart and mind. Mingling in scenes all bright and gay, Pause oft to think: "These pass away." Be bright, be joyous, yet be true E'er to thyself; life's duty do; Live to good purpose and thus shed Light o'er the path thy feet shall tread. START NOW. Would you gather wealth and fame ? Start now. Would you win an honored name ? Start now. Would you live a worthy life, With noble words and actions rife, Augmenting peace, allaying strife ? Start now. Would you cease from wrong and sin ? Start now. Would you be pure and clean within ? Start now. Sin is deceitful and a snare, Oh, of its dreadful power beware I To overcome by faith aud prayer, Start now. !)0 Start Now, Time is going, ne'er returning^ Start now. Go ever forwcird, working, learning. Start now; Impi'ove each season as it flies, Perform life's duties as they rise; To bless the earth and reach the skies, Start now. THE BROOKLET SA^G OF LOVE. Autumn's rich sunlight filled the land With softeiied beauty bright, And wove for every hill and dell Rare robes of golden light, When with the dearest one of earth, In gladness I did rove, Where sunbeams waltzed within the vale. And the brooklet sang of love. She was as lovely as sweet flowers That proudly kissed her feet, And cheering as the bright sunshine That smiled her face to greet; As graceful as the whispering weaves That did in music move Along their singing, shining way, Where the brooklet sang of love. 02 The Brooklet Sang of Love. A brighter gleam and fairer face The waters seem to wear, A richer gush of melody To fling upon the air, The while she sat with gentle grace, Within the green alcove, Upon the moss-embroidered rock, Where the brooklet sang of love. Long, lonely years had crept away, Since last we had clasp 'd hands, Yet absence held no potent power To break affection's bands; It only made our love more deep. The fond ties closer wove, As well we proved with happy hearts, Where the brooklet sang of love. The sunshine wandered from the skies And rested on our souls, As we stroll'd that rose-wreath'd eve, Where the shining streamlet rolls Its limpid silver 'mid the grass That carpeted the grove. And our fond hearts chimed with its song When the brooklet sang of love. The Brooklet Bang of Love. 9:3 Cold winter's icy hand may bind With crystal chains the riJl, May smoothe the dimples from its face, Its merry anthems still, Yet throughout life's on-passing years, Whatever they may prove, Our love shall be as fond as when The brooklet sang: of love. Bright angels guard my precious one From every earthly ill. E'er lead her steps thro' pastures green, By waters calm and still; ' May truest peace live in her heart. Wherever she may rove, And bright-faced joy sing 'round her path While the brooklet sings of love. SONG OF THE HOURS. We come from our home beyond the blue sky, And over the beautiful earth we do fly; We come when the sun with glance fair and bright Disperses the gloom and the darkness of night; We come when the noon with brilliancy crown'd, Scatters garlands of light and of beauty around; We come when the shadows of twilight do fall, And when robes of silver the stars cast o'er all; And 'tis for thee, mortals, we come and we go. And our coming and going marks your lifetime below. With hands full of gifts and lips full of song, We scatter rich blessings thy pathway along. Although dark shadows we sometimes do fling, Yet oftener far bright sunshine we bring; We give to thee friends, thy sojourn to cheer, Sweet love, fame and honor we often bring near. When dark troubles gather, our passage gives hope That the wine of sweet joy will soon fill up life's cup. Song of the Hours 95 O, look thee about thee, which doth outweigh The gleaming- or gloaming of life's earthly day ? We linger not long, and the flight of each one Brings nearer the time when life shall be done. For while thou dost doubt, resolve and delay, On footsteps unceasing we are gliding away. Take heed of our passing, to thee we are given As seasons in which to prepare thee for heaven. Go forth unto duty, be fearless and strong, Make thy presence a blessing, thy life-scroll a song, And so spend us all. that in bright, blissful bowers. Ye ne'er shall regret the flight of life's hours. OUR BIRDLINGS. We watched their wooing in spring-time sweet, And the little home-nest builded with care, Where wistaria and woodbine meet, A screen from rain and the sun's bright glare; We saw little mouths that opened wide For food that the busy mother brought, We heard her sweet chirp of love and pride — How like to our human kind, we thought. But the nest is empty; this fair, bright day The little wings were first plumed for flight. And under