Lyrics op the Past AND OTHER POEMS. BY M. EMMA KNAPF^i SAINT JOHN, N. B. i'UINTED BY J. & A. McMILLAN 1872. AFFlECTtONATEtiY DfeDICATfil) TO THE Inhabitants of my native provincEi New Brunswick; >.-.'■ H^ **"•■>■■■'" ■ - 1 V; <.'*■}'"■ INTRODUCTION, It is with no vain desire to emulate the flne talents, and rare intellectual productions of the shining stars of Genius, who are reflecting a glorious halo of radiance around the earth at the present time, or presumptuously claim for myself even the most humble place amid those who command the homage of an admir- ing \vorld, that T offer this little volume to the people of my native Province, indulging the hope that, with considerate kind-< ness, they will overlook the errors which, I well know, will but too frequently mark its pages. I would have them bear in mind, that many of the verses were written when scarcely past the period of childhood, and mspired only by thoughts of home and home-associations, and an admira-t tion for all that is romantic and lovely in the wild scenery on the shores of the Chignecto. In this vast solitude, commemorated by reminiscences of the past, there is much to awaken feelings of sublimity; and with the burning eloquence of a Moore or Byron, and the wonderfully beautiful descriptive powers of a Longfellow or Bryant, I might have done a spot, so fraught with interest, full Vi INTHODUCTIOS. justi-e. If I had been endowed with the gifts, so generously he- stowed by the greatest of all Authors, on the souls of those who have left an immortal record forevermore, then, indeed, the efforts how so poor— so unworthy — might have been crowned by success^ and shed an almost magical influence over the hearts of the inha* bitants of this, my native country, — so much beloved, so endeared by holy and precious memories of by-gone days, and merit the approval I would sacrifice much to obtain. Falling short of all this, I can only ask their toleration foi* an attempt so inefBcienCi and shall feel doubly repaid if the compositions, however imper-' feet, will 8ei*ve to pass away an idle hour, or awaken a pleasant thbught in the minds of my readers. I would offer grateful thanks to the friends who subscribed for my book before it was published» THE AUTHOR* CONTENTS The Fisherman's Daughter, 9 A Vision of the Future, 23 A Village Tale — A Poem in two Parts, 31 On seeing Mrs. M 's Portrait for the first time after her Death, 44 The Halls of the Past, 46 The Mother's Dying Gift, 49 The Old Homestead, 51 The Fortune-Teller, 56 Louise de la Valliere — A Poem in two Parts, 58 My Birthday, 63 The Assembly of the Dead, 66 Essex, 69 Written in the Album of Miss Louise Hodge, of Point Levi, Quebec, 73 The Hero of Kars, 74 Disappointment, 76 Written at the Eequest of a Gentleman, expressive of his admiration of a Lady, 76 Lines written in the Family Bible, 78 Presentation of a Sword, 79 To Amelia on her Wedding Day, 82 Parting Words, 83 A Tribute to Mrs. A. H. Peck 85 An Irregular Ode on the Death of the Prince Consort, 8^ Lines addressed to Dr. Cameron on his return froni India, ... 88 On the Death of a beloved Sister, 91 To a Lady, 93 "Every Heart knoweth its own Bitterness," 94 To , 95 viii CONTENTS. To 96 To Sarah, »' Thoughts on Mrs. Hemane, after reading ' Sister since I met thee last," 99 To Arthur on his Birthday, 100 Re-union in the Spirit Land, 101 Keepisakes, lO-- Presentiments, 105 To , 107 Flowers, 109 Sorrow around our Path, ••• '09 Lines written in the Album of Mrs. Warren, of Boreas Hill, Oshawa, 0. W., July 29th, 1862, 110 A Dream, 112 To a Dear Friend, 118 The Grave of the Past, 120 On the Death of a dear Friend killed at the battle of Resica, Georgia, 121 To a Friend, 124 The last words of Goethe, 126 A Tribute to Charles Dickens, 128 The Site of an old French Chapel near Fort Beau Sejour,.... 132 The Empress Carlotta, 134 On receiving a young Lady's Portrait, 137 On the closing Year, 138 A view of Montreal from the tower of the French Cathedral, 141 The "City of Boston," 143 To a Friend on his departure from Fort Beau Sejour, 147 Lines addressed to the one who can best understand them, . . . 148 The Sunshine, 150 Listening for a Footstep, 151 Midnight Musings, 153 The Lady's Choice^ •■■•.■• 155 LYRICS OF THE PAST. THE FISHERMA.N'S DAUGHTER. Tim fisherman's cot was on tKe beacli, His boat upon the sea ; One gentle daughter blest his home, With a heart so light and free — And a buoyant step, that brushed the dew In its light and buoyant tread, From off the wild-flower's fragrant bloom, As it raised its graceful head. On the summer morn, as she gaily tripled O'er heath and meadow wild. And haply trilled some lightsome song, While the sunbeams o'er her smiled 10 LYRICS OF THE PAST. And cast bright shades 'mid the golden crown Upon her lovely head, And o'er the gentle placid brow A glory seemed to shed. She sat by her father's knee at night, And heard the tempest roar. While he told some well-remembered tale Of wrecks, on the wild sea-shore j And lifeless forms, cast on the rocks, That met his startled sight. As he went forth in early morn, When the storm had spent its might. Man's stalwart form, and children too. With maidens young and fair, — The bright eyes set in stony gaze And look of last despair. And oft she looked on the ocean calm, And watched the ships' pass by, With snowy sails, and stately grace, Beneath the soft blue sky. ^ THE FISHERMAN'S DAUGHTER. U ^0 clouds to obscure their onward course j The wave's low surgeless sound, — And a precious freight of longing hearts, In their gladness homeward bound. One night the storm raged long and loud, She heard the sea's wild roar. And knew that many a noble bark Would never reach the shore. The sky was black, the thunder's voice Kolled hoarsely through the air, The maiden and her father knelt With heads bowed low in prayer For those exposed upon the deep In such a dreadful hour ; Well might they tremble for the ship That felt that fierce storm's power. The lightning's flash lit up the sky To s> V where dark rocks loom, And make the darkness still more dense In its terrific gloom. 12 LYRICS OF THE VAST. The storm was o'er. Faint streaks of light Foretold the coming day ; Their anxious fears foreboded right ; In wild disorder lay Along the coast the remnants sad, Of such a fearful night, For many a wreck that strewed the shore, Told the gale's withering blight. But one alone the tempest spared — But one outlived the storm ; The fisherman, with tender care, Bore home a senseless form. And watched and tended till the breath Beturned to it again, Until youth's vital current strong Was coursing through each vein. But many a day he wildly raved, Of shipwrecks on the main ; A soft hand cooled his fevered brow, . And soothed his hours of pain. THE FISFERMAN'S DJUGHTEB. 13 His garments ricti, the sea had drenched And dimmed with many a stain, Revealed him one who claimed a place In fortune's favoured train. Had he been of the friendless poor, Without a home or name ', The humble hearts of guileless worth Had tended him the same. When health returned he lingered still Within the rustic cot. And scarcely realized the charm That chained him to the spot. But soon he learned to watch a look Upon the young girl's face, A look of radiant happiness Wherein he well might trace llrst-love awakening in a soul, Unschooled by fashion's art, Unfeigned, sincere, where not one thought Of self claimed any part. ;t4 LYRICS OF THE FAST, With transport listening to the words, Like music soft and sweet, The words that told her she was loved And made her bliss complete. Whene'er the South-wind whispered low^ And calmly flowed the tide, f Upon the water's placid swell The light boat they would guide, And watch the bright fish at their play, With bursts of glad delight ; Then dip their oars that they might see The phosphorescent light. Then he would tell her of his home— Of splendour, wealth and pride. Where she should reign a peerless queen When she became his bride : Her hair adorned with glittering gems^ Emitting dazzling light ; Though in their lustre eyes like her's Would only shine more bright. THE FISHEBMAN'S VAUGHTEH. 16 He claimed descent in lin'^al right From nobles, proud and vain, Who every peril dauntless braved, High honours still to gain. He loved the gentle Mary, — knew Her good as she was fair. But still a gulf divided them, And pride had placed it there. He for a time all things forgot, By one so loved to stay ; The hours upborne on wings of love Flew joyously away. Ah ! it was cruel, thus to win A heart so fresh and pure. Then cast it back in careless scorn, And blight it evermore ; Deceive the trusting innocence, That knows no second birth : To pluck a flower with reckless hand, Then cast it on the earth. 16 LYRICS or THE PAST. Autumn its changing tints had thrown Upon each tree-crowned hill; The parting song of birds was heard^ And silent flowed each rill — That bubbling ran in summer glee So sunny, free and glad ; The coming winter shed its gloom, And wakened feelings sad. Within the heart that trusted still, Though many days had flown Since breathing vows of endless love^ He left her there alone. Through many months no tidings came; She watched and waited long ; In the once happy cottage-home Was hushed the merry song That cheered the aged father when He home returned at night. To meet the cheerful loving smile That made his heart so bright. THi^: FISHERMAN'S DAUGHTER. 17 He missed it now, and felt within A strange and nameless dread, And knew a dark cloud hovered o'er His darling's gentle head. He read upon the lovely face That paler grew each day. The hope which, until then sustained. Forever past away. The buoyant step was languid now, Its motion wei k and slow ; The azure eyes were dim with tears That told of secret woe. At starlight hour she often gazed Across the waters lone ; And started when some sail drew nigh : Perhaps he yet might come. In vain she listened for his step Along the sand-paved shore, Where last she heard his parting tread ; But he returned no more. 18 LYRICS OF THE PAST. The flowers of summer bloomed again. One, beautiful and fair, Could know no second blossoming ; It slowly withered there. The wind sighed low in plaintive moan, Bright stars shone overhead ; While, in a home now desolate. An old man mourned his dead. He raised the sunny curls that fell O'er waxen neck and brow, And cried in accents of despair, " Methinks I see thee now, " Before the traitor's poisonous breath Had blighted all thy bloom ; Before the serpent's fatal charm Had lured thee to thy doom. " Oh ! may a curse rest over him, Pursuing all his life. To turn his cup of bliss to gall. And mingle it with strife. THE FISHERMAN'S DAUGHTER. 19 " Cursed when he rises up at morn, When he lies down at eve; Nip every prospect in the bud, Nor yet one pleasure leave. " My ruined home ! and he I saved, From out the arms of death ; Would he had pjrished where he lay, Ere I restored his breath. " For boon of life this the return ! " And then he fondly pressed Waim kisses on the beauteous cheek, So peacefully at rest. The curse was borne on wings of night, Unto the stately hall ; Where the revel's-lord was feasting high, Without one thought to pall. He raised the foaming glass on high. To drink to his young bride ; When a strange vision came betweea^ Obscuring all beside. 20 LYUICS OF THE PAST. Within a coffin peaceful lay One who had loved him well ; Amid the festive music sweet He heard a funeral knell. The glass fell from his heavy hand. In fear he turned away; All objects faded from his view, Save one eventful day, When he woke to life and saw a face, Like angel's, heavenly, mild; And o'er him bent with tender care The fisher's gentle child. And from that hour he found no rest In his luxurious home ; In every breeze he heard a voice, Like a i^pirit's wailing moan. He sought for peace in other lands. The peace he ne'er could find ; A gloom pervading every scene In the unquiet mind. THE FISHERMAN'S DAUGHTER, 21 A haunting influence on him still, Where'er he restless turned; The scorching fire of deep remorse, His soul incessant burned. Honours, for which he vainly toiled, He saw another win; So retribution follows fast. Upon the steps of sin. His daughters, in their early bloom, The grave shut from his sight ; His son, his hope, his joy and pride, Proved coward in the fight. Dark shadows gathered faster still, More sullen grew his mood ; Where'er he went by night and day, The dreadful curse pursued. A disappointed, wretched man. He lived out half his days ; Was placed within his sculptur^^d tomb., Without one word of praise. 22 LYRICS OF THE PAST. One step from off the beaten path, Once deviate from the right; The honoured course that good men tread, And blo8sing;8 take their flight. A VISION OF THE FUTURE. A mother bent in agony, Above her lij^oless child, " Oh ! Father give her back to me/* She cried in accents wild : " With her merry childish glee, the sunbeam of my home, Ah ! wherefore did'st thou call her hence, p.nd leave me here alone ? " And has she gone ! forever gone I My precious little flower ; The light that o'er my spirit shone, The rose-bud of Life's bower ? I cannot, — cannot give her up I bid this wild grief be still, With resignation meek submit unto my Maker's will." 