A = = c 1 Ai - :■■" 1 o m T ■ o B —— m ■ — 1 U ■ ^ m ■ = — " I 3 B 7 = =^-- ^ 1 6 m ^^= CD 1 == 33 1 4 m g > 1 — jo ■ - " ■< 1 2 m ^== >■ 1 4 = -■' — 1 1 i -< 1 8 H M^WMflSK ?*« THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES ■{A/^dL fcfcz. Ct^t&^o C3e-y^/v^ LATER POEMS: BY JULIO. LONDON : WHITTAKER AND CO., AVE MARIA LANE. BRIGHTON : THOS. PAGE, 173, NORTH STREET. MDCCCLXXI. BRIGHTON . ■U> Bl PliEEI AM) < !0., " 111 RAID 1 ■< ' SS/f S+An l$7/ PREFACE. In a former Scries of Poems the Author sought to portray the rehabilitation of fallen natures. Treated alike in the literal ( u Never More") or symbolic method (" Fountain of Truth "), his ideal was found in the perfect equilibrium of physical and moral energy (" Philosophic Merchant "). In the concluding Series, although the volume is smaller, the range of thought will be found wider. The " Scenes from Plutarch " may recall to the Reader some of those stories which made the heart beat faster in youthful days. In the Didactic Poems, fragmentary as some are, the great problem of Death, as influencing different classes of minds, is dwelt upon at some length, yet more in a suggestive than descriptive way. 841S75 is. Z7.77 I' /. Tlf Apothegm . a i • / ■ ed thoughts in eleg mrt ■ , recall a great German model, which they cannot hope to rival < .\ - ' «). Tin Bhynu d Compositions are extn mt ly vat i cha. hut in all, even the tm> that at first sight seem entirely sensuous, the vughi that a power Jul nature will not be contented with the low range of hil indulg If upwards to purer regions of thought. Brighton, Fehruury, 1871. CONTENTS. PART I. — Compositions in Classic Metres. PAGE ■Introductory to Scenes from Plutarch . 3 Scenes from Plutarch, — I. Isadas ..... 5 II. Cimon's Death .... 9 III. Marius's Eeign of Terror . 11 IV. Interview between Alexander the Great and the Brach- mans ..... 14 V. Archimedes at Syracuse . . 18 VI. Timoleon ..... 23 Fragments of a Dramatic Poem . . 27 Didactic Series, — 1. . t . . . . • DO II. Virtus Virilis .... 34 III. Mors Janua Vit.e . . . 37 IV 11 vi. CONTENTS. 1 >u- \< nc Series, — V i:. VI Is VII 50 VIII . IX , X. A Portrait ."w XI. Tin-: Burlingtoh Arcade . 62 XII 65 ia< s — Kru.iiAMs and Apothegms. PART II. — Co oru in Rhymed Metres. in THE Past I U:\tii Pol MS. — I. " —II. . I'm Health ..... First and I. i Kiss . " The Fragrant I >ust ><■ 1 1 1 tor* " I'm. Syren I i i"N I . s i l.'i.' -i i.; ■ 83 92 :u 98 UK K>7 11(i 1 1 1 CONTENTS. vii. Solitude 119 Fame 121 Despondency .... 124 Satiety .... 127 Pastoral, to Clara . 130 Woman's Adoration . 133 Solitude and Society 135 Victor Hugo .... 140 Exiled from Home 143 Intro-spection . 146 Respice Finem . 148 Vale ...... 149 Contrasts .... 151 Spring .... 153 Retrospection 155 The Man op a Thousand . 159 Parallels. — I. 164 " — II 165 — III. Remonstrance 167 Has Been and Will Be . 169 To a Lady on her Birthday 171 Si Jeunesse 173 viii. CONTENTS. The Speotrj 17., Last Si i m. m All . L78 [mpromptu Bouts Rimes l-i ••('■ii.im nom Ammam Mutant". L88 L'AVENIB ..... 1 85 Beavek 187 PART I. Compositions in Classic Metf^es, LATER POEMS. PART I. Compositions in Classic Metres. INTRODUCTORY TO SCENES FROM PLUTARCH. TLLUSTRIOUS guide to where the limits reach Of ancient story in the fields of fame ; We walk, with thee, beside Time's wreck-strewn beach — We weigh each action, and we spell each name. Yet more we love thee, when the inner life Of those old days thy magic lines disclose : We see the victor, when the battle's strife Has ceased, and weary Nature claims repose. Those grand old times, girt by the glowing light Which fancy lends to the far distant yiew, I INTRODUCTORY T<> SCFXFS FRoM I'LiriRC/f. Are here revealed entire to mortal Bight, And the romantic blends into the true. < >f ( hrei ce and Elome wc see each magic form : The temple glowing with artistic fire; Of passion's conflict the far-sounding storm ; And hear the poel chant to golden lyre. Ennobling fact for Letters — he, who wrote, Scarce less illustrious on the world's wide page Than those whoso portraits we attentive note, Stands forth, historian of a mighty age. To live for greatness is a noble task ; To write of exploits till the reader's mind Shall with great recital blend, and ask If Fate may not a like occasion find ; This was old Plutarch's mission, and lii- book Bas charmed the Leisure <>f adventurous souls, Whose ~jiirit> from the Tast their impulse took, While victory's hymn from thousand voices rolls. SCENES FROM PLUTARCH. r. ISADAS. T N the war between Sparta and Thebes, as Plutarch tells us, this youthful hero rushed from the bath into the fight, without donning his defensive panoply, and imposed such terror on the enemy, that, deeming him a God, they gave way, and left the Spartans masters of the field.* The late Sir C. Eastlake illustrated this action by one of his finest works, entitled "The Young Spartan." Wild war rolls onward to the citv walls : Hard pressed, the Spartans yield to hostile ranks ; A weary fight seems near disastrous end. But who comes rushing on, with spear in hand, Devoid of vestment or defensive arms, * Vide "Plutarch's "Agesilaus. 6 WES 1 i:<>m r 1. 1 T ARCH Fresh from the bath, in youth's rare beauty clothed- Perfect in form, with fleetest turn of limb? An aureole of light beams round his head — His hair streams like trail of fire behind ; rYarli'>s his mii'iij nor e'en the God of Fight Looked more determined victory to win — Y. t. mixed with resolution's dauntless mien, Bloomed in its spring-tide force the grace of youth. " It is a < lod," spreads now from rank to rank : •■ 'I'h' Immortal comes from the Olympian hills, ■• Jove sends him here to buccout Sparta's suns." — The foe gives way, and soon a panic spiralis. Again they shout. '• A God has comr to sight ;" •• Mars or Apollo combats on our side." Godlike, in truth,— so rare it is to find A noble soul with noble form allied, — Too often doomed the opposite to Bee : Fair face and figure joined to Devil's spite, Or warlike head that masks a coward's heart. But here was joined the bloom <>f beauty's flower With fruit of earnest resolution's will! Resolved in country's cause to win or die. ISADAS. And so it issued ; for where'er the youth Pressed onward, all. drew back, with fear possessed, As though against immortal force they strove. And so it was in truth, for strength divine Lives in the firm determined will, that casts, Not merely fear aside, but ev'ry thrall Of selfish feelings bound to pleasure's chain ; Or that cold, creeping indolence that blights Each gen'rous impulse ere it fruit can bear. Not so Isadas : graced with faultless form, Meet to win maiden's love, or be adored With passion's flame in stolen rendezvous, He risked his limbs, his mantling youthful blood, To combat with his country's foes and fall, A mangled corpse, on hard-contested field. He was not destined so to end. The fight Is o'er, and joyful sound of victory Peals from the Spartan ranks ; the city-gates Fly wide ; the sacrificial altar smokes ; With solemn joy the patriot youth is crowned, And glad Laconia holds high festival. 8 SCENES FROM I'LUTARCH So, to tin 1 end of time, historic y Emblazons with bright Inns the noble deed, — I'.v prompt, heroic action, rict'rywon ! Thrice-happy youth, who quick the moment seized, "When fortune grants a starting point fur fame, Prepared and ready, — for o brief delay, And the occasion were for ever lost ! Thus promptitude to snatch the fated hour Is half-way station to bright net And mak< - the weakesl mightier than their fo< Example radiant as a lamp, 1" all Who study the dead Leaves of history — Not as an irksome task, but there to find The living records of man's restless force, And blooming flower of high heroic deed- ! CIMON'S DEATH. II. CIMON'S DEATH. rFHIS great Athenian, who with mighty deeds Had swayed the Council and great armies led To victory o'er Barbarian and Greek, For action and for eloquence renowned, Dreamed, ere he started for his post once more, A dog had bayed at him with human voice, " I and my whelps will gladly see thee here ; ' ! And, at the solemn sacrifice, he saw A swarm of ants cling to his foot and smear His skin with blood, — a portent strange to all. Yet shrunk not Cimon from wide -reaching plans, Greece to avenge on the Barbarian hordes. His fleet he led to Cyprus, and despatched Some trusty messengers to Amnion's shrine, Counsel to ask for furtherance of plans. The God replied, " Go back ; he is with me ! " Quick they returned, and, when they reached the camp, 10 FROM PLUTABOB The/ found their Leader dead, and were apprized It was the hour in which the Oracle Declared, " He is with me": marking the truth That men, who with high gen'rous souls are blessed, Are God-like in their essence and their frame, Ami that an aureole "l the 1'ivine Doth lighl the patriol to his glorious end. For do less kind than greal was Cimon's soul ; He willing shared his table and his purse With citizens whom fortune favoured lee , Oft had his nature felt the glow of wine, With genial impulse lighting up the heart; And beauty, too, had plunged his leisure hours In passion's ebb and flow, — yet, above all, His life was chained to duty, and he felt His country's glory as bis single aim. MARIUS'S REIGN OF TERROR. 11 III. MARIUS'S REIGN OF TERROR. TT was when carnage through the streets of Rome Revelled in slaughter of the citizens, And unsubdued, capricious, worked its end : The hoary Consul urging on his bands Of slaves, who, armed, wrought out the instincts which A life of servitude too often brings — Oppressors and oppressed — the wheel that turns In its gyrations round the circle brings Of wrong and bloodshed, violence and crime — A man there was who, in those troubled days (Proscription flaunting in its blood-stained robe), Had won applause and fame for gifts of speech, Moulding the hearers to the speaker's will. Antonius,* for bright elocpience renowned, Too often 'gainst the tyrant now in power * Grandfather of the Triumvir, Marc Antony. 12 V/.s- FROM I'LUTARi'U Had fiercest accents hurled, pardon t<> win. He refuge Bought under a humble roof, Where welcome hailed the richly-gifted guest. Basely betrayed by one who sold him wine, A troop was soon despatched to bring his head — Mother of Barcasm and indignant speech. The soldiers mounted to the victim's room ; Their chief, one Annius, remained helow. A man unarmed is easy to despatch. Yet none could do it : such the moving power That Nature gave to eloquence and truth. N".. history tells as how the Orator Pleaded for life; yei may we well Buppose Truth gave him accents in this latest hour Fitted tin' rudesl nan. abdue. Perchance he told them of their Dative home And tender magic of the household gods, And of bright Bcenes of youth, when life appears Like gushing fountain glitt'ring in the Bun, Ere slavery had bronghl it- blight and curse. Perchance he touched some chord that vibrates when Man -tands beside hi- fellow-mortal's form, MARIUS'S REIGN OF TERROR. 13 And rank shrinks back to shadow-line of death. That was his triumph, mightier now than when The Fornm listened to impassioned speech. For now his cause seemed won ; arms fell from hands, Tears flowed from eyes, and faltering looks proclaimed Great Nature's protest 'gainst the lust of blood. Thus found his followers their absent chief; But he, more cruel, did the deed himself, And brought Antonius' head to Marius, Who soon thereafter met a wretched doom. II SCENES FROM PLUTARCH IV. [NTERVIEW BETWEEN ALEXANDER THE GREAT AND THE BRA0HMAN8. AN Alexander's return from his [ndian expedition, be sent for ten of the Gymnosophists, or BrachmanB, and propounded many interesting ques- tions. He dismissed these Learned men with magni- ficent presents. Victorious chiefs pluck choicest fruits of life. At their approach the captive Princess smili And beauty follows on their army's march; Nor less see they the notahlesl of men In every country where their eagles fly. Thus Alexander, after varied march Through conquered Persia to the [ndian shores, Where never Bhip liacl Bailed nor army trod, I)osired to converse hold with learned men, in Brachman legend versed and Eastern lore. ALEXANDER AND THE BRACHMANS. 