Wwiii 
 
 OD'S 
 
 d3y 
 
 ^A^MAy^\uiR_
 
 THE LIBRARY 
 
 OF 
 
 THE UNIVERSITY 
 
 OF CALIFORNIA 
 
 LOS ANGELES
 
 GOD^S OCTAVE 
 
 AND OTHER POEMS.
 
 GOD'S OCTAVE 
 
 Hut) ®tber iDoems 
 
 BY 
 
 EMMA MUIR. 
 
 PRINTED FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION.
 
 TO THE READER. 
 
 The following lines, which I feel are 
 full of faults, I dedicate to my dear 
 Husband. 
 
 Most of them have been written 
 under the pressure of severe bodily 
 and mental suffering ; but if, through 
 the power of God's grace, they are 
 permitted to be the means by which 
 some souls are led to a stronger faith, 
 more earnest seeking, and truer child- 
 like trust in God's love, what a cause 
 for thankfulness there will be 
 
 To one so unworthy as, 
 
 Yours in Truth, 
 
 EMMA MUIR. 
 
 123 Ham Park Road, 
 
 West Ham, Essex, 
 March 21st, j8g6.
 
 PR 
 
 5IOI 
 
 f 
 
 CONTENTS. 
 
 
 
 
 PAGE 
 
 God's Octave, 9 
 
 But by Me, 
 
 
 
 12 
 
 God's Will, 
 
 
 
 14 
 
 Not I, but Christ Who Dwelletl 
 
 a in I 
 
 ^e. 
 
 1/ 
 
 Let Down the Nets, . 
 
 
 
 i8 
 
 True Life, 
 
 
 
 20 
 
 All Things, .... 
 
 
 
 22 
 
 A Prayer, .... 
 
 
 
 24 
 
 No Separation, . 
 
 
 
 26 
 
 Example, .... 
 
 
 
 28 
 
 I Need Thee Every Hour, 
 
 
 
 32 
 
 I Will, .... 
 
 
 
 34 
 
 Trials not Troubles, . 
 
 
 
 37 
 
 Unselfishness, . 
 
 
 
 38 
 
 Midnight Thoughts, . 
 
 
 
 . 40 
 
 Jesus Only, 
 
 
 
 . 42 
 
 Real Love, .... 
 
 
 
 ■ 43 
 
 Freedom in Christ, . 
 
 
 
 . 46 
 
 Nothing to Fear, 
 
 
 
 • 47 
 
 OQ«'?' 
 
 «r*
 
 VI 
 
 Contents. 
 
 Ye Ask and Have Not, 
 
 Let (Isaiah xxvii. 5), . 
 
 Thy Strength is as Thy Day, . 
 
 Am I His Child? (Romans viii. 17), 
 
 What Can You Do ? . 
 
 Possibilities of Grace, 
 
 Pray On, . 
 
 In the Name of Jesus, 
 
 I Ask not the Why, . 
 
 To My Husband, 
 
 Wall-Flowers, . 
 
 Happy Home, . 
 
 Be Thou Faithful unto Death, and I will 
 
 give Thee a Crown of Life, 
 His Face Unveiled (Written after Reading 
 
 a Sermon by A. Brown, of Bow), 
 
 Look Up, 
 
 A Birthday Wish ("The Lord be with 
 
 Thee"), 
 The Other Side, 
 Not Worthy to Work, 
 Education, .... 
 Cast Thy Burden on the Lord 
 Col. i. 19 ; ii. 9, . 
 Just as Thou Wilt, . 
 Almost Saved, . 
 A Bee's Soliloquy, 
 
 PAGE 
 
 49 
 51 
 53 
 56 
 58 
 64 
 66 
 68 
 70 
 
 74 
 76 
 80 
 
 82 
 
 84 
 86 
 
 87 
 90 
 92 
 
 97 
 103 
 105 
 107 
 109 
 112
 
 Conte?ifs. 
 
 Vll 
 
 Fox) 
 
 Take no Thought for the Morrow, 
 
 Birthday Wishes (May 31st), 
 
 This Space to Let, 
 
 All on the Surface, 
 
 Live to God, 
 
 Sympathy, . 
 