'Twas sunset in the lonely room, Where wept that mourner pale ; Amid the silence and the gloom Arose the bitter wail. While the bereaved in hopeless sorrow wept, In calm repose the lovely infant slept. 24 LYRICS OF THE PAST. •Nought broke the stillness there, gave the sound of human woe ; She would not bow her soul in prayer, God's mercy could not know : Who took her darling in His perfect love, From every care to dwell with Him above. Whence comes that glorious ray That dazzles the weeper's sight, Brightening the spot where her treasure lay, With a glare of effulgent light ? The sombre shades in an instant fled, And a radiant halo shone 'round the dead. And within the burning glow, An angel form stood there. With a starry crown upon his brow That gleamed in the golden hair : And the sound of his voice on the listener's ear, In its harp-like tones, thrilled her soul to hear. " Thou can'st not submit to Heaven's decree, Sad mourner, for thy child; For consolation, follow me," ^ He «aid, and sweetly smiled. # A VISION OF THE FIJ7URK. 2S While fascinated by his gaze, she had no power to stay, The seraph with a holy grace in silence led the way-^ Till they reached a flowery dale, And paused by a limpid stream, Whose waters rippled with the gale, 'Neath the noon-day's sunny beam : For night had given place to day, ^ince they l3ft th • room where the dead child lay, The angel spoke once more : " Look down,'' he said, " in the stream, Learn — while her loss thou dost deplore— r What thy darling's fate had been, If granted thy sinful prayer could be. And the beauteous cherub restored to thee." O'er the sparkling waters she eagerly bent. And a vision met her view, 'Twas such as to our dreams are sent. But more distinct and true : Scenes rose in quick succession, as we sometimes see in sleep, . . . And grief was for a while forgot, in interest strange an4 deep : ; \ ■ x . » LYRICS OF THE PAST. Before her is a glittering hall, With lovely things and rare, But the pride of the brilliant festival Was a maiden young and fair, — With hope and trutJ in the soft dark eyes, As her fairy feet through the gay dance flies. And one was near her, — ever near, With an air of martial pride ; What was it that made the watcher fear For the fair girl by his side ? ^Neath the noble exterior, and matchless grace, The wiles of the tempter she only can trace. The guileless heart can know no fear, As she lists to each loving word j They fall in melody rich on her ear, Far sweeter than aught she has heard. In joy and love pass the fleeting hours, But thorns are concealed in the blooming flowers. The hall has vanished, — in its place Is a scene on a foreign shore, There's many an unfamiliar face^ . In a land neVer seen before, — A VISION OF THE FUTURE. 2? With a perfume of roses, and clear blue sky, And white-sailed boats on the bright river lie. t Relics are there of the days gone by, Structures superb and grand, As they rise in grandeur on the eye, Bespeak Italians land ! The pride of the artist, the home of art, But no resting place for a broken heart. The once glad beinj^ is there alone, In a dark and i eerless room ; Ah ! why does she breathe a heartfelt groan, In that clime of light and bloom ? The hectic flush, and the burning tears, Reveal the sorrows of many long years. (thi,-;- Oh ! what a wreck of the joyous past— i A picture of earthly grief; We lay up treasures that cannot last, Nor in anguish bring relief: When in idols of clay are placed fond trust, . Too late they are found to be mouldering dust. 91 LYRICS OF THE FAST, She is far from her early home — ) The mountains free and wild, Where she nevor dreamed of care to come, And sported a happy child : With gay wreaths entwined in her chestnut hair. They were needless adornments for beauty rare. The sunny curls are mixed with gray, Long — long before their time ; Youth's beauty early fades away, At the touch of sin and crime : Her broken accents the sad tale conveyed, Wildly she murmured, " dishonoured ! betrayed !" With languid motion she rises up, Approaches a marble stand,— Upon it glistens a golden cup, Which she grasps with a trembling hand ; Perchance a love-gift of her happiest days. It brilliantly shone in the sun's bright rays ; — . She looked on it sadly, - With soul-passion tossed, ; It reminded too madly 11 ' Of all she had lost ; '"' ■ " A Vision OF THE FUTURE. ^ *Twa8 a mockerj now, and containing a draught, "W uich she placed to her lips and hurriedly quaflfedi *' "There is no rest for me again On all this glorious earth ; Could I endure a lingering pain^ Doomed from my very birth — No hope remains!" she wildly cried, "Oh! God, my guilt forgive !" And with the words of deep despair, the lost one ceased to live. Her seraph-guide, from that fearful trance, The mother gently woke, — She turned to meet his heavenly glance As the silence again he broke : *' Now understand why the precious one is called from thy loving care ; The Crown of Life, she hath early won — gained heaven— thou'lt meet her there. • " She is gone in her innocent childhood, pure, From the ' evil still to come,' ^- In a Saviour's arms to rest evermore, j^C May His holy will be done : ao LYRICS OF THE PAST. " Within the Everlastinor Arms, the lost one shalt thou •o see. For thy Redeemer still hath said — ' Suffer them to come to me.'" " To my sweet babe's loss I am resigned," The weeper smiled through her tears ] " Light dawns within my darkened mind> She is safe from doubts and fears, — . Free from all grief, and sin, and pain, I would not hav§ her back again." A VILLAGE TALE, Part L The incidents from which this mournful tale is drawn. 7 Transpired long years ago ; my memory's early morn Riicalls no artful faction, but a simple " o'wre true tale," To make the sunnj cheek of youth, with interest sad, grow pale : The scepes occurred lang 'syne, in a hamlet famed of yore ; Oh, wildly dark Chignecto ! bound by thy sea-girt shore. 'Twas marked in ages past, by heroic deeds sublime, A spot of quiet beauty, in the pleasant summer time : With its extensive range of sea and land, Which stretches wide across the level strand, And the dismantled fort, that takes the stranger's eye, xind causes him to question of its use in times gone by : The ancient monument, it stands of war-like deeds of old, In its defence, on winter nights, strange legends still are ,.:',';-; told. •-: From the seat of deadly conflict, in the long past oldea -..^..- days, "^- ' - There is a view so beautiful, jou might forever ^a^e; LYJiics <>v THE Past, The place so peaceful now, oijce lieard the cannon's roafy As the ominous sound vibrated along the northern shore. The hills rest in their calm repose, and silence reigns around, We scarce can deem that war once raged 'mid stillness so profound, • Or the warrior's footstci>s echoed, as he riished to meet the foe ; Oft have I paused in reverent awe, where brave men slept below, And! thought of bright eyes dimmed by tears for those who ne'er returned ; Of many a joyous home, the light— the loved— the lost— the mourned. Ancestral ties must bind my heart to memory of the brave, Who left a land of harvests rich to gain a nameless grave ; Their loyalty supported them, when in the forest lone, And in the march, through savage wilds, it bore them nobly on. > - -; ^ -^f^ Within a sylvan glade, 'neath the shade of waving trees, Where wild flowers blooai and ongs of birds are borne upon the breeze. The heroine of my story passed her glad unclouded youth, A VILLA at: TALE. . 33 Nor sighed to leave the blest abode of innocence and truth. She was a lovely being, although not passing fair, (rifted with beauty of the mind, and free from sin and care; And she was loved, the gentle girl, by all who knew her well, i^or soul how pure ! and lofty thought I within that soul did dwell ; A woman's richest treasures had adorned her tranquil lot. Youth, hope, and peace, the world by her unknown and yet unsought ; The holy influence of a happy home^ Brightened by love, forbade the wish to roam. As time went on a change came o'er her (juiet life's repose. She woke to love, but better far, have slumbered to the close ; The pictures wrought by Fancy bright into existence grew, Resplendent visions lormed by joy rose on her rapturous view J The ideal of ecstatic dreams had won her heart's first love^ A youth of noble mien, to her all others far above. But how shall I describe him, — it is an arduous task. And one I fain would shrink from,- — he wore a specious :._^l.i_., mask,, .., _^j.,.._._ _ ■ , .^__ .... __:/ 34 LYRICS OF THE PAST, , With a high and stately bearing, well suited for command, His lot was far from noble, 'mid the humble of his land. Unlike his gentle lady-love, he dreamed of future state, And saw himself admired, caressed, the idol of the great; With matchless eloquence he'd charm the ever fickle crowd, , , Till to his wond'rous mental power the proudest hearts^ were bowed, . Yes ! he would reach the summit high of his aspiring pride ; To attain earth's brilliant honours he could even cast aside The faith and truth that ever shine upon the page of Time — The true nobility of man, that make a life sublime : Why should he hesitate to break all pure and sacred ties Thatbind the good and generous soul, if he could only rise? A sacrifice Ambition claims,— wise men still think the • same, * ' ^ ■ .^ -■•'v •- .:•.:•::; ..'- .■■ -^^^ ij':,.:»Ui----"^ And trusting hearts are trampled on the road that leads to fame. ■■ " ■ ■ ■ ' V'/^a :** ■• ',.,: ■, Such was the man beloved so well — ambitious, proud and cold — Who won a heart more precious far than India's minee of gold ; A VILLAGE TALE. Ift High-souled and true — within her heart his image wa» enshrined, She worshipped wildly with the strength of such a perfect mind. The hour of parting came at last, to give the first deep grief, To one the pleasures of whose life were doomed to be sa brief; Casting dark shado^vs o'er the blissful past, With all the gladsome hours that might not last ; For he, to whom her every thought was given, Who stood between her and her hope of heaven, Must leave awhile Acadia's much-loved shore, And other lands, to gain a name, explore ; If doubts arose that, 'mid the brilliant lot Where Destiny placed him, she might be forgot; Her form replaced by fairer, statelier maid, Decked with rare gems, in Fashion's robe arrayed ; She trusted still in God, and hushed the thought, Light fled her pathway, but she murmured not ; Her pleasant sunny smile, still in her home was seen, And every duty was performed as it had ever been. At intervals, came letters from old England's classig shore; 36 TA'li/CS OF THE PAST. He Hpoke of unchanged constancy till they should meet once more ; Indifferently he wandered, where Wealth's rich gifts were strewn, His memory's brightest spot, on earth, contained but her alone ; Dark eyes might dazzle with effulgence clear, To him her mild expression was more dear, Like heaven's soft stars, her face shone o'er each dream, Soul-lit and radiant with affection's beam. Four times had winter's mantle been spread with chilling gloom, And four successive seasons marked the rose's glorious bloom. Since last they parted, in that lone and pleasant little glen; How wearisome to her the years that intervened since then; .-^ -; - >; ■ For in Time's course dark clouds began to gather o'er her way, \ ' . ■■ ■'■" ■; ■■' •'> '^: Gloomy forebodings in her mind, excluded Hope's bright ray; -' --'■- - - - ■' Hut love still o'er her guileless mind could shed its holy power,' — -vm A VILLAGk TALE, 87 The hallowing influence cheered her on through many a weary hour ; *' He would return, once more return ! to bless her long- ing sight !" And at the thought of future bliss, her step with joy was light; Devotion's inspiration high, gave radiance to her mien. Such pure affection — Heaven's alone— ou earth is rarely seen; No evanescent passion her's, to feel the touch of time, It could endure through every wrong, e'en suffering or crime ; Blest by his love, the world had nought to fear, Affection's smile, the humblest home could cheer. Woman's devoted love oft meets a poor return : Strange that the precious gem should win neglect, and scorn. But he returned at last ; — The youth in manhood's pride, With knowledge, priceless knowledge, worth all the world beside; The scholar's sure reward, crowned with success he came, The wise foresaw a future, replete with wealth and fame. Ambition's projects had replaced the love of other days. 38 LYRICS OF THE PAST, Yes, all was changed ! his native plains he viewed with strange amaze, And marvelled much that they had e'er possessed a charm for him j The prospect was a dreary one, it looked obscure and dim ; And pastures green, where he had mused in boyhood's sweet romance, ' ■ Passed unobserved before his vieW) nor claimed a casual glance j But still her greeting was returned, by one as kind and warm, She could not see above her head, tha dark impending storm, And she was spared a few more days of gladness and delight Before the one star of her life had faded into night. Again they sought familiar haunts, when hours of toil weredone,'^' ■'''"' ''' " ' "■ ■' ' '"■ • •-- -.r* :*•■ ^ And with a heart too full for voice, beheld the setting sun, — The varying clouds, fit emblems of our ever changing years. Why is a world so beautiful, obscured by sin and tears? He gazed into the downcast eyes, whence timid glances came. A VILLAGE TAfjE, 39 And felt, for such a treasure, he might well relinquish fame; Not long ascendant good resolves — all efforts were m vain To free himself — Ambition's power had bound him with a chain; Within her fearful prison-house he was a captive still, All must give way befcxC the force of such a mighty will. " I cannot mar my prospects, though her love were worth them all, I must be great, though even friends conspire to make me fall : Though gentle — ^good — a prouder brow the bridal wreath must twine, A step more regal still must tread luxurious halls of mine, Her gen'rous soul would ne'er assist — all else I must dis- own Save rank and power/' — The sinful words were heard by heaven alone. ; iv ;r , ,■* :v , ,; ^ In after years, they in his soul like fiery embers burned, When from the pleasures of this life, in deep despair he V-r turned; . 