parental guidance away They gracefully flitted out of sight. Perhaps when the twilight again doth come, And the tender pinions needeth rest. Again will they seek their vine-clad home. And go to sleep in the old home-nest. BORNE AWAY. Samuel Gold, February 21st, 1891, Mrs. Jane Gold, March 4th, 1891. The current of the years Flows ever on and on. And bears beyond our sight Our loved ones, one by one; An only brother's form Late vanished from our view, And now so soon we mourn An aged mother, too. For fourscore years and eight She trod life's checkered way Of mingled light and shade That forms our earthly day. How short her long life seems Now that she has passed o'er The stream of mortal life Unto the unseen shore I 98 Borne Away. Into her open g^rave, The pure, soft snowflakes fell, And by their beauty bright Of fairer worlds did tell; A covering for earth's stains, They silently float down, E'en as Our Father's love Doth all His creatures crown. A spotless, snowy robe Upon her grave is seen. And 'mid its soft, white folds A cross of evergreen; They point us to the land That endless life doth know, And the saved soul shall be E'en whiter than the snow. The current of the years Flows ever on and on. And soon we shall be called To join our loved ones gone. Oh ! may we all meet in A fairer, better land, And there live evermore, A glad, unbroken band. Borne Away. vm.) Bear friend and brother, fare-thee-well ! We lay thee to thy dreamless rest In hopeful trust, until we, too. O'er death's dark river shall have passed Unto the other shore, There to meet with joy again, Beyond the reach of sin and pain, And live forevermore. ON RECEIVING A BOQUET- Thanks for the lovely gift— A beauteous offering, fair and bright, Of mingled crimson, green and white, A graceful coronal of light, And heart of flame; In perfumed garments, tinted by The matchless artist of the sky. It to me came. Sweet children of the sun and showers, Bright idols of the breeze. Fond nature's smiles, the lovely flowers Our outward senses please. And unto things bright, beautiful and true, With fragrant whispers, they do sweetly wop Us e'er our hearts to lift. A SUMMER SUNSET. The day-king is bidding his golden good-night From the old North mountain, so lovely and green, Where the myrtle and fern, the pine and the oak In bright summer robes of beauty are seen; His face is half -hidden behind the tall form Of the mountain-top, tipped with green fringe, On which the day-time and night-time appeared To the fancy of childhood to hinge. The clouds lose their lustre, their beauty is gone, To cloud, to hill-top, to green, grassy dell, Now dimmed and shaded by fast coming night, The fleeting sunbeams have whispered Farewell. The bright, rosy west is blushing with joy To welcome day's radiant king to his rest, To a purple couch and pillows of gold, He sinks through the bright amethyst; 102 A Summer Sunset. The birds have now sought their zephyr-sway'd nests, Their vesper song closed with the fading sun- beam, With little heads tucked under bright-colored wings, They are dreaming, no doubt, seme bonny bird- dream; The beautiful flowers have bowed their sweet heads, And are peacefully sleeping on their slight stems, While soft, shining dewdrops sweet pearls of the eve. Shall glisten and crown with bright diadems. The village is quiet and tranquil and still, The turmoil of day has sunk to a calm. No boisterous mirth, or shouting, or strife Disturbs the sweetness of day's closing psalm; One bright little star, the first of its train, Gleams out on the sky, a soft, mellow light. And shows that the beautiful daylight has gone, And around us has fallen the sweet summer night. DEDICATION HYMN. New Presbyterian Church, Gerardstown, W. Va, August i;5th, 1893. God of our fathers and our God, Our hands have built this new abode, And give to Thee, with praise and prayer, Who long hast had a temple here. We come unto this altar place Rejoicing in Thy constant grace; Oh I let Thy loving favor rest Upon this house and make it blest. Within these courts may Thy pure truth Be learned and loved by age and youth; Here may the sad and sinful find Pardon and joy and peace of mind. Thy saints with living bread be fed. And all in righteous paths be led; With good the people satisfied, And Thy great name be glorified. lO-t Dedication Hymn. As here we meet may each one be Fitted to serve and worship Thee, And hence afar to men below Glad streams of full salvation flow. Come, Triune God, with us abide, Be Thou our strength, our joy, our guide; Come, make this house Thine own abode, God of our fathers and our God. TO MY SISTER. Dear Sister mine, a wreath I'd twine Of poesy's fair flowers for thee, For love as pure as thine, I'm sure, Such tribute well may claim from me; I hope 'twill prove that though I rove Far from my boyhood's cherished home. That oft sweet thought with pleasure fraught. Of thee doth to my bosom come. When in sad death a mother's breath One summer day grew still fore'er. Thou then didst take, for her dear sake, A little child in love to rear; Full well hast thou fulfilled the vow Unto that dying mother given, And oft has she since then on thee Approving smiled methinks from heaven. 