 With a Gift, 
 
 An Appeal from a Sick- Bed, 
 
 To A. B., . 
 
 Boys Without Souls, 
 
 Sorrow, 
 
 My Friend (To Dear Mr. 
 
 New Year, 1879, 
 
 O Gentle Friend, 
 
 My Sister, . 
 
 Mrs. Turnbull, . 
 
 The Boy, . 
 
 Lines on the Death of 
 Sister-in-Law, 
 
 Lines on the Death of a Beloved Niece, 
 
 To Mary, . 
 
 Thoughts of Mr. Fox, 
 
 To Mrs. Emma Roan, 
 
 Thinking of Lizzie Ogilvie's Pure Life and 
 Early Death ("Consider the Lilies how 
 they grow ; they toil not, neither do 
 they spin"), 
 
 an Affectionate 
 
 PAGE 
 
 113 
 
 114 
 
 117 
 119 
 
 120 
 
 121 
 I2S 
 
 128 
 131 
 
 133 
 
 138 
 
 139 
 141 
 
 143 
 
 144 
 
 146 
 149 
 
 153 
 
 155 
 156 
 
 159 
 163 
 
 164
 
 Vlll 
 
 Contents. 
 
 Edgar Archer, . 
 
 
 PAGE 
 167 
 
 To Mrs. Rob, . 
 
 
 
 170 
 
 Little Robin, 
 
 
 
 172 
 
 To Henry and Florence, . 
 
 
 
 175 
 
 Frank's Trouble, 
 
 
 
 178 
 
 To Nellie, .... 
 
 
 
 182 
 
 To May, .... 
 
 
 
 185 
 
 To Mrs. K., . . . 
 
 
 
 188 
 
 Thoughts on the 31st of May, 
 
 
 
 191 
 
 To My Husband, 
 
 
 
 194 
 
 Maggie's Hands, 
 
 
 
 196 
 
 To Our Sister in Ireland, . 
 
 
 
 198 
 
 Dear Jennie, . . . . 
 
 
 
 200 
 
 To Wee Forry, . . . . 
 
 
 
 202 
 
 Our Boys, 
 
 
 
 205 
 
 Our Chapel, . . . . 
 
 
 
 206 
 
 Housekeeping Difficulties with 1 
 
 'wo Young 
 
 
 Servants, . . . . 
 
 . . 
 
 211 
 
 On Receiving Half-a-Sovereig 
 
 n for my 
 
 
 Dorcas from an Unknown ] 
 
 ^riend. 
 
 213 
 
 Doctor Llyle, . . . . 
 
 . 
 
 214 
 
 Curling; or, Beef and Greens, . 
 
 , 
 
 216 
 
 Margate, 
 
 . 
 
 . 
 
 219
 
 GOD'S OCTAVE. 
 
 Niagara's waters soundeth, on, on 
 through night and day, 
 
 Under the silver moonbeams and sun- 
 light's golden ray, 
 
 Those wondrous gathered waters, those 
 remnants of the flood, 
 
 Their hymn ascendcth ever, unto the 
 throne of God. 
 
 The dusky savage knew them in his 
 
 wild hunting ground. 
 And there he gazed in wonder 'mid 
 
 solitude profound ; 
 And we would gaze and worship where 
 
 the dark savage stood, 
 Till our lips cried out in gladness, " Thy 
 
 works, O God, are good." 
 
 9
 
 10 God's Octave. 
 
 For as our eyes were ravished by shades 
 
 of glowing light, 
 We 'd revel in the beauty of mercy blent 
 
 with might, 
 That misty veil would show us the 
 
 octave of God's love. 
 Let down from " The Eternal," to lift 
 
 our hearts above. 
 
 Crimson, orange, yellow, green, blue, 
 
 dark indigo, 
 Majestically doth purple add to the 
 
 regal show, 
 Reflected in its vapour those rainbow 
 
 tints appear. 
 And to complete the octave, God's 
 
 white light shineth clear. 
 
 And is there not an octave in grace as 
 
 well as light. 
 Those spirit gifts Christ bought us, on 
 
 Calvary's dark night. 
 That crimson tide which, gushing forth 
 
 from His wounded side.
 
