IMAGE EVALUATION
TEST TARGET (MT-3)

£?^

t-^/

1.0

I.I

,50

Ilia iM

IIIIM

3 6

2,0

1.8

1.25

1.4 |l.6

■* 6"

►

e}.

//,

c:':

-C0 ^

omy

Photographic

Sciences
Corporation

\^^

^9)

<i.^

23 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580

(716) 872-4503

^^^

&?-

0",

CIHM/ICMH

Microfiche

Series.

CIHM/ICMH
Collection de
microfiches.

Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions Institut canadien de microreproductions historiques

1980

Technical and Bibliographic Notes/Notes techniques et bibliographiques

The Institute has attempted to obtain the best
original copy available for filming. Features of this
copy which may he bibliographically unique,
which may alter any of the images in the
reproduction, or which may significantly change
the usual method of filming, are checked below.

D
D
D
D

D
D

n
n

Coloured covers/
Couverture de couleur

Covers damaged/
Couverture endommagde

Covers restored and/or laminated/
Couverture restaur^e et/ou pelliculde

Cover title missing/

Le titre de couverture manque

Coloured maps/

Cartes g^ographiques en couleur

Coloured ink (i.e. other than blue or black)/
Encre de couleur (i.e. autre que bleue ou noire)

Coloured plates and/or illustrations/
Planches et/ou illustrations en couleur

Bound wiLh other material/
Reli6 avec d'autres documents

Tight binding may cause shadows or distortion
along interior margin.

La reliure serree peut causer de I'ombre ou de la
distortion le long de Sa marge int6rieure

Blank leaves added during restoration may
appear within the text. Whenever possible, these
have been omitted from filming/
II se peut que certaines pages blanches ajout^es
lors d'une restauration apparaissent dans le texte,
mais, lorsque cela 6tait possible, ces pages n'ont
pas 6t6 film^es.

Additional comments:/
Commentaires suppl^mentaires;

L'Institut a microfilm^ le meilleur exemplaire
qu'il lui a 6t6 possible de se procurer. Les details
de cet exemplaire qui sont peut-dtre uniques du
point de vue bibliugraphique, qui peuvent modifier
une image reproduite, ou qui peuvent exiger une
modification dans la m6thode normale de filmage
sont indiqu^s ci-dessous.

I I Coloured pages/

Pages de couleur

Pages damaged/
Pages endommagdes

□ Pages restored and/or laminated/
Pages restaurdes et/ou pellicul^es

Pages discoloured, stained or foxed/
Pages ddcolor^es, tachetdes ou piqu^es

I I Pages detached/

Pages d^tach^es

Showthrough/
Transparence

Quality of prir

Quality in^gale de I'impression

Includes supplementary materic
Comprend du materiel supplementaire

Only edition available/
Seule Edition disponible

I I Showthrough/

I I Quality of print varies/

I I Includes supplementary material/

I I Only edition available/

Pages wholly or partially obscured by errata
slips, tissues, etc., have been refilmed to
ensure the best possible image/
Les pages totalement ou partieltement
obscurcies par un feuillet d'errata, une pelure,
etc., ont 6t6 film^es d nouveau de fapon d
obtenir la meilleure image possible.

yi This item is filmed at the reduction ratio checked below/

Ce document est film6 au taux de reduction indiqud ci-dessous.

10X

14X

18X

22X

26X

30X

12X

16X

20X

24X

28X

32X

The copy filmed here has been reproduced thanks
to the generosity of:

National Library of Canada

L'exemplaire filmd fut reproduit grdce d la
g6n6ro8it6 de:

Bibliothdque nationale du Canada

The images appearing here are the best quality
possible considering the condition and legibility
of the original copy and in keeping with the
filming contract specifications.

Original copies in printed paper covers are filmed
beginning with the front cover and ending on
the last page with a printed ur illustrated impres-
sion, or the back cover when appropriate. All
other original copies are filmed beginning on the
first page with a printed or illustrated impres-
sion, and ending on the last page with a printed
or illustrated impression.

The last recorded frame on each microfiche
shall contain the symbol --^- (meaning "CON-
TINUED"), or the symbol V (meaning "END"),
whichever applies.

Maps, plates, charts, etc., may be filmed at
different reduction ratios. Those too large to be
entirely included in one exposure are filmed
beginning in the upper left hand corner, left to
right and top to bottom, as many frames as
required. The following diagrams illustrate the
method:

Les images suivantes ont 6t6 reproduites avec le
plus grand soin, compte tenu de la condition et
de la n-ittetd de l'exemplaire film6, et en
conformit6 avec les conditions du contrat de
filmage.

Les exemplaires originaux dont la couverture en
papier est imprimde sont film6s en commenpant
par le premier plat et en terminant soit par la
dernidre page qui comporte une empreinte
d'impression ou d'illustration, soit par le second
plat, selon le cas. Tous les autres exemplaires
originaux sont filmds en commenpant par la
premidre page qui comporte une empreinte
d'impression ou d'illustration et en terminant par
la dernidre page qui comporte une telle
empreinte.

Un des symboles suivants apparaitra sur la
dernidre image de cheque microfiche, selon le
cas: le symbole — »- signifie "A SUIVRE", le
symbole V signifie "FIN ".

Les cartes, planches, tableaux, etc., peuvent dtre
filmds d des taux de reduction diffdrents.
Lorsque le document est trop grand pour dtre
reproduit en un seul cliche, il est filmd d partir
de i'angle supdrieur gauche, de gauche d droite,
et de haut en bas, en prenant le nombre
d'images ndcessaire. Les diagrammes suivants
illustrent la m^thode.

32X

/A"

THE HERO

OK THE

I DRAMA OF G

IS.

AN EPIC OF SACRED STORY.

REV. J. HARRY KING.

HALIFAX, X. S.:

NoYA Scotia Pkinting Company.

1895.

Entered for Copyright in the Office of the Minister of Agriculture,

according to Act of Parliament of Canada, by

Rev. J. Hakky King,"

1895.

§ulic'iXtion.

Agriculture,
by

TO THE

Beloved Companion

OK MY

YoiTH AND Early Strucgles';
THE Sharer ok
My Every Ambition and p:kfort,
kor the
Welfare ok Men ;
My Affectionate Wife,
This Volume is
Dedicated

in
I'e:

otl
su

8Ul
th(

est

uni

tas
des
ver
sc'i(
the
pi a

PREF^ACE.

AS to the title, let no one infer from it that the author
doubts the authenticity of the Scripture involved.
For he accepts it as the revealed and inspired Word of
God.

The scenes and incidents in the life of Joseph are so
interesting and connected, and lead to such a striking
lesult, that the title is thought to be justifiable.

"There are three points in Theology, about which all
other things naturally revolve;— a supernatural book, a
supernatural life, and a supernatural destiny." Such a
sul)linie and important truth is beautifully illustrated by
the life of our hero.

The author presents it in verse, with the aim of inter-
estingly disclosing a divine i)urpose in the affairs of men ;
and of arousing a greater interest in Sacred literature.

No atteuipt is made to merely please the esthetic
taste of the critics, many of whom are better able to
destroy than to create. No claim is made to proficiency in
versification. With due regard for Sacred truth, and con-
scious of defect, the life of our hero is portrayed from
the shepherd's crook to the nation's sceptre, with the
piayer that it may be a blessing and inspiration to many.

J. H. K.

i 1

THE HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENESIS,

AN EPIC OF SACUED STOPvY.

CANTO THE FIRST.

IN time primeval ere alwdes of men,
Were lianissed with the suro-ing of the throngs,
That now press hard upon each fair retreat,
That till the world with passion, strife, and toil.
There dwelt in sacred Canaan, Israel.
'Midst scenes of nature in themselves adorned
With all the art of God, and hallowed by
His footprints and His presence oft, revealed ;
The Patriarch revered and served the Lord.
His was the land, to him becpieathed by Heaven,
By Heaven reserved for his posterity.
The heritage with milk and honey tiowed,
And nourished on its bosom Israel's sons,
Who, stalwart, roving shepherds soon became.
And in their flocks and herds were much increased.

HERO (}F TllK IJUAMA OK (»KNEHI8.

II.

Of hoary a^^e was Israel, and ycfc
His licart was youn^, replete with hope and joy,
For God had in his latter days rt oaled,
His tender love in Joseph's l)irth, who, as
An angel sent his pilgrimage to cheer ;
Imparted solace to his fleeting life.
Jehovah had him blessed with many sons,
And crowned him with tlie honors of His grace,
But Joseph was his joy and evening star.
While yet a babe, the father loved him more.
Than all his other son.-,, and day on day.
Of sweet companionship confirmed the bond.
That bound the hearts of ripening age and youth.
Rachel, she also fondly loved the child,
His life the tendrils of her heart entwined ;
Her God had granted respite by his birth,
And crowned her with the bliss of motherhood.
Sometimes when Israel would worship God,
With staff in liand and Joseph by his side,
He oft, was known the hill-tops to ascend,
Where, in the verdant groves, his son was taught
The " God of Jacob " to adore and love.
Thus loved and nourished in his tender years.
And taught the path of rectitude and life,
The lad increased in purity of heart,
While lieavenly favour rested on his brow.