4k) LYRICS OF THE PAST. When the syren voice of Fame for him had lost it'» witching sound, The Senate's state had little charm, when all too late he found Ambition's road a dreary waste, where roses hide the thorns, And gentle flowers of Love and Truth the pathway ne'er adorns. A VILLAGE TALE. Part II. " Talents, angel-bright, If wanting worth, arp shiniir- instrunients In false Ambition's hand." Forever gone ! thy happy fleeting hours, * Blest childhood's ever glad and sunny days ; Tl e birds sing sweeter songs, and earth's fair flowerp Wear richer bloom beneath the sun's bright rays, Than in the years of after life when sin's dark shadows cast Their gloom upon the landscape gay, too beautiful to last, A VILLAGE TALE. 41" I well remember now a summer day, with clear blue sky, The air with perfume laden as the hours went dancing by, A place of perfect beauty seemed the world to me, a child, As I admiring gazed around with rapture almost wild : Ye glide into my musings oft dear scenes of long ago, A tranquil influence hath the dreams of hours so free | from woe. They le^l me to a darkened room — ^ phange from light and mirth, Where lay a lifeless form — it told how vain the hopes of earth. For Death his impress stern had set on marble cheek and brow, .\nd the light within the close-shut eyes was quenched forever now ; The flowers she loved, in life, kind hands had strewn upor her breast. And thoy sweetly rhed their fragrance above her couch of rest — True symbols of the blameless life begun anew in Heaven, And perfect rest that God above hath to his angels given. The wasted hands were foiueu o'er the heart now free from pain. f^ After life's fever she slept well/' — never to wake again. ——- 4 — ■ ^ ■ ^- - -' ^ LYlilClS OF THE PASf. I questioned of her early fate, the answer given was brief r " She loved and was deserted — 'tis a tale of woe and grief." With tears they laid her in her grave, amid the early blest, Far better to rejoice that she had gained immortal rest ; Our Heavenly Father, from on high, beholds each sinful deed, '' Vengeance is mine," He will requite with Retribution'^ meed. 'Twas even so. This man's career was all he had designed,' The sacrifice was not in vain, the world's rich gift?, to find ; Years in their flight gave honours to the ones already won, 'Twas his to gain whate'er '• his eye desired beneath the sun." A wife with queenly grace, for him a fitting mate. Her mind accorded with his own, aspiring to be great, Grandeur and exaltation marked the splendour of his lot, He little dreamed he e'er should feel they were too dearly bought. Or they would fail when Conscience woke the thought of guilt and feat, When the gentle voice of one he \^ronged v^as eVer iri - his ear. , A VILLAGE TALE. ^ And from his restless couch he'd start to wake and wildly rave : *' That look of suffering on her face will haunt me to my grave." He strove to shut it from his view, but still 'twas ever there, In festive halls it yet pursued, in penance, vigil, prayer : All he achieved was worthless then, his mind was in the past, The long grass waved o'er her lowly grave, but she was avenged at last. <^S{5^j)<:^J^x:^j, 'i\^' ON SEEINGl MRS. M 'S PORTRAIT FOR THE FIRST TIME AFTER HER DEATH. " Thine eyes are charmed — thine earnest eyes — Thou image of the dead ! A spell within thy sweetness lies, A virtue thence is shed." — ^Hemans. How is it I behold thee now, Long lost to mortal view, Wearing a beauty all thine own, The high-souled and the true ? With lustrous eye of cloudless blue. Which seems to mock at change. They placed thee in thy silent home ; To see thee here seems strange. That grave expression on thy face, I've often seen, dear friend, When thou did'st grieve for worldly sin. Foreseeing weU the end, OiV SEEING A PORTRAIT, 45 Awaiting those who scorn reproof, From loving lips and kind ; Sincere thy soul, with purpose true, And purity of mind. The golden gleam upon thy hair, In its luxuriant wave, — And features with their pensive grace. Art's power alone can save. Oil, wondrous Art! that can preserve The loved and lost so well ; To bless once more the longing heart And wear a holy spell. Until we meet thee in the realm. Of never fading bloom, — And hear the angel accents sweet. Now silent in the tomb. THE HALLS OF THE PAST. The halls of the past are spacious and grand, And they tower high o'er the shadowy land, Where fair ships are stranded or wrecked by the gala That wildly sweeps o'er the desolate vale — The ships that were laden with Hope's purpose high, And all that is lovely in youth's sunny sky. Ah ! mournful indeed are the shipwrecks of life^ Destroyed by the tempests of love, sin or strife, With pure spirits crushed, and withered, and dead, While by-gone blest hours wail a dirge over-head. They are strangely peopled, the vast gloomy halls, And no voices resound through their lonely walls, An assemblage so mixed in the dim light is seen, A hush and a silence where light feet have been. A mother is blessing the boy at her knee, * Before he goes forth earth's wonders to see ; ;. With reverent grace he is kissing her brow, :?- Ere entering the vessel with " Hope at the prow," t j^t anchor it waits on the turbulent stream, ^ i a^i: THE HALLS OF THE PAST. 4ff Flowing on to the Future that distant doth gleam, * And oft in the dreams of the hurrying years, Hath he thought in sadness, 'mid cares and fears^ On the voyage of Life, of that mother's face Which shines from the Past with its gentle grace. A fair young girl is dreaming near, With an innocent brow^ serene and clear, Her bright locks crowned with the valley's gem. That meekly bends on its fragile stem, — A symbol meet of the early doom. Of those who depart in their beauty's bloom : For the happy and blest is the queenly rose, That in stately splendour its perfume throws O'er Nature's breast in her summer prime, While the glad earth laughs at the flight of Timt?. Her fixed gaze is bent on the rolling sea, With a longing wish that she there might be ; A loved one roams on i he ocean wide. And he only waits for the rising tide To bring him back to the happy shore. Where she will rejoin him to part no more. We will look again ; — she is there, still there, With the soul-beaming smile and waving hair That the sea-breeze lifts in its merrv plav, 48 LYUICS OF THE PASt. The prospect is nidiant, and bright and gay. With the wishes fulfilled of' a loving heart, Hath she borne in the trials of earth no part ? Math she never turned with a yearning soul, From the heartless breakers that round her roH, To the happy time in the far-off" years, So dim and distant 'mid blinding tears ? For love betrayed, and high hopes o'ercast, Form a contrast sad t) the blissful past. 'P The kingly form, and the jewelled crown, and the feudal lords of old, Are shining there in armcmr bright, 'neath canopies of gold, And the renowned and glorious ones, whose names can never die, And the queens of song, with the laurel wreath above the forehead high. Are shining through the mists of Time and shadows of the grave : . ,<. In the halls of the Past they have their place— the fair, the bright, the brave. A backward glance brings to our view, all that hath past away. ..__,., :.__,._......:_ .......__v^,j.;^_lU.'' TkE k OTHER'S DYING G/FT. 46 The high of earth — the mighty souls now mingling with the clay, But sadder still the buried hopes that made the world so fair — The faith deceived and joyous hours that knew no thought of care. THE MOTHER'S DYINil GIFT. Child I prize thy mother's dying gift, above each earthly thing, The gift to which, 'mid the cares of life, thy young heart/ still may cling ; From the hosts of heaven her gentle voice that blest thy early prime, Still bids thee read the blessed page that can outlive all time. Earth's stern vicissitudes, I know, awaits thee on thy way^ And ills and change will soon obscure the scenes tha^ '^^3^^ erst were gay ; 50 LYRICS OF THE PAST, Then sadly wilt thou turn aside, and mourn that flowers HO frail, Oould not outlive the summer sun, the winter's withering gale. The early blossoms of the heart that fade, alas I how sooi?, Parch 'd for the healthy drop of dew, the much desired boon; That could give back its freshness bright, its primal bloom restore. With fragrance rich, the buds re-fill, that were so sweejb of yore. The visions, once so pure and fair, will fade from out thy heart. The diamond's ray, the jewel's gleam, can never heal the smart Of wounds too deep for aught to heal, save the availing grace, That shines from hallowed records true — the surest rest- ing-place, . When friend's betray, then read the hope reflecting everywhere, - . The blessing of a Saviour's love that may glad tidings bear; ^\ When the scorner's hand shall plawp thiue own, thin^ oij the words of truth. - ^ '^ — — ,--—.—- - --^ ,, y"' TWK OLD HOMESTEAD. 51 Nor let the unbeliever's spell deceive thy tender youth. There, bright and clear, are shining forth, the promises so sure. To lead thee to the land where thou shalt dwell forever- more ; Where the welcome of a mother dear, awaits thee even now. The fadeless wreath her hand hath twined to place upon thy brow. Child ! prize thy mother's dying gift, above each earthly thing. The gift to which, 'mid the cares of life, thy young heart still may cling. THE OLD HOMESTEAD. The dear old place, where first mine eyes beheld the light of day, Must have a magic charm for me, where'er my footsteps stray; The house so old, and worn by time, its pristine beauty -^Associations sweet retain, and memories of the dead. .J**'-. 62 LYEICiS OF THE PAST. The early dead and aged ones, whose journey to the grave AVas cheered by hope in Him alone, who still hath power to save ; Here hath the *grandsire's tale been told, of many a well-fought field, The eye that burned with patriot fire, a noble soul revealed. He told the Moro Castle's siege, of prisons dark and lone, Of life-blood shed in England's cause, her honour was his own ; Apartments all are sanctified, by warm affection's glow, And parting words, and vows of love, in whispers soft and low. Have here been breathed in twilight hour, into the lis- tening ear ) When life was young, and fresh, and new, such things may well endear. And form bright links to bind the heart, though all may change and fade, And stern Decay reflect its gloom, where merry children played. The well-worn path, where joyous feet came bounding gladly on, * Major Dickson. THE OLD HOMESTEAD. 5a With gushing song and merry glee, now gone ! forever gone ! From the dear old haunts they're wandered far, to ne'er return again, And stranger hands the absent tend, in hours of care and pain. With light hearts we from home depart, nor sigh to bid adieu, And seek a clime, with summer skies, and scenes more bright and new ; But disappointment waits us there, no new-found future teems With golden gifts— still far away our El Dorado seems. Like that adventurous spirit bold, the brave and courteous knight, Who sought the wondrous golden land which faded from his sight As he drew near ; the glorious realm ne'er met his long- ing gaze. The ignus fatuus lured him on, and blinded reason's rays. Soon may be hushed familiar sounds aro^nd the home^ stead lone, Deserted rooms alone will hear the wind's sad wailing moan ; U LYRICS OF THE PAST. And cold the hearth, no pleasant olaze upon it cheerful burn, The ashes dead, and stillness there, which tells of no return. The ancient tree, with shrunken limbs, like faithful guardian there. In withered pride, may still adorn the spot so chill and bare ; The garden gate on rusty hinge, the disused moss-grown well. No cherished flowers, but loathsome weeds, Time's deso- lations tell. Still not forgotten by the hearts, once nurtured in its shade, Though far away, as dear to them, as when their home " was made J ' ' ■ '■ ■ ' ; • « Within the walls a shelter pure, from every lurking snare, Where first the infant knee was bowed before the God of Prayer, Home of the Past ! in countries far my thoughts on thee have been. And gratefully I've turned to thee in every changing scene; •---•--- -:--i-^-,^-.:.--i^j^. TttE OLD HOMEStEAD. 