15 The pupil of a Master great in fame, Whose name and works have traversed ages down To modern times — the mighty Stagyrite — He, the great Captain, well might wish to know What line of study Eastern thought pursued. Perchance he deemed that something he might learn Of Fate's decrees relating to himself ! The Sages came, and questions were discussed With much of brevity, nor wanting wit : The Earth's creation and Man's destiny — What raises mortals o'er their fellows' heads, And what may happen when death's summons calls. An interview well worthy of our note ; A peaceful episode mid scenes of war ; An hour's brief converse ere the army marched ! Each went his way : the Conqueror to his task Of marching o'er the prostrate necks of men, Till he arrived on fair Chaldea's plain, The allotted bound' ry of his meteor-course : Destined no more the phalanx thence to lead, Or to his native land triumphant come With aureole of glory such as none L6 SCENES FROM PLUTARCH: Had won Bince the firsi -lawn of history. The band of -ages home returned, to teach Ami guard the mystic emblems of a faith Destined to rule o'er many an Eastern mind. And, in his meditations on the world, On busy life, and the decrees of Fate, The Braehman, hearing of the Monarch's end, Cut off in all the ardour of his youth, Far from Ins native land, plans unachieved, And no successor for his Empire's fame, O'er frugal meal, in some sequestered spot, Might deem himself more happy than the man "Whose panoramic march had awed the world. This interview of warrior and sage, Held on the confines of those famous lands, "Weighs more upon the springs of modern thought Than all the victories by armies gained. One gives the triumph of material force, And skilful leadership directing all ; The other brings us to the sphere of mind, Exerting influence on the human race, ALEXANDER AND THE BRACHMANS. 17 And bending nations to a certain creed. The ancient Brachman faith preserved its sway Erect amidst the universal crash Of thrones and dynasties throughout the world ! The Macedonian conqueror lay dead : His empire crumbled into fragments — broke. That Eastern faith struck deep its roots, and lives E'en to our day, in its symbolic rites, — A lasting conquest o'er the mind of man. 18 SCENES FROM PLUTARCH: V. ARCHIMEDES AT SYRACUSE. PHILOSOPHERS, 'tis said, oft dwell apart. Nor mingle in the crowded marts of life, Retiring from their kind in solitude, Encompassed by the forms of abstract thought — Yit some have made the highest science stoop To daily wants of men, constructing bridge That spans the torrent, and from height to height Conducts the child or timid invalid, With other marvels of the engineer. And thus, in olden times, when Nature's laws Were by man's intellect but half-explained, A great philosopher, whose name has come On roseate cloud of fame down to our day, Defended Syracuse against a host, Not of barbarian tribes, or Asia's slaves, But Roman legions, led by one whom all Proclaimed the greatest Captain of his day — ARCHIMEDES AT SYRACUSE. 19 Marcellus, sword of Rome and Carthage's dread. O mighty power of genius ! Vainly strove The legions to approach that city's walls, Or with the galleys landing to effect. Launched in mid air, rock-showers their circles traced, Then thund'ring crushed the assailants' serried ranks, And swamped the vessels ere they touched the shore, Or bore them quivering high above the host. The Roman leader, vexed, yet not dismayed, Came nearer, hoping to avoid the stroke Of such projectiles by a bending course. But vain his care ; for Archimedes now Brought other engines to the city's walls, And, near, as far, rained death among the host. Oft have men said, that one great leader's mind Is worth ten thousand men in battle strife, When hosts contend for palm of victory. But here, for once in the world's history, A single brain outweighed collected force, Led by the greatest warrior of his age. 20 • PLUTARCH: Sum up cern how great S ill tins man <>f abstract thought aed nil the glory mplished fa I5ut trifling, v. tpared with problems' truth, I'.;. • deductions clearly proved, : in science 1 treasure-house for aye. Thoughl is a monarch, mightier in its force Than all the potentates thai men adore, — Immeasurable in its great Nor deigning always visibly to work. served the patriot's purpose well. And gave immortal glory to the man. Who ime of hold defence ! He died, 'tis said, whilst bending o'er his task, hailing quantities in order close, aetric lines a world ed. A Roman soldier, with his brutal Bword, Cut short the thread ->f those far-reaching thoughts. Not so Marcellus wished; hi oul Had v, ith Archime ARCHIMEDES AT SYRACUSE. 21 And honour pay to Science' greatest son. His end all men might envy, for it came With sudden severance of mind from clay : The lifeless trunk lay mid the scholar's work, Where geometric lines in sand were traced ; His soul's ethereal essence mounted high To spheres of thought all boundless and sublime. Engraved with forms of cylinder and sphere, His tomb proclaimed the great geometer. A century had passed ; the savant's grave 'Mid newer interests neglected lay, When a great Roman to Sicilia came : The orator whose glowing page remains, Instinct with life, the scholar's heritage ; The Quaestor * found at length the pillar where, * Cicero's Qusestorship. The young Orator sought for and restored the neglected tomb. 22 ROM PLUTARCH With weeds o'er grown, inscription half effaced, Yet .still with sphere and cylinder int: The great philosopher's remains were laid. Doubtless he gazed with reverence on the spot, For genius holds a chain of finest links, Binding in unison illustrious souls, In spite of ages' wreck and spoils of time. Two thousand years have passed ; the names of both Live in the memory of a grateful world — Undying heritage for latest times. TIMOLEON. 23 VI. TIMOLEON. rpiMOLEON of Corinth had an elder brother, whose life he had saved. Timophanes was turbulent and ambitious. Entrusted with military command, he abused his trust, and sought to enslave his native city. After every persuasion had been tried in vain, Timoleon allowed two of his friends to slay his brother, for wbich he was cursed and shunned by his mother. Timoleon remained many years without taking any part in public affairs ; at last he consented to lead an expedition for the freedom of Sicily, which he happily accomplished. Great citizen of Corinth, on thy brow A patriot's glory rests, e'en in that hour When guilty brother's life was sacrificed, Rather than thy free city be enslaved. Act of dread import ! None should lightly judge 24 SCENES FROM PLUTARCH: Of such a Btraggle In a aoble mind : The ties of blood by higher claims subdued, And citizenship before kindred placed. 'Twas not for Belfish ends that deed was dune. •rts were made to bring him back to right ; To Corinth"s liberties his life was due. Y die With dislocated projects, hopes o'erthrown, — So near the bourne of victory to have My fancies scattered and my fame obscured. bitter, and I curse the oath, Made by my kinsman's bed, to -pan- that man. Be aever felt the lie of gratitude, But, with the • meanness of a cur, Plotted yet more against tbe man by whom Ifi^ life was spared, and traversed all my plans, And soon will triumph at my speedy end. One chance remains ! (To a servant.) " Send for Antoni . ' Who executes my will like Nubian sla Mute, quick, yet cautious, with untiring zeal, — 11 this message to the city bear, Whi triumph of my foes, — Slave to my oath, the victim of my word, Fate owes my truth this final recompense. -Ss^T^^V DIDACTIC SERIES. i. QOME who have talents, fortune, leisure-time — Those puissant levers social mass to raise — Leave, at the close of life, no deeper trace Than ripples by a stone in waters cast ! Down life's swift stream they drift, with careless mien, Nor cross its current to the safer shore, Nor force the obstacle of •floating weeds. Their strivings, intermittent, let the stream Bear them away ; and they at length exclaim — " Struggles are useless — Fate has so decreed ;" — For this sad doctrine of fatality A most convenient mantle throws o'er sloth. Youth, act not so ; but, as the Poet taught — That fine old Eoman — in his vigorous verse* : — Aim thou at somewhat : let thy arrow strike Some mark defined, high o'er the head of crowds. * Persius, Sat. 3, v. 60. 34 /Hh.lfTfC SERIES ii. VIRTUS VTRILIS. TS courage virtue? Yes, the Etonians said, — For the same words in the old Latin tongue Express both meanings, — and we often find, That want of courage leads to error's blight. 'Tis this which makes the faltering child deceive ; In after-years it frames the school-hoy's lie ; And the Collegian, when his hills fall due, Lets 6lip the moment to avow his fault, And drags through weary years the chain of debt. Are you courageous ? " What !" some fiery blade Exclaims ; " am I not prompt to brawl or fight ?" And, with a graver mien, another asks. " Will I not name and honour vindicate From all reproach 'gainst those who would assail ?" Softly, my friend ; courage is oftest Bhown In moral struggles with perplexing facts. To tell a woman we no longer love VIRTUS VIRILIS. 35 Is one <5f these most difficult to meet ; For then she weeps, and with her tears there comes Some long -forgotten charm, that casts its spell, And half brings back the love of other days, "With torture of irresolution's whirl. Or she bursts forth in rage, and in the gleam That flashes sudden from her lustrous eyes, We feel the tide of passion rolling back, Just when a yawning gulph betwixt us lies. Or, when a friend, with wealth and talents, yields To the insidious flatterer's evil voice, And with good-natured impulse ruin seeks — To try to bring him back, offending one, Who often has advantaged our career, Here is the courage of a noble mind, Braving all dangers for a worthy end. Again, impulsive natures often say, "When borne upon excitement's rolling tide, (Or unstrung nerves, after a sleepless night, Reverse the true perspective of our lives,) Words, they would give a treasure to annul — But pride forbids their footsteps to retrace. 36 KID ACT IC SERIES: True courage then Btepa forward, and at once, (A nobler sacrifice than life or wealth) I rrors, and declares That transient mists have •■ iled tin- sun of truth, And, humble 1 before em p'e herita Pardon and counsel tor the future seeks. And so we find the ancienl Romans riLjht ; Another deht we owe to classic lore. MORS JANUA VITJE. 37 III. "MORS JANUA VIT.E." TT may be well to die, to quit at once This sea of trouble with its bitter waves, And be emancipated from the thrall That course of added years so surely brings. But to lie languishing for many a day — Supine on couch, so active once of limb, To watch the ebb on life's storm-beaten shore, — And bit by bit to sink into the tomb, Far from the scenic pageantry of life, And equilibrium of digestion's power, Diffusing vigour through each well-knit limb, — Oh ! this is sad, whilst phantom forms intrude — Some girt with mem'ries of the joyous lights That o'er the path of life serenely shone ; But others fraught with recollections sad, Of shattered hopes and happiness destroyed — Of pleasure madly won at cost of calm ; 38 DIDACTIC 8ERIR8 For <>ft the tree of knowledge bears a fruit Bo bitter to the taste, thai we would give All we possess not to hare plucked the branch That hung so tempting by tin' wander's path. All this, repeated hourly by our couch, Like tick of clock that jars upon the car, Is still accompanied by wearing pain, That mocks all efforts to avert its sting. Friends come and go, perchance with anxious mien, And bland hypocrisy of "better hopes," — Knowing full well that soon the end will come. The table's strewed with phials, on the chance Of some hours' respite from unceasing pain. •Tli rough window's pane no cheerful light appears, But fog and grime in equal portions rise ; Whilst priest and doctor in succession try, With creed or medicine, to allay unrest. 0, let me die beneath the vauit of heaven ! Kissed by the winds — soothed by perfume of flowers — With parting glance bent on the massive forms Of forest, gilded by the western ray : NTot far, perchance, from the ancestral halls — MORS JANUA VIT&. 39 The fields and grove that saw our boyhood's sports, So, when the circle of our destiny- Is filled, we may on earth's fair bosom rest, Returning back to Nature's ample fold. How fares it with the thought of death 'mid scenes Of busy life's excitement, and the roll Of stormy passions beating on Time's shore ? Some seek to mask such thoughts with wine and flowers. Unwelcome vision 'tis to minds of most ; Yet, when digestion's power is low, 'twill come After excess, fatigue, or the collapse Of cherished schemes, which bring amid their fall A certain sense of instability. Yet others cherish the remembrance, like A cloud that breaks monotony of blue : A certain luxury they find in thoughts Of that mysterious power, the Leveller Of great and mighty, beautiful and brave. 40 DIDACTIC 8BRIES MORS JAM l iir. Sun;'- Beek all contrasts with an artist's zest : 1 in splendid feasts in lamp-lit halls, where mirth Entwines it- wreath round beauty's radiant brow, They love to pass to lonely churchyard's graves, Can-— in- ofl the vision of repo Whose monumental stone is girt by flowers. Set, shunned or welcome, still the vision lies Around us and above as and beneath. All Nature speaks of life's embrace with death, And fresh existence springing from the tomh. All Nature tells us we must one day die, And life's uncertainty hears in its womb An element of grandeur for us all. To-day, to-morrow, in a score of years, The scene will change, bul none can tell how soon The great perspective of a wider world Shall dawn conclusive on our sharpened sense. DIDACTIC SERIES. 