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF OENEHIH.

HI.

Now Israel, in Joscpli's conntoiifince,

Bohold tho lovin^r face of liis deceased,

And loner l)eIoved Rjichel, who. had died,

When Benjamin was bom, and left Ins soul,

Depressed with grief and utter loneliness.

And so he watched the youth with jealous cure,

And ne'er refused to manifest his love,

Amidst the clamour of his elder sons ;

But clothed him with a i-obe of varied hues,

•Significant of favor and regard.

From youth the elder sons of Israel,

Were prone to thoughtlessness and evil ways,

And could not he restrained hy love or hate.

So when this seeming injudicious sign

Of love, provoked their anger and ill-will,

Ere long a jealous denjon was aroused.

To goad their hearts with hate and envy foul.

And when at home or with the tlocks afield,

Should Joseph chance the company to share,

They treated liim with envy and reproach ;

Nor did they e'er speak peaceably to him.

cruel Envy, could thy power be seized,

And banished from the heart, how much

Of sin and discord would the world be saved !

How peacefully would children of one blood,

With one another dwell and honour worth,

Which often in their fellows is revealed !

HERO OF THE .«RAMA OF GENESIS.

>r\y

Tis not injustice makes us discontent,

Nor honour siiown to those who earn reward,

So nmcii as envy rampant in the heart.

Which veils from view the worth of noble souls,

And magnifies the littleness of self.

The poor by poverty are not made mean,

The rich by gain are seldom satisfied,

For discontent and envy rule the heart;

More than contentedness and gratitude.

IV.

The rustic habits of young Joseph's life,
Imparted to his soul an earnest mood,
Of contemplation on the works of God :
And oft, alone among the gentle flocks,
That grazed the verdant slopes, and drank
The babbling brooks, by Nature's voice constrained,
To heaven his spirit soared on wings of faith
And adoration pure of Him, who framed ,
The myriad spheres. Tims was his soul engaged
With lofty themes l)y day and night, thus did
He hold sweet fellowship with God, who sent
His angels to encamp him 'roumi about,
While gently sleeping 'neath tne silent stars ;
And to reveal to him in visions bright,
The mysteries that lurked about his lire.
One lovely night as shone the golden worlds.

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

And gentle zephyrs floated o'er the land,
Quite wearied, Joseph soii(:,dit repose in sleep.
The heat, the toil, the envy of the day,
In phantom forms preyed tliick upon his mind.
Till horrid darkness spread him 'i-ound, and hope
Of breaking day and beauteous scenes were lost
When, suddenly, the darkness disappeared,
And spectres fled before the full-orbed light,
Which angels flashed upon their revelry ;
And clear before his startled vision rose
A harvest scene. Beneath the azure skies,
He with his brethren bound the golden sheaves.
While songs of plenty floated in the air ;
And Jo ! his sheaf stood upright in the midst
Of theirs, which made obeisance 'round about.
As subjects bow submission to their king ;
And then, the vision faded from his view,
And soon in Slumber's arms he fell asleep.

He did not wake till daylight streaked the sky.

And rose the sun above the Orient ;

But vividly the nightly scene returned.

The memory of it occupied his mind.

And lost in wonderment of its intent,

His brethren sought, and made it Icnown to them.

They were astounded at the things revealed,

And quick of heart their meaning to divine,

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

Denounced him as a visionary knave,

And tlien impeached him with a vain design

To ^"ain supreme dominion over them,

And hated him the more in consequence.

He, innocent of any ill-desii^n,

Was much perplexed and disappointed that

His brethren mocked his frankness, and mahgned

Him for his good intentions to discern

The will of God concerning destiny.

The more his brethren fed the envious flame

That burned within their heart, by evil thoughts,

The more estranged to Joseph they became.

But Joseph found in Nature's varied forms

Companions — full respondent to his soul ;

The sun, the moon, the stars he studied long.

And traced their orbits in the studded sky,

Till lost, his soul would tread The Milky Way,

Enraptured with the music of the spheres.

Which in their courses hymned the praise of God.

Why wonder that his soul while thus engaged

Should ever and anon enraptured be

With visions far transcending earthl}^ things ?

Wh}^ wonder, that Jehovah should ordain.

The things familiar to himself, to be

The medium by which to prophesy ;

Events that should transpire in his day ?

HERO OP THE DRAMA OP GENESIS.

CANTO THE SECOND.

■-ff

That soul that would behold fair scenes and rise

Above this mundane sphere where cares prevail,

Must muse on heavenly things, and contemplate

The spiritual ; must hold communion sweet

With God, and converse with His wondrous works,

Whicli demonstrate His character to man.

Beyond the realms of human sight, there are

Resplendent scenes, which, when the soul lieholds

The spirit world becomes enhancetl and true,

And earthly charms depreciate the more.

To some, the mountains blaze with chariots,

All marshalled to the order of the skies ;

To others, they are but confusion wild,

In which the moaning winds hold carnival. '

Divine effulgence, is to him displayed.

Who, with his senses keen is found engaged

In penetrating all the human mist

That broods upon the surface of the world.

The eyes that are engrossed with earthly joys.

That gloat on evil siglits do never see

The glories of the skies ; and he that treads

A path by conscience hedged, may not discern

The Angel of the Lord with flaming sword

In hand, to intercept his stubborn way.

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

II.

All up and down the valley Joseph led

His timid flock, nor wished for happier lot,

And when at eventide the setting sun

Emblazoned all the scene that ^irt him 'round,

And nightfall wrapt the hill -tops o'er with gloom ;

He oft was wont to bow and worship God.

As ebbed one toilsome day, while thus engaged.

Resplendent worlds arose upon his sight

'Midst reahis of ether bright with Heaven's glow,

On which was keenly turned his transfixed gaze ;

Then Sun, and Moon, and Stars encircled him,

And rendered homage to himself, their King;

While in the hazy distance of the scene

Ten thousand stood in readiness to serve.

But ere the spectacle was understood.

It vanished 'midst the ether lurid grown.

And left him to his thoughts of loneliness.

This vision, so akin to that before,

His spirit troubled with foreboding strange ;

And though their m-^aning vague began to dawn

Upon his mind, yet wrapt in mystery

Remained, the purpose they involved.

But when the morning dawned, by sleep refreshed,

He straightway journeyed to his father's home.

Who, glad to see his favourite son once more.

Embraced him with ati'eetion and impressed

A faithful kiss upon his ruddy cheek.

HERO OF THE DRAMA OP GENESIS.

And then they sat them down like lovers fond
While Joseph told the visions of the nifdit
His father listened with profound concern,
And marveled at the thing's the youth rehearsed,
Yet did not trace in them the Hand Divine,
So gently hushed him witli a mild rebuke,
But meditated much on that revealed.

III.

As soon as Joseph's brethren heard the dream,

Their anger was enkindled yet the more,

For it to them the former dream confirmed,

And strengthened their surmises of his aims,

And rankled in their hearts with bitterness.

So Israel, suspicious of their hearts,

And longing for his son's companionship,

Kept Joseph for a season from the fields,

And sent to Shechem all his other sons

To guard the flocks and herds in pasturage,

Thus for a season, Joseph was relieved

From envious taunt and cherished treachery,

And happily abode with Israel :

Who, long bereft of Rachel's love and care.

Clung to his favourite son tenaciously.

But after many days had fled away :

He wished for tidings from his other sons,

So calling Joseph said, " My son depart

To Shechem, where thy brethren feed the flocks,

HERO OF THE DRAMA OP GENEHIS.

And learn if all is well, then come in haste

To bring me word, for they have tarried long,

And I regarding them am much concerned."

In readiness was Joseph to be gone

To execute his father's plain command ;

So with a parting blessing from his lips,

Upon his mission entered light and gay,

Just as the morning sunbeams tipped the hills,

That rose in grandeur from the sheltered vale,

Through which meandered on its rugged way,

A sparkling stream kissed by the rising sun

That strangely murmured as he passed, " farewell.

Naufifht did he know that he would ne'er return

For many years, that he was passing on.

To hardship and distress ; or he had turned

E'en from a course begun with prospect bright.

Ah ! could we sometimes, when our path

Leads us from home, with supernatural sight.

Presage what at our destination lies ;

Our steps would falter and our hearts grow faint.

And fireside and loved ones wouhl prevail

Upon us to remain with them content.

But only step by step our path is known,

Beyond is wrapt in mystery divine,

And yet when guided by our Father's Hand,

We often step upon the seeming void,

To find the rock of certainty beneath.

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

IV.

Before the sun had reached the western hills,

Arrived at Shecliem, Joseph east about

To find his brethren, and to ascertain

Their state, but tliey had gone with tents and flocks.