106. To My Sister. With earnest love, like hers above, Her wishes thou didst e'er fulfil, With watchful care that child to rear To love th9 g-Qod and shuu the ill; And here today, thoug'h far away, He in this little song I sing. With fond delight a tribute slight Of gratitude to thee would bring. Thy footsteps now have passed the brow Of life's hill and doth tend down Unto the tide that doth divide The Christian's conflicts and the crown; As years increase, may joy and peace E'er unto thee be multiplied. Life's sweetest flowers wreathe all thy hours, And blessings fall on every side. And when at last we shall have psssed Across death's dark and chilly river, Oh ! may we rest among the blest. Out in the unseen great forever. Where ne'er again come grief or pain, But all is endless joy and love. In the abode of Christ, our God, And angels bright and saints above. THE MAIDEN WHOM 1 LOVE. When the bright and beaming morning, Like a bride in rich adorning, From its oriental home With shining golden steps doth come, When the lark at dawn doth rise To greet the sunbeams in the skies, Then my thoughts do gladly rove To the maiden whom I love. When the quiet twilight hour, With a gentle, soothing power, Steals softly o'er the quiet earth, Giving to nobler thoughts a birth; When the curfew's silver chime Marks the pleasant evening time, Then my thoughts do fondly rove To the maiden whom 1 love. 108 The Maiden Whom I Lov.-?:. When the busy world is sleeping. And bright stars their watch are keeping', When the moon with silver ray Sails proudly on her nightly way. When the dews in pearly showers Do gently kiss the sleeping flowers. Then in dreams of joy I rove To the maiden whom I love. Where'er on earth iiiy steps are roving. And whatever life is proving, When dark sorrows thickly fall, Or joy's sunlight gladdens all, Sweet thoughts of her on me bestow The dearest pleasures earth doth know, And my fond heart, where'er I rove, Turns to the maiden whom I love. THE ROBES NOW ARE BLOOMING. The roses now are blooming In beauty rich and rare, With fragrance sweet perfuming The ambient summer air; The joyous birds are singing Glad songs of merry glee, And balmy winds are bringing' Soft whispers o'er the lea* Deep azure skies are bending In beauty bright overhead, While on the earth descending The rosy light is shed. Around me now and above Rare beauty do I see. All telling Our Father's love For creatures such as we. 110 The Roses Now Are Blooming. My soul drinks in the beauty Of this lovely summer morn. And new strength for life's duty Seems of its influence born. How kind is gracious heaven To us, poor, sinful worms. That has of beauty given So many pleasing forms ! But lovelier far than roses That sweetly scent the air, Or beauty that discloses From azure skies so fair, Are human hearts e'er breathing True love to God and man, And who with joy are wreathing Life's brief and fleeting span. The roses sweet will wither And shortly fade from sight, The warbling song-birds thither From us will wing their flight. The beauteous sky will roll Together in that day When like a burning scroll The earth shall pass away. The Roses Now Are Blooming. Ill But loving hearts that greet us With gladness here below, Through faith and love may meet us Where fadeless flowers grow. And dearest joys they've given Upon earth's sinful shore, Shall sweeter prove in heaven And bloom forevermore. AT EASTER-TIDE. In grateful songs of joy and praise Our hearts and voices blend To celebrate the matchless love Of that Almighty Friend Who laid His life down for our sakes, And took it up again, That we by Him might conquer death, With Him in glory reign. No power of death could hold Him down, He triumphed o'er the grave. And ever lives in changeless love, His trusting ones to save. Oh I that all hearts would yield to Him, In hopeful faith and love. Rise from the death of sin and shame. And live with Him above. A MORNING RAMBLE. The moru was bright and very fair, With glittering jewels in her hair, Around her waist a diarooud belt. While at her feet the night-shades knelt Her tuneful lyres were sweetly playing Greetings to the