41 IV. TI7HAT are the goods of life? a question oft Demanded, rarely answered as we wish. Friendship ? Yes, that may give us moments when "We feel a glow that brightens all around, And glory in negation of ourselves. Pursuit of knowledge ? Aye, a lofty gate, That opens wider as the advancing mind Is braced for stronger efforts, and resolves The Halls to enter, where concentred thought And ripe experience of past ages dwell ! Health, too, is good ; untiring energy, By equilibrium of nature poised, That seems from toil fresh nourishment to draw. A fair external presence, when the mind Shines through transparent shell of beauty's form. A voice to pierce the crowd and charm its ear. 'Tis good to own a mind that soars above The world of slander, so that not a drop Of its foul venom e'er can stain your robe. 12 DI1> WTJC SERIES. Good i" bare faith in higher lives of men, Who tread Belf-interest down boncatli their Peel ; Good to bo freed from superstition's chain, Which founds its creed on coward fears of men ; Good to believe that others may be right, When most they differ from our cherished views ; "lis good to battle for a noble ca Though certain to he vanquished, and have faith In Time's redressing power for future days ; Good to rise active with the early morn, Nor tire till sombre eve her twilight sends, With steady energy, progressing still Through occupation's ever-changing scene. Is love a good? a question difficult To solve or answer, since so many thoughts Are bound up in that word, like separate flowers, Forming a nosegay, thickly set with thorns. Yet, we may say at once, that few desire Through life to walk without affection's light. To many a youth the passions in their train Bring all the evils that can life afflict — Rage, envy, jealousy, remorse, despair, DIDACTIC SERIES. 43 Annihilation of the tranquil mind, Unfitness for pursuits of active life, Insensibility to smaller joys. Sleep flies their couch ; the healthy appetite Is gone ; they crave for ceaseless stimulants, Whilst reeling from intoxication worse Than wine or spirits e'er produced in man. Passion leads on to crime. Some deed is done, In moments when the mind control has lost, Which dooms us to the cypress avenue, Where man walks sadly to remorseful end, And ever-following sees a spectre form. Or, if our reason keeps us back from blood, Or scruples of a timid nature's fears, We thoughtless enter on the flowery slope That downward leads, as credit opens wide The fatal door, where, through enchanted halls, Deluded victims to their doom descend, And syren's smile by load of debt is bought. All fall not so. On some affection beams, •il DIDACTIC SERIES. < ;irt with the puri I of tenders And noble th> incentive to great deeds. To such, love proves a blessing and a boon. l'.ut these are few ; whilst victims of deceit, Unruly passion, fu alousy, Maimed, scorched, and helpless, throng around life's path. DIDACTIC SERIES. 45 V. 1 /TISTAKES ! Aye, tell me who doth not, at times, Forsake the true, for error's glittering path ? Yet Nature, by her kindly laws, provides That error's self oft leads back to the true : Bearing us scathed, but cautious, on the flood Of self-denial's waves to safer port. Then, to the pilgrim, will occur again A turning point in life — whose crisis leads Back to the mount of virtuous resolve. But some mistakes are fatal, and their sway Leads down a steep incline to certain doom : No footstep mounts again, no thought can rise, To clearer atmosphere of former years. Gone are those visions of the pure and good — That rainbow arch that links our earth to heaven — That sentiment of virtue which, in minds "Where stricter principles no longer sway, Dwells with its hallowing presence, and conceals The naked selfishness of daily life — 46 DIDACTIC BBRIR8. V. iling, lil<< 1 clustering ivy's freshest gre m, The spectral phantom of Batiety. Then, habit, winding yel another coil, Crashes the victim in its Python folds. The avaricious, cruel, lustful man, With age's leprous crust on brighter thoughts, Lives but for evil, till his doom be sealed. Otbcrs, less guilty, own scant wish for good. "What hopes that elder man from years to win ? Where reach his longings in their fullest scope ? Borne joys of sense: digestion's pleasing task, With cheery friends, o'er the grape's choicest juice ; The illusions of the stage — the dancer's pose : A lovely woman near, with toilette that Excites the envy of the crowd below; The neatest egnipagc — the choicest hack — In park or Champs Elys6es to be seen: All purchasable goods in life's vast mart. DIDACTIC SERIES. 47 Some riches added to a gathered heap ; A family connection, sweet to pride ; Success o'er rivals on the crowded stage, Where politics are made life's comedy, And party's fragments hail him as their chief. All this he hopes for ; but to work for good — Extinguish some foul influences that veil, Like smoke, the sunny aspects of our world — For this, how few will labour, or desire To see corruption flying from the light ! 48 DIDAi RIES. \ i. TJUW often exercise and study yield But scanty fruit, if heedlessly pursued. Tl in' fatigues, the other crams the mind With crude and undigested facts, that leave No stores of wisdom for our onward path. Aimless we live, by passion's chain enthralled, By fitful study's claim at times subdued. Thus, when the year its sweeping course has closed, round l>y mere futilities is marked : Our dial-plate has bul idow's line. None of those questions, whose gigantic form Moves solemnly across Time's level floor: Collapse of war; repeal of penal laws, Which take from man the life which Heaven bestowed; Extinction of the hopeless pauper's class : That later creed embracing all the v. From lights held o'er the march of progress swift ; Love pointing to fraternity of man, DIDACTIC SERIES. 49 And great hereafter framed by higher powers, — None of these questions, of horizon large, Can dwell in minds whose circling course is filled By petty cares and pleasures of to-day, And selfishness, that ever grooves its path With deeper indent on the plane of life. E I inihurrii' sKiiiEs \ ii. rpHE thought of Deatli, how acts it on the mind ? Did the old Roman realise its force, Whom constant precepts, like a Bpur in Hani Of sluggish horse, exhorted to be brave ? In truth, men fear not deatli in common life, Because they think not of it : appetite, And rigorous digestion's healing power, Sending fresh blood through ev'ry quickened i a] With other appetites that wait on health — Ambition's restless schemes and pleasure's whirl — Bleep at a distance that grim phantom-shape. With others, too, the struggle how to live From day to day excludes all future thought. But modern thought delights to analyze What superstition's chains 30 long enthralled — Linked to some dread futurity of pain. •• Be orthodox or damned : " Buch was the cry Each Chunh senl forth through ages' gloomy space. So came upon the mind a numbing fear, DIDACTIC SERIES. 51 Not of extinction, but of endless woe, Darkening with gloom the classic formula. But freer thought has chased away these forms, Placing instead the consciousness of Love — Diviner essence — governing the world, And voice of pardon sounding through all space. Yet truly said Rousseau,* that wicked men, Such as, without one grain of moral sense, Outrage the laws of Nature and of God, Are most embarrassing to finer thoughts — In this and future life most hard to fit. Some punishment would needful seem for such, To supplement defects in human laws, Which strike not always the most guilty head. Yet not for ever : for eternal pain Destroys the highest image we can form Of all-embracing goodness in a God. Spite of philosophy, Death's shadow will * " Les medians sont bien embarassans, et dans ce monde et dans l'autre. " — Confessions. DIDACTIC 8EBIEB. Extend its outline on the plain of life, And cast a chill at times o'er vigorous man, "When thought conducts him to that bound'ry lino. And few of older years, though life would seem But colourless and tame, wish to depart On that great journey through vast halls of space. DIDACTIC SERIES. 53 VIII. ALD Age and Death, two lofty pillars, stand On life's vast plain, strewed with the wrecks of Time, Far where the dim horizon slopes away, And misty vapours veil the orange sky ; Grey is one pillar, and the other black, — Black with an underlying layer of light, That trembles 'neath the polished marble's grain. As maimed and feeble mortals pass the first Of these two columns, some grow faint and halt, Viewing the faces of companions dear xUl changing into that grey, ashy hue, And lamentation's wail from some is heard ! But, when the second pillar comes to view, The crowd is silent, as though some deep thought Concealed the words ere they could pass the lips ; For through the folds of darkness lurid beams Necessity, and all must bow before That revelation of man's destiny. Age may be wept ; to Death we must incline, As to the ultimate and final goal, DIDACTIC SERIES, Whither flow "it tin- varied streams of 1 i r. - - The waving banners, and the pageantry Of long procession marching <■> its doom. Some narrow creeds may teach, when life expir The gate swings wide t > everlasting pain ; J'liit higher view of true divinity, — Inductions from a mighty gronp of facts, And, more than these, the instinct of our hearts, Pointing to goodness as the golden chain That binds the All in its harmonious course, — Assuages fears like these, and bids as hope For exercise of higher faculties, And happiness from well-accomnlidied work, On slope of future worlds that glow with light, 'Mid music which no jarring note disturbs, As now, where crime and misery prevail, And blur our dismal lighl with shadows foul. Our later years in contemplation rich, Tin- fiery passions crouching in repo May well prepare us for the final scene, And lie accepted \\ ith deep gratitude, A- halm and solace for a restless mind. DIDACTIC SERIES. 55 IX. TITAS his career a failure ? He had won Some popular applause — some woman's love, Aided the struggling, succoured the distressed, — Yet all was done in fitful, careless guise, Nor plan defined to which man's strivings reach. And so he failed, when fifty years were past, To leave his mark upon the scroll of time. And then, on failure followed discontent, — A morbid craving for the exceptional, For elevation without ladder-steps, Success without the labour it exacts. Too active, he, to trifle hours away With cards, or drive the polished balls along. Too true by Nature not to feel contempt For fashion's hard-earned service, and a life That holds few moments man can call his own. He relished, too, in all, the natural, — The brightly-beaming sun, the hour of eve — When western sky is dyed with gorgeous hues — 66 DIDACTIC 8ERIE8. Tlic breezy morn, when traveller awakes, New portions of earth's surface to explore; Or, when in library the fire is lit. To read of travels till the story grows A branch from stem of the own Btudent's thought. Ambition's disenchantments then forgot, lia Bcanned tie' panorama of the world — Its diverse races, and their customs strange, Teaching that none should abstract rules exact, I >r bind his fellows to one mode of thought ; Reflecting, too, thai those who win succi Oft bear the scars that tell of painful strife, And relish lose fur Nature's simple fare, — Or senses claim their deht, and man awakes To find himself enslaved by some caprice, Exacting tribute from the higher life. DIDACTIC SERIES: A PORTRAIT. 57 X. A PORTRAIT. A CTIVE in intellect, not wholly strong, Soaring at times on Fancy's outstretched wing- He was not of those firm-compacted men, Moulded in bronze, who work with arm untired, And e'en in pleasure show unfailing strength. Oft times he could not sleep, — the slightest noise, Some ripple of excitement in his mind Condemned him to long vigils in his bed ; At morn to rise, with haggard, weary face, Each nerve on edge after a wakeful night. And so, in higher things, his mind excursed O'er widest range of Literature and Art ; And now and then his hand a picture traced, Charming the eye by graceful line and form, Yet leaving no deep impress on the mind. Pleasure he loved, draped in decorum's robe — Not quite unmingled with the joys of sense, Nor such resigned when age its mantle cast DIDACTIC I.KII On sloping shoulders and ungarnished head. 'Twas habil more than impulse thai impelled ; But habil 1 « • Ti him s wli.it pleasure's -lave. Cheerless is life's decline, when <'v'n year 1 lsd i some portion of our cherished joys, Leaving the mind more restless in its wants — The frame more weighty and the step Less free; When qo new interests compensate the loss, The worshipped Goddess now retiring far, Woo'd with constraint and hardly won at last : An hour of joy followed by weary days, With sinking spirits and oft-broken rest, As reason finds the lamp of jealous thought Pointing to wrinkled brow and cumbrous frame, Eyes dimmed by age, and steps thai falter now, Nor mount again the courser loved of old For chase, or promenade in field or park. Yet still he loves to meet a woman's smile, Especially when pearly teeth she show-, Fair rounded arm, and hand that yields to touch, White fingers, shapely, flexible yet strong, On which contrasted gem- their Lustre show — A PORTRAIT. 