55 Thy SDow-clad plains rose on my view, beside Ontario's shore. And when I heard, with speechless awe, Niagara's mighty roar. Rare flowers bloom in other lands, and silvery rivers flow, Fanned by the spicy southern gales which gently o'er them blow ; But warm hearts bless with kindly cheer, this northern home of mine, I would not give New Brunswick cold, for a land of grape and vine. Nor the homestead old for villa gay,*^'erlooking rich parterre, ' F^ir to the sight, with noble lawn and flowery meadows clear ; The dear old place, where first mine eyes beheld the light of day, Must have a magic charm for me, where'er my footsteps stray. THE FORTUNE-TELLER, JVIaiden, fair ! would'st know thy fate, And whether born for love or hate : The future I for thee can read, Though for my task I claim no meed. 'Tis little worth the presage sad. That will cast its gloom o'er a heart so glad, And bow a spirit so proud and high, While round thee Hope's roses will wither and die, And clouded the light of thy youth's bright sky. The journey of life thou dost joyous begin ; It seems smooth and fair and free from sm^-rrr But before thou treadest far on the way, Thou wilt feel sharp thorns 'neath flow'rets gay. The weeds of Care will soon gather around, . And thy footsteps, uncertain, seek dang'rous ground j Thou wilt learn to mistrust when the trusted deceive, For faith gone forever, in vain will thou grieve; And the joys of thy childhood its blossoms so pure, With innocent day-dreams— no snares to allure. Ere the voice of the tempter hath power to charm^ THE FOliTVNK TELLKR. 57 And the sting of the serpent could do thee no harm. How real the awaking from visions like thine, When once disenchanted despairing thou'lt pine. Woe, woe ! for the doom that o'ershadows thee now, I can see its dark traces upon thy young brow ; Yes ! love's magic words thou wilt treasure too well. And false smiles beguile thee with faithless spell. Thou wilt love — thou will worship — the old, old tale, Of a burning blush on a cheek too pale, — Like the last red rays of the setting sun, ; .. As it sinks to rest when the day is done. > i.' >.'.*'.. When the once glad world wears a face of gloom, - / Thou wilt, sighing, depart in thy early bloom, -i >- . They will make thee a grave in some quiet nook. Where thy dirge will be sung by some murmuring brook, And trees with soft shadows bend over the spot — A refuge from sorrow, and all things forgot. LOUISE DE LA VALLIERli. A POEM IN TWO PARTS. Part I. 'Twas a joyous eve, of a glorious f^te — A scene of majesty and royal pride; The gallant, fair, and noble, all had met Within the palace halls of joy and mirth, To chase the hours of night in festive glee. The sorrowful forgot their sorrows there,- And in the atmosphere of blazing light The palest cheek assumed a warmer hue ; Voluptuous languor o'er the senses stole, With breath of perfume borne upon the air^ And music's charm inspired the soul with love. The fairest form in all that glittering throng. Was one whose youthful cheek wore roseate flush And downcast eyes like virgin-martyr's blue ; With soul-enthralling smile, that won all hearts, Her saint-like loveliness has been described— As "Christian Venus" of her own fair France. lOlTISE 1)E La valLieke. m So pure and modest in its timid grace, The gold-embroidered robe of spotless white, And shining curls of bright and waving flow, Intermixed with wreaths of flowers and lustrous pearls^ With dazzling gems which decked her shoulders fair. Of fabled price from many an Eastern clime. But valued more as gifts of faithful love, Proclaimed her favourite of a mighty king — The glorious star that ruled a brilliant court ; Magnificent was the display and grand, And not one thought of sadness there could come To mar the revel's mirth. Ah ! who could trace The future, dark, reserved for thee fair Queen — The poet's theme — Louise la Yalli^re. Was there a prophet 'mid that radiant crowd, As thou with buoyant step passed gladly on, Rejoicing in the love that made thee blest ; Who could foretell the sad and joyless fate For thee ordained from girlhood's early morn ? All based upon a fabric light and frail Must perish with all things that perish here. tJnhallow'd bliss success can never know; The love, unblest by Heaven's approving smile, Must have a short continuance, fade in gloom. LOUISE DE LA VALLIERE. Part II. ** Tout se detruit, tout passe, et le plus tendre Ne peut d'un m^me objet se contenter toujours ; Se passe n'a, point ver d'eternelles amours, — Ce qui plait aujourd' hui en peu dejours. Vous m' amiez autre Ibis, et vous ne m' amiez plus : Ah ! que mes sentiments sont differens des votres ? Amour, a qui je dois mon mal et mon bien ; Que ne lui donnez vous fait le mien comme les autres ?" Louise de la Vallierb Again 'tis eve, but oh ! ho\v changed the scene, For now 'twas one within a convent cell. The sun through grated windows forced its way And lighted up the rude exterior all, With humble pallet and the floor so bare. Before a cross, in sombre robe arrayed. That well revealed the stern monastic rule, And marked the order of a Carmelite nun, '^ _; A woman knelt with eyes upraised above : ' Per splendid dream of life had been but brief, "^ ^ Louise de La vallieee. 61 In penitence, with fervent prayer, she strove To banish every thought of earthly sin; But ever as she strove, they conquered still, And led her back to face the past again — - That glorious past — luxurious and vain. On carpets soft, her footsteps noiseless fell^ Exotics delicate filled vase of gold, And artificial founts, with silvery spray, Reflected marble forms of beauty there ) All works of Art, and toys to please the eye, From many a land to deck the bright retreat Of one so loved — the idol of a day. That had too swiftly flown and night came on. While yet she revelled in a dream of joy. " Father," she cried, " forgive thy erring child, Grant her that peace the world can ne'er bestow ; Oh ! let this cell, so cheerless, cold and rude. Be entrance blest to thy divine abode— The home of saints, and I will not repine That fate hath led me here, in hour of woe. For all things trusted now desert and fail, A rival's smile hath robbed me of his love ; 'Twas sinful ! erring ! but, how constant ! true, I could have braved with him the lowliest lot ; 62 LYRICS OF THE PAST, Worthless a kingdom, if unshared with him. How wild the hope, that one so noble, high, With stately form and proud majestic brow, Where Beauty sits as 'twere her fitting throne, Could bind his hcf^rt to one whose fading charms Hath felt the impress of Time's withering touch, As merciless he sweeps o'er lovely things, Blighting and blasting in his onward course." The peace of mind, the broken spirit sought. Was gained at last, as weary years rolled on, The healing balm t;j cure a wounded heart ; — In meek submission, bending to the will. Which caused the wondrous change within her soul ; And when her haughty rival's foot profaned, Her sacred solitude of peaceful rest. She, too, had found the world was not so fair A s erst she deemed. With doubting wonder gazed Upon the holy face so calm and mild. And question asked if happiness was there ? Within the sanctuary, opened wide To all who seek asylum in its walls,— The poor, the earth-worn, and the erring soul. The meek-eyed nun replied with candid grace ; ^' The happiness of earth can ne'er be mine,. MY BIRTHDAY. 63 But I have found content in useful deeds And wait with patience till the end is won, Ordained for those who suffer here below^ To expiate their sins against just God ; Severe the ordeal, but repentance true Conducts us to His throne." MY BIRTHDAY. My birthday I thou coniest, And I greet thee, but with tears, How different from the seasons glad That blest my earlier years ; The high determined spirit, Which scorned a thought of fear, Was changed with time — not it alone^ But all my heart holds dear. My birthday ! thou comest, How fraught with sin and pain, The past lies heavy on my soul ^nd burns >vithin my brain ; (J4 LYIilCS OF THE PAST. That happy pleasant '' lung ago," With rose-crowned hopes in vicWy A fairy land in every dream, And all things pure and true. My birthday I thou com est To remind me of decay, My steps are hastening on the road That ends the weury way ; The weary way. down the hill's descent, Which leads to the far-off shore : The way is toilsoirGy long and steep. When there, I shall grieve no more. My birthday ! thou comest. Once I hailed thee with delight. T wreathed my hair with violet's wild, And danced in the sun'^ warm light f Faces I loved were round me then, Time's current hath swept them by, And silvered the locks on the noble brow^ While changed is each purpose high.- My birthday I thou comest, And with thee comes again- MY BIRTHDAY. «5 llemeuibrance of glad woodland Hport, In mountain, path and glen ; We went in joyous numbers, Without one thought of care, There was boyhood's gay and open smile. And girlhood's face so fair. My birthday ! thou comest, Where are the merry tones '{ I hear their cadence on mine ear, Then start to find them gone ; Forever gone, till heard again In heaven's new-learned strain : My earthly birthdays will be o'er When I hear those sounds again. My birthday I thou comest, But the loved are far away, I see them now, iu dreams alone. They depart with the light of day ; In sleeping thoughts they are with me stilL Unchanged my heart's fond trust, I wake to miss their treasured words. And sigh for the land of the just. 66 LYRICS OF THE PAST. My birthday ! thou comest, But the ties that bind me here Are broken all, and faded flowers Are on life's pathway sere. But I see a hand in the distance, It beckons me through the gloom, 'Twill be my guide in " Death's dark vale," To a land of endless bloom. THE ASSEMBLY OF THE DEAD. "Dr. Reed, a traveller in the highlands of Peru, is said to have found lately, in a desert of Alcoama, the dried remains of an assembly of human beings— five or six hundred in number,— men, women, and children, sitting in a semi-circle, as when alive, staring into the burning waste before them ; they had not been buried ; life had departed as they thus sat around, but hope was gone, the Spanish invaders were at hand, and no hope being left they came hither to die ; they still sat immovable in the dreary desert, and still kept their position, sitting upright, as in solemn council, while over the Areopagus silence broods everlasting." I^ was a strange and fearful sight. That met the trav'ler's eye, ^ As he wandered in a desert vast, ^ Beneath the Southern skv, - THE ASSEMBLY OF THE DEAD, 6^ They sat in solemn council there, Hand tightly clasped in hand, With rigid brow, and lip compressed, A strangely mournful band. The chieftain's form was amid the group, With woman's gentle mien ; And childhood's meek and artless gaze, So trustingly serene. There had they died ! so cold, and stern. The fragile and the strong ; Better to perish in their pride Than yield to tyr?nts' wrong. , They had left happy homes behind — ^. ''%' A glad and sunny land -, Bare flowers there bloom, and waters play In light o'er the golden sand. But what was a home, in that glorious clinie^ When they felt the oppressor's chain ; The sunbeams smiled, as in days of yore„ But, alas ! their power was vaiu m LYRICS OF THE AST, To bring back hope to the aching hearts That with scorn indignant beat; So they wandered foith, the high in soul, To die in that lone retreat. Yes ! rude, indeed, is the resting place Of the noble and the free ; Where they still must sleep, their dreamless sleep, Through ages yet to be. Everlasting silence holds her reign, In that region so wild and grand ; And the wind of the desert sings the dirge Of Peru's devoted band. c~^><^^^:S(^:^^x^^ ESSEX. Alone the noble prisoner sat, amid the gathering gloom, Over the past he mused, and thought upon his certain doom; Sad was the change a few short days had wrought with- in his soul. Anguish was written on his brow, though sum'ning high control To meet his fate, as brave men should, who scorn the name of fear ; He dared death on the battle field, why should he dread it here ? There was a mingling in his mind, of many a gorgeous scene. And 'mid them all, the brightest, shone a palace and a queen ; With form of regal beauty, and braids of auburn hair, Entwined with gems of brilliant, gleam above a fore- head fair; Yo LYRICS OF THE PAST, Aud eyes of love, that met his own, with gentle beamin.i^ smile, Combined with fascinating art, the untutored to beguile. Once more the rich mosaic halls, with stately step he trod. And bowed before a flattering throng, who turned him from his Grod ; The flower-wreathed walls, impassioned vows, beauty's bewitching spell : Wildly he rose. With rapid strides, then paced his nar- row cell ; But soon a calmer mood returned, and softer visions came, Of the early home where first he learned a mother's holy name. Before the tempting voice of Fame, within his breast could burn. Ere taught by the world's sullying breath, the purest ties to spurn ) Then came the thought of all like him imprisoned in the Tower, KSSRX, 7T Strange it should be the final goal of Beauty, Pride, and Power ; The bravest hearts earth ever knew, had slowly withered there . The gloomy walls had listened to their groans of deep despair. Aloud he spoke : " And must I die in England's merry clime, My days have glided on till now, undim'd by care or time ; In youth's high glorious