zephyrs straying, And from their dewy, sweet repose Awoke the lilv and the rose. Along the margin of a lake, Where silver waves in music break, And the sunbeams bright are seen Dancing o'er the limpid sheen. Kissing its up-turned face so bright. And breezes dimple with footsteps light. In their merry morning play, I took my joyous, strolling way. IM A MouNiNG Ramele. I wandered o'er the purple heather. Where the sunbeams love to gather. There to spend the summer hours Sporting with the fragrant flowers; Where the balmy breeze was sighing. With the golden sunbeam vieing For the happiness to sip The dewdrop from the daisy's lip. At length I gained the mDuiitain's brow, All bathed in morning's roseate glow, While far beneath me, on each side, Lay lovely landscapes in their pride; Distant hilltops robed in green, With flashing silver streams between, And woodlands wherein song-birds sweet The rising day with music greet. Again with musing step and slow I sought the charming vale below. Strolling the darkened paths along, Listening to the wild-bird's song, As from some lofty, leafy tree He trilled his matin song of glee, Making the echos ring again With his wild, impassioned strain. A MoiiNiNG Eamble. 115 I saw upon the mountain side. A cold and cheerless rock beside, As 'twould o'er it sweet fragrance shed, A blcoming flower rear its head. "Its eoft and scented leaves did cling Unto the rock as a living thing. As though it would with sweetness rare That darkened wilderness e'en cheer. I plucked the flower but still there hung A fragrance 'round the rock that clung As if it did in sadness grieve Its wild but native place to leave, As with the rock 'twould gladly share The cold abode, the home so drear. And o'er its rough and barren head Its sweet perfume and beauty shed. 'Tis eo I thought with human hearts I The hardest one in mammon's marts May have some clinging human flower To cheer and bless life's lonely hour; To win it back from pride and pelf. And make it like its own sweet self. The flower may die, but the impress made Can never whollv from it fade. IHJ A Morning Ramble. On viewless pinions swiftly borne, From earth soon passed that summer morn, But the little flower I have it still, And it doth hold a power to thrill With memories sweet that ne'er can die. Although its faded leaves are dry, But like the scent it doth impart, Shall linger sweetly about my heart. AN EVENING STROLL. Through the meadows robed in green, Beside the brooks's bright, glistening sheell, We wandered when the closing day Cast over earth its parting ray. And peace on dell and green hill-crest Did like a benediction rest. With earnest words or playful jest We strolled along or paused to rest Where the quiet waters glide In a calm and placid tide, ^ Or merry ripples sing the song Of gladness they have known so long. Dark clouds came drifting o'er the sky And hid the blue dome from the eye; So oft o'er hearts come grief and care, Yet we know the blue dome is there, And that in beauty fair and bright, Tomorrow it may cheer our sight. llg An Evening Stroll. 'Twas the same stream by which I played In childhood's day, through grassy glade. With merry boys who now are men, With girls as lovely now as then. How fair each by-gone scene appears^ Seen through the vista of the years ! How brightly did the waters gleam, How cool and sweet their shores did seem. As through the sultry summer day It wooed from irksome tasks away The weary, pent-up pupils seen In school-room walls at "Willow Green.'' We tossed dull, dog-eared books aside, When school was out, and gaily hied To merry games, as "Fox and Hounds," "Open the gates," and "Clear the Grounds," "Town Ball," "Steal Clothes," "Hide and Seek," Along the banks of old Mill Creek. Long years have come and years have gone, But still the laughing waves flow on; And years will come and years will go. And still the brook will onward flow. In beauty bright, though smiles or tears Be woven with the passing years. An Evening STnox,"L. ll'D The waters run to reach the &ea. The years drift to eternity I But when is dry the rippling rilL And earthly years fore'er stand still, JVIay we all meet and pure joy know Where streams of living: waters flow. A NUPTIAL WISH, Calm be the waters — propitious the breeze That wafts thy life-barque forth over the seas; The pilot be Truth — the cargo be peace, Love, faith and gladness that never shall cease; And when the voyage all safely is passed. In the harbor of heaven may the anchor be cast. TO M . 