59 A diamond here, blended with sapphire's light, Emerald and ruby in symmetric row, With golden circle to complete the whole. "lis then he feels the rush of passion rise, — Not, as of old, o'erflowing torrent's bed, And bearing obstacles on foaming flood ; But gurgling feebly 'neath steep banks, where flowers Bloom rarely on the arid, sun-cracked soil. * " list to wisdom's voice," the Preacher cries, " And wisely use the remnant of your days." But other teachers whisper, " Life is short ; " Cull, then, the flowers that bloom Time's stream beside. " But few remain — be happy whilst you can, And once again with pleasure's wreath be crowned." 'Twixt counter promptings wavers many a mind, Turning to one, and then to the other side : CO DI1> [CTIO 8BRIB8 A little pleasure,— then BOme serious thought, — Till Time its knel] with brazen clangour Bounds, That ends, by force, uncertainty and doubt, And leave-, the world with one poor trifler less. Yet to our elder man not so it chanced : Something yet stirred beneath the crust which years Depose on the fast petrifying mind. lie scorned the cynic's disbelief in good, Holding that millions of our toiling race Were passing over stern endeavour's mount To where the plain with widening view expand-, And brighter suns beam on the ripening grain : Where glorious sheaves reward the reaper's toil, And freshest pastures eager herds invite, Whilst happy families are sheltered well, And -miling faces peep from workman's door. J low Bad such thoughts should ever be obscured By fleeting pleasures of our lower sense, Which down to muddy levels drag the mind — To stagnanl pools in place of mountain spring. Yet it is often so : and habits formed A PORTRAIT. til Groove their deep path for man's declining years. Judge not our brother harshly : rather hope That such soiled vestments have been thrown aside Long ere the voice of death breathed in his ear. DID VCTIC 8ERIE8 XI. w Tin-: ];urltn<;t()N arcade. BEBE Piccadilly's roar booms on the car With .'mil.'- Btream of omnibus and cab, And smarter vebicles tbat glance between The pond'rous dray and -lowly-moving cart, A Gallery its shop8 attract ive shows In long perspective, with brighl jetfl of gas. On days of rain it welcome shelter gives To tired pedestrian with mud-stained boots, Or country swell, come to see life in Town. Here is reflected much of what the time To curious observer gives for thought ; Bright shops display their glitt'ring store of goods, And Haunting women not too bashful walk, Inviting gaze of idle passer-by. As life abounds in contrasts ever new. The farther end of this prolonged Arcade Abuts on buildings of palatial mien, Temples of high and philosophic thought THE BURLINGTON ARCADE. GiS For future years in Britain's capital. So, like a stream between two mighty seas,— One ever agitated by the winds, The other sleeping in unvaried calm, — Tbis Gallery conducts the wanderer And charms his senses as he onward goes, From pole to pole of varied London life. A certain neatness reigns : men leave ivithout The soiled and hurried air of business-life. Here we may meditate and leisure find To glance by turns from present to the past ; 'Tis something, too, to leave the ceaseless grind — That torture to the delicate in frame — Which haunts our busy streets throughout the day. To this bazaar of human interests Come country swell and raw unpracticed youth, To find temptation smiling at their side. The elder man of pleasure from his Club, Seeking an appetite for evening meal, May find some reflex of his former joys As Phryne and her sisters pass along. But higher thoughts to other breasts will come, 64 DIDACTIC SERIES . TEE BURLINGTON ARCADE. Who dream of times when error's ways no more Shall tempt, but all hask is the light of truth : No courtezan then left — no skulking thief, Seeking to filch his neighbour's goods or fame; Xo sleek projector with His bubble scheme, Entrapping the unwary with the bait Of cent, per cent, in coming dividend : No brutal drunkards serpentine the street, Or cruel master makes his home a hell, And grudges his dependents' hard-earned brca'l. Such thoughts rose in my mind but yesterday. I saw the glorious reign of good anil truth, — All virtuous and happy, — when a girl Hailed me in passing with a wanton glance. Alas ! the reign of good not yet is come. I left the Gallery with saddened mind, Nor gained good spirits till the dinner-hour Made life once more appear in colours bright. 20th December, 180'.'. DIDACTIC SERIES. 65 XII. TNCERTAIN— yes, his mind kept halting, where A breath may turn to one or other side— Blows it from Self-denial's rugged mount, It swiftly wafts us into Virtue's port ; If from Sloth's perfumed bed of ease it comes, Down sinks the man into the deepworn rut, Grooved by the wheels of habit or of vice. No more for him the bracing breeze of morn With plan of action for the well-filled day ; No ever-widening prospect as he goes, Brings him the joy of obstacles o'ercome ; But daily sinking deeper in the mire, No more he rises from the couch of sloth, But creeps irresolute to evil end. How many wail over unhappy fate, F 66 DIDACTIC SERIES. As though their weakness did not forge the bolt. But stronger natures mutely fall or rise, Their noiseless steps are ever pressing on ; Nor secret thoughts to other breasts confide — But leave the world to give its verdict when The end has come, and all their plans revealed. ~s^Hhr%~ ELEGIACS. EPIGRAMS AND APOTHEGMS. i. TITHERE is temptation, we ask ? Say rather, where is our weakness? Some are tempted by gold, others by beautiful eyes ; Some lose sight of the good for want of a single endeavour, Others by doing too much, active for all but the true. n. Two stars shine on our birth ; when one is extinguished, the other Dimmer and dimmer will grow, till it is lost to our view. When their lustre is gone, man sinks in the billows of ocean, — Honour's the name of one ; that of the other is Truth. G8 ELEGIACS: in. JTes, we arc orthodox quite; we've got at the truth, and we know it. Is there hut one star in Heaven ? shines its sun only on thee ? IV. Many can tolerant seem, and let men go on life's errand ; < ) 1 1 1 y in this they compel : how to approach unto God. v. "When the monarch demanded what gift he should offer the wise man, " Only," the latter replied, " out of my sunshine to go." True, and the chiefest boon the State can give to the worker, Is to leave at his choice freedom to speak and to act. VI. Every poet will think his verses are better than others ; Where, then, oh critics ! declare, where is there room for the bad? EPIGRAMS AND APOTHEGMS. C9 Every critic believes that he alone has the mission Crowns to distribute, and praise, properly mingled with blame, — But the public, in truth, has judged for itself in the matter ; Author and critic alike follow their master's behest. VII. Love in its dawning is sweet ; both youth and maiden are certain Fortune smiles on their path ; none can be happy as they; But when years are elapsed, and naught remains but to quarrel, Husband and wife declare Cupid a trickster at best. VIII. Travel is pleasant, 'tis said ; but look at the group who are wrangling Over their bill at the inn, vowing they'll never return. 70 i:u:t;iAcs : Weary at home, men find that weariness follows on travel. Surely the reason is plain, — is it not part of them- selves? IX. Where is the mortal who deems his judgment never can falter ? Is he not here at his Club, looking through window at life? Hollow and vain he declares arc all the hopes that we cherish ; "lis so to him, for, in truth, hollow is all in his heart. x. Let us be quick to get rich, for life so rapidly passes ; Buy up the Company's shares, — premiums sure to be ours ; Company smashes, and then we think, when too late, of the fable, Tortoise and hare who run, but 'tis the slowest that wins. EPIGRAMS AND APOTHEGMS. 71 XI. " Wicked and fallen you were," the Preacher said to his hearers, " But, by the action of grace, now you are happy and good." Just at that moment a lad extracting from a pocket a purse, Sotto voce replies, " Yees ; I be 'appy to-night.'' XII. " Ah, my dear fellow, 'tis true the women are all at my bidding ; Seldom passes a day but I have notes from the fair." Surely our friend forgets how oft his notes he ex- changes -, Only his banker knows how many cheques he has drawn. XIII. Would you an orator be and sway men's minds at your pleasure ? Learn in speaking to feel all that to others you say. 7- E LEO I ACS: Would you as poet excel and reach Art's loftiest summit ? Study the boundary line 'twixt the ideal and fact. Men would you lead ? First try to probe the feeling6 of others, Till at the last you can say, "All that is human I've felt." XIV. When man is young, he should know that age may some day o'ertake him — Deference show to the wise, and to the head that is grey. When he is old, he should think how the young may best be made happy, Plunging himself for a time into the fountain of youth. XV. Wisest is he who feels that wisdom oft may be wanting In the glare of success, but that it higher remains. Foolish the man who seeks to scorn the natural pleasures, Holding glory a dream, Love a delusion and snai EPIGRAMS AND APOTHEGMS. 73 Friendship, too costly a thing for prudent men to invest in ; Woman's affection, a ware that can be purchased at will. XVI. When wine sparkles in glass, and your neighbour is specially charming, Launching sparks from the eye, that in the fancy remain, Happy the moments will pass ; but, sure as the sun of to-morrow Eises, reaction will come — pain of the head or the heart. Shall we, then, fly from the halls where Bacchus the rosy is worshipped, Or where the Paphian Queen kindles the flame of desire ? No ! for 'tis better to smart than to pine in a mouldering cloister, Where no wine-cup invites, nor the sweet lips of the fair. 71 ELEGIACS : XVII. Greatest of Nature's gifts, to enjoy and reflect on enjoyment, Climb some steps of the stair to the ideal that leads, Leaving below the mists that cloud the valley of effort, Clearer feeling the air wafted from mountain of Truth. XVIII. Death is the shadow of life, but shadows wait upon sunshine ; "Why, if we bask in the one, shall we the other decry ? Each forms part of a plan which gives to mortals endeavour, Will, and passions, and then limits the term of their sway. Travel the wise man enjoys, but, viewing the end of his journey, Calmly the moment awaits under the hill to repose. XIX. " Passions I fully control and strive for virtuous action." Softly, my friend, let me ask, what there is left to control ? EPIGRAMS AND APOTHEGMS. 75 Are not these troublesome guests in youth and vigorous manhood Buried 'neath hill-slope of time, wept by the tears of our age ? xx. Shrewd politicians we are and follow the beck of our leader, Cheering all that he says, even his meaningless words. Have you not seen in the field how one sheep follows its fellow ? Nor does the hindmost encpjire whither its comrade has gone. XXI. " Now, my son," said a father, "you enter on life and temptation ; Great are the snares of the world ; difficult 'tis to walk straight. If you walk crooked, remember that serpentine paths are the longest, And often lead at the end into a fathomless pit." 76 TAOS: " Governor," answered the youth, " the serpentine path is the nicest, Bordered by fruit and by flow'rs, risking the pit at the end." xxn. Happy the young who stand on radiant slope of the Future, Hearing murmur of waves rise from the ocean of life ; Happy the old who feel that sterling work accomplished, Somewhat done for the mass, who are hereafter to come — Certain marks affixed above the tide-level of ages ; Statue that claims its place in the Walhalla of Fame. XXIII. Happy is he who works and after working reposes, Thus fulfilling the plan given to man at his birth — Every year to feel ne'e reache 1 to a level that's higher. Nearer scenting the breeze blowing from hill-top of Fame. EPIGRAMS AND APOTHEGMS. 77 XXIV. Strong is the will that moulds society after its likeness, For 'tis of many made up, that which the public we call ; Here is the test of strength when one man thinks for the masses, Seeing farther than all what are the objects they seek. xxv. Seek not prizes to win whilst shirking labour and effort, Which our nature exacts, ere we approach to the goal. Some creep softly along, 'mid shade and verdure reposing ; Stained with dust are some, panting in sight of the goal. Near the first may approach, but ne'er can enter the temple, For their limbs, though fresh, cannot be speedy at will. 78 ELEGIACS: XXVI. Wide as the circle may seem of passion, will, and endeavour, When we in youth survey all the horizon of life: < llder, the space contracts with each ripe year that is passing, Till there remains at the last only a couch and a grave. XXVII. When the great Alexander returned from Indian conquest : On deep problems of life, eager with Brachmans he spoke ; Questions were answered, and then onward went each on his mission, — One to conquer and die far from his kindred and home ; Calmly the others to seek, by thought and deep meditation, EPIGRAMS AND APOTHEGMS. 