dawning, with honours to be won, I must accomplish nobler deeds, before my race is run ; She will relent — my love — my Queen ! she ever loved me well:" The burning rays of a rare gem across his vision fell. It was a jewel-circled ring, the gift of some fond hour, When to the woman's love succumb'd the sovereign's mighty power ; She gave it as a sacred pledge, and should he ere offend, Her mercy would not fail him, if the talisman he'd sendj It would remind of gen'rous deeds, recall the happy past, Impress upon his doubting mind, " affection pure must last." 72 LYUICS OF THE PAST, Hope rose anew — to one, a friend long known and trusted well, He gave the token for his Queen, and history's page can tell Of treachery deep where truth seemed stamp'd on many an outward grace ', The captive's fate was sealed, — the ring ne'er reached its destined place: With matchless courage, Essex closed his strange events ful life, Nor grieved at last to leave a world so dark with sin and strife. Elizabeth in secret mourned, with late remorse and vain, The splendour of her royal lot, could ne'er bring peace again ; The dazzling crown was turned to thorns upon her aching brow. The glittering baubles once her pride, had ceased to charm her now ; The beauteous world was but to her a spot with gladness fled, England soon wept the " Virgin Queen," she slumbered with the dead. WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF MISS LOUISE HODGE, OF POINT LEVI, QUEBEC, What tribute can I offer, To grace this page of thine ^ Had I a Sibyl's power,' The task might then be mine — : To weave for thee a future, Fi'ee from all care and gloom, Undarkened by sad partings, Or shadows of the tomb. The only ofiering I can bring, Accept, fair girl, from me — - A kindly wish that Heaven bestow Its choicest gifts on thee. May the gentle light of thy azure eye, Serenely beam as now ; Time leave few traces in its course, Upon thy placid brow. 6 74 lYRICS OF TtiE PASf^ A Saviour's arms defend thee From every glittering snare, " Sowing the seeds " within thy hearty That lasting fruit will hear.- THE HERO OF KARS. fiero of Kars ! I've marked thy high career, And proudly mused on glorious laurels won i Admired by all, — our country's bravest son, Who in the day of battle knew no fear; When raged the fiercest conflict o'er thy way. How nobly did'st thou cheer thy gallant band ; With dauntless courage suited to command, 'Twas thine to gain the triumph of that day. Within fair Scotia's vales that gave thee birth, They offer homage to a soul so brave. Who could in hour of peril, England's honour save^ And make thy name the wonder of the earth. DISAPPOINTMENT. 75 With hearts like thine, how blest our own dear land^ A safe protection though dread war assail ; For rest we sure, that foes can ne'er prevail, While they at Britain's call shall ready stand. Oladly a tribute would I to thee give, Had I the power to offer worthy praise, Virtue thy glory gilds with brighter rays, And thou wilt, ever loved and honoured, live. DISAPPOINTMENi^. We dream bright dreams of future bliss^ Then wake with sudden start To find that in a world like this, G-rief only hath a part. Our idols are but clay— the mind We deemed of god-like birth Is gone — and in its place we find The sordid soil of earth. TQ LYEICS OF THE PAST, Bright objects changed by Sin's dark stain, And Passion's mad'ning thrall, Whose desolating power can gain Ascendency o'er all, Save they who choose the better part, And shun the tempter's snare ; Who early give to God the heart, In penitence and prayer, Father, protect and guide the soul. Whose refuge is but Thee j Though clouds of sorrow o'er us roll, A light beyond we see. WRITTEN AT THE REi^UEST OF A GENTLE- MAN, EXPRESSIVE OF HIS ADMIRA- TION FOR A LADY. I love thee well : wilt thou be mine ? Thou priceless gem ! star of my soul ! That radiantly will ever shine, ^nd every thought and wish control. TO A LADY. 77 Absence must ever fail to change The heart which proudly owns thy power ; Believe me, 'tis no idle flame, Nor yet the passion of an hour : But love, of which the poets sung, Nerving to deeds of glorious fame, That laurels might be proudly won, And Beauty's hand with honour clainu Syren enchantment binds my chain, Exquisite grace inspires my vow ; Ah ! can I hope thy hand to gain ! 'T were madness to lose thee now. Grant me the boon — the precious task, To ever lull thy cares to rest j A home with thee is all I ask ) A home by love most richly blestw LINES WRITTEN IN THE FAMILY BIBLE. I know that my Redeemer IWeih.— Job, chapter 19M, 25th verse. "I know that my Redeemer lives :" I shall behold His face, When temporal things have passed away^ And leave behind no trace Of all the ills that ever blight Our happiness, while here, And make the coming future seem Replete with grief and fear. I know this breathing form of mine Will feel a sure decay ; The heart, so full of life and hope,. Pass silently away. And I shall sleep my last long sleep. Beneath the grave's cold sod. But my spirit will behold the might,, TKe majesty, of God., PRESENTATION OF A SWORD. Written on the occasion of viitnessing the presentation of a tiword to a young American Officer, by the Gentlemen of hi« native town, with an eloquent Address from an early friei>d bid. 4ing bim God-epeed in the defencr* of his native land. The youthful Soldier proudly stood To receive his country's sword, Jn presence of the good and fair, Who listened to the words That bespoke his grateful pleasure, For the gift that true hearts gave ; JHeet to avenge a nation's fall, Or its honour nobly save His voice was tremulous and low As he thought of the parting hour j And the danger of a battle field, ^ panic o'er him with its power. •*'--. For though budding roses our pathway adorn, In their beauty and pride, for awhile they may reign j But we grieve when we find that each rose has its thorn, A«d every pleasure in life has a pain> U LYRICS OF THE PAST. When the heart, that in friendship has safely relied. Is deceived in its trust, it turns sadly away, To feel in that moment of grief, and of pride, " This world is a wilderness, why should I stay ?'' How bitter the truth, we have trusted in vain. And layished affection most ardent and warm On the being we never can think of again. Save with infinite loathing, and hatred, and scorn. ^' EVERY HEART KNOWETH ITS OWN BIT. TERNESS." Yes, every heart its anguish knows, A stranger cannot soothe its pain, Nor wipe the tear-drop from the eye That ne'er can beam with smiles again., No friend can give thee comfort when, The star of life for thee hath set ; Can they recall the pleasart scenes T^hou, striv'st so xainly to forget If TO '-^. Je vous prie de croire Que je ne songe q'ua vous, Bt que vous ra'etes extremenieut Chere, I feel thy influeuce, even in my sleep, It is in vain I I still remember thee ; A shadow o'er the happiest of my dreams. Portending future sorrow yet for me. I break the links that bind my soul to thine. But ever in my heart thou must remain. — O'ershadowing every day-dream of my life. Recalling scenes T ne'er would view again, Oladly 1 said " farewell"— may we ne'er meet. While tread our footsteps this world's weary mazej All that I fondly deemed thee, time dispelled—- Phanged tl^c illusions of my ^arlier days, 06 LYRIC Si OF VHK PASt. Then, wherefore hauut me with the deep stern voicef^ That still reproved me that I loved too well ? Approving accents made my heart rejoice, Why must they ever in my memory dwell ? Desire for fame was all — yes, all for thee 1 How vain and trivial every praise but thine y Strangely did'st thou repay my perfect trust.. HoMir ill reqii^ite devotion pure as mine. TO Where art thou now ? amid the gay and brighf. In festive halls where gleams the daz'ling light ; Breathing love's language in ttie attentive ear Of some fair listener. — while T am here. I know that years have passed since last we met, But still 1 thought thou could'st not quite forget The olden days, — the happy fleeting hours, When life seemed formed for never-fading flower».- TO SAHAFi. 97 We met not often — yet I know, full well. About thy presence lurked a secret spell. To fix thee in my mind through changing years. In joy and sorrow^ sunshine, hopes and fears. Think of me sometime, when thy mind is free From woi'ldly cares, and 1 will think of thee ; And we will hold communion pure and sweet. Although on earth we ne'er again may meet. TO SARAH. t)o yon ever think of me, dear friend, With feelings fond and kind, And revert with joy to days long past J Am I sometimes in your mind ? Ah ! well I know thy gentle heart Hath still a place for me ; And in the changes of my life^ I often think of thee. W LYRICS OF THE PA.ST, Thou'rt before ine now. with thy winning nmile, That can banish every care ; The cloudless light of thy Boft blue eye. And brow so smooth and fair. 3iay (lod protect thee, gentle girl, From every gathering gloom, And years pass o'er thy head, and leave Thee still in perfect bloom. Nor doubts and cares, e'er come to change The beauty of thy mind ; Casting their shadows o'er a heart So gentle, good and kind. Ijood spirits hover round thy path, To guard thee from dark sorrow's blight ; Apd when this life of care is past, C'ojiduct thee to the realms of light;, THOUGHTS ON MRS. HEMANS, AFTER READ, ING " SISTER SINCE I MET THEE LAST." Methinks I see thee now, With thy deep and soul lit eyes ; Within whose gentle depths, A shadow darkly lies. The lamp of Genius burned within, But thy heart was lone and void ; It could mourn o'er '^ kind thoughts wasted,'^ And happy hopes destroyed. The grave hath closed above thee. Still thou art the theme of fame ; ICvery heart must proudly own thee Worthy of a glorious name. TO AKTHUR ON Hl^ BIRTHDAY. ti'ew years have passed o'er thy fair head,— The pride of many hearts, thou noble boy, — May every blessing crown the path you tread, And coming years bring nought but peace and joy. God grant thy future life be free from tare, — The lot of man in his brief sojourn here, — And purity of soul, and love, and prayer. Go onward with thee through a blest career. Oh I may the bright example left by one,— On whose lone grave, the Spring's pure blossoms smile i j'each thee all vain pursuits to ever shun, And keep thy young heart free frem sin and guile. Honour attend thy footsteps,— let thy name Be reverenced by the proudest in the land ; With noble deeds to illustrate thy fame, A mind alike to " counsel and command." Be thine the pride of thy ancestral race, Whose heroism gained renown for them,— Blending with all the spiritual grace. Of one who wears a fadeless diadem. \ RE-UNION IN THE SPIRIT LAND. " Far from the parting, and the meeting, Far from the farewell, and the greeting, HeartB fainting now, and now high beating." — From Mrs. Winslow's Life, The thought were madness, ne'er again to meet Beyond the grave, though Fate ordain that here I must resign thee, — and the memories sweet That still have made my lonely life so dear. A home on earth, with thee, would be most blest, But not exempt from clouds of doubt and change ; While in the haven of a perfect rest, Hearts fondly trusted, ne'er grow cold and strange. Must I believe a soul so high as thine. Forever lost in Error's downward way ) No, no ! 'twas formed for future life divine, And cannot feel the blight of Sin's decay. We yet shall meet beyond the bounds of Time, What joy ! to clasp thy hand and welcome thee ; Grown good and wise, in Heaven's resplendent clime, Ne'er— ne'er to part again through all eternity. l02 LYJilCS VF TkK pASi\ A glorious radiance ii» thine eyes to trace. And star-gemm'd crown on thy celestial brow ) With glorious halo of immortal grace, To see thee thus 'twere bliss to lose thee now. Happy and peaceful, in that home afar, And purified from all the dross of earth ; The passion of the world, no more can mar The beauty of our new and joyous birth. KEEPSAKES. They have power to awaken memories of the past, — ■ I am standing here alone to-night, My tears in silence flowing, The fitful light its sh-^dows throwing Above dear relics of the past ; Mementos of high hopes o'ercast, Or vanished in Time's rapid flight. They are precious treasures — fond gifts of yore, Each telling a tale in its change and decay ', Endeared by Love's touch, in life's earlier day^ Or blest by the hand of Affection sincere, And Friendship, that fate's darkest hour can cheer, With kind words supporting till Hope comes once more. Though severed in twain, I have kept it long. Through blinding tears I behold it now j The pledge long since of a broken vow That never was kept,— this broken ring Is a symbol true, of earth's suffering, And the history sad of a grievous v rong. This small sea-shell, when placed to the ear, It sings a dirge of the far-off sea, The funeral dirge of the glad and free ; A sailor boy, with a merry smile, And gen'rous heart that knew no guile. He is sleeping now on his ocean bier. Ah 1 here is another. The opal's glow, With its faithful ever changing gleam, Warning of danger when still unseen ; But I va^ue it more, as the gift of one. Who hath looked her last on the setting sun, A gentle girl with a brow of snow. 104 lYHICH or THE PAST. This faded wreath wears u magic spell. It cau bring to my view a festive scene, A loving smile and a noble mien ; The blossoms, once wreathed in my shining hair, Are withered now, like my pruapeets fair. For years I have treasured them long and well. Here's a cherished token — a dear one gave. This golden curl of a sunny hue : How thought reverts to the good and true : With matchless courage, and valiant pride, His spirit went forth with the battle's tide, And he calmly rests wMth the fallen brave. Mv heart is full — I can {raze no more. — So I turn away with a bitter sigh And a yearning strong for the days gone by ; They awaken the memory of former pain, When hidden from sight it may slumber again.