Just tlien by chance a stranger ventured near,

And Joseph having questioned him, he said,

" Thy brethren have to Dothan journeyed with
Their flocks, to seek for better pasturage."
So Joseph, grateful for his guiding word,
Renewed his journey with a hopeful heart,
And soon the fertile plains of Dothan neared.
Now ere he reached his brethren they espied
His brilliant robe, and graceful form, and cried,
" Behold ! That dreamer comes our peace to mar !"
And hastily in council joined, to judge
What should be done to rid them of their curse.
Ne'er did more fiendish hate unveil itself
In human breast, than that which was revealed.
While they conspu-ed gainst their brother's life.
With bi-awny arms they beat the air and railed

For vengeance. With contemptuous taunt and sneer

They mocked his dr-^ams, and would not be assuaged ;

Tdl Reuben interposed on his behalf,

And cried, "Cease, cease, my brethren, your demands

For Joseph's life ! I earnestly implore.

Shed not his blood, but obviate our plight,
2

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

By casting him alone into the pit
Of yon ravine, where he will likely die !
And thus we shall be rid of him for good,
And palliate our punishment for wrong !"
But this he said, that he might rescue him,
And send him to his father safe and well.

His words prevailed and they were pacified,
Ere unsuspecting Joseph came in had ;
His gentle mein, their purpose did not change,
Nor yet his innocence their anger quell,
So seizing him with brawny arms they strippe.l
Him of his gorgeous robe ; then l)Ound him fast,
And hurried him away, e'en though he pled
Most earnestly, and raised a helpless wail
Ao-ainst their inhumanity to him.
- My brethren, what mean ye !" he loudly cried,
" By mercilessly stripping off my robe,
And binding me with cords ! I pray you think
Of our brotherhood, and father's love :
By whose command I come to learn your state ;
Before foul rashness plunge you into shame
And self-reproach !" But pleading was in vain.
Away they bore him to the horrid pit.
And cast him helpless down, and left him there
Alone to die in anguish, while they sat
About its mouth, to eat ill-gotten bread ; ^
And feast themselves upon their hellish feat.

"" ^M

M F

I ^

HERO OP THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

Ere they had done as if dismayed with fear,
Or intent on alhirincr froni the scene,
His brother Reuben rose, and soon was with
His flocks away to execute his scheme
To rescue Joseph from his sad estate.
In him was subtlety acute and strange,
But as in life's dilen)mas often fails,
When couraoe most is needed to be shown ;
It failed with him for o'er the distant slope
A caravan of Mercliantmen appeared,
And rapidly drew near the horrid pit.
Where Joseph Jay bemoaning his said fate. .

CANTO THE THIRD.

'• Father of Abraham," he cried, •' Why am
I here entombed to die in wretchedness !
save me from this pit and crnJde me back
To Israel and home : Thou seest that
My brethren have no mercy on my soul ;
Nor yet regar.I my pleadings for my life' I
O hear my humble cry and save me now,
For Israel's and thine own mercy's sake !"
His brethren faintly heard his plaintive cry.
And rousing from their meal with fear appalled
Were sore perplexed to know what next to do :

HERO OF THE DRAMA OK GKNKSIH.

When, harrassed in liis conscionce, Jiidah cried,
" Wliat proHt sliall there be, if JoHe})}i dies !
We can't conceal our ^niilt, nor tlee nnnorse !
Come, let us sell liini to the Merchantmen,
Then we shall from his presence be relieved ;
And have reward in ^old, and thus be free,
From blood and infamy, and he shall live !"
This saying pleased them all, they gave consent,
And when the Merchantmen drew near, up from
The gloomy pit they Joseph drew, and sold
Him to them as a slave without reserve.

II.

In wonderment what next should him befall,
He stood within their midst with heart distressed,
But soon divined that he nmst join the band
Of Merchantmen, and cast with them his fate.
The scenes of home rushed vividly to mind,
'Midst which his youth so fondly had been spent,
His mother's and his father's face with love
And tender smile turned longingly to him,
And then his heart with hot emotion swelled.
And turning to his brethren cried, " Think ye
That God doth not behold your sin, or that
Our noble father shall thy wicked deed
Not know, and charge my blood to other hands
Ah no ! I now impeach you with the guilt
Of my betrayal into stranger's hands,

UF.IU) OF THE DRAMA OF (JKNESIS.

Airuinst my hmcr entreaties to be spnred

Such (^rief and shame, and to liim yii rotui-n,

'I o share his hitter pilfrrimafTre ! Rogues ! knaves !

I, and liigli Heaven, yet shall be appeased,

On tiiis injustice and ])aso treachery !

I plead once more tlie ties that bind our hearts,

Tiie ])restige and the honour of our name ;

Our father's a^^e and ^^odl}- character.

To be relieved from shame and bondman's chain !"

But stolid and unmoved his brethren stood

Before the eloquence of his j-ppeal ;

And soon the Merchantmen, their toilsome course

Resumed in haste, with Joseph in their train.

HI.

They scarce had gone, when Reuben hot with haste,
And full of hope returned, to seek alone.
The pit where Joseph had been cast. Amazed !
To find him not, he maiJly rent his clothes.
Then wailed his cowardice, and brother's fate.
The eldest son, he felt responsible,
An<l like a culprit, now bemoaned his lot.
" The child is not !" he cried, " And whither shall
I liee to hide from vengeance just and sure !
Oil would that I had dared to rescue him,
Or even shared his fate, then no remorse
Would pierce my soul to punish my neglect !"

HERO OF THE nU.VMA OF OKNESI8.

As evil hearts like company, so, Guilt comhinetl,
Adheres in those who cower 'neath its ban;
And willingly joins hands to be concealed.
With friend and t'oe it arljitrat<!s, and soon
Tiie3''re reconciled to share each other's fate ;
Thoufjfh honour be dethroned and truth annulled ;
And innocence be outra^jfed by tlieir deeds.
So Joseph's brethren (juick a council held,
And readily anion^ them 'twas agreed
To slay a kid, and with the blood to mar
His robe with fatal signs, and bind themselves
By solemn oath the secret to conceal ;
Then journey to the home of Israel,
And bear with them the favourite robe, to show
Him the unquestioned proof that he was slain
Not by the hands of men, but rudely torn
Asunder by some evil hungry beast.

IV.

So like a mourning funeral they came.
To Israel with visage mocking sad,
And rendered him the bloody favourite robe
With due solemnity, and meekly said,
" This have we found, but cannot ascertain
Whether it be fond Joseph's robe or not.
But dearest father thou canst tell it sure
And so explain a dreaded mystery.

HKHO OF THE DRAMA OF GENKHI8.

We fear that ovil luitli befallen liim,

AikI that calamity shall fall on all ;

An<l sink thy spirit long in ^rief for him !"

The father seized the robe witli trernblintr hands,

Then stacrcrered fit the si^dit of rent and blood ;

His sicrht ^rrew dim, but knew too well the robe

With which he vested Joseph lonij before.

So bitter was Iiis ^vM he rent his clothes,

And overcome with blank astonishment :

In horror cried, " It is ! It is his coat !

An evil beast hath slain him on his way,

To brin^r me tidin(,rs from you in the field !

With ancruish I reproach myself that e'er

I sent him on a mission fraught with ill

And awful doom ! Such rashness on my part

Was heinous crime ! Forgive me, my son !

My favourite son, fond Joseph thou art lost ;

And I am left to sorrow and remorse !

'Tis well thy mother Rachel liath been spared

The anguish that such dreadful tidings cause.

And rests from human pain in Paradise,

And even now, while we lament our loss,

Rejoices to be joined by one so fond !"

His sons and daughters rose to comfort him,
But all their words seemed mockery and pain.
The more they tried to soothe, the greater did
His grief become, and mournfully he cried,

HERO OB^ THE DRAMA OP GENESIS.

" Down to the grave I'll go with griei" for liim,
O God of:' Abraham, iny father's God,
Why hath such dreadful ill befallen us !
A consohition was the youth to ine,
But now thy servant's soul is sti'icken sore :
With sad bereavement of its earthly joy !
Yet, let thy will be done, and give me grace
With Providence my heart to reconcile,
And greet fond Joseph in the future world !"
Now, when the da^'s of mourning were fulfilled,
The sons resumed their wand'rings with the flocks
Contented that their stratagem was wise.
But haunted by the spirit of their crime.
Which ever and anon disturbed their peace
When near the horrid pit, or gazing on the scene
Where council had been held to murder him.

CANTO THE FOURTH,

On marched the Merchantmen to Egypt far,
And only halted when the desert spring
Or waving palm invited them to rest.
And be refreshed upcni their toilsome way.
With aching heart had Joseph left the scenes
Of Canaan, so deligfhtful to his soul :
And when- the mountKin peaks were lost to view
And all before bis eyes was desert waste,

HERO OP THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

•- >

i:"

IHlled,
be flocks

le scene

iiii.

far,

LV.

cenes
b to view

A sense of utter loneliness stole o'er

His anguished mind, which caused

The tears to flow, that, by compulsion, he

Was borne away from those he loved.

But presently, the visions of the past,

Full brinrht as mirage of the desert lone,

Rose clear before his weary tear-dimmed eyes ;

And so enraptured all his wand'ring thoughts ,'

That very soon his grief had fled, and qui^ck - '

Revived his heart with hope, that God

Would guide his steps and guard his unknown way ;

By angels, who, before had hedged him 'rounrl.

When with the flocks by night on Canaan's plains.