79 What of Man's future may be pictured in destiny's glass. When the conqueror died, his empire split into fragments ; What the Philosophers taught, lives after ages have passed. PART II. Compositions in Rhymed Metres. <* PART II. Compositions in Rhymed Metres. EXCURSIONS IN THE PAST. " Nor centuries have fragments left in vain." TTVWIXT wakefulness and dreams, the mind, Poised o'er the shifting sphere of thought, Of the world's history may find The pictures to one centre brought. Beyond the main and further strand, Quick thought has fresh horizons made : In those far distant climes where stand Cedar and palm with grateful shade. It marks the point in history When man his social life begun, 84 j:\cubsions in the past. In nomad tribes, with footsteps free, Adored the fertilizing sun. .War to the flood of rolling Nile, Myriads of arms vast structures raise : Temple and tomb, with lofty pile, That still attract the wand'rers' gaze. In naked outline, lone and grand, Preaching of glory passed away, The Pyramids on plain of sand Link ancient Egypt with to-day. Later we pause at Babylon, Its temple by fair maidens sought, Where strangers flocked and looked upon Strange images in sculpture wrought. The Sage, of earthly wisdom tired, Learnt of the stars the paths to trace, And thus with lofty hopes aspired To fill all Nature's vacant space. EXCURSIONS IN THE PAST. 85 We see the writing on the wall That smote the Monarch's soul with dread, When fear crept through the festal hall And Hebrew Seer his message said. We gaze upon the Grecian King, Entering where Fate its victim calls,— Term of victorious wandering, As death-lights gleam through banquet halls. Of Greece we see the courtezan In snake-like arms her lovers fold ; By chains of sense enslaving man With locks of ebon or of gold. E'en while those vapours cloud the air, Triumphs of intellect we find, Art lavishes creation fair, Philosophy dissects the mind. Like brightest star in firmament, Like words of flame on mystic scroll, 86 EZ0US8I0N8 IN THE PAST. Was Athens <>n her mission sent, Mistress of all that stirs the soul. Art, eloquence, philosophy. And poet's song, and warrior's might, Blending their varied tints we see, And beaming long ere quenched in night. The early Roman annals give Records of high and noble deeds : One for his land will captive live, To save its fame another bleeds. Later we find a conqueror Marching with victory's flag unfurled ; Statesman, surpassing warrior, Welds in one mass the Roman world. A man so great that he who slew, Won by his act undying fame ; Each as a type, profoundly true, Ambition scorched by vengeance' flame. EXCURSIONS IN THE PAST. 87 The serpent form of Egypt's Queen, In fatal fascination fair, Paints the Triumvir's closing scene, Who loses life and empire there. Look on the arena, head o'er head, "With lions brought from Afric's shore ; Where captives fought, where martyrs bled Till sated people cried, " No more." Borne falls ; but on the Eastern shore Another splendid city stands, — Byzantium gives to learning more, To glory less, in distant lands. Some rule by thought and some by arms, But Mecca's Prophet both combined, — No danger daunts, no fear alarms Moslem of fierce fanatic mind. EXCURSIONS IN THE PAST. Islam rolled onwards like a flood, Engolphing far ami wide-spread laud-. And though the WVsl it- might withstood, Down to our days its fabric stands. Then, after centuries of storm, Which countless ruins Left behind, Art lifts again her radiant form. And claims the homage of mankind. The Imperial City, crowned again, Exacts obedience from the world ; On Papal edicts rests the stain Of pride at Kings and rulers hurled. Fouler than deeds of Pagan Prince, The fires that Christian bigots make, As tortured heretics shall wince, When bound to orthodoxy's stake. Look where the hosts of chivalry Break like a wave on Paynim shore, EXCURSIONS IN THE PAST. 89 Their leaders great to dare or die, When Kings Crusaders' banners bore. 4 We see, and brighter is the view, In Art and eloquence' domain, Man, to his higher mission true, Ruling by intellect again. Whilst vassals crouch beneath the shade Of feudal fortress' giant size, O'er western seas the passage made, Revealed new lands to wondering eyes. Great legacy for future times, For countless myriads ample space ; Nature, in all her varied climes, Invites the teeming human race. And so, 'mid wars and faction's clash, We come at last to modern days ; itO EXCURSIONS IN THE PAST. Feudality, with mighty crash, Sank in a revolution's blaze. Wc see the giant arm of steam, And signals flashing through the night, Tracing in fancy's magic dream, A vast mosaic's pattern bright. So, when the mind has traversed all The ages of past history, It wakes to bow at duty's call And work as those who nothing see Beyond each day's allotted task, Which binds ns oft unwilling here ; So occupied we scarce can asb Why others smile or hide a tear. And this is best, for if the rein Be loosed on fancy's winged steed, EXCURSIONS IN THE PAST. 91 Scant energies for work remain, Or discipline for time of need. And so, at last, illusions fall — Dreams are gone by — 'tis time to act ; Vainly we seek to grasp the All, And Fancy bows her bead to Fact. DEATH POEMS. A II ! yes, my friends, the time is short- The shadows lengthen on the hill, And words that we exchanged in sport May prove the truest wisdom still. Life's stream, that bubbles on its course, Shall turn aside from ev'ry eye, And, spent its onward gushing force, Leave but a bed with gravel dry. 'Tia sad to wait, 'mid lingering pain. The moment of a last farewell, — To hear the snapping of Time's chain, And gloomy waters' mournful swell. Saddest when clouds of deep regret Knvelope the last hours of life; DEATH POEMS. 93 And, vainly striving to forget, The mind recalls fierce Passion's strife ; When Evil's ensign was displayed, And Virtue's temple lost to view, The turning point where choice was made, And the false triumphed o'er the true. The force that bounteous Nature gave, Lavished on brief excitement's day ; No hand the vessel's course to save, That floats, — dismasted wreck, — away. That moment, in its morbid power, Honour and right alike forgot. Tinges with gloom the parting hour, In mem'ry's vale the darkest spot. 94 nr.ATn poems. ii. "TUS well to die 'midst friends ; perhaps S >me soothing word may then be said. Some bappy scene recalled, that wraps The present in the light that's fled. And yet how little can be done By those who ministering stand : Man leaves for aye life's cheerful sun — He sees through mists a shadowy land. Nor can the formulas of creeds True solace to the mind convey ; In that last hour the spirit needs Assurance of a brighter day. Some sentiment of the Divine — Ethereal presence girt with light, As round our wandering footsteps shine The starry glories of the night. DEATH POEMS. 95 Yet creeds may inner wisdom hide, As husks enclose a precious fruit, — Instincts of goodness that abide, And with eternal justice suit. The warm routine of life that throws It's network round the circling day ; The table's cheer, the fire that glows, The room for work, the hall for play — The family and friends, who weave That web through which affection's light So mildly beams, — all must we leave ? And varying Nature's aspects bright ? All this, we know, must one day fade. But how do men the prospect view ? The greater part, their life-path made, The busy tasks of Time pursue. Others in pleasure's maze will stray, And walking by the senses' light, 06 DEATH POEMS. Postpone the thought, as best they may, Of the still grave's unwelcome sight. And some, with higher aims, may think On Hope and Freedom's longed-for day ; And, standing on the Future's brink, Be warmed by glory's parting ray. But few, the universal scheme Of Nature to be best allow. As all must die, why should it seem So hard to tread the pathway now ? If you are happy and enjoy The vig'rous spring of constant health, How many victims cares annoy, How close does misery dwell to wealth ! How sharply can the Passions sting. Ambition's fall, the dread recoil When foiled is energy's last spring And blighted lie the fruits of toil I DEATH POEMS. 97 What, shall we hesitate to go Where all that strove have gone before ? The Sage, the Hero's plume of snow, Greet guests on Pluto's distant shore. The Captains of the ancient days, The high Philosophers who taught Truth to explore 'mid error's maze, And knowledge by experience bought. Would you prefer at Club to dine, Listen to scandal with cigar, See beauty's eyes with lustre shine At festal board the brightest star ? Why not confess the truth, how few Have shaken off the chains of sense, Or Passion's welcome calls subdue, For distant Future's cold suspense ! H TO HEALTH. " Mens sana in Corpore sano." TTALF mistress and half wife, Them cheercst mortal life With balmy breath : We force for action feel, Though Time, with rolling wheel, Lead on to death. When Pleasure's banner tlics, Flaunting 'gainst cloudless skies In brightest hues, Thy presence gives us force To bound along the course, In path wc choose. Decision's plan is laid Ere bloom of action fade — TO HEALTH. 99 Inspired by thee, Firm nerves the choice will make, For higher motive's sake, With judgment free. A healthy nature flies From meaner thoughts that rise, Upheaving life : Hot passions that destroy, Cares that disturb our joy With ceaseless strife. In noble action, then, — Whate'er the choicest men Chiefly pursue, — If excellence you seek, Preserve the blooming cheek, Possessed by few. Look, maiden, in the glass, As groups of dancers pass 100 TO HEALTH. At crow 1 rd ball ; Let Beauty seek her bed I the last light has fled From festal hull. Too anxious man of oare ! A few brief momenta spare From business' hour; Take in the park a ride, Or sit by woman's Bide, Owning her power. At banquet, when you sit 'Twixt loveliness and wit, At pleasure's call : When flowers glow with light, And bubbling wines look bright, Don't drink of all. At midnight hour, when smoke And tale of scandal spoke TO HEALTH. 101 Float through the hrain : When ice-cooled drinks are near, In tall glass foaming clear, Learn to refrain. Then fresh at morning rise, And feel like bird that flies On steadfast wing ; To occupation's sway Give what the circling day Of force may bring. On afternoon so clear, When shouting voices near The odds proclaim, Seek not to make a book, But in your conscience look, Not without shame — Twelve hundred yesterday, — A thousand more to pay 102 TO EBALTB. ( )ii Monday next ; Life, choioeBi gift of all, Xo spendthrift fan recall, By torment- vexed. Fly from that fair one's smile, That seems so free from guile, — 'Twill cost you more, In happiness ami health, Than all the hoarded wealth In miser's stnre. Vision of health ! inay'st thou, With calm and stainless brow, — Hov'ring in air When- purest sea-breeze blows, Or stream through valley flows,— Our life-plan share. in the hiter days, Shall thousand voices raise TO HEALTH. 103 A shout sublime : Each workman's dwelling clean — No selfish vices seen In prosp'rous time. Health, happiness, shall dwell Free from the turbid swell Of passion's tide ; No wars shall vex the world, But conquest's flag be furled, And truth abide. The fight will then be won ; And, 'neath a mellow sun — Evil expelled — The good shall reign supreme, And real be Fancy's dream Of hopes long held. FIRST AND LAST KISS. \ BASHFUL youth rushed in to tell Of accident that late befel. The lady sut alone In boudoir closed by painted blind ; She hears his tale, and accents band .Murmur in softest tone. The tale is told, yel still they srl ; But 'tis not flashing spark of wil Tliat chains him to the spot : His hand meets hers, a glance is given, A shock through every nerve is driven, That ne'er can be forgot. And as that lovely lady speaks, New-born desire has flushed his cheeks, FIRST AND LAST KISS. 105 Brought near to beauty's charm ; Entranced by all experience knows, His heart beats fast — his being glows 'Neath tresses soft and warm. First page of book. that's writ in flame, Where Passion oft inscribed a name, That mounts on Mem'ry's wing ! Recalling many a blissful hour, When senses owned the magic power Tbat beauty's treasures bring. Life runs its course, and forty years, With mingled flood of hopes and fears, Have sped their onward flight. Age has approached — ambition's prize Pursued and won ; and women's eyes Have beamed with glances bright. L06 FIRST AM) LAST KISS. In Btudy, a> he Bite one day, An artless girl comes in to say Her mother wants a book. Be takes the volume from a shelf, And, scarcely master of himself, He meets her kindly look. Sunt innocence blooms in her smile ; That slender form must wait awhile, Ere woman's charms appear ; Sweet lips and pearl-white teeth he set A kiss is given — the maiden fief- Like some affrighted deer. • Ah, ne'er again ! " he sadly en- . ••As Time in destined circle flies ; For me these joys are past ; Yet softer memories may live, And friendship lasting solace give, Though I have kissed my last." "THE FRAGRANT DUST OF HISTORY." TITHERE blooms the deathless ? Say, oh where ? If not in deeds that yet bear sway, Whose giant forms yet fill the air, 'Midst all the interests of to-day ? The graves where Athens' warriors lie The pass where Sparta's heroes fell — Bring tears unbidden to the eye, As youths on history's records dwell. Oh ! that those feelings could come back, When first we sat in garden's shade, Exploring Time's illumined track, Of Greek and Roman fragments made. Is it the glory that accrues From deeds above the common range ? THE FRAGRANT DUST OF HISTORY. A mighty presence thai subdues Minds filled with thoughts thai know no chanj Or is it that we love to dwell On actions proving man can soar, Prom lower instincts' seething hell, To thoughts that bloom for evermore ! A great example there is given, Flattering, in truth, to human pridi Our dusty world seemes linked to heaven, And weaker forms in strength abide O'er trivial incidents of life A light is flashing through the air : And stirrings of a mighty strife — Meal with the real — are there. But what to us ideal seems Was once enacted on the stage Of busy life : those brilliant dreams Were history to a former age. THE FRAGRANT DUST OF HISTORY. 