 God's Octave. ii 
 
 Gives us the power to love, God's love, 
 through Him the Crucified. 
 
 Then faith shall bring contentment, 
 
 while peace and hope will be 
 All ready with their garlands to crown 
 
 humility ; 
 Till praise shall sound triumphant, our 
 
 hearts with rapture beat, 
 Rejoicing that the octave of God's love 
 
 is complete. 
 
 Just love in the beginning, from which 
 this world hath grown. 
 
 And love, still love attending, around 
 the great white throne. 
 
 And love shall tune the voices, the key- 
 note " Love " will be, 
 
 Of never-ending sweetness, all through 
 eternity.
 
 12 But by Me. 
 
 BUT BY ME. 
 
 Seven letters, did they stand 
 As the motto of our land, 
 Blazoned forth in gold and gem 
 Richer than queen's diadem, 
 That the people all might see, 
 No man cometh, " But by Me." 
 
 Seven letters, carve them deep 
 Into oaken bas-relief, 
 On the pulpit, arras, stall, 
 Where they may be read by all — 
 Rich and poor alike may see. 
 No man cometh, " But by Me." 
 
 Seven letters, let them trace 
 
 Filigree as fine as lace ; 
 
 Costly ornaments to vie 
 
 With the gifts the rich ones buy ; 
 
 Then those wealthy ones might see, 
 
 No man cometh, " But by Me."
 
 But by Me. 13 
 
 Seven letters, pure and white, 
 Cut in polished marble bright ; 
 Place them on the holy dead 
 Waiting Christ their living Head, 
 That their followers might see, 
 No man cometh, " But by Me." 
 
 Seven letters, write in gold, 
 Quaint device as missal old ; 
 Bind in skin or velvet rare, 
 Fitted for some lady fair, 
 That the dainty one might see, 
 No man cometh, " But by Me." 
 
 Seven letters, let them print 
 
 In the black or coloured ink ; 
 
 Hang them near the thronging crowd 
 
 Where the engine whistles loud, 
 
 So the busy one may see. 
 
 No man cometh, " But by Me." 
 
 Seven letters, large and clear, 
 On the mission wall appear,
 
 14 God's Will. 
 
 Then those sad ones, sick of sin, 
 May a gleam of comfort win ; 
 Till by faith they too may see, 
 No man cometh, " But by Me." 
 
 Seven letters, let them rule 
 In the day and Sabbath school. 
 Shine with love into the heart, 
 Winning each to do their part ; 
 Young bright eyes would quickly sec, 
 No man cometh, " But by Me." 
 
 Seven letters, oh ! how grand, 
 
 As we learn to understand, 
 
 Surely shall our hearts rejoice 
 
 " That one way " is God's own choice. 
 
 Grant us, Lord, Thy grace to be 
 
 Daily nearer God, by Thee. 
 
 GOD'S WILL. 
 
 My God, if I could only know 
 
 The sweet completeness of Thy will, 
 
 Then should my heart with rapture glow, 
 And every pulse with joy would thrill.
 
 God's Will. 15 
 
 Thy will ! which gathered all the light 
 Out from the darkness, drew the line 
 
 Which separates the day from night, 
 Giving to us the thought of time. 
 
 Thy will ! which formed the spider's web 
 To hold the mist of autumn morn. 
 
 Till brilliant sunbeams light each thread 
 And it to jewel-case transform. 
 
 Thy will ! which caused the thunder crash, 
 And sent the lightning's vivid gleam, 
 
 Made minnow's tiny fin to splash 
 The water of the rippling stream. 
 
 Thy will ! by which the Alps uprose, 
 Showing the sunrise light sublime, 
 
 Gave to the valley sweet repose, 
 
 Where glow-worm's tiny lamp doth 
 shine. 
 
 Thy will held ocean's expanse vast. 
 Each tiny seed and wayside flower, 
 
 The meteor as it glances past, 
 
 And every drop of summer shower.
 
 i6 God's Will. 
 
 Thy will ! which gave each bonnie bird 
 The plan and skill its nest to build, 
 
 And then with love their bosom stirred 
 To tend the nest when it is filled. 
 