'Mid a rosebud's perfumed heart A dewdrop brig-ht one morn did lie, Gleaming like a tear just wept Glittering from a Peri's eye; It cheered the thirsty, drooping flower E'en with a sweet, refreshing power. Gentle words and deeds of thine Oft on my weary heart have lain. Like that dewdrop on the flower. Dispelling sadness, care and pain. TO A YOUNG GRADUATE. To-day you reach the glowing height Towards which foud hopes so long have turned, And grasp, as by a victor's right. The prize by faithful efforts earned. True, loving friends rejoice to share The joy that in thy bosom glows, And note the honors which declare Thy school-life's glad, triumphant close. But think not that thy work is done, Now that fair school-girl days are o'er. Life's earnest work is just begun. Its burden lieth yet before; Those youthful days that sped along, With eager plans and studies rife. Were but the prelude to life's song, And but the arming for its strife. 122 The Death of Day. The beautiful day is dying, And no mortal power can give Its jeweled hours back unto earth, Or cause it again to live; Its golden moments, improved or not, No more return; Well should we heed their rapid flight, Their lessons learn. The beautiful day is dying — 'Tis now memory's favorite time To roam green fields of pleasures past, Joy's long-hushed bells to chime;; Now vanished scenes, too bright to last, To new life start. And friends we loved in the long ago Stroll through the heart. The beautiful day is dying — Oh ! hallowed is the hour. As shadows fall from day's death-bed. With a sweetly solemn power, About the heart; and thoughts too dear For the noon's bright glare. Too sacred to meet the harsh world's gaze, Our spirits stir. The Death of the Day. - 123 The beautiful day is dying, Its record is almost closed, Before its Maker's throne 'twill soon In truthfulness have deposed Concerning the thoughts, words and deeds Of men below, Casting its weight in the mighty scale Of bliss or woe. The beautiful day is dying. And one more link in the chain That binds us all to old time's shore Is snapped by its death in twain; . So may we live that when every one Like it hath flown. We'll live in joy where no dying day Is ever known. 128 The Dying Mother to her Child. The death-dew now is starting- On my brow, The last, sad hour of parting- Has come now. Oh ! do not let it grieve thee, Darling, so ! My blessing I do give thee, Ere I go. May friends rise up around thee. When I'm gone, And purest joys surround thee, Precious one; May nothing ill betide thee, All thy days, Our Heavenly Father guide thee In His ways. Then when on earth are ended All grief and pain, By angels bright attended. We'll meet again; And oh ! in bliss forever We shall dwell. Where naught our lives shall sever- Dear, farewell ! THE DEATH OF THE DAY. The beautiful day is dying. On a crimson couch in the west. All stained with the life-blood flowing From night's deep wound in the breast; Dark curtains are drawing closer About its bed, And shadows grow thicker and denser. Till the day is dead. The beautiful day is dying, And the quiet stars arise, To light with their silver lamps Its passage into the skies. Then o'er its tomb their vigils keep Until the morn Proclaims unto the waking world A new day born. 126 To A Young' Graduate. Life is before thee; may it be A growing record, fair and bright, Of worthy deeds performed by thee, In the great cause of truth and right. May coming years, with gladness crowned, A rich and precious fruitage bring To radiant hopes that all around Are now so brightly blossoming. THE DYING MOTHER TO HER CHILD. The withered leaves are lying O'er the lea, The autumn breeze is sighing Mournfully; The meadows now are turning Brown and sere, My heart is fondly yearning O'er thee, dear. The summer flowers have faded On the stem, Thy life will now be shaded, Like to them; The dead leaves have been falling. Day by day, Now death's sad voice is calling Me away. AUTUMN LEAVES. The autumn leaves are falling Beneath the frost-king's tread, Strewing fair summer's pathway To mansions of the dead; Their bright, fresh charms have vanished, But richer robes they wear. As days grow short and chilly, And the end of life is near. When life's sad autumn cometh, And summer days are o'er. We like to them shall vanish. To live on earth no, more. Oh ! then may robes of beauty, Fairer than earth can know. Be ours in realms of glory, Where endless summers glow. TRE VIGIL OF THE STARS, Mrs. George McKown, December 11th, 1873. For the first time the stars look down Upon thy new-made grave to-night. And gently on the sacred mound Doth rest the soft and silvery light. 