109 Scan, then, the page of mighty deeds, O, youthful reader ! till thy mind Throbs with the great — for anguish bleeds — And sympathy with both can find. And some who, after manhood's course, Approach the boundary of their age, May colour their decaying force With hues from history's brightest page. c *- A *5 s ^r^N^°s~~ THE SYREN'S INVITATION. TN a well-balanced nature, if sensual temptations be yielded to, their indulgence will be followed by B reaction, at once physical and moral, into a bracing atmosphere of thought and action. See where the flag of pleasure wav< And Syren's voice is gently heard. Inviting to the hidden caves, By no intruding tempest stirred. There chambers gleam with softest light ; On couches' slope fair forms recline; Lips parted show their treasures bright, Ami eyes with passion's glances shine. //« r, , innocence, thai hardlj knows How near the torrent's brink it Btand THE SYREN'S INVITATION. Ill And there, matured experience glows, When touched by sympathetic hands ! Here is the senses' temple, where Tradition's glowing pleasures dwell — Perfumes float idly through the air, With distant music's softened swell. From old historic lands we find Hetairaj with their blandest smile ; By fancy's dream enthralled, the mind Forgets its sorrows for awhile ; And roseate drapery veils from view Half of what mirror's planes repeat ; Rough satyrs tender nymphs pursue ; In forest-glade fond lovers meet. When love voluptuous forms displays, Nor rest nor food its votaries take ; Objects are seen through fancy's haze, With kisses warm the heart-strings quake. 111! THi: SY RE ITS INVITATION. But wheD desire can throb ao more, Ami hoars thai moments seem are p The banquet-hall shall force restore, Till night repose may give at last. We sip thy foaming cup, Champagne ; Thy aromatic juice, Bordeaux ; The golden grape of sunny Spain, Or Rlrineland'a autumn's parting glow. Yet not too oft ; for Mocha now With fragrance o'er the senses steals ; Restorer of the care-worn brow, Or frame that pleasure's languor feels ! And then intelligence comes back From voyage to fair Cythera'e shore, It mounts to science' star-lit track, And lists to wisdom's voice once more. In finer nature's balanced frame, Beauty and wine may oft beguile THE SYREN'S INVITATION. 113 The senses with their vivid flame, Yet charm them only for awhile. The mind its equilibrium seeks, And freedom claims from pleasure's chain ; Our higher nature, rising, breaks Those rosy bonds — yet turns again, To look once more on vistas bright, Judging their weakness and their strength, — "We analyze enjoyment's light, — Are masters of our souls at length. PAEIS PERSONAL RECOLLECTIONS. Dedicated to mt Esteemed Friend, William Medows, > "T17IIKN fust I Paris saw, youth's cheerful sun Shpue on my path with never-ceasing ray ; (1836) Each mom I woke well braced for work or fun, And quaffed the bowl whose juice Time bears away. < ih ! -then I revelled in digestion's power, That bore me onward o'er life's furrowed track ; Pausing awhile, in Fancy's rose-girt bow And happier still, perchance, when looking back. fears had flowed on : in manhood's prime 1 came, And love and friendship smiled on either hand: Paris was scorched by Revolution's flame, And faction's rage had blazed o'er Gallia's laud. (1848-50) PARIS: PERSONAL RECOLLECTIONS. 115 'Twas then I read and mused ; — the world, a book "Whose page each day some fresh experience brought ; Mere pleasure's path my mind had long forsook, But glory's rays in studious hours were sought. A Ruler came, and awed the masses, till Paris in newest splendour stood arrayed : (1853-62) Long lines of palaces kept rising still — Delighted tourists roamed by stream and shade.* Happy I was, sipping the glorious wine, Poured, by experience, in life's mantling cup ; If then less brightly youth's illusions shine, We feel a steady power that bears us up ; Bears us aloft o'er every mean desire, And lets us cull of life the choicest flower : For youth's first years, with intermittent fire, Oft strand us at the close of Passion's hour. In the renovated Bois de Boulogne. 116 PARIS PERSONAL RBC0LLE0TI01 Each Spring I came and blessed the nty where Bo much enjoymenl t<> my portion fell ; Of literature I scanned the records fair — Pages, where fancy and instruction dwell. Two horses bore me round the Bmiling Bois, — Mute friends, whose portraits daily* I survey, — Glimpsi of many-coloured, life I saw, Whose hues still wear the freshness of to-day. And onee again, when throughout Europe rung (1867) A call to pilgrims from each distant land, To fairer shrine than ever poet sung, Treasures of art and skill on either hand, With deep delight 1 viewed that magic scene, Of human skill the panorama fair; All had Bprung up, where late a plain had heen Of arid sand, a desert nude and bare. >w iii my dining-room. PARIS: PERSONAL RECOLLECTIONS. 117 Say, shall I come once more, when age his seal Has stamped on pond'rous frame and footstep slow ? Can Paris still some former joy reveal ? Does Friendship call me with its roseate glow ? Yes ; one is there whom I would gladly meet, In friendly converse o'er thy juice, Bordeaux. On dusty plain of life his voice I'd greet, And think on pleasure's dream of years ago ! POSTSCMPTUM, DECEMBER, 1870. Since this was writ, what awful change has come, What cloud of woe broods o'er that city fair ! Beleaguering hosts are there with beat of drum, And shells bear sAvift destruction through the air. Yet, crown of glory rests on Paris still, Brighter than when of sportive pleasures Queen ; Greater she stands on self-denial's hill, And myriad patriots grace the solemn scene. 118 PARIS PERSONAL RBG0LLR0TI01 No more the dance, with it- enthralling power, Or music's strains in lamp-lit halls liy night, Make 'rime half loath to seize the passing hour,- Each moment now is destined to the fight. That fight for Freedom on which glory's rays So oft misnamed, shall now resplendent fall : Victors or vanquished share it sacred blaze, For rightful cause when Man devotes his all. -V^h'^- SOLITUDE. T7 ON elder sits in gilded room alone, Silence unbroken by familiar tone — His eye falls listlessly on vacant space, And pleasure veils her half-averted face. Thick falls the rain, wild blows the wind without, Within, no youthful voices joyous shout — All is for one combined ; the master's will Finds in attendants' zeal its echo still. No free spontaneous glow of life is there, No light that crosses the dark path of care — His thoughts, concentred, trace their circling flight, But none react against the gloom of night. Neat folded journals on the table lie ; And newest fiction, with spasmodic cry Of passion, working through the social maze — Travels in varied climes, and Art displays The gracious outlines, with suggestive skill, 120 SOLITUDE, Which memory may with glowing colours fill. In vain they call, — no friendly voice is t here, Nor sympathetic glance, that foe to care. Alone he lives, and finds, through each f goods the chief. Friends slighted come not hack ; the love that's dead Blooms not again ; FAME. 123 Health's balmy breath no more on life is shed — Days pass in pain. Yet Fame there is on nobler acts that rests, Found when least sought : Endeavour scales yon mountain's highest crests, By labour bought ; Then anchors in a bay, serene and bright, Life's vessel fast : Love, friendship, honour, ever kept in sight, "With calm at last. DESPONDENCY. /CLOUDS veil at times our being's brillianl sun With black unrest ; We feel, e'er half lite"- vigorous course is run, Dimly oppressed. Thought from its highest flight at once will fall. With weary wing : Indifferent we feel well nigh to all Fortune may bring. ►Shall this be ever so? To most there mines Returning light. And Nature's equilibrium, thai sum Repose of night. ^ et not to all ; some minds sink deeper down, As each year rolls, DESPONDENCY. 125 And Nature's face wears an eternal frown To troubled souls. Too deeply lost they seem in error's maze, Again to rise ; Misfortune's clouds, through lapse of gloomy days, Give no bright skies. Say, on our bark shall hope her welcome sail No longer raise — To bear us far beyond the tempest's wail To tranquil bays ? Shall ever in our ears the echo ring Of boding voice ; And not one single hour recall the spring When hearts rejoice ? Error of vision, the half-broken glass Of mis-spent life, Gives back distorted images, that pass In cloudy strife. l-'f. DESPONDENCY. Real they are Qot, <> man, thy complex fate Brighl suns again May welcome, it' endeavour, not too late, Struggle with pain. -%^^li:ill be yours : and I feel ►So entranced with delight, That a century's life could not fully reveal All that beams on niy sight. Sec, the " trotters " are come to the door, and we'll go To the shore of the lake ; And the chariot of Phoebus would seem but too slow Our bright journey to make. Oh ! how lovely you look in that dress ; and your i Give a promise to-day That no cloud on the sky of your heart shall arise, As together we stray. And the dejeuncr's packed in the hamper, with ice, Just to cool the champagne ; W hen 1 fill up your glass, will you murmur " How nice !" Nor my service disdain ? PASTORAL, TO CLARA. 131 But a year has elapsed since you dawned on the world "With your conquering smile ; And three months since our bridal joy's banner unfurled In Cythera's bright isle. Blooming flowers, in the vases, shall greet our return, In mute homage to you ; And the lamp, with an exquisite odour, shall burn, As our home we review. And the chamber, where love lies asleep in each fold Of the curtains you chose ; Where the mirror gave back, from its framework of gold, Your fair form as you rose. Mount quickly ! for, see, how impatient the steeds Paw the ground, till they seem Like runners who succour a victim who bleeds By some carnage-stained stream. Most charming of days, blessed with finest of skies, Will be ours for the trip ; 132 PASTORAL, To CLARA. Ami I gaze on the kindest and brightest of ey< And the loveliest lip. • We are off ! Ami the scene looks too fair to be true ;- Set it is so, I know : For I feel a soft breeze wafting kisses to you, As triumphant we go. --H^^ WOMAN'S ADORATION. YTES ; she adored him, if that term be given To feelings that on high an altar raise, With longings that in vain for good had striven, Concentred now with bright but fatal blaze, On a poor mortal's heart, unworthy oft E'en the reflection of such light to know ; Hard selfish nature grinding down the soft, — Double deception sure to end in woe : First to the victim who so blindly trusts, Then to the man whom flatterers ever spoil. Till from his breast all higher aims he thrusts, Smiling on slaves who for his pleasures toil. Bathed in the vapours of coerulean space, Or tinged with purple of the coming storm, High thoughts each other through her being chase, Ere they subside and settle into form ; l.M WOMAN'S ADORATION. Resulting in a woman's fervent love, Which t" idea] realms aspires in flight. Socking a soul all meaner thoughts above, Draped in the mantle of heroic might. By all the anguish of high hopes deceived, The dread recoil, when Fancy's bubbles burst, We estimate how full that heart believed, — How vast the rainbow arch it Bpanned at first ' SOLITUDE AND SOCIETY. LE POUR ET LE CONTRE. A YE, shut the door, I'll not be bored ,- I've bid the world a long farewell ; What can society afford To one its shams who knows so well ! I know it all by heart : they sit With formal look at banquet fair ; We've waited long for social wit, And find but feeble echo's there. Well do I know the morning call, The afternoon with crowded " Drum," The listless look that sits on all Who from routine to visit come ; 136 SOLITUDE AND SOCIETY. The Club, where languid loungers yawn, Draining of wine the frequenl glass, And, careless of the future, pawn Their health, thai all too soon will pi Tlie promenade, where still you meel Paces thai bear thy brand, Ennui, The aimless tread of many I With effort occupied to be. When nought the dull horizon breaks, When nothing that we hear or A rippling wave of interest was Or sets imagination free. I know the wares in ev'ry shop ; The girl that from the counter smiles; Each evening comes that elder fop, Chasing hie game with cunning wiles. I watch the waves as one by one They break upon the pebbly shore, — SOLITUDE AND SOCIETY. 