 The form of leaf on plant or tree, 
 The smallest insect flitting by, 
 
 The wondrous working of the bee. 
 And feathered down on butterfly. 
 
 Thy will decreed and man was made, 
 A breathing, thinking, living soul ; 
 
 Put into Eden's flowery glade, 
 And heaven for his destined goal. 
 
 Thy will sent prophets, priests, and kings 
 To teach that will until the time 
 
 Was ready for the purer things, 
 
 Which showed how Love and Will 
 combine. 
 
 Thy will a fitted body framed. 
 
 In which Thy only Son could dwell ; 
 
 Through it the Godhead was proclaimed 
 By Jesus, our Emmanuel.
 
 Not /, but Christ. 1 7 
 
 Thy will He came and lived to do, 
 Perfect each step the way He trod, 
 
 Grand in obedience, nobly true, 
 
 Living near Him our soul finds God. 
 
 NOT I, BUT CHRIST WHO 
 DWELLETH IN ME. 
 
 Not I, not I, 
 For this is worthless trash ; 
 
 Not I, not I, 
 Impetuous, weak, and rash ; 
 
 Not I, not I, 
 Frail as a rope of sand, 
 
 Not I, not I, 
 But He who can command 
 
 This worthless I, 
 And work in me His will, 
 
 Until I hear 
 His blessed " Peace, be still," 
 
 Drink in His love, 
 And find my work and rest, 
 
 Lost unto self, 
 Upon " The Master's breast."
 
 1 8 Let Doivn the Nets. 
 
 LET DOWN THE NETS. 
 
 O Simon, Simon, oft do we 
 
 Just take our pattern straight from thee, 
 And letting down one net 
 
 Think we have really done 
 
 The Master's will, while we forget 
 He has some gracious purpose yet, 
 
 Some blessing to be won ; 
 And so we lose the larger share. 
 For want of a more thoughtful care. 
 
 The nets were needed safe to keep 
 That draught of fishes from the deep, 
 
 Which waited but His word. 
 In thronging numbers press 
 
 His will to do whose voice they heard ; 
 
 Their action never was deferred, 
 And why should we do less ? 
 
 To us how much of joy is lost, 
 
 What does our slack obedience cost ? 
 
 The finny tribe a lesson teach. 
 Though wisdom was beyond their reach
 
 Let Dozvn the Nets. 19 
 
 They hear but to obey, 
 And broken nets can tell 
 
 The wondrous blessing will not stay, 
 
 But come in His appointed way 
 Who doeth all things well ; 
 
 Oh, for the listening ear and heart ! 
 
 That we may humbly do our part. 
 
 And conscience bids us oft beware, 
 That many nets we need in prayer ; 
 
 And, did we use them right. 
 Would not all grumbles flee. 
 
 And faith grow stronger far than 
 sight. 
 
 While brain and heart and hand unite 
 To work right steadily ; 
 
 If all our nets were held quite still, 
 
 How quickly would the Master fill ! 
 
 Our waiting net must ready be. 
 For blessings oft come speedily ; 
 
 At other times they wait 
 Till He sees fit to send 
 
 His royal messenger of state
 
 20 True Life. 
 
 Round by the way of patience gate 
 Unto the wished-for end. 
 
 Oh ! may we not lose one deh'ght 
 Through any hasty walk by sight. 
 
 Our net of faith must strengthened be 
 At every opportunity, 
 
 Or prayer will soon grow cold ; 
 But if each knot be true, 
 No circumstance will break it through, 
 
 And we to Christ shall firmly hold ; 
 Good work in us He '11 do. 
 
 And will our swift obedience see 
 
 Letting both nets down to the sea. 
 
 TRUE LIFE. 
 
 Oh ! for the Life, the free, free Life, 
 That Life which God can give, 
 
 The 'bounding joy, without alloy. 
 When Christ in us doth live.
 
 True Life. 21 
 
 This Life hath peace, the sweet, sweet 
 Inward heavenly balm ; [peace, 
 
 Showing our sin hath full release, 
 Keeping the heart so calm. 
 
 And with this peace hope ever dwells, 
 
 Sending its cheering ray 
 Through every adverse circumstance 
 
 We meet with, day by day. 
 