— And this restlesii longing will then be o'er. liut I've other treasures ! a golden mine,-— Perpetual, unchanging, as ages roll on, With a purpose firm they may gtill be won ; No rust their brilliancy cau dim, For their glory emanates from Him, — When in faith we seek our Father's shrine. Through the vista of years, the ) and } disceru. That taught me 'mid trials to lean upon God ; In mercy aud kindness was wielded the rod, Which taught me submission, in sorrow aud change, And misfortune, that loved opes could coldly estrange, When earth-worn and wear^ to ^im I could turn. PRESENTIMENTS. »• COMING liVBNTS CAST THEIH HHADOW8 BEFORE." Wherefore so sad, to-night, my heart, Why art thou thus oppressed ? I would such shadows might depart. And leave me to my rest ; Casting their mantle o'er my mind. Pourtraying future woe ; Telling the soul it ne'er can 6^4 It« happiness below. .. t- - i06 LYRICS OF THE PASt. The dearest hopes must fade from earth And perish in a day ; Alas ! the hour that gives them birth Miist doom them to decay. And happy hours, long past and flown, Why could chey not remain; Old scenes, — and words of loved ones goiie. Come crowding o'er my brain. Remembrance turns to childhood's hour, The happiest earth bestows ; When disappointments never lower. To banish our repose, A spot so bright on Memory's page, Ne'er shines in after years ; For, oh ! in every other age 'Tis blotted out by tears. Obscured by clouds of dark'niug carey Afflictions heavy rod ; Our path beset by many a sfiare.'' ^^^ To turn us from vur Godv ,^ : TO -. \Vliy rush on Danger's path ? Why brave the perils of this life ? Why call upon thy head the wrath Of One who loVes not strife ? Will recklessness avail thee aught, When thy last hour shall come ? Wilt thou not mourn, the evil though t^ Which tempted thee to roam ? And hoLie ! it is a magic word, How canst thou turn away ? Cannot the voice of love be heard, That mildly bids thee stay. The love of home may not be thine. When thou would'st seek its calm ; No friend to soothe thy troubled mind, With warm affection^s balm. Alas ! we learn to prize, too late, The things which once we valued not} But in the hour of grief and hate, Would gently ease our troubled lot. \os LYRICS OF THE FAS2\ Oh ! humbly turn to (jod, my friend; He knows thy every thought and aim 5 Will guide thee onward to the end . Oh ! turn, and call upon His name. And join no more the festive train Who wildly drain the mad'ning bowl, Tempting, and turning heart and brain, Till reason is beyond control. Endowed with noble gifts by heaven, 'Tis wrong to cast them thus away ; How can'st thou hope to be forgiven By Him who holdeth boundless sway ? li^LOWERg. A AoXver given by one we love Is precious in our eyes ; Though far from early scenes we rove, It bids sweet thoughts arise : And wakens memories soft and dear, Wher'er our footsteps tend ; The aching heart it gently cheers, When far from that dear friend. :SORROW AROUND OUR PATH. There 's sorrow all around our path ; No spot exempt from woe : And every heart must feel a pang,— The lot of all below. I'U splendid homes must grief still reign, And riches free us not from pain. JIO LYRICS OF THE PAST. The king within his palace walls. The beggar in the street, Alike must feel earth's hitter woe, — The heart with anguish beat. No scenes of mortal life but feel The wounds that Goql alone can heal. For we must part from dearest friends^ And brightest hopes, alas ! decay ; And can the heart feel aught but sad, To see all pleasures pass away But gracious God the heart can cheer j, We turn to Him in grief and fear. LINES Written in the Album of Mrs. Warren, of Boreas Hill, Oahawa^ C. W., July 29th, 1862. When first I heard thy gentle voice, Far from my home's dear shrine. It made my lonely heart rejoice • Wi^h welcome true and kind^. LINES. \M iSince then I 've learned to know Thy high ajid matchless worth ; A soul, so peerless, can hestow Fresh radiance on the earth. Affection's pure and holy light Irradiates thy home, Pourtraying still a future, bright, Where care may never come. T-he wishes of a grateful heart Impels the fervent paayer — ;'' Our Father" will His grace impart, To keep thee good, as fair : And shield the precious ones from ilj, Thy household baud who form : Oood angels guard their pathway still, Through life's dark fitful storm. When, in my native land once more, I '11 fondly think of thee ; And waft unto this distant ghore, A blessing p'er ^the sea. A i)RfiAi>L It was a strange, wild dream. They sat within a lonely prison cell : Methought it gloomy, dark and lone, where Ouilt w wont to dwell. His face,- so cold! and jyale, youth's haughty beauty wore^ Though happy smiles, forever fled, could never light it more. And a deep look of withering hate had gathered on hirf brow. For every hope the world could give had vanished I'roni him now. And he the pleasant eartli must bid adieu : How all its beauties rose before his view, Where he had courted Pleasure's tempting form,— Shunning reproof vith smile of careless scorn. With reckless step tne sinful path had trod, Which ends in ruin, — leads the soul from God. Regret was on his soul, that one whose name Might still have claimed a place reserved for fame, ^ And leave a bright example through all time, r Should meet a fat« like this— reward of crime, ^ • l^^ ../ I)hkaSl ii« Me •• might have been," anJ Faiicy lightly drew, Within his uiiud, a picture bright and new, Of what the past had been— forever gone — Had he not wasted, in his life's gay uiorn, The talents Ood bestowed for useful deed *To benefit mankind, — ^gain honour's meed. A happ^ home I tho atode of love and truth ; A wife's glad smile, with artless heart of youth • The fire's bright blaze upon the cheerful heirthy And gentle eye of one most loved on earth, To watch his coming, listening still to hear Familiar footsteps, as they drew more near : Of children's merry voices, glad and free, In healthful bloom, around the household tree :• A loved and honoured father for their guide, Revered by all for Virtue's noble pride — ''An honest man, the noblest work of (iod " — His daily course With steps unerring trod. The musings ceased.— and in their place, returned His dungeon's gloom. The glorious sunset burned! In fitful splendor through the darken'd grate ; J?he last he should behold ;: it was " too late !" Despair was in the thought: he turned away :• All hope wa? fled with the last light of day. U4 LYRICS OF THE PAST, In that dark hour of deep distress he was not quite alone, A gentle hand, with trusting faith, was clasped withii) his own : And the expression of such perfect love — - Saint-like in meekness, tender as the dove — - That lighted up a face that once was fair, Formed a strange contrast to his look of care. Well might I marvel, 'mid that scene of gloom, That one so frail could calmly meet a doom, From which the bravest well might shrink with fear f But in her stedfast eye there shone no tear ] Nor would she now exchange that fearful hour For all earth's splendor, pageantry and power. The loved — -the worshipped — -shared her early bier : Her place was with him. — -wherefore should she fear? \t was a strange, wild destiny, to lower On one so kind. Fate gave a fearful dower. Far different were the dreams of other years 5 The visions bright, undimm'd by cloud or tears, ■^hen for herself a future gl>d she wove. {Shared with the idol of her heart's fond love. She knew him proud and vain, but still believed — r jA^s woman too oft will, but is deceived — r • A DUE AM, 115 i^he could redeem him from his evil way, And make his home so blest he ne'er would stray To haunts of sin, amid the false and gay : She 'd ever share his grief, should grief betide, And, hand in hand, adown life's stream they 'd glide Together, when the end should come, approach the haven sure — The blissful spot where parted friends re-union find onco more. !fhe drops of anguish, grief, remorse, were thickly gathering now, ^he gently wiped them with fijm hand from off his pallid brow ) Pow vain he strove, in that sad hour, for courage ta sustain. For conscience whispered in his ear, like moaning sounti of pain, ^' But for her love, so pure and true, she never had beei> here. Was it for this that she to thee hath ever been so dear !" She truly read the thoughts within his dark despairing mind ; Her voice was low, but sweet and firm, and oh ' hovf (^oubl^ k^ind; U« lVhk's of tHh past. HaiHing the tiyen that beamed anew with over reVereni h)ve And radiant sntile, unto the face, her all below — above j Her uiornino; star of life for her once quenched its lus* trous light; All else were darkness evermore, the deepest gloom of night ; It seemed ks if all other things had faded from her sight. *• Wherefore so gloomy, my belovtid friend ? Am 1 not with thee, even to the end 'r* My all in life, why dost thou fear for me ? Dost thou not know 'twere bliss to die with thee ? Dread not the wonders of the world to come ; Our enraptured gaze its glories soon will own : The partings that with anguish darken this, Are never there to mar the eternal bliss : Together we '11 explore the mansions blestj Whither our steps are tending — home of rest ; Mine own, be of good cheer, all will be well." But the expression wild that on her fell Oave back no answering hope, and sudden chill Came o'er her soul, and then she too was stilK The light began to fade from out her sky, ; -^— x 'f ' A DRKAM. II? And she grew pale, although she scarce knew why, And felt J unseen, some dreaded danger nigh. ■<' Poor child," he said, his tones were deep and stern, " Strange that this knowledge thou so late dost learn ; There is a fear far worse than fear of death. Speak not of future life with so much faith : What have we done on earth that we should gain A Heavenly Kingdom, and immortal reign ?" She trembled now, his hand more tightly prest, While dark forebodings flitted through her breast, <' Thou hast said truth, my blindness be forgiven, I have neglected all my hopes of heaven ; And now, <' the dark days come," and I am lost, I gained my idol at a priceless cost, idolatrous my love for thee hath been ; His holy image was by me unseen : Awd now, in this dim hour, I see no light ; All, all is darkness, to my failing sight : I fear to pierce the veil like a dense cloud. It still the never-ending life can shroud The vast eternity hid from my view ; And are we, dearest, God-forsaken too ?" i It was indeed a scene with warning fraught, — - A fearful lesson, ne'er to be forgot. 5=^^-4 -.ii-..-i. il8 Lyrics of" the past, ^' Place thy affection on the things above ;" Thy heart's full homage give the God of love. I woke from sleep at morning's rosy beam, With thanks to heaven that it was all a dream. TO A DEAR FRIEND A year so fraught with grief and fears, Has passed at length away ; And sadly we greet, through falling tear«^. The dawn of this New Year's Day ! There's a yearning deep in our homes to-night, For voices familiar ai d faces dear ; • ' Vainly they rise on our memory's sight, - » ■ And cloud with their absence the festal cheer. This world is marked by many a change, ' * Toy and sorrow, and shades of gloom ; Oh ! the ways of life are '' passing strange," i . From the hour of birth till we reach the tomH. fO A bfi:AB FRIEND. 