137 I envy those whose work is done, Till sunlight calls to toil once more. Close, then, my door, I'll live alone ! Live on remembrance of the past — Its colours on Time's threshold thrown, Like reflex hues on church floor cast. ii. Shut out the world, my friend ! But how ? Are you not part of it yourself ? 'Tis hard at Fashion's shrine to bow ; Harder to pine on dusty shelf. 'Tis well midst rows of books to sit, Scanning of literature the page, — Too late we find we have not hit The mark proposed in earlier age. You say you know the world by heart, — 'Tis but that world's machinery ; 1> SOLITUDE AND SOCIETY Of human minds the inner part Leaves much for longest life to see. Ennui can many aspects wear : It haunts the crowds of fashion, true. But do its vulture talons spare Those who a lonely path pursue ? Can well-filled shelves enjoyment give, To match with social circle's claim ; Where fresh-horn feelings breathe and live, And youthful bosoms pant for fame ? Picture and book are precious when They symbolize our inward thought, And aid imagination's ken, In topics for discussion brought. He who is severed from his kind, Nor interest in his fellows takes, To every hope of progress blind, Commits the gravest of mistakes. SOLITUDE AND SOCIETY. 139 Proudly concentred, let him dwell In life's long avenue alone ; But would he inward feelings tell, He'd speak, perchance, with humbler tone — Seeking for sympathy, that waves Her banner o'er the human race ; Affection, that from numbness saves, And fills with light our life-path's space. TO VICTOR HUGO. P\ RE AT Poet, in an age when much is small, And action's meted hy self-iuterest's rule — Greal dramatist, evoking at his call [ndignant pro! ' ainsl corruption's school. An orator, whose voice with restless might, Against oppression's sway o'er act or thought, Pleaded for nations' or for classes' right, In accents not to be coerced or bought. Artist of highest aim and genial powers, Whether with mediaeval life he deals, And passion's struggles round the time-worn towers,* Or of onr modern days the purport feel-. With gen'rons instincts ever on the wing, Apostle of a brighter future's day — Notre Dame de Farif. TO VICTOR HUGO. 141 When ev'ry worker's toil reward shall bring, When Freedom owns no laws' unequal sway. His magic pen oft by a word conveys Some vivid outline ne'er to be forgot : The courtezan her new-born life pourtrays, And true affection heals corruption's blot.* When human adoration rises till A power divine alone its aims express, — With fine gradations the Eternal Will Bends down from Heaven a mortal love to bless.f When, in December's day, so bright and cold, All Paris thronged to see the ashes brought Of him whose name was wreathed with glory's fold, The Poet's voice expressed the general thought.J * Marion de l'Orme. " l'amour a refait ma virginite." t " Enfant, si j'etaia Dieu." (Rayons et Ombres.)— December, 1840. X " Le jour fut rayonnant comrae ta gloire, Et froid, comme ton tonibeau 1" L42 T<> I K'Toll III no. And from the tribune when his accents fell, All Europe caughl the spark that buret inflame; Such fiery words 'gainst all who Freedom sell, Such withering scorn for slaves to Order's name. (1849-51.) Finer the lesson, when he tells us how Man may be rescued from the depths of crime ; When laws before the great hereafter bow, And penal fetters fall in riper time. (" Les Miserables.") Wrapt in the mantle of poetic fire, From rocky isle he looked with eagle's glance, Till Paris called in need for him whose lyre Immortal glory gave to modern France. EXILED FROM HOME ; OR, THE LIQUIDATION OP A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. "ITTE leave the home, where love has smiled, Where friendship's manly hand was pressed, Where song has oft the hours beguiled, And wit to converse gave its zest ; Where dinner's genial hour has called To table spread with choicest fare, And genii of the grape enthralled The chosen guests assembled there ; The library whose shelves were filled With ancient and with modern lore, And poesy its balm distilled In lines that live for evermore ; ill EXILED FROM BOMB, The bed \\ here often we reclined, Ami, severed from the cares of earth, 'Twixt wakefulness and rest, the mind Rose upwards to a higher birth. 'Twas in this house our fate allowed A genial span of middle life ; E'er yet by age the frame was bowed, But free from youthful passion's strife, Too credulous we heard the tale Of sleek projector with his lies, Of Companies that could not fail To share in fortune's golden prize. " Twenty per cent, of dividend, " A bonus, too, you're sure to find ; " For thousand shares, then, promptly send.'' We bought them all, t<> prudence blind. And now the liquidator's call Has swallowed up onr cherished store ; EXILED FROM HOME. 145 We leave our home, our friends, and all The flowers that bloomed on life's bleak shore. We travel, not, as in the days When joyful planning our return ; But grope through disappointment's haze Where friendship's lights but dimly burn. INTROSPECTION. " INK of the passions that binds Man to his destiny here ; Glitter of glory that blinds Mortals to sorrow and fear ; Glimpses of radiant beam, Visions of artist or bard, Plunged in Reality's stream, Turn to the common and hard. All that embellishes life ; All that Fame's visions can show ; Cut by Adversity's knife, Leave but their fragments below. As from a mountain, the sage, Gazing on valley and rill, INTROSPECTION. 147 Sees, at the close of his age, Shadows that wander at will — So, if on confines of night Feeling and thought we would weigh, One is too subtle for sight ; Fast fleets the other away. What, then, remains to be told ? Where is the residue left ? Only when feeling is cold Are we of Hope's star bereft. L48 respice finem. I ONG liucl he roved where'er caprice had led, Long had lie sunned himself in Fancy's light, By streams from that eternal ocean fed Which glitters ever fair to mortal sight. And then came o'er him, what befalls us all, A certain relaxation of the spring Which moves our will with energetic call. And gives the reign to fair imagining. Few see the change Time works in elder days, And fewer still know when to pause and think ; Withdrawing somewhat with a cautious gaze, Ere they approach the Future's shelving brink. For hard it is to recognize the fact, That we are sinking down whilst others rise ; And harder still, with purpose firm to act, Turning our glance from wealth or pleasure's prize. 149 VALE. TTE'S gone: the bard, whose patriot lyre, With far-resounding string, Awakened souls with words of fire, That solemn mem'ries bring. Nor charmed us less with accents low, Pleading for pity's claim — True lovers' interrupted vow, Youth's blasted hopes of fame ! His varied works the germs unfold Of purpose — motive — will — Hot passions' shock 'gainst barriers cold, A conflict raging still. In public life he bore a part, Consistent — noble — free ; Some called it politician's art — All felt its dignity. 150 I.I// Poel and < >rat<>r — in swirt I hmit'stic circle bound ; His ready smile would ever greet The friends that -at around. No angry temper's sudden llash Disturbed that sky serene ; Nor irritation's ceaseless plash Marred the enchanting scene. He filled a glorious page in life ; Was happy in his death : Ere yet, envenomed faction's strife Assailed him with its breath. Crowds flocked around his tomb to bless — He's reached the distant Bhore : His country holds one patriot less, One cherished mem'ry more. CONTRASTS. TITE oft for new horizons call, And never pause to think how all Vibrates round central plan — As Time unwinds the mighty chain Of mingled hope and joy and pain, That binds the world to man. Some are condemned to live alone, And hear of life the undertone, In murmurs from afar ; From action all divorced they feel, And watch the turning of the wheel That moves the social car. And some so busy are, they find Gone the elastic spring of mind And dulled perception's glass ! C0NTRAS1 \ i longer able bo enjoj . A .airs life's purer gold alloy, Ami gloom) Bhadows pass ! Ivxperience will tell us hoi» We best may utilize 11k; Now, When, in historic blaze, All that we dream of high and brighl [fi welded by the furnace-lighl Of Wisdom's gathered da vs. -^^HV^V- SPRING. "HINE days of Spring, what bring ye to the heart ? What thoughts from higher spheres our natures [cross ? In busy feeling's renovated part, What shall we count as gain and what as loss ? Kestless, we muse, and wand'ring odours, cast From ocean's waves, by secret thoughts are stirred. We dream of travel — of the changeful past : Remembrance faintly throbs, like echo heard. Yes ! suns as bright our eyes have seen before ; Nature was mirrored in as pure a glow ; And Memory points, through Time's half-opened door, Where forms we loved so well, as shadows go. And some are thinking of the Season's rush, When chariots roll, and eager rivals strive : l.M SPRING. Mat - of life, thai feeble natures crash, Whilst stronger frames at wished-for goal arrive. Some dream of odds, ami of tin.' liorse that wins .lust by a head, and saves a mighty stake; Others of love's entrancing hour, that spins, Down flowery slope, to disappointment's lake. Bach lia> his vision ; but, in nearly all, Of self, the mute, gigantic spectre stands ; Few pause to feel humanity's great call, Or aid the struggling with assisting hands. Yet Belfish feelings work for Nature's plan : Kach grooves his path, that in broad ways unite; Society absorbs the complex man, An 1 narrow purpose lend- to wider sight. RETROSPECTION. TT is a solemn moment when, in halls of lonely thought, The ghosts of many a buried year to mem'ry's shrine are brought ; Some glittering with auroral dew beneath the sunny light Where still a radiant fancy leaves its colours ever bright, — The day when young ambition first has won its school- boy prize, Or first a timid love is met by sympathetic eyes ; When, with collegians gay, we sat around the festal board, Tasting what mirthful spirits can in youth's gay hours afford ; And when the lines were first composed, half trembling as we writ, Dreaming of poet's laurel crown, the mark our shaft must hit ; RETR08PB0TI0N. And when we travelled through the lands illustrated by Fame, And fell our bosoms wildly thrill at each historic name; Aii'l when the marriage bells rang out on summer's brightest day, And we beheld the chosen one from rivals borne away ; And when Election's day came on, 'mid contest close and keen, — So popular a candidate bad never there been seen, — 'Gainst power, wealth, and influence, a gallant fight was won, Heading the poll by ten, 'mid cheers, ere set thai autumn sun. And later, when, in crowded House, one night we rose to speak, And felt our cause was strong, although our voice seemed somewhat weak, But unexpected succour came as periods rolled along, And when we ended cheers arose from that assembled throng. RETROSPECTION. 157 Enchanting moment when we see thy radiant form, Success, And 'mid the shouts of victory mankind our worth confess : Bright visions these, and yet the heart confesses, as it scans The vista of our bygone years with all their cherished plans, That sorrow oft has shed o'er joy its dim and misty veil, And disappointment curled the wave where youth's bright vessels sail ; Yet hope in human breasts still lies like early dew on flowers, Or glances through the breaking clouds as sunshine after showers ; It germs, a tender plant, beneath the bare and rocky shade ; It shines through tears like purest gem amidst the waters laid.* * These four lines are paraphrased from the German. L68 /■/ TROSPECTION. And thus wre tind in man's career the Bombre ;ui earth's famed resorts, Ennobling sight. For once the retrospect scant record gave < )i errors past : So slight it rippled, Like a dying wave, Calmed down at last. Well had he kept those years of searching power Apart from vice, While temperance had won health's precious dower < m' matchless price. Each year is self-control more easy made To thoughtful man ; And each developed energy will aid Life's earnest plan. THE MAN OF A THOUSAND. 