 Then love, real love, deep, earnest, true, 
 
 Which like a golden band 
 Surrounds us every passing hour, 
 
 Placed by Almighty hand. 
 
 We hold it all, by mystic power. 
 
 Faith in the Living Word ; 
 Through it the wonderful Unseen 
 
 Is known, and felt, and heard. 
 
 O Lord, we ask this gift of Thine, 
 
 That daily we may be 
 Filled with an impulse all Divine 
 
 Of Immortality.
 
 1 
 
 22 All Things 
 
 For life holds no monotony 
 
 Where spirit-power leads, 
 Each day is filled by circles new 
 
 Of loving words and deeds. 
 
 The brain so charged with thought and 
 Yet holds no anxious care ; [plan, 
 
 Nothing then frets the inward man, 
 No trial brings despair. 
 
 We know Thy will is one with ours, 
 
 Fully to sanctify, 
 So wait the Pentecostal gift, 
 
 Thy Spirit drawing nigh. 
 
 ALL THINGS. 
 
 " And we know that all things work together for 
 good to those who love God." — Romans viii. 28. 
 
 How mighty the Love, 
 Which the Father above, 
 Has promised to give to His child ; 
 It will conquer the sin,
 
 All Thmgs. 23 
 
 And all evil within, 
 As we grow in His grace meek and mild. 
 
 Omnipotent charm, 
 
 That defends from all harm 
 Each one who will trust to its power ; 
 
 And waiting His will, 
 
 Find the promise fulfil, 
 Working good towards us every hour. 
 
 Do we love the Lord, 
 Then 710 thing should afford 
 
 Us a sorrow, a worry, or care ; 
 Each case He will meet, 
 For His work is complete, 
 
 Giving strength every burden to bear. 
 
 Should dark clouds appear, 
 
 Still there's no thing to fear — 
 They will strengthen our faith while they 
 
 The more we submit, [stay ; 
 
 Then the more we are fit 
 To give thanks when those clouds pass 
 
 away.
 
 i 
 
 24 A Prayer. 
 
 Oh, can we but say 
 That we grow every day 
 
 In true love to God, Father, and Son 
 Then all will be right. 
 Until faith becomes sight, 
 
 For on earth this is heaven becfun. 
 
 A PRAYER. 
 
 I PLEAD Thy Name, O Jesus, 
 
 For I am full of sin ; 
 Washed in Thy blood most precious, 
 
 1 shall be pure within. 
 
 My faith is very feeble, 
 
 My doubts like mountains rise, 
 I cannot grasp a promise 
 
 To check these tears and sighs. 
 
 I plead Thy name, O Jesus, 
 Soften this heart of stone ; 
 
 Pour in the Balm of Gilead 
 To make it all Thine own.
 
 A Prayej'. 25 
 
 Thine, thine must be the work, Lord ! 
 
 Mine be the sin and shame ; 
 That I no more have sought Thee, 
 
 No more beheved Thy Name. 
 
 Oh, draw me to Thyself, now, 
 
 By love's own silken band ; 
 Then gentleness and patience 
 
 Shall be at my command. 
 
 May meekness, modest flower, 
 
 Within my heart abide, 
 And sweet smooth-browed contentment 
 
 Be ever at my side. 
 
 Then Peace's pure snowy petals 
 Thy Love, Lord, shall reveal, 
 
 And joy's bright ruby tints show 
 Thy gracious power to heal. 
 
 May every Christ-like grace. Lord, 
 
 Find resting-place in me, 
 And from all sin and self. Lord, 
 
 For ever set me free.
 
 I 
 
 26 No Separation. 
 
 Oh, by Thy Spirit's power, 
 Grant this my earnest prayer ; 
 
 Then from that very hour 
 I shall lose every care. 
 
 Then shall my faith be firm, Lord, 
 Then shall I walk Thy ways, 
 
 And with Thy saints on earth. Lord, 
 Sing my Redeemer's praise. 
 
 NO SEPARATION. 
 
 Romans viii. 37. 
 
 No thing can separate the soul 
 Which daily grows in Love, 
 
 Seeking its strength and nourishment 
 From Him who dwells above. 
 