118' tiow blest are they who leave in their flight, When they wend their course to the " better land," Footprints of virtue, to guide us aiight, As we tread in their path to the promised strand. We have not lost theiu foi ver, dear friend. Though vacant their places this season of mirtb ; Precious the thought ! that each care has an end, What to them now are the pleasures of earth 9 The courts of Heaven ai,i gloriors and fair, With fadeless flowers and angels' song ; We know that they think of us fondly there. And our names are breathed 'mid the radiant throngs Unmarked by change are the seasons blest, And a thousand years but one day alone ; With no partings to cloud the beauty and rest, In the realms of peace that await God's own. <2...gx^3:^0^^53^><^^-^ THE URAVE OF THE PAST, » The "meral knell hath a solemn sound, As it mournfully tolls for some earl^ friend ; And sad are the tears that fall o'er the mound, Where care, and sorrow, alike have an end. But sadder far is the heart's low knell, More bitter the tears o'er the grave of the Past ; The treasures are there we have guarded so well, Treasures that might not and could not last. " Ashes to ashes, and dust to dust," Buried deep is each loving smile ; And words that win life's perfect trust. Though breathing dark deceit the while. Rich jewels of thought, — imaginings bright, Forever enshrined in their silent tomb ; Love with its madness, its passion and might, Within the gloomy vault finds room. We close up the grave with a wild regret, # For broken resolves and lingering pain ; ^Then turn to the future and strive to forget — ^^ Alas : thbi the task should be idle and vain. ON THE DEATH OF A DEAR FRIEND, 121 There's a meaning deep in the solemn knell, As it mournfully tolls o'er the buried past : The last lo'<.' wail breathes the word " farewell." And it strikes on the heart like a withering blast. ON THE DEATH OF A DEAR FRIEND KILLED - THE BATTLE OP RESICA, GEORGIA. And can the fearful tale be true, that the noble, good, and brave. Hath met his doom in that fatal clime, and found p sol- dier's grave, Far from the home so loved of old, bright scenes of childhood's days, Sacred to innocence and joy, each word of love and praise? They tell us that he bravely died, amid a gallant band, And freely shed his precious blood in defence of native land. - ■ » - 12(2 LYRICS OF THE PASt. A " sounding name " brings no relief to hearts oppressed with woe, Nor can the thought of honours won prevent the tears that flow ; The lone night-wacch, — the weary march, — death in the battle broil, Could it be worth the sacrifice, though 'twas his native soil ? Did a thought e'er come, in hours of toil, that the end was drawing near, And dark forebodings cross his mind till hope gave place to fear ? That he should never more behold dear friends in mem- ory stored ; Ne'er clasp again familiar h^nds around the pleasant board. Where oft he met a welcome kind in days forever past. When not a shade of coming care o'er the spirit bright was cast. Ah yes ! I know the absent ones were thought of, o'er &Ld o'er, ^ And vigils lone were cheered with hope of seein|^ them once more: ON THE DEATH OF A DEAR EHIENt). 123 And pictures briglit formed of a home blest with the light of love ; Why do we weep ? it yet shall be I yes, in a land above. His "coming home" was gladly hailed by loved ones gone before, A father's voice hath welcomed him unto the heavenly shore, Where the din of war is never heard, the conflict wild unknown, The sword exchanged for " golden harp," and dwelling with God's own. The weary soul is now released ! why should we grieve for him ? At the best, earth is a trial spot, — Life's prospects ever dim; But let us cling to the blest hope, that when we pass away, We may meet the loved and early lost in the realms of endless day. Far better lose him thus, in manhood's glorious prime, Than have a heart so true and high change by the touch of time. 124 LYRICS OF THE PAST. A comrade's hand hath marked the spot where he takes his last repose, And o'er his lonely resting-place may bloom the southern rose. We cannot kneel upon the sod above his distant bed; But memory of his noble deeds will live, though he is dead, Forming a bright example still to those who yet remain, Teaching the mourning ones to feel that " thus to die is gam. TO A FRIEND. I thank thee for the wishes kind Thou dost on me bestow ; I feel them worthy of a mind Whence every good must flow. And may thy path in life be bright, - Undimmed by Guilt's dark stain ; But, cheered by heaven's unerring light, Be free from care and pain. 'ro A FRIEND, 126 I'rust still in God : to thee He '11 prove An ever constant friend, To guide thee to the realms above, Where bliss can never end j And strains of triumph ever flow Of Christ's redeeming grace, While saints who serve Him here below Shall see Him face to face. Oh ! may that glorious crown be thine Which cannot fade away, Decked with the gems that ever shi-^e. And never know decay. And may a blessing go with thee. Where'er thy footsteps tend, And gladness never cease to be Within thy heart, my friend. THE LAST WORDS OF GOETHE. They watched beside him in that hour Of sadness and of gloom, ^^r well they knew the mighty soul Was hastening to its doom -, The master-spirit that poured forth The high and burning words, That vibrate through the lofty mind Like music's finest chords. Fair visions rose before his view, Dark eyes of liquid light, And glossy curls of raven hue, Forms beautiful and bright. Were sketched upon his fancy's eye In that expiring hour ; The light of Genius dimly burned, Bn' could not lose its power. Even in tint moment, when the land That he had loved so well, The land of song and treasured hopesi, Enshrined in memory's ceU, " " LAST WORDS OF GOETHh\ 187 / Was fading from his feeble sight, With all his glorious dreams ; Pow trivial, in the hour of death. Life's fairest prospect seems. And still he hoped that when the Spring Returned with blooming flowers, With health restored, he 'd seek once more, His glad home's fairy bowers, And wander by the streamlets pure. The haunts by time made dear. Where he conceived the lofty themes * That wondering myriads hear. '' More light I" the tones rose full ani high, Upon the watchers ear ; The voice so weak, renewed in strength, The listeners thrilled with fear ; The light which shines from jasper walls, With ever radiant glow, Jleflecting gates of glittering pearl, In crystal waves below. ■•^ More light!" to grasp the Infinite, Jo pievce the hidden ^loom. 128 LYiaCS OF THE PAST. To guide the doubting steps aright^ Tha." journey to the tomb ; All earthly knowledge then was vain, Jjife's aspirations dear, Ambition's hope — Fame's glorious aim,- Eternity was near. He saw a*'u- a little gleam v But not enough to show The path to the celestial shore, Through the dark vale of woe. *' More light !" the never failing light- That shines with dazzling ray. And emanates from God's high throne, To make perpetual day. A TRIBUTE TO CHARLES BICKENK. Toll ye the bell I through England's happy land^ For one who gloried in a bright career, Whose star of life was shining bright and clear^ Ij ndimmed as shades of evening gathered near.. Its soul-lit radiance still supreme and grands ./ TRIHVTE TO CHAHLE.S DICKERS. 121/ Toll' ye the bell I The ricli ineridian ray That still could penetrate to every clime, Is shadowed o'er before the hand of Time Had quenched the light within the mind sublime^ Or age's blight had darkened o'er his day. Toll ye the bell I Philanthropy's kind friend, A world's reformer, and a nation's best, Has gone in honour to his final rest ; But not before his efforts, nobly blest, — -■■ The tree bore lasting fruit, before the end. The won'drous pen a magic charm that bore, Was not inspired by scenes of princely power i He passed the castle, battlement, and tower, Heraldic pride — the toys of Life's short hour- — And sought a subject grand amid the poor. Toll ye the bell ! let the dirge-note swell, High on the air, as they breathe a wail, And waft it far on the summer gale ; While tears fill each eye, and cheeks grow pale, For the bright Fon of Genius, oh I toll ye the knelL W LYKICS OF THE PAST, Toll ye the bell ! he has left us now. We have been with him in our merry glee, And laughed at the fancies that none but he Could conjure up, till we thought we could see The grotesque shapes that his power avow, The idiot-boy, and his ill-omened pet ; The widow's love for her helpless child ; And changing scenes, so dark and wild — One moment we wept, the next we smiled, A mingling grave and gay together met, Toll ye the bell I We have lingered long In the Marshalsea prison, dark and lone, And heard the deep despairing moan, That told of hope forever flown. While the tide of life rushed free and strong, Toll ye the bell I He could well partray Devotion's light in the thickest gloom ; It brightened up the cheerless room. That seemed a father's living tomb, — VV^l)ile the breaking heart ^eeu^ed g|ad upd gajr. A TRIBUTE TO CHARLES DICKENS. VS\ Toll ye the bell ! for the heart lies still, That could waken an echo in ev'ry breast ; The beautiful pathos t.ie soul impressed, With deeds of goodness ever blest. The author stamped each page with loving skill. Toll ye the bell ! for the vacant place In a nation's honoured and brilliant band, The mind immortal could command A homage meet in every land Jlis wandering footsteps deigned to grace. Toll ye the bell ! The electric tone. That countless multitudes might thrill, Like music's charm the soul covM fill, Enchain the thoughts, control the will. Is hushed, or heard in Heaven alone. (r^>«^£g:5(g:g>x:^^ ,--*•■:.. THE J^lTfl OF AN OLD FRENCH CHAML NEAR FORT BEAU SEJOUR. An old French Chapel graced this spot, More than a hundred years ago ; And childhood's light, with youth's gay treadi. And Age's pace so weak and slow, Passed up the aisle on Sabbath morn With meek devotion's holy grace ; The maiden in her kirtle blue, With soft brown eyes and lovely face. Here knelt the bridegroom by the bride, The sacred shrine before, . The priest his benediction gave And blest them o'er and o'er. The mother stood with sweet-faced babe. Within the peaceful dome, _: From thence, with streaming tears, were borne Loved forms to their last home. ON AN OLD FRENCH CHAPEL, 133 Strange thoughts are rising on my mind Of all that here have been ; 'Mid violets scent and mossy turf, And hillocks soft and green. I see them here, long passed from earth, With faces grave or gay ; There's won'drous magic in Time's flight, That bears all things away. And none survive to tell the tale Of days forever fled -, The chapel's site alone remains, Ivlemorial of the dead. THE EMPRESS CARLOTTA. trhe splendour of her royal lot, the beauty of her mind, Was powerless to avert a fate, so cruel and unkind ; She little dreamed the bridal hour of gladness and delight Was prelude to the fearful doom, the tempest's gathering night. Which soon would sweep above her path, destroying in its way. And breathing o'er life's early bloom chill darkness and decay. She little dreamed when joy-bells rung a welcome to that shore, ■ They only soundv^d forth a knell for gladness that was o'er. The golden crown, the sunny sky, and pageant rich below, With flowers of every gorgeous hue, and diamond's burn- ing glow, ]5ut hid the perils lurking still in many a treacherous smile 'f While savage hearts exulting beat at plans matured the _ while. ^^-:i.__:: -^ THE EMPJiESS CARLOTTA. 135 What marvel, Empress sad ! thy brow with bitter anguish burns When Queretaro's day of woe with its tragic scene returns ? What marvel that thy brain should turn ? oh, Sorrow's gentle child ! And memory of that parting hour, must drive thy young heart wild j Betrayed and scorned, condemned to die, he knew the worth of Fame, And felt that pure domestic bliss was more than glorious name; More precious far thy faithful love, for that was left alone, Too dearly bought were honours vain — an empire and a throne; ' 'Twas well thy noble father's head was laid the vault below ; He Was not spared to witness all his darling's hours of woe; JEe named thee for the fair young bride who won his heart's first love, ^ tlis English flower of transient bloom, the meek and tender dove, 186 LYRICS OF THE PAST, Who shook earth's vapours from her wings, and soared to heaven's bright clime, Formed for a new and perfect life beyond the realms of time. Perchance their kindred spirits blest are hovering o'er thee now, With healing balm to cure thy wounds, and cool thy fevered brow; . ';- Shedding the peace within thy soul the world can never give. Whispering the cheering words 3f hope, " Believe and thou shalt live To meet thy martyred husband where none may his peace molest, Where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at "est." ON RECEIVING A YOUNG LADY'S PORTRAIT, The poet's wreath could never twine Above a brow more fair ; Alas ! that swiftly flying time Should leave its traces there. Or cast a shadow o'er youth's dream So innocent and bright ; The picture tinged with Fancy's gleam, Thought's glorious colouring light. I know that the world is a glad world to thee, With its flowers and sunshine that dazzle the view ; In the far off future thou can'st not see The clouds that will darken a sky so blue. The joy-tints are radiant thy vision portrays, Dream on ! dream on ! for in coming years The glory will fade from thy loving gaze, The picture's gay colouring fade with thy tears. 