'Though wintry winds now wail around, A requiem o'er thy last long sleep, We fondly deem thy rest less lone. While the bright stars their vigils keep. In memory's sky the stars of love — Sweet, gentle words and deeds of thine- Now, through the shadows of the tomb. With fairer light and beauty shine; Where'er on earth our paths shall lie. Whatever sky may bend above, Within our hearts can ne'er go down The golden stars of thy dear love. 130 The Vigil of the Stars. A.niid the sadness and the grief That shrouds life's leaden sky tonight, The shining stars of hope beani forth, With a cheering, radiant light; They point the sorrowing spirit up To that bright, beauteous world afar. Where thou dost rest in bliss with Him Who is "the bright and morning star." 'Though the bright stars now first look down Upon thy new-made grave tonight — And 'though on thine and ours may fall Through countless years their silvery light , When they at length have i:>aled fore'er. Our souls may live on that blest shore Whose light is th' Lamb — to praise His love, And shine as the stars forevermore. CHRISTIAN BATTERIES. Each Christian church should surely ho An active battery in the field. Where alcohol's dark hordes we see Their dreadful power for evil wield; Let pew and pulpit in their might. As love of tempted souls inspire, March to the thickest of the fight, And never be afraid to fire. Each Sabbath school within our land An active battery should be. With faithful strength and courage mann'd, To save from rum's dread tyranny: Into young hands our country's weal Or woe for future years is given. Oh I may they fight with valiant zeal For the great cause of home and heaven. 132 Christian Batteries. Load up the guns with truth divine — With God's own word that standeth sure, His warning 'gainst the treacherous wine, His blessings to the good and pure; With cheer of hope and earnest prayer, Send forth the solid shot and shell, Till round old Rum's unhonored bier We gladly hear his funeral knell. Forth to the conflict bravely go. Ye soldiers of the Truth and Right, And in due time man's deadliest foe Must surely yield unto thy might; The grog-shop's hosts, though strong and great. Our country fair no more must rule. But find defeat whene'er they meet The batteries of Church and School. ON THE BRIDGE. 'Tis the calm hour of evening when sumbearas do fly Away from the earth and the world becomes still, When Luna, the fair faced, ascending on high, Doth rise so gracefully up over the hill. And bright, twinkling stars from their home in the sky, Look down and smile at themselves in the rill. I am far from the scenes where on pinions so light. The years of my boyhood fled swiftly along, And the springtime of life, all golden and bright, Doth seem like a dream or a glad, swelling song; But Memory, the sweet one, in robes fair and bright. Now hath borne me once more those dear scenes among. 134 On The Bridge. One calm eve like this, ere the last gleam of day Its fair flight had taken on wings viewless still, AVith a friend of my youth I had wandered away To the home of the dead who sleep on the hill, And returning we paused, a moment's delay, On a low rustic bridge that spans a bright rill. The clear, pearly streamlet beneath us did glide. With musical murmurs along its fair way. And all the glad waves of the bright, silver tide Were wreathed with the beauty of evening's soft ray. While we who had sauntered there side by side, Did linger to hear it and see them at play. She held in her hand a bright cluster of flowers And on the clear waters that sparkled below The soft, perfumed leaves in sweet, rosy showers With quick, graceful motion did carelessly throw And the roses so fair, like life's brightest hours, Passed quickly away on the stream's ceaseless flow. We watched the bright waves, with their soft, dimpled hands. As they chased each other and hasted along^ On The Bridge. 135 E'er running and falling- all o'er the bright sau Is And singing their ceaseless and musical songs, 'Til their laughter's sweet echos, like magical wands j Did strike thrilling notes our heart-strings among. Like the flowers that so long ago she did cast Upon the bright tide of that clear, sparkling stream. Long years with their sunshine and shadows have passed, But still precious thoughts of my poem's sweet theme Bright garlands of joy to my heart doth now clasp. As here at the death of the daylight I dream. The scenes of the present all vanish and fly. As these memories sweet my spirit doth thrill , While Luna, the fair-faced, ascending on high. Doth rise all gracefully up over the hill. And bright, twinkling stars from their home in the sky Look down and smile at themselves in the rill. THROUGH MEMORY'S HALLS. Through Memory's perfumed halls I stray, And 'mid the charms that therein lay, Forget the conflicts of to-day. The fair, sweet light