161 Athlete in Virtue's camp, long had he striven The fallen to raise, Whose life temptation's evil power had driven To crooked ways. Faith grew with him, like some wide-spreading tree, Whose branches give Repose to wand'rers, who from tempests flee, And learn to live. Each year brought to his mind maturer power, Calm joined to force : The will that rules despondency's dark hour, And turns its course. He saw of earth the shadows crossed with light, Beneath man's feet ; Beyond, his glance would pierce the sphere of light, Where angels greet. Chaste and abstemious, he had reached the prize So seldom gained : M L62 THE MAN OF A THOUSAND. That calm where lower thoughts would blush to ris< In heart unstained. Active, he could have won the victor's crown In ages past ; Swiftest to run or vault, or hold his own Tn toils that last. When from the blush of morn till evening falls The wand'rer goes O'er rugged peaks, by glacier's slipp'ry walls, Through pathless snow-. A rainbow arc of aspirations pure Links heaven to earth, — Belief in good conducts by gradients sure, To higher birth. And light in vivid coruscations falls On innocence That dwells secure in truth's primeval halls, With purer sense. THE MAN OF A THOUSAND. 163 Roused from the depths of thought, he left the spot "With rapid pace, Enthralled by claims that duty's call allot To each day's space. A man esteemed by all : for nobler mind Was ne'er allied To softer feelings — sympathies more kind, Unmixed with pride. PAKALLKLS. rpifK moment ere the fleeting cloud Shall bathe itself in light : < >r ocean's wave shall burst its shroud, Dissolved in sparkles bright, — That awful stillness in the air. The travail in Earth's womb, Blasting some land or city fair, Willi swift o'erwhelming doom, — The point where Nature seems to turn, And bare her breast to man, With quiverings from the mystic urn Where sleeps the eternal plan, — All these are typified in hearts On brink of great resolve ! Where restless action's embryo-parts In circle dim revolve. PARALLELS. 105 II. LOVE to watch the waves of life Break on Time's pebbled shore, Where rises, like the tempest's strife, A restless people's roar. I love the summer's light that falls On many a toiling throng, The bell that stalwart workmen calls To bear their load along. For action has a potent charm For those who inly think How best may reach man's outstretched arm To shifting Future's brink. Yet more I prize the fruitful thought From earnest hearts that comes, L66 PARALLELS: With victory by no bloodshed bought, Marked by no beat of drums. In the fair Future's golden light, When Hope her banner waves, She points to this inscription bright, And patriots' names engraves. REMONSTRANCE. 167 III. REMONSTRANCE. " "HATE," the poet cries, " Grant my utmost will- Let my Muse that flies, Earth with glory fill." " Glory," saith the sage, "Isa fevered dream ; Brief its brighter stage, Soon obscured its beam." Many a heart desired Such a lot to win ; But too soon aspired, Life's work to begin. " Yes, I will be great !" Rashly swears the youth ; 1 •'•■•< PARALLELS: BEMONBTRANOE. " Ami for adverse fate, Little cares in truth." " Sit in patience' school, Ere so high you reach — Cease to play the fool, Learn hefore you teach ! " Such the counsel wise Many a Master gives, Whilst in youthful eyes Naught but glory lives. Let the Master guide Minds that upwaid soar ; Counsel sage provide, But control no more. Good it is to see Restless soul of youth Mount on pinion free Toward- the realm of Truth. HAS BEEN AND WILL BE. AFT have we idly dreamed that happiness Never again could, as of old, be ours ; That joy no more our troubled sky would bless, Or sunshine follow Fate's descending showers. Error of vision ! in our nature's plan Sleep and digestion vital force renew ; What has been circles still round life of man, No fatal barrier bounds his shortened view. The pains of yesterday no longer sting ; Regrets grow fainter as their objects fade ; Recurrent seasons Nature's offerings bring, Light beams anew around the darkest shade. No jarring discord permanently dwells ; The ravages of war are healed by peace ; 17d HAS r.ri .\ \M> WILL BE. Nature's vasl bosom with fresh increase sw<-IN ; Bach biting care of life will one day cease. Wliy then, O man, thy petty shadow take To measure forces that around thee play ? Sorrow and joy their shade and sunshine make In endless series to the latest day. ^■^HVhr- TO A LADY ON HER BIRTHDAY. rpO Lena, on her natal day, What word of welcome can I say, What friendly off 'ring bring ? Time 'neath his chariot wheels has cast Those phantom forms we name the Past, A half forgotten thing. And yet this year hath seen the fall Of throne and empire, fraught with all The woes that war can give, As man, ingenious to destroy, Feels in the crash a fearful joy, If glory's rays but live. Rather I'd contemplate a face Where dwells, with unaffected grace, A woman's earnest will : Some lines of thought and feeling there, Crossed by a smile supremely fair, Enchain the fancy still. 172 TO A LAD'S OH I! Ill: BIRTHDA Y. What tale does the expression tell ! I it of mi loved so well, < »r scenes that once were bright ? < »r is she seeking where to find A loving, sympathetic mind, To bless her es Ight? Dear lady, we are wand'rers all, Our footsteps echo tlirough the hall Which life above us rear- : Some, pleasures near their path may see, But more from sad deceptions flee ; And joy oft ends in tear-. Yet, if our wishes could prevail, We'd ask of fate a fav'ring gale To waft thee to the shore, Where peace and happiness shall dwell, Far distant from the turbid swell Of sorrows felt no more. SI JEUNESSE SAVAIT— SI VIEILLESSE POUVAIT. AFT in his waking dreams there came A certain semblance of the past : Dark shadows crossed by tongues of flame, Or misty veil o'er sunshine cast. Forms in their outline incomplete, Nor rounded by a workman's hand : Where false perspective's vistas meet, And giant temples rest on sand. So 'tis at best a partial view Of life's great stage that men obtain ; Around lie fragments of the true, And pleasure's light is crossed by pain. For man's allotted journey lies Beyond the valley and the hill ; 171 81 JEUNBSSE. And nil that meet- lii- ca^er eyes Is vexed by wand'riiiL, r phantums still. From passion free, the sage may look I )n shifting cloud and blue expanse : Long has he studied Nature's book, Ere snch a prospect meets his glance. He Looks, hut feels his vigour gone For struggles in the stormy fight ; And every prop he leans upon Bears witness to declining might. Yet some, in youth's all-compiering hour, The boon of knowledge have obtained ; Keen sight is joined to nervous power, And life's stern victory is gained. •^y^r - *^" THE SPECTRE. TT was not in the churchyard's gloom, With hurried steps as wanderers pass Through creaking gate nigh to the tomb, Where victims sleep 'mid tangled grass. Nor in the dark and lonesome dell, Where trees up to the pathway stand ; Of feet when fancied echoes fell, And eyes came glaring nigh at hand. Nor was it in the corridor Of lonely dwelling vast and old, Where awful whispers haunt the floor, That make the listener's blood run cold. Not when, through long-drawn hours of night, No moment of repose appears ; 176 Till: 8PBCTRB. And, straining after morning's light, The weakened eyes snffuse \\\\h tears, And shadowy forme are circling where, The Bhaken nerves their vigil keep — Mephitic vapours float in air, Like wavelets on a tideless deep. That spectre came at festive hour, When banrpiet-hall was filled with light, Its shadow crept with numbing power, Eclipsing all the tableaux bright. Remorse, disgust, their fatal screen, Before life's lustre interpose ; No more one ray of pleasure seen. As morning's orb returning rose. Sucb is die spectre that appals, Like pillar on a waste of sand. Of cheerful guest no foot-dp falls, Un vast expanse of blighted land. THE SPECTRE. 177 And cloudy skies for ever brood On murky water's dim expanse ; Despair alone can find its food Where beams no more youth's joyous glance. Can aught avail, of human power, Such Spectre from its home to chase ? Yes, if we see, in life's last hour, An injured one's forgiving face. N LAST SCENE OF ALL. rpo melancholy instincts true, Bis thoughts maintained their constant flight At evening's hour, of sombre hue ; At morning, with it- robe of light. By meal, that once refreshed, oppressed ; No more can foaming goblel cheer — No more, nt call of fashion dressed, f satire grasp the breeze-compelling fan ; ( rather life's crumbs into a thrifty bash t, — Vmi must succeed; for othiT rules don't ash it. VI. Borne blame their luck, others the force of love, A- thousands slip away, alas, too lightly; Let circumstances give one adverse shove, You're done for ever, as you judge most rightly. " CCELUM NON ANIMAM MUTANT." TN youth or manhood's prime we leave our home, To fix our tent elsewhere with some regret ; For habit weaves its netwoi'k round our lives, Enclosing spheres of darkness mixed with light. But youth may hope that change will pleasure bring, Some newer love, or grasp of friendship's hand ; Some steps in the world's ladder to be climbed — Some laurel leaf of fame for thought or act. Too oft deceptive are their hopes ; yet still They cheer the mind, like the mirage that shows Fountains or palaces to pilgrim's eye. To many, life's career will be the same ; For Fashion, like a thirsty plain of sand, Absorbs the energies that ever flow From bubbling fountain of unvaried health, — Billiards or whist, pi-otracted hours of ball, When vague excitement struggles with fatigue, And fevered slumbers bring a vacant day, isi • CCELUM A"V ANIMAM MUTANT." To yawn a1 Club, and drain the frequent gla No healthful breeze of morn o'er Ocean's ware, Wafting its briny odours from the West; Or where the mountain rears its crest sublime, Like Nature's bulwark o'er a fertile plain. But when, in age, we seek, with pond'roua frame And weakened mind, that scarce knows how to choose, Some new abode, elaborate in all That art or showy comfort can suggest, What can we hope for, but that black ennui Shall sit a constant guest by hearth and home, Through hours that drag their dreary course along, Whilst mem'ries of the past, of errors such As mark the turning-point in man's career, Obscure the sunshine or increase the gloom. -S^p&^^&v- L'AVENIR IT E drove his coursers down the slope Where Fancy yields to earnest Thought- Where Reason's claim is tinged with Hope For brighter days, by suff'ring bought, — For days when nations rush no more To carnage for a bound' ry line ; 'When plenty smiles on plain and shore, And Arts with rays of glory shine ; When death no longer walks abroad, To sharpen law's half-blunted axe ; Nor alcoholic poison's stored Of self-indulgence, loathsome tax ! *&' No girl shall sell affection's prize ; No wife disturb her husband's rest ; Nor children seek, with studied lies, From parents' hand* their gold to wrest. 18G L'A VENIR. That Future's slope shall glow with light, And welcome happy natures then With visions dear to clearer sight — Progressive laws for earnest men. The Poet crowned shall then be King, The Artists circle form his Court, And those who Nature's secrets bring Be welcome to that high resort. Each clime its tributes offers where The Temple of Humanity Shows, on Time's mount, its columns fair ; Woman has rights, and Thought is free -^^^T^T- HEAVEN. PIAN Heaven, then, be, as many think, A dreamy, waveless rest? Rather the calm on action's brink, Of fullest scope possessed. The calm of great accomplished fact — Of noble purpose done : Where struggling will has dared to act, And manhood's victory won. Platform whose great perspective lies So infinitely true, That earth an atom seems, which flies Across a sphere of blue. Knowledge, which still explores the roll Of deepest human lore, And finds it but a mimic scroll, Fixed to Time's brazen door. iss HEAVEN, Pleasure, which only sharpened sense Can now appreciate, As it surveys, with joy intense, TV Almighty Mind create. It sees creation, newly wrought, Spring from th' Eternal Will : In circles to that Centre brought — Diverging — blending— still. No contradictions there are found — No passions' ebh and flow : All objects in harmonious round And stateliest measure go. Those types of goodness, which the heart Imperfectly avou When musing, from the world apart, The soul in silence bows, — Are there unfolded, in the liloom Of perfect Nature's grace; HE A VEN. 189 All lower thoughts the flames consume, That fence God's dwelling place. Of Contemplation's glories, there The nucleus is found ; And Action's myriad branches fair, Like faggot's hulk are bound. All is from all evolved— the light In purest lustre flows ; What yesterday flashed on the sight, To-day familiar grows. Of mysteries hid from earth-born eyes, Prophet and bard have seen Some fragments ; now, with glad surprise, They view that Temple's sheen. FINIS. UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY Los Angela This l>ook is DUE on the last date stamped below. Form L9-50»/i-7,'54 (5990) 444 $ SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY M 000 376 424 PR 5519 SliM7 1871