10 116 tYIilVS OF rtiE PASt. The^e^s a pensive charm in thy gentle face^ A soul-beaming lustre within thy dark ey€j ', The gem of pure Genius reflecting its grace. The mind's lasting beauty that never can die i But live in the sphere thought ne'er can conceive^ For dreams cannot picture the glorious abode, Where storms never darken the spirit to grieve, And bright angels sing to the praises of God. dN THE CLOSING YEAR. Another year has past and gone, With all its doubts and fears ; Alas ! Time bears us swiftly on Through this dark vale of tears. How many hearts, thou closing year, That happily beat when thou began • Mark the decline with falling tear, And mourn the pilgrimage of man. Birthday of Time ! we hail thy dawn With gladsome welcome ; still we know ON TSK closing year. 139 A shadow rests on life's bright morn, And all is changed since long ago. We wreathe the garlands evergreen, And siag gay songs of joyful mirth ; Swift-footed Pleasure gilds the scene. And casts her syren spell o'er earth. But what a contrast in the land, Where war hath left its impress stern, In hasty footprints on the strand, Whose fearful traces fiery burn. How sad the change since last New Year In happy homes, serene and fair ; They mourn the loved with bitter tears, And weeping, view the vacant chair. I see the maiden's restless gaze ; The young wife's vigil, dark and lone ; 1 hear, 'mid dreams of other days, A sigh for happy moments flown» In thought the loved one's hair is dim With blood's deep stain ; she wildly hears 140 LYRICS OF THE PAST. The din of battle ; feels for him A thousand thousand hopes and fears. The festive season only brings A deep regret for blessings fled; Rich music's strain in anguish rings . A wild lament above the dead. And lovely forms with grief are bowed For bright ones lying with the slain ; 'Mid songs of triumph long and loud Is heard the moaning cry of pain. The radiant star of Talent falls. The light is quenched of noble worth ; And every heart a dark dread palls, And checks each happy thought at birth. A VIEW OF MONTREAL, rftOM THE TOWER OF THE FRENCH CATHEDRAL. ^he fair Canadian city, That rose upon my sight ; With lofty spires and stately towers, I viewed with wrapt delight. And the broad and noble river. Where shone the sun's bright gleam, Reflecting all that glorious scene — With mid-day's radiant beam. The view was beautiful and grand ! And my mind turned to the past, — It seemed so strange that the city's site Was once a forest vast. Where the hunter's foot alone disturbed The stillness of the place ; As he trod the lonely desert path, ; With a firm and stealthy pace, .. ^4^ LYRICS OF THE PAST, Or chased the deer to its covert deep, And listened for the fo^ ', While alone the war-whoop^s fearful sound, Might the hallowed Sabbath know. And Indian warfare marked the spot Where rise the sacred ftmes; Whose elegance and grandeur tells, Th,at God in peace here reigns. Where once 'twas solitude profound, Is heard rich music's swell ; And o'er the waters gently steal The sound of convent bell. Temples of Learning — Art's high domes. Arise on every hand ; The heart with admiration owns It ii^ a favoured land, Where religion, wisdom, science,, ^" ". Must consecrate the place; . _ Till of the days long past and gone^ We scarce can find a trace. THE " CITY OF BOSTON." No tidings from the ship ! though she long hath left the shore ; No tidings for the aching hearts that beat with hope no more : We question of her fate, from the wind and wave and sky, But the wind sweeps on with a sullen moan and giveth no reply ; The waves dash on with majestic grace and answer not again, While the azure face of the silent sky hears calm the appeal of pain. Oh ! the weary nights, and the tear-dimmed eyes, and the sleepless watch of woe, The awaking sad from the happy dreams that the wretched only know, The happy dreams that the loved are back, and they listen to accents dear, Then wake with a start and a shivering dread, ap4 J^ paipeless sepse of fear, i44 LYhics of the past. Where met slie her duoin that ill-fated ship '/ ah ! vainly we seek to know : 'Mid the fearful howling of the storm did she sink to the depths below ? Or, on placid sea meet the iceberg's might, with its freez- ing, numbing poWer, To chill the current of warm life, in one wild despairing- hour y The ocean her secret keepeth well, though the mourners watch and pray. And every earthly hope hath lied for the dear ones long away. ^Twas a precious freight that ship contained, of love with its priceless worth, Affection's pure and holy faith, that makes the bliss of earth. There was one* who left a fair young wife, nor deemed in that parting hour That even then, above his head, dark clouds began to lower : ^ In that fond farewell did no thought arise of the fate reserved for him ; *Mr. Charles Silver, of llalifax. THt: CITY Of no ST ON. 145 That it stood on his threshold even then, like a spectre gaunt and grim, And pointed with warning gesture sad to the wife and children dear, -^ And said in words of import stern, yet words he might not hear : '^ Bid them adieu, a long adieu, till you meet on a brighter shore; Look your last on the faces beloved so well, and on earth behold no more : The wild waves will roll o'er your lifeless form, the sea- weed a chapiet weave For the brow where her hand so oft hath been, and she will be left to grieve." Did he ever think in his wanderings glad, in many a sunny land, That remorseless Fate walked by his side, and held him by the hand y And when he stood on the classic ground, the artist's and sculptor's pride, It tracked his footsteps, even then was ever by his side. It is well for us that the veil which shuts the future from our gaze, A merciful hand unlifted leaves; to Him be every praise, 146 LYRICS OF THE PAST. Who grants tliat in life's happy hours we cannot see the clouds That hovers o'er the gayest scene, the fairest prospect shrouds. No tidings from the ship ! though homes are dark and lone, And beauty's cheek more pallid grows, more agonized her moan. Po the fair, the good, the beautiful, all sleep in their lowly bed. And the countless treasures of ages past, now pillowy their sleeping head ? *Mid precious gems they calmly lie, ; or heed the jewels Their deep repose unbroken stijl, until the last ^rea^ ' ^fe»e TO A FRIEND, ON HIS DEPARTURE PROM FORT BEAU SEJOUR, We met as strangers, strangers now no more ; This parting hour I claim thee as a friend ; Our paths in life may never cross again, But kindly thoughts of thee can have no end. Thy parting footsteps seek the world's wide track,- Amid its din thy mind may sometimes turn To this lone spot— tradition's favoured ground— And from aftir its scenery still discern. The rushing tide, the wildly wide-spread bay, May rise before thy view as in a dream ; The solitude, the face of distant friends, 'Mid other scenes, may dim and shadowy seem, liife's warfare once begun, we scarce have tin»e To muse upon the past, however fair ; The purest flowers die 'neath our hasty tread, Their perfume lost in thoughts of worldly ca^e, Addressed to the one who can best understand THEM. There's beauty iu the merry laugh That Yin^s out gay and clear, Bespeaking goodness in the heart, Which knows not sin nor fear. The fear that checks the true impulse, Upspringing from the mind. Lest a cold world should harshly judgCv With meaning most unkind. * There's music iu a merry laugh. Melodious, rich and grand, (Jan far surpass the organ's peal. The master's mighty hand. For while the electric sounds arise^ The listeners to enchain, Perchance the power that called them forth Was born of grief and pain. LINES, 149 The world has changes, well we know The time must come to mourn, But in the present, shake off gloom. And laugh dark thoughts to scorn. For why, when skies look bright and fair, In glorious morning light, Anticipate the tempest wild. The storm-king's threatening might ? 'Tis time to weep when loving friends. Who blest life's early day. Become estranged at Fortune's frown, And coldly turn away. When hearts on which our own reposed, Deceive our faith's fond trust, And radiant hopes that light our path Are mingled with the dust. But until then the merry laugh Must ring out clear and light, Like bubbling rills in summer time, So silvery, free and bright : And " in our own peculiar way," A way unknown to thee, We'll pass the pleasant sunny hours In joyous laughing glee. Tttl5 SUNSHINE. The sunshine is a glorious dower That's shared alike by all, It lighteth up the sylvan bower^ The humble cottage small. It shines amid the forest gloom And sheds its silvery beams In laughing light through palace room^ O'er autumn woods and streams. The darkest hour it brightens o'er With pleasant silvery ray, Reflecting from the happy shore, It seems to point the way To realms of endless sunshine fair, Hills of eternal green, While ever shining, radiant, there The "Father's" face is seen. Listening for a footstep, Listening for a footstep, Watching for a form, i'hrougli the days of sunshine, And the nights of storm. Listening for a footstep With a brow of care, Listening, dreading, fearing, Still it comes not there. Listening for a footstep, The happy cheering sound, That is never, never heard again Re-echoing o'er the ground. Listening for a footstep That will not come again, Watching for a shadow, Feeling only pain. 152 LYRICS OF THE PAST. Listening tor a footetep. The well-known welcome tread, That could wake once more to pleasure The heart so cold and dead. Listening for a footstep, Watching for a sail, Waiting for glad tidings, While the cheek grows pale, Listening for a footstep, Till the eyes are dim with tears, And so the days pass slowly on. And lengthen into years. Listening for a footstep We win hear on earth no more, ^Still forever, ever parted, On life's dark and dreary shore. MIDNIGHT MUSINGS, I lie awake in the night and think . Of the distant past so far away, And muse on each strangely broken link Of Hope's briglit chain, since my early day. I hear the voices that charmed me well, — The hymns I learned at my mother's knee ; Her gentle smile and her last farewell, Like yesterday, return to me. My thoughts go wandering away, away. To the dying hour of silence and dread; The changing prospect once so gay, And dark clouds gathering overhead. I pause in the meadows, where oft I have been, And pluck the gentle modest flowers, — Or watch the azure sky serene. As in my youth's first sunny hours, 11 154 LYUIGS OF" TfiE PAST. The loved, the lost, come back once more, They are with me here, — I am not alone : They are speaking now as in days of yore, • And are not sleeping 'neath graveyard stone. If far away o'er the distant sea, — They are back to-night from that far-off clime,- I clasp their hands, their forms I see As in the long-past happy time. They go with me through the silent hours, They noiseless move 'mid the hush profound j We meet once more in summer bowers, Or gather pleasant hearths around. !rhey wander not o*er desert plains, With weary feet and hearts oppress'^ : For now, while midnight stillness reigns, They are with me here— the loved and best/ THE LADrS CHOICK. /' Ne countez ne sur les carresses ni sur les protestations excessive < elle sont ordinairenient de courte diiree." Two Knights came to a lady's bower; One, sighing, bent his knee, paying — " Wilt thou, fiiirest of the fair, Bestow thy love on me? *' For thou art dearer thnn my life — The day-star of my soul ; My hope ! my joy ! my love and bliss;! Thou dost comprise the whole," Her jewelled hand he fondly pressed, And whispered words of praise ; The other Knight the beauty viewed ■ With wrapt and loving gaze, Then bowing low he softly said : " Few words suffice to tell. That I will ever constant prove— J 'ye Joye4 thee lon^ ap4 well" m LYRICS OF THE PASt. The fair one loved the flatterer best, She lightly turned away : •• Sir Knight, my choice is wisely made< I cannot bid you stay." fie met his haughty rival's smile Of triumph and delight; Then from the morning presence dear,. He passed into the night. Where swords flashed high on battle field He won a glorious name ; I'he valiant theme of countless lips. The trumpet sojlukI of fame. Support<3d on a soldier's breast, He breathed away his life ; While happy visions of the past Rose 'mid the war's wild strife: He saw ngain his native home, The cottage and the vine ; And all the merry vintage cheer— His homo upon the Rhino. THE LADY'S CtiOLCE; 157 But clearer far rose on his sight, The form since childhood dear ; To catch his words, the sorrowing friend Bent down his listening ear : •* If thou art spared, oh 1 go to her< My dying words to tell, The same I said in parting hour — ' I 've loved thee long and well » M The lady sat in solitude. And wept the hours away • She waited for her love's return, Why doth he thus delay '::' She watched in vain : he never came, And so the years rolled on ; The smile from lip and eye had lledv Each hope on earth was gone. At the castle-gate a stranger paused. A soldier by his mien, — With sunburnt brow and many a scaf. Hard service he had seen/ \^ LYHlCi^ OF I HE PAJSJ, " 1 crave to see your lady lair/' — - He told the porter old, — "I've travelled many a lonely mile, I'm weary, faint and cold." They brought him to the lady then, Who looked so wan and pale : She kindly gave him welcome sweet, And waited for his tale. With lowly reverence bending there, " From battle field," he said, " T come, with message from true Knight, Who lies in bloo^'-stained bed, >' He bade me bear his parting words,-'— The soldier brav( ly fell, — Dost thou remember them ? they were ; ' I've loved thee long and well.' " •jThe lady clasped her hands and crie4 ?' Too late I I k»ow his worth. THE LAtoY'S CHOICE, 159 The protestations falsely made, Destroyed his peace on earth. " If wise my choice, he yet had lived. His loss I now deplore ; Sad as my own — who may perhaps A longer time endure, " To expiate the bitter wrong ; Repent, that light words vain And lightly spoken, won my love, Inflicting bitter pain " On one so noble and so true ; And will he never know, How I lament his early doom And my unending woe ?" Earth was a desert evermore j Unheeded, wealth or pride ; A few more years of splendid grief. And then the lady died,-— \m hYJilCS OF THE PAST, lyeaving a world 8o rayless, cold. Bereft of sun or iigbt, To meet again that noble soul. In realms more pure and bright, THE ENI),