God often moves in secrecy, His schemes

To execute, and oft, the path that leads away

P>om what we deem the best, is proximate,

Himself and our weal, that His desio-ns

With us concerned, might glorify His Name,

And honour us with faith to bide the tests

Of life ; for all His children requisite.

Take thou His Hand, so tenderly revealed

In all the visitations of His love.

With firmest confidence pursue thy course,

For He will lead thee on, come good or ill,

Extend His watchcare and in love conduct

Thee in the path, the wisest and the best,

And which will finally merge into peace.

HERO OF THE DRAMA OP GENESIS.

II.

The Merchantmen, liad noticed Joseph's mien,

They soon observed he was of noble birth.

And felt concerned regarding his estate ;

So while they journeyed on began to scheme

What should be done to make a heartless deal

Turn to their own advantage and his good,

And yet conceal the plot of all concerned.

Soon they arrived in Egypt, and agreed

To barter him to honoured Potiphar,

An officer of Pharaoh's Roj^'al Guard,

For many times the value they had paid;

Assured that all would now be well with him

While in tlie hands of one of eminence.

The honoured Potiphar, with insight keen.

Observed in Joseph man}' qualities.

Commendable and frank, and learned to love

Him with affection strong; and soon he placed

Large confidence in him, and set him o'er

His house and vast estates. Naught that he liad

Concerned him more, but relegated all

To Joseph, for whose sake the Lord had blest

His house with all he had, and caused the land

To yield a rich abundance for his good.

Now Josepli, was in ways most amiable,

In countenance most beautiful to all ;

And many times with fiattery indulged ;

Sh
Tl,
AVi

!■■

JlERO OP THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

"■m

But none could lure him with their artful words,

Nor move him from his long integrity :

And yet there fell to him an evil day,

A time of sorest trial and disgrace ;

Just when his way was bright and sky serene.

The wife of Potiphar was sensual,

And cherished secretly unholy love

For Joseph, who was virtuous and true :

And when entreaties were by liim despised,

And noble purpose bound him to his God,

And Potiphar, and to escape her ill desio-ns

He fled, his robe, to which she firndv clunf

She raised a cry, then charged him with the crime

Herself was guilty of in base intent.

Then forthwith Potiphar became enraged.

Conceived his treach'rous wife was innocent,

And banished Joseph to the prison gloom

Against his innocence and faithfulness.

SK't

III.

Ah ; feted Crime, by evil art concealed
Within the heart of passion and design ;
Could we but fathom thy malignity,
And know the demon skill thou dost employ,
When intent on another's ill, that thou
Shouldst never be betrayed : we ne'er would give
Thee quarter in our thoughts, much less a seat
^Vithin the secret councils of our hearts,

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

There to deliberate and win us to
Thy base desic^ns allured by ^ohlen crowns.
Thus Joseph outraged, and to shame consigned,
In sorrow cried, " Misfortune hath once more
Afxainst me turned her cruel hand, and I
Am sore disgrace<l within these prison walls ;
Companions to the felons of the land !
Would that in Dothan's pit I had remained
To die, instead of consigned here, but soon
To come to shameful doom, with none to plead
My cause, nor vindicate m}^ innocence !"
l)Ut even there the Hand of God was shown
To him. Destined to rule, the Chief soon gave
Him the command of all within the walls,
And first authority o'er all the works.
Now many, confidant of Joseph made,
And often sought him to relate their ills.
To hear him discourse on the works of God,
And learn of all that had befallen him.

IV.

Thus passed his days, till servants of the King,
The Butler and the Baker by misdeeds
Displeased their lord and shared a common fate
With him in ward,. and soon despondent grew.
But Joseph, who, h's trials bore with cheer
And fortitude, solicitous for all.
Enquired whence their visage was so marred ;

„»^

HERO OF THE DRAMA OP GENESIS.

Kirigr,

And soon lie learned that visions verv strano-e

And troublesome had been their lot at nifrht

And no one could be found their dreams to hear,

Nor to elucidate their mysteries.

Then Joseph said, " Lift up your drooping heads,

Interpretations surely are the Lord's,

And He has given me an insight keen

In things pertaining to man's earthly state ;

So pray tell me the nature of your dreams."

And then the Butler chief declared, " Behold \

Before me grew a vine, which, branches three

Contained with buds and blossoms full, and soon

Ripe grapes brought forth, whose juice I gently pressed

In Pharaoh's cup, then handed it to him."

Now Joseph rich in wisdom of the Lord

Declared, " The branches three are but three days,

And yet within the same, thy head in joy

Shall Pharaoh raise, and thou shall be restored

In honour to thy former place, and bear

His cup again. But when thou art restored,

And all is well, I pray thee think of me,

And if thou canst the heart of Pharaoh move

For my release from shame and servitude ;

My heart shall turn in gratitude to thee !"

Then when the Baker chief observed the skill
Which Joseph manifested in his words,

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF OENESIH. ^

He said, " Behold 1 I had three baskets white • ^

Upon my head ; the uppermost all kinds

Of meats contained for Pharaoh's varied whnns •

And lo ' the birds devoured them complete

And left me standin^r stricken through with gru ,V

Then Joseph answering said, "The baskets thre. ,

Are but thr.e days, and yet within the same

Shall Pharaoh hang thee on a tree, and birds

Shall eat thy flesh as Pharaoh ate thy n.eats ;

This is the dire import of thy dream 1"

Thus Joseph spake, and thus it was, that on

King Pharaoh's gala day, the Butler was

Restored, and on a tree the Baker hanged.

Ah, what a wisdom rare divine, that was

Within the heart of one so young, that he

The dreams of strangers should expound 1

And yet alone was Joseph left in ward,

Forgotten by the one whose dream he told,

Who, when again in Pharaoh's contidence

Ungrateful to his benefactor proved.

Ir,g"ratitude, is base, it mocks the go.)d

Bestowed by hands concerned in others weal.

It broods in selfishness, to vaunt tlie head

With absolute forgetfulness of those

By whose endeavours many gain the heights

They oft attain. It is the hidden cause

Of ill-reward and inecjuality

Of uiauy noble well deserving souls.

HERO OP THE DRAMA OP GENESIS.

iret ^^

' 3

ai.

If man were grateful for the half of life,
And half the lavish mercies which the Hand
Of God bestowes, his heart would quickly yield
Him rightful service, and his life How on
In one sweet song of praise, nor good nor ill
Would ever operate to win him from the One,
Who knoweth best the course his life should take.

Thus destined yet to share captivity

And labour of the ward for two full years

Was Joseph left, while others light and gay

Rejoiced in liberty and kingly fare.

But patiently he bore reproach against

The day of triumph and well earned reward,

Which faintly dawned upon his darkened mind,

And gave himself to every ard'ous task,

With fortitude resigned to Providence :

Till Pharaoh on his throne was sorely vexed

With visions of perplexing dread, and soon

Bestirred himself to know their full import,

By summoning the wisest of the realm

Before his royal seat With priestly pomp,

With magic wand, all brilliantly arrayed,

And followed by a train of courtiers.

The Wise Men and Magicians at his call

In haste repaired to stand before the King,

Who, restless, told the visions of his head.

r--

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

But none were found amon^ the pa^ciintiy
Who could reveal the secrets they contained,
Or clear the gloom that hung upon his mind.
Then much bewildered in his soul, he sought
The Butler, who, ungracious proved to him
Who yet in bondage was. He, conscience-struck.
Exclaimed, " I do remember my misdeeds,
And one of divination rare profound,
Who, when thy servant was in custody,
Declared to him the secrets of a dream , ,
Relating to his own and good estate !"

CANTO THE FIFTH.

Then Pharaoh sent and Joseph quickly called
Into his august presence, where there stood
The great and courtly of his kingdom all.
But undismayed was Joseph, who with steps
Of hope and expectation quick and light.
Came in before the wondering array
Like one of princely blood and modesty.
The King saluted him as sent from God,
And straightway said, " Of rarest heavenly skill
And wisdom I am told thou art possessed ;
If so, then hear thou my perplexing dream."

HERO C,P THE DRAMA OF OKNE8IS.

skill

Then Joseph stretchinc. forth his hand, declared.

'All hail I O Kino- mv Hn,] c.i..,ii • xi

^'"»' '"y ^^'^ •'^'I'lll give thee peace !

Tis not of me this wisdom is, but Him,
Who art the King of kini^s and Lord of lords ?"
Then Pharaoh, pleased, with c.,ace an<l patience said
" Behold ! there rose from yonder Mowing stream
Full seven favoure-l kine, which fed upon '
The grassy banks thereof; then seven more
Ili-favoured kine came forth and ate the rest
And tiien. behold ! there gi-ew full seven ears
Of corn, both fat and good, upon one stalk
Then seven ears, by blasti.io winds made thin
Sprang up and (juickly ate the fat and good. '
All this I dreamed and am confounded sore
So summoned these Magicians here, but they're
Confounded too. Canst thou the wonder solve ?"

II.