of by-gone years Around me falls, and re-appears The joy I knew ere I knew tears. Within these halls fain would I stay. But Duty summons hence away. And her command all must obey. PASSED AWAY 'Twas when sweet, guileless flowers, Did deck the dell, And birds, in leafy bowers, Their joy did tell, Home to her Saviour God Her spirit fled, And 'neath the daisied sod We made her bed. Flora's sweet charms since then Have all grown pale. In every grassy glen, O'er hill and dale; The warbling birds have flown All far away, And autumn leaves have strewn A mantle gray 138 Passed Away. Over her grave; the sdow Doth lightly rest — A spotless robing — now Above her breast; The wind with mournful tone Doth seem to sigh That e'en so fair a one In death must lie. But, though we sadly miss Her presence here, Our lonely home to bless, Our hearts to cheer, A little while and we Shall meet again, When from earth's cares we're free- Have crossed life's main. A few more summer hours To quickly fly, A few more beauteous flowers To bloom and die; A few more joyful lays From birds below, A few more wintry days Of rain and snow; Passed Away, 139 A few more songs to rise And charm the ear, A few more weary sighs To breathe out here, A few more hours to grieve, A few of mirth, And we'll be called to leave This changeful earth Then if we've lived aright While here below. Unto a land of light With joy we'll go, To meet our cherished friends Upon that shore Where joyful meeting ends, Oh, nevermore. A STELLAR FANCY. 'Tis said that when we see a star Shooting across the night-sky blue, The wish we frame ere it expires Is destined to come true. I never see a shooting-star But that I think, dear one, of thee. And from my heart doth leap the prayer That thou may est happy be. THE BRIDAL. Within a village church A bridal party stood, Young manhood in its prime, And gentle maidenhood. Many dear friends had come, And gladly gathered there, As by true nuptial rite Young lives were link'd fore'er Without, the pure, fresh snow O'er field and woodland lay, Earth's spotless bridal robe. In keeping with the day; Within, the pure sweet flowers Their cheering beauty shed, To fitly grace the scene When youthful lovers wed. 142 The Bridal. Soft music's gentle tone Stole through the quiet air, A fit prelude — inwove With solemn vow and prayer To sweetest symphony •That true love ever gives, To mark the rhythmic flow Of fond, united lives. The fateful words were said, 'Mid silence deep and still, And two young lives were bound Henceforth for good or ill; Whatever life may bring Of joy or weary care. They go with hopeful hearts In mutual love to share. How fair the sacred scene. When trustful hearts in youth Unto each other pledge A life-long love and truth ! O, fraught with meanings deep. That reach out far and wide. Are plighted troths when breath'd By bridegroom and by bride. The Bridal. ^-^'^ The coming years to them Shone beautiful and bright, As the full-orb'd sun of hope Shed forth alluring light; But loving hearts were sad, And tears they could not hide Bespake the pain of parting With her, the gentle bride. O, happy, proud bridegroom, To thee this hour is given The most precious prize This side a smiling heaven ! A woman's trusting heart, With all its wealth of love. That shall throughout life's day Thy richest blessing prove. What sacrifices great She in this hour doth make How much of love and joy She leaveth for thy sake \ But love for thee doth prove Stronger than all beside; All weaker ties she breaks To be thy cherished bride. 144 The Bridal. The scenes that her yoimg heart Hath ever held most dear; Her sunny childhood's home, Its ceaseless love and care; Her kindred and fond friends, Whose truth long years have shown, All — all she leaveth now To go with thee alone. Across life's pathway here Dark shadows often fall. And e'en earth's happiest pair May not escape them all; But faithful love and hope Doth still shine clear and bright, And gild the darkest hours With beams of golden light. O, wedded ones, to whom The future now doth seem A path with flowers abloom Along joy's sparkling stream. May skies be bright above, And earth be fair below. With all of truest good That human hearts may know. THE DEATH OF SUMMER. The bright, sunny summer is over. Its glad, golden days have all fled, And the beauteous bloom of the year Lies faded and withered and dead. 'Mid music and fragrance and beauty Its bright days sped over the land, And dropp'd in the sea of the Vanished, Like gems from a diamond strand. Rich blessings the Summer did lavish On these earthly pathways of ours — Gladness as bright as its sunshine, And joys as sweet as its flowers. 14