 Each trial then becomes a means 
 
 Of gain and not of loss, 
 Because we cheerfully take it up, 
 
 And bear it near His Cross.
 
 No Separation. 27 
 
 So no distress can ever hurt 
 
 Us, if we trust in Him, 
 For He has paid the wondrous price 
 
 To ransom us from sin. 
 
 For Love He would not save Himself 
 One pang, that we might be 
 
 Just living monuments of grace. 
 From doubt and darkness free. 
 
 Feeling each day we grow more near 
 
 Unto His wounded side ; 
 For in His love we find our strength, 
 
 Whatever may betide. 
 
 No separation from our God, 
 
 Who makes this world so bright, 
 
 That even here He satisfies 
 And gives us true delight. 
 
 It is the spring of all our joys. 
 
 The life of our desire, 
 A growing, living power within, 
 
 A baptism of fire.
 
 28 Example. 
 
 Grant, Lord, that we may really know 
 The sweetness of this thought, 
 
 For then shall we begin in truth 
 To serve Thee as we ought. 
 
 EXAMPLE. 
 
 Oh, strangely wonderful, mysteriously 
 
 strange, 
 That power we are compelled to use 
 
 throughout our life ; 
 No matter where or how we live, we 
 
 cannot free ourselves 
 From that strange force, which aids in 
 
 peace or strife. 
 
 We do not trace one wave of thought 
 
 unto its root. 
 Nor follow all the windings, subtle, deep, 
 
 and keen ; 
 Oft do not note their power until we 
 
 find the fruit,
 
 Example. 29 
 
 And then we sigh and say, Alas ! what 
 might have been. 
 
 That influence which quite unconsciously 
 
 we use, 
 May be but one swift glance, born of a 
 
 passing thought, 
 Touches that other life, and leaves its 
 
 impress there, 
 To aid in weal or woe the change that 
 
 glance hath wrought. 
 
 Responsibilities encircling every life, 
 As spirit's gaze grows clear, thy vastness 
 
 on us loom, 
 And we begin to trace though but the 
 
 outer edge 
 Of God's great plan of Love ; no fearful 
 
 fiery doom, 
 
 But everlasting love, that promises to 
 
 all 
 The strength, in full supply, to learn to 
 
 live to grow
 
 30 Example. 
 
 Into the image of His Son Divine, our 
 
 Lord, 
 That we may know the Love from 
 
 which our love must flow. 
 
 More strangely wonderful, mysteri- 
 ously strange 
 
 Becomes the daily life when lifted into 
 Christ ; 
 
 Our thoughts, looks, words, and wishes, 
 never from Him range, 
 
 We have no anxious care, quite sure we 
 are led right. 
 
 Touching infinitude, the dignity of life 
 
 steps in. 
 And day by day, yes, hour by hour, we 
 
 see 
 E'en in the busy toil, the rush of life is 
 
 rife 
 With power unseen but felt, linked to 
 
 eternity. 
 
 Oh, God, as Thou wouldst have our lives 
 to be like Thine,
 
 Example. 3 1 
 
 Lift us, each day, more near Thine 
 
 unseen Love, 
 Till we become an echo of Thy truth 
 
 sublime, 
 And find this world as full of Thee, as 
 
 heaven above. 
 
 Then recognise each one we meet as 
 being Thine, 
 
 Therefore our help to them must spring- 
 direct from Thee ; 
 
 Let it but bear Thy touch, it shall 
 entwine 
 
 Some thought, look, word, or act, in true 
 purity. 
 
 Father, we now would give our all into 
 
 Thy care, 
 Work Thou Thy will in us, till we clear 
 
 caskets are 
 To hold Thy glory, and then by love be 
 
 made to share 
 Thyself; so we as scintillating light shall 
 
 shine afar.
 
 32 / Need Thee Every Hour. 
 
 I NEED THEE EVERY HOUR. 
 
 I NEED Thee every hour, 
 My heart cries out for Thee ; 
 
 I want by faith to know Thee, 
 And Thy great love for me. 
 
 I need Thee every hour, 
 On, on through all my life ; 
 
 That Thy own strength may aid me 
 In all my daily strife. 
 
 I need Thee every hour, 
 
 I cannot stand alone ; 
 My