Then Joseph answ'ring said, "Thy dreanxs are one
And God by them declares His purpose grand
Jo thee. The seven kine are seven years.
The seven ears are seven years eaclUn
Themselves significant. The fat of years
Ot plenty in the land, the lean and weak
Ot famine and distress. The plent'ous yi^ars
Shall ni the days of famine be unknown

And want and dearth shall r.w^ge all the land;
Great Kmg I this is the import of thy dream.
;^^1 verily that soon will come to pass

; ^^ i^^ch God in two-fold vision hath declared.

IIKHO OP THK DKAMA. OP 0PNP:SI8.

Now, tliorefore, be tliou Wfiriiod and provident,
And choose a man who, botli discreet and wise,
Shall o'er the land presi<le and feather safe,
In every city granary the food
And corn, which surplus shall be found in all
The fruitful years. Thus shall the land be saved,
And life shall l)e preserved in all thy realm."
Thus Joseph spake in true humility,
And Pharaoh gratified beyond content,
With kingly wisdom said : " Thou art in all
The land the most discreet, and hast in thee
The Spirit of thy God. Thou shalt be Chief
In all niy house, and all of Egypt rule
Accordinnr to thine own decree, and i>ut
Upon the throne shall I exceed thyself."

III.

Thus spake the gracious King, then called him forth

Before the startled company, and placed

Upon his hand the royal signet ring.

And 'round about his neck a i^olden chain ;

Then clothed him with the finest linen robe

To signify the princely right bestowed ;

And there confirmed by all his officers,

Who promptly hailed their wise deliverer.

And honoured him with acclamations loud.

Then forthwith came the Captains of the host,

In martial pomp and dignity arrayed,

HERO OP THE DRAMA OP OENKHIH.

lent,
vise,

all

saved,
n.

Fill

ee
lief

;d him forth

obe

■er,
ioud.
he host,

To escort Joseph in a chariot

Throughout the land, while speedy heralds cried

To all, " Rejoice ! Behold the means of life !

All people bow the knee and honour him

Whom Pharaoh hath installed as Governor

Supreme throu^^diout our loved and favoured land r

The people cried, "All hail ! huzza ! huzza !

T) Pharaoh's Prince and Governor supremo!"

Thus rode the favoured son of Israel

O'er all the kingdom wide, with honour crowned

But other honours Pharaoh had reserved

To he conferred upon the one he loved,

And gave him Asinath, the daughter of

The greatest priest of Heliopolis,

To be his honoured wife, and called him by

The name Zaphnathpaaneah-the bread

Of life-or ruler of the Living One.

IV.

And yet witlial, the son of Israel
Thought well upon his ways, and earnestly
In heart cleaved unto God, who, in his love,
^Exalted him from humble shepherd's life,
jFron. pit, from ward, and foul malignity,'

o I'ule a nation and ingratiate

>'nself with King and subjects great and small.

hus was the shepherd's crook in turn exchanged

^'- E-ypt's mighty sceptre, and thus will
ntegrity receive reward in all
|Vho nobly act their part upon life's stage.

IIIJKO i)K TIllO DRAMA OF (JKN'KSIH.

Pro.sperity ainonf( tlio sons of Hum

Is ot't, abused by those wlio win her crown

By right and stealtli ; and tluis the way to hor

Is not with flowers strewn, but rou^di and thorned,

To prove tlie liearts of all who seek her ^oal.

And yet full many ^ain her hif^h estate,

Who, soon intoxicated with her wine.

Become her slaves. Could man, by Heaven's ^nace.

Make her to serve the ends of God, who (,M-ants

To men her power, she would, with winning smiles,

Connnend her fortunate to great and small
And lead her votaries to serve their God.

Now Joseph, when installed in Pharaoh's court,
Assiduously gave himself to save
Abundant stores from all the plenteous years
To serve against the rav'nous times of want,
And ere the dreaded V)light on Egypt fell,
And spread abroad to fruitful Canaan's land,
His task was done, and soon frotn far and near
The people came for bread at Joseph's hands.
From up the land there went a piteous wail.
But all improvident were soon supplied
From Egypt's granaries, and sold their flocks.
Their herds, and lands, to be sustained.
Now, far away in Canaan, want was keen.
And Israel leaned hard upon his staff,
O'erstooped with age and his infirmities.

|>Sof)|

lie,
:'o]|
'ho

o t\

HERO OF TUK DRAMA OV OENE8I9.

D her
thornod,

en's ^aace,

rants

ing smiles,

ill

, court,

years
vant,

>l.

land,
ad near
lands.
wail,

flocks,

een,

Ho with his sons were faint and famished sore,
So that he lon^jed to be in Paradise,
And witli the faithful feathered to their rest.
But still his .spirit stirred and hope revived.
And callirif^^ all his troubled sons he said :
|"Yo know that famine devastates the land,
Hence, vacillate no lonnrer o'er our phVdit,
Nor look in vain for one another's help ;
But journey down to E<,rypt, where I hear
There is of corn a rich abundant store,
And bring for us lest very soon we die.
Go then, my sons, but Benjamin must here
With me abide, lest there befall him ill,
And you should ne'er return, thus leaving me
Alone to die ; and may God's l)lessinf' (^o
Along with you ; and may you soon return
To cheer our fainting hearts and bless our house
I With bread to noui-ish us and make us o-Iad."

CANTO THE SIXTH.
I.

^oox ready for the march, sage Israel's sons-
heir father bade farewell, and journeyed on
' o Egypt o'er the desert wild, alonir
lie self-same trail the Merchantmen had passed,
phen, many years before, young Joseph had
To them been sold a captive from his home.

HERO OP THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

And though they hastened on, reluctant did

Their hearts restrain them from the toilsome way,

For strange forebodings hung upon their mind ;

And when at night they sought repose upon

The desert lone, strange thoughts their rest disturbed.

As though upon their path foul treason lurked.

And yet the}' jcjurneyed on, till Egypt far

Was reached, and soon in Joseph's presence stood,

Though ignorant of it. With humV)le grace

They 'round about him stood, and made their low

Salams, then craved that he would grant them bread

To save their families from want and death.

Thus was the dream of Joseph years befoi'e,

God's purpose and His will concerning him,

Fulfilled before their e^^es, thus was their scorn

Of his solicitude and destiny

All put to naught by strange coincidence.

II.

God's Purpose, like the silent enei'gies
Of all the universe, move; o-randlv on,
Sublimel}^ interwoven with mankind;
Who, like so man}' insects of the deep,
Rear up the columns of His temple grand,
Then yield their place to those who, in their turn,
Shall act their part and consummate His will.
Tremendous thouo-ht ! that there inlieres in man
The power to resist the Hand of God,

HERO OP THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

ne way,

lind ;

t disturbed,
■ked.

B stood,

leir low

tlieiii bread

th.

re,

■ scorn

And oft, he sets hiuself at variance

With Him, and wiin rebellious neck pursues

His headlong course to ruin and dismay.

And yet withal, His purpose stands unchanf^ed

And He is ne'er defeated in His schemes,

Which comprehend in inrii ".•- detail

The whims the vacillation, and the sin,

The selfishness, the intricrues, and the f^ood ;

Of all who move within the universe.

Vam man may madly strive against His Hand,

And in his vanity hold petty sway.

But God shall have him in derision wild,

And sweep him from the path his chariot

Triumphantly pursues through floods and flames,

To execute His will as Time rolls on.

nd,

their turn,
is will.
2S in man

III.

" Ah Benjamin," said Israel, " 'tis well
That thou hast tarried here to share my lot,
For o'er me steals a sad uneasiness.
Thy brethren have to Egypt journeyed far,
And on their way may meet calamity
From robbers bold or roaming evil beast.
As Joseph did, when sent to Shechem's fields
Full eighteen years ngo, and day on day
Since that ill-fated time my soul has mourned
For him. Oft, h,n.ve I sat beneath these oaks
And scanned yon hillside long for his return.

HERO OF THE DRAMA OP GENESIS.

It may be cliildlike thus to speak, but Hope
Has lured me on, and even now doth speak
To me a peace so cahn, I can't explain.
But Benjamin, that Joseph's ^one, and now
Thy brethren too ; I cling to thee, stay thou
Near by my side to comfort me, nor stray
Afar from home e'en to attend the flocks.
Lest evil should befall thee in the way,
And I be left to die in loneliness."

IV.

Now Joseph looked upon the embassage,

From Canaan, with a strange, profound concern.

And soon with ready insight ascertained

They were his brethren, and thougii filled witli thoughts

That rent his soul, concealed it from their hearts,

To subject them to scrutiny and test.

Whence come ye ?" was his salutation bold,

You're come as spies !" he charged in mock disdain,

And wish the land's dread nakedness to know."

They pleaded, " Nay, m}^ lord, for food alone

Are now thy servants come, for all our land

Is famished sore. We are in all twelve sons

Of one aged man, who, with the youngest, dwells

In Canaan now, but one of us is not."

Then Joseph said, " Hereby ye shall be proved,

I swear by Pharaoh's life, all shall not go

To Canaan till your youngest brotlier come.

HERO OP THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

icern,

If ye are noble men, Jet one be bound
As hostage to tlie King ; the rest may go
To Canaan with their bread and then return,
The youngest with tliem soon, or never shall
Ye see my face and live ; for I fear God.
Hence to the prison gloom, ye cunning spies,
Until I call ye forth to me again !"

Then like so many culprits bowed with shame.
They shrank with conscience smitten to the ward
Where Joseph had himself in bondage been ;
And soon were left companions with their thouo-hts
Which in a dialogue were soon declared.

" We're guilty of our brother's infamy."
Now one and then another sadly said,

" And now his blood returns upon our heads.
Ah I if his bitter anguish had our hearts
Restrained, when intent on such barb'rous ill,
We would not now be sunken in distress.
Our evil day hath come, we shall receive
From other hands full penalty for guilt,
That still our evil conscience on us lays."
Then Reuben, like a coward in defence,
While still of hope and refuge destitute.
Appealed to them, " Did I not plead of you
Sin not against the clnld, and yet ye would
Not heed : therefore his precious blood demands

Just punishment on us of base desert."

P
It

HERO OP THE DRAMA OP GENESIS.

Thus hy themselves accused and self -condemned
The guilty ten reproached themselves in vain,
And in suspense awaited Joseph's call.

VI.

Now, when three days had drac^o^ed themselves away,

In Joseph's presence once ao-ain they came,

With visage strangely marred and spirit pained ;

And so concerned were the}'' about their fate,

They ne'er restrained their thoughts, liut clamoured out,

As when in bondage held. When Joseph saw

Their grief, his soul was moved to tears and turned

Himself away alone to sob aloud ; but when

His troubled soul was calmed, he soon returned

To them again, and forthwith Simeon bound

Before their eyes, and ordered him to ward.

And then he gave command to till their sacks,

But secretl}^ their money to restore

Within the sack of every man, and then

To send them well-provisioned on their wav.

Thus Joseph hivished on them of his stores,

The}' empt}^ came, but filled they went away.

And just as dusky eventide approached.

They halted at a wa3\side Inn to rest ;

Where, one, by chance, his provender unbound.

To feed his ass, when lo ! to his dismay,

His gold espied within the sack enclosed ;

And suddenly they all were filled with fear

HERO OF THE DRAJFA OF GENESIS.

Lest God should visit them with quick reveno-e

For guilt they realized within their hearts.

Ah ! cow'ring fear doth not invade the heart,

vVhich, in integrity is bold and brave,

But coward makes of him, whose guilt and shame

Enslave liis heart when all around is well.

Such is the power of guilt within the heart,

That every sound ami omen terrifies.

And everything becomes a mirror clear.

In which are seen the secrets of the soul.

The guilty one is always self -accused,

And often his endeavour to conceal

His sin exposes it the more, and he

Is left to flee from wrath and punishment ;

Yet cannot hide in earth's remotest place,

Nor yet in Heaven, or Hell, for God is there ;

And sin's remoi-se shall harass all the soul.

Till full atonement hath for it been made.

i-'i
e

CANTO THE SEVENTH,

Soon from the Inn they hastened on their way,

And after toilsome journey all arrived

In Canaan safe, and told to Israel

The strange events which had befallen them.

He was rejoiced that they returned with bread.

HERO OP THE DRAM.V OP OEXE3IS.

But troubled in his heart when f>ol(l was found

In every sack, and Simeon was held

As surety that Benjamin would come ;

And loud lamentino" cried, " Ye have bereaved

Me of two sons, yet are not satisfied :

Ye will take Benjamin away, and thus

Add woo to pain. These thinn^s ao-ainst my soul

Conspire to drive me to the grave, bereft -

Of every joy with bowed and hoary head !"

So, not till by necessity compelled,

And Judah had his surety become,

Did Israel consent that Benjamin

Should with them seek the Prince to purchase bread.

Then with sagacious foresight Israel

Prepared a gift of peace for Egypt's Prince,

And bade them take the money back again.

" May God all-gracious grant you mercy great

Before the Prince, and bring you home again,"

Were Israel's pai'ting words as all his sons

Upon their journey set with hopeful hearts.

II.

Ere long they once again to Egj^pt came,
And soon an audience with Joseph gained,
To la}' before him all their hearts concern.
Tiien Joseph called the Ruler of his house,
And charged him to prepare a sumptuous feast,
Then called his brethren all with him to dine.

HERO OF THE DHAMA OF GENErtlB.

But tliey were all with consternation seized,

Thoufifh with the utmost courtesy enshrined,

And all the while their hearts were ill at ease,

Lest mischief was designed l»y Pharaoh's Prince.

When Joseph viewed the presents they had brought,

And anxiously enquired of Israel,

Fond recollections of his far-ofi" home

Rushed vividly upon his longing mind.

And now with Benjamin his mother's son,

And all his brethren near, the passions of

His soul were hotly stirred, and overcome

He sought his inner chamber, where, alone

With God, he found relief in many tears.

When these had spent their force, his soul refreshed,

His purpose firm, he reappeared to dine.

With all the sons of Israel in state.

m
fi

III.

Meek Simeon, he had released from bonds,
And double favour shown to Benjamin,
Then when they all his repast fully shared,
Just as the morning light broke o'er the sky.
He sent them on their way with sacks of corn,
As much as they could bear, but strictly chai'ged
His Steward to replace their gold, and in
The sack of Benjamin conceal his cup.
By intrigue thus to call them back again.
So ere they had at length pursued their way,
The Steward overtook them crving, " Halt !

HERO OP THE DRAMA OP GENESIS.

My lord's own favourite cup you have concealed

Within your pack, to do him injury,

For all the good he hath on you bestowed !"

But quick they cried, " Nay 1 Nay ! let God be judge

That we are innocent of sucli a charge,

And he with whom the Prince's cup is found.

Shall surely die and we shall be his slaves !"

Thus, rashly spake the sons of Israel,

And all their sacks were searched from first to last,

When Benjamin's contained the fated cup.

'Twas all in vain he pled his innocence.

And begged his stricken brethren for redress.

The oath they gave, now bound them firmly fast,

And all surprised, dumb-founded, rent their clothes,

Then cursed themselves the day that gave th em birth,

But turned unto the city once again.

With spirits bowed with shame and slavish dread.

And all bewildered at the actions stransfe

Of Egypt's Prince, they to him quick appealed.

IV.

Thus Joseph had by many wise intrigues.

His own identity concealed that he

Their character might prove, and bring them to

A knowledge of their crime 'gainst him and Heaven,

And to them all reveal the Hand of God ;

Which though they had determined ill and shame.

Was mightily displayed to grant them life.

When Joseph with a dignifying mien,

HERO OF THE DRAMA OP GENESIS.

led

be judge

to last,

fast,
;lothes,
em birth,

Iread,

jd.

1 to
Heaven,

hanie,

With wounded search looked sharp into their eyes.

Before him all upon their faces fell.

" What evil deed is this you've done," he cried,

" Know ye not that I can men's hearts divine ?

Here at my hands rich bounty you have shared.

And all 3^onr needs I've ^n-aciously supplied,

To be but mocked hy crime and knavery,"

Then Judah said : " My lord, what shall we say.

How shall we free ourselves ? For God hath found

Iniquity within thy servants hearts,

And we shall take His justice from thy hands.

Behold ! we are thy shives thy will to do !"

But Joseph said, " Not so, let God forbid,
Let him in whose polluted hands my cup
Was found, my bondman be, but let the rest
All journey home." Then Judah nearer draw.
And said, " Let not thine anger burn with me
My lord, for thou art as thy King supreme.
Yet I beseech thee hear me patiently.
As thou didst us abjure, we've done and broufdit
Our youngest brother here, for whom, I am
A surety to Israel our father lone.
Well-stricken now in years and knit to him.
Since Joseph left him in an evil day :
Wherefore, I pray thee, let thy servant here
Abide, and Benjamin return to share
His father's feeble age, lest he should die
Of grief, and w". be charged with treachery " !

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF OEXESIS.

Wlion lie had ceased his pleading; witli the Prince,
In one another's face they speechless j^nized,
And solemn silence fell upon the scene ;
E'en as the calm before impondinpf storm.
Then Joseph by his passion overcome,
Could not refrain himself from \veei)infr loud,
And ordered every man to be removed,
While to his brethren he declared liimself.

CANTO THE EIGHTH,

Before the humbled group of criminals

He stood erect, e'en as his dream declared,

When but a youth among the rugged iiills

Of Canaan fair. Then stretching forth his hand,

He passionately cried, " List, list to me !

Ye are the sons of Israel, conceal it not ;

And I am Joseph, his beloved one,

Lone: sundered from him in this foreiixn land !

And Israel our father yet survives

To realize the gladness of this day ?

My soul shall ever magnify the Lord !"

But with his presence they wore territied.

And stood dumli'ounded 'neath a magic spell ;

Then shrank and cowered at his countenance.

But quick he cried : " Fear not, but venture near,

HKRO OK THK DUAMA OP OKNESI8.

I am verily your brother wlioin ye sold

In Egypt years af^o. But be not grieved,

Nor angry with yourselves for such r deed ;

If ye are humbled now and penitent :

For God hath sent me hither to preserve

And nourish you, with all the nations 'round

Throughout these years of famine and distress.

At such a revelation all were dazed,

But scene on scene of all the mystic past,

In quick succession rushed upon their sight ;

And suddenly the truth broke on their minds ;

Their hearts almost dissolved, their knees were struck

With fear ; but Joseph fell upon the neck

Of Benjamin and wept aloud for joy.

II.

Then Reuben cried, " Marvel of marvels this !
We scarcely can receive such joyful news !
We are not worthy to be shown such love
And mercy from the hands of one so wronged !
We do deplore our sin, thy pardon crave,
And now reproach ourselves with keen regret,
And plead that Heaven may forgive our crime !"
Then Joseph with embrace and loving kiss,
Received them all within his gracious heart,
While 'round them hovered Heaven's angels bright,
Who, peace and love declared in accents mild.

IIEIIO OF THE DRAMA OK OENEHIS.

" I scarce hud hoped to see this <biy," he cried,
" Th(ni<^h lonf(infj in my iieart ; but now my soul
Doth overflow with joy, and praise the Lord,
That we so lon(( and painfully estraiififed.
Are broufjlit towthor in one loving bond !"
Thus, havin<^ spake, their hearts- ""ere (]uickly calmed,
And all in tones subdued conve i with him.
Sweet was the C(juncil all their souls enjoyed,
While thus united after many years.
And Joseph mindful cf his father lone,
Enquired tenderly of him and said,
" My brethren haste ! To Canaan quick repair,
And tell our father all the glory here,
That I am ruler over all this land,
And bid him journey here with all his house,
For I will nourish you, your i s and herds.
And children's children in this bounteous land."
When Joseph rode in triumph through the realm,
A scene of splendor dazzled every eye,
But that, before his brethren, weeping full
Forgiveness he had yearned so long to give.
Transcended all that royalty displayed.

III.

Forgiveness is God's own prerogative.
But joined to Him are those who exercise
Its benign power o'er their friends and foes.
Without it, Heaven's portals would be closed
Against the purest of the world, and earth

HKUO Ol' Tllli; DItAMA OK (»KNKSIS.

HOUl

calmed,

iiir,

se,
i-(\s,
and."
realm,

re,

)es.
losed

1th

Itself would soon 1)0 Hell pi'esided o'er

By those relentless to all just appeal,

And desperate to excel in vengeance foul.

The malefactor's base before the world,

And often b}' himself is much abhorred,

But is he not as low, who won't forgive

With just and ready hand, the one who does

Him ill, when honestly repented of ?

B'ull thrice more ill is his, whose miiltv heart

Cannot forgive itself for evil done,

Than his, who nay receive the cruel wrong,

And groan beneath a burden rife with pain.

Could we but read the secret history

Of our enemies, in each one's life ;

We would discovery misery enough

To quite disarm us of liostility,

And cause us t- be kind and merciful.

IV.

Ere long the joyful tidings spread abroad,
And Pharaoh overjoyed for Joseph's sake,
Most heartily with all his plans concurred ;
And soon the happy sons of Israel
Were homeward bound to brinijf their families.
And all they had to Egypt's plenteous stores.
Now Israel, for them had waited long.
And weary gi-ew as day on day dragged on
To lengthen his suspense. But one fair eve.
While sitting lone beneath a sf)reading oak.

HEIU) OP THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

He lifted up his eyes, and 'midst the haze,

Far distant saw his sons with rapid steps

Approaching in the vale. " They come !" he cried,

And joyfully arose to hail them home.

" Glad tidings reverend father do we bring

For thee and all thy ivin ! For Joseph have

We found in Egypt's land, and he is there

The Governor supreme, the very one

Who strangely treated us ; and now by his

Command we come for thee and all we have

To journey down again, and with him dwell

There to be nourished through these years of need."

And then upon their faces all they fell

To piteously bewail their heinous sin.

And beg forgiveness at his trembling hands.

Now Israel, though by a trance enthralled.

Recovered, and arousing him declared

With loud exultant cry, " It is enough !

Your sin so long deep buried in the past,

And shrouded in the gloom of secrecy,

But now confessed in truth and penitence.

Elucidates a dreaded mystery !

You are forgiven by my weeping heart,

Though often pierced with many sorrows through,

And I shall Joseph once again behold,

Yet clasp him to my aching aged heart

Before I pass the bourn that leads to rest ?

Father of Abraham, I thee adore,

That yet within ni}'- latter days I'll see

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

he cried,

Lve
ell
B of need."

ds.

;e,

s through,

;t?

My long lost son, and yet rejoice in him,
And prove thy many promises to me !"
Thus Israel, with father's tend'rest love,
Absolved his sons of all their wrong to him,
And Joseph his beloved whom they sold ;
To rid them of his presence when a lad ;
And now the strange antipathy that barred
Tlie hearts of all from fellowship so long,
Was all removed, and once again they loved,
And were restored to fullest confidence.

Bright shone the sun from out the azure sky,

And flung his beams upon the seared vale.

Bereft of promise of abundant yield ;

When Israel with all his sons and kin,

Set hard upon their journey to the south.

Ere all the scenes familiar to him loner

Had full receded from the ranP-e of sio-ht

He paused, and backward turned his weary gaze

For one long farewell look ; then deeply sighed

His soul's regret to leave the favoured land.

His heritage so long with Heaven's smiles.

But hope soon urged him with alacrity,

Begotten of a soul of younger years

Upon his way : until loved Beersheba

Was gained, where, gladly halted for the night,

They rested from their toil and worshipped God,

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENESIS,

Who, in tlie midnight hour, in love appeared
To Israel, and reassured him of
His tender care and purpose to recall
His children to their own inheritance.
When all concerninf? them had been fulfilled.
At daybreak, once again they journeyed on.
All confident of Heave.i's watchful care.
And day on day their courage was renewed,
To hie upon their coui'se o'er desert waste
Till Egypt was attained with thankfulness.

CANTO THE NINTH.
I.

Now Joseph, had their advent waited long,
And hastened in his chariot to greet
Them with a princely hea^'t, within the land
Of Goshen and appoint them all their home.
Sublime and touching was the meeting scene
Of aged Patriarch and son renowned,
Assundered for the space of twenty years.
He saw his sainted father stooped with age,
And read the sorrow in his patient face,
Then flung himself upon his neck in tears.
While thus in fond embrace they lingered long,
Sorrow and joy long pent within their hearts
Unbidden rushed to grant them sweet relief
In loudest sobs of love unspeakable.
" Now that 1 do thy countenance behold,"

HERO OF THE DRAMA OP GENESIS.

Said Israel, " And tliou art still alive,
It is enough to satisfy my soul,
And let me die at peace with Heaven and earth !"
Then Joseph said, " My soul doth magnify
The Lord, that we are spared to see this day.
And marvel at His grace on us bestowed.
Through intervening years of hope and fear :
With such our hearts shall alternate no more,
But rest with grief assuaged in unit3^ :
Beneath high Heaven's smiles, and yet enjoy
The fruitage of the toil of by-gone years."
With courtesy and love he greeted all,
And some presented to the nation's King,
With Israel, who, blest him on his throne.
And praised him for his favour to his son.

II.

Thus Israel, wdth all his family host,

Was by the Hand of God, with Joseph linked

In destiny sublime, and by him loved

And nourished through the years of widespread ill ;

That visited the nations .far and wide.

And thus, the latter days of Israel,

Instead of dragging out 'mid earthly gloom,

Were in fruition spent, and wdien the days

Of exit to the Spirit Land di-ew on,

'Twas hailed with joy and met wdth faith serene,

Triumphant in the promises of God.

HERO OP THE DRAMA OP GENESIS.

With feet already in the stream of death,

His mind reverted to his cherished land,

And calling Joseph to his side, declared

His wish to rest with all his fathers there.

Life's winuinof path leads to the silent tomb, [shade ;

Through flowers and thorns, the sunshine and the

Borne on the wings of Time, along it rush

A surging throng, ignoble and sublime

In character ; beloved and abhorred

By all related to tlieir brief career.

Each in his turn must pass life's bounds to Death,

Depart from those he loves and all he hath

On earth ; to penetrate the light or gloom

Of vast Eternity, in which his state

Eternfdlv unaltered shall remain.

As pass the years allotted us on earth,

How thoughtlessly we live, hovv full of glee,

We sport upon Death's brink quite unalarmed,

Till by some visitation we awake ;

Till at our hand without a warning call.

Our thrifty fellows fall beneath the sword

Of Death, which flames above the heads of great

And small, of young and old, in rapid turn.

To execute the sentence of mankind !

III.

The Angfcl of the Covenant had watched
The Patriarch through all his pilgrimage,
And when the closing scene drew gently on.
He hovered very near to cheer his soul,

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENESIS

And animate him for his farewell words

To all his sons, who 'round about him stood

With bowed heads, with trembling hearts and hands.

To heai- the declarations of the Lord

Relating to their life and destiny.

From Reuben down to Benjamin he spake,

And skilfully portrayed in striking lines

Their character, and vividly revealed

To each the varied things that should befall

Them and their race within the latter times.

" Reuben, thou art my first begotten son.

In strength and dignity supreme, yet thou

8halt not excel, because irresolute

In soul, and did'st not hesitate to sin,

Xor yet to desecrate thy father's name.

Levi and Simeon are leagued as one,

And instruments of cruelty remain

In their abode. O soul of mine come not

Within theii- secret snares, mine honor with

Their councils be not joined ; for anger caused

Their hands to slay a man, and stubborn will,

To wound their oxen in the field of toil .'

Now cursed be their anger which was fierce,

In Jacob I shall all their host divide,

And scatter them abroad in Israel.

Judah, thou art the one who shall be feared

By all thy brethren now and evermore.

Thy hand shall rest upon the wilfui neck

HERO OP THE DRAMA OF flEXESIS.

Of all tliy foes, and all the children of

Thy father shall be subject to thy rule.

Thou art a mighty lion in the fray,

And fi'om thee shall the sceptre not depart,

Nor vet a le^fal ruler al)dicate ;

Till Shiloh come, to gather to Himself

The chosen of the world in righteousness."

IV.

" Brave Zebulum, shall dwell ulonor the shores

Of Sidon, and become a haven safe,

For hardy mariners by tempest tossed.

And Issachar, thouixh stron^jf to bear a load.

Shall soon through ease and idleness become

The slave of others famed in mastery.

But Dan shall judge his people with a strong

And stealthy hand ; and be a serpent in

The W'Ay, to sljdy bite the horse's heels,

And cast his rider helpless to the earth.

Lo ! Gad shall ^neld before a conqu'ring host,

Yet troops shall from him spring and overcome

His enemies, with fatal sword at last.

Now Asher shall in bread be rich and fat,

And yield his choicest dainties to the world ;

While Naphtali shall be a hind let loose,

Full satisfied and free with Heaven's good,

And shall be(]ueath to men his goodly words.

And Benjamin shall raven as a wolf,

To gather prey and be increased in goods,

HERO OF THE DRAJIA OP GEXESI8.

But shall at eventi'lo divide the spoil.

Of Joseph and his i-aee he proudly said,

"Thou art a fruitful bow beside a well,

Whose branches hang the wall, tlie Archers have

Thee tried and sorely grieved with arrows and

Reproach : but still thy bow retained its strength,

Thy arms remained confirmed by Jacob's God.

From thee the shepherd and the destiny

And stone of Israel shall come : ordained

By Jacob's God, who shall thy household bless

With Heaven's grace, with earthly good,

And offspring strong and great. The blessings of

Thy fathers have prevailed upon thy head.

O'er his progenitors, and to the bounds

Of everlasting hills on Joseph's head,

And royal crown shall they in praise abide."

Thus Israel of Joseph fondly spake.
Then raised his hands to Heaven and confirmed
His blessing on them all in accents low ;
Just as Death's angel summone<l him away.
To join his fathers ransomed from the world ;
While Joseph fell upon his lifeless form
And fondly kissed him as he wept aloud.
And all his brethren raised a wail in o- crv
When all the days of mourning were fulfilled.
The sons of Israel and Egypt's great,
In royal pomp and solemn dignity,

HERO OP THE DHAMA OF OEXE91S.

Repaired to sacred Canajin to inter

The mortal form of Israel, as was

Designed, within the cave of Macphela.

Thus closed the life of Israel on earth,

And Joseph in the providence of God,

When he had lingered long 'mid childhood's scenes,

With all his splendid retinue, returned

To Egypt to resume the kingdom's rule.

And when his brethren still by guilt distressed.

Were overawed at liis authority,

And craved protection from his faithful hands,

Bemoaning once again their evil deeds ;

He wept in pain, that they should e'er suspect

His tender heart gave place to ill intent :

Then earnestly assured them that the Lord,

In spite of evil had designed that he

Should be a saviour to His favoured race ;

And when a mighty host should lead them forth

To victory and rich inheritance.

CANTO THE TENTH,

For three score years and more all Pharaoh's realm
Was 'neath the sway of Joseph, greatly blest,
And all his brethren prospered by his care
Exceedingly, and rose to usefulness,
Which gave them eminence thi-oughout the land.
And when his head was silvered with the years
That lengthened out his life in sweet repose.
From many burdens of his princely state ;
He was so tender and affectionate,

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENESIS.

That oft, he sought the chil<lren's company,

And fondled them with all a father's pride.

The wife of his affection shared his joys ;

She entered into all his state concerns,

And honoured him with rarest constancy :

And as life's last declivity the}'' trod,

Both nearer to Jehovah fondly drew.

Oft, when alone secluded from the world

His soul would muse on Canaan's happy scenes,

And then on winces of faith soar up to God,

In rapt'rous contemplation of the time

When Heaven's portals would admit him to

The goal of everlasting life and rest.

To many struggling with the cares of life.

And wrestling with the forces of the world,

That crowd them into limitations quite

Against their iron will and lofty aims;

The life and lai'ge achievements of the great

Seem to present the unattainable:

And oft, with fainting heai't thej^ turn away.

To brood upon the mis'ry of their lot,

And mourn their deeds as insignificant.

But true success and honour in the world

Are just as surely his, who in his lot

And full capacity performs the will of God ;

As theirs wIkj gain the greater heights of fame ;

E'en should he die unhonoured and unsung,

By those beyond the sphere in which he moved.

11.

One lovely eve, as sank the golden sun,
With rare refulgent beams athwart the sky,
And shadows ushered in the gloaming calm ;
A host commissioned l)y the heavenly courts,

HERO OF THE DRAMA OF GENEHIH.

Appeared to Josepli when alone in prayer,
And bade him hiy his earthly sceptre down,
For an immortal crown and hii^h reward.
With joy he hailed the summons from the skies,
And set his house in order to depart ;
So 'round him stood his brethren and his liouse,
To solace him, to hear his last connnands,
And watch his noble spirit hie away,
" I die," said he, " but God will visit you
With fifreat deliverance, and lead 3'ou forth
Fi'om Efjypt's land to that by oath secured,
To all the seed of Abraham elect.
When that eventful day shall come, I charge
You strictly to remove my mortal form,
Hence to tepose within our father's tomb.
And may the blessing of my father's God

Abide with all the house of Israel."

III.

Thus, having spake, he yielded up the ghost.

And fied to join his fathers in their rest,

Attended by a ministering host.

Up to the shining realms in joyful baste,

The angels fled to bear his soul released,

While from his palace went a wailing cry.

Which, caught by all wdio dwelt within the land,

Was raised to Heaven day on day for him ;

Who long had swayed his sceptre o'er their hearts.

The house of Pharaoh mourned for many days,

And summoned all the Nobles of the land

To pay full kindly honour to the Prince

Who governed the kingdom long and w^ell.

Ne'er since the proudest Monarch pa.ssed away,

HERO OP THE DHAilA OP OKNE8IS.

Who had in ^lory safc on Ef^fypt's throne,
HjuI all tlie honoured of the kin^^dom wide,
Assembled to attest the di^ifnity
Of one so patriotic and divine.
The Royal House, ail mournfully arrayed,
The Priests, adorned in sad habiliments,
Were marslialled with the iiost of every class,
Tliat in a measured tread accompanied
The sacred bier unto the hallowed stream,
That flowed between the liviuii; and the dead.

IV.

When solemn tread and retjuiem had ceased.

Before the Judges at the river's brink.

Who sat above the throng with visage sad,

As was their wont, to hear if any charge

Could be preferred against the one deceased ;

To publicly refuse his spirit rest :

So righteous was the spirit of his rule,

That ne'er a voice was heard in strange appeal,

From any wronged, oppressed, or malcontent.

And then a joyful murmur broke the spell,

And loudest acclamations tilled the air.

From all the throng, that one so much revered

Should mingle with the joys of future life.

And then the Sacred Barge, with Joseph's form.

Proceeded to the regions of the dea^l.

Where, silently within a royal tomb,

It found repose while all the world surged on.

Thus, like the Saviour of the world Himself,

Was Joseph by his own betrayed and sold

Into the hands of evil men, that he

Might be the saviour of his race, the means

Of stablishing them in a foreign land.

HERO OP THK DUAMA oK (JKNRHIH.

Where, for a time in servitude they should

Be tauirht of God, and learn the finest arts

In order to be inifjhty as a race,

When He should lead them forth into the land,

Which by the covenant with Abraham

Was theirs and their posterities' for aye.

Full often we are placed in custody

To circumstances, fraught with vast concern

To other's interests and God's designs ;

Yet all too slowly grasp their full import,

And strugi^le to evade environments,

Which seem to militate against our good,

God makes us span the breach, though darkened with

Uncertainty, that others might be saved ;

That men in turn might know the mystery

Involved in many of His mighty schemes.

To benefit the children of His care,

And brinjx them to eternal blessedness.

A nation, or a world enthralled, cannot

Emancipated be, lest souls are found

Heroic for the task, and yield themselves

To God's directing Hand to work His will.

Do thou thy given work, it shall succeed.

In thine or in thy fellow's ripened day,

E'en should'st thou be a marf^ ' jause.

For every human life ««upp'

To make the chain Oi >viu i cc plete ;

And everyone shall ju ^ rewn i receive,

From Him who fashioneth i miortal crowns.

And placeth them upon each victor's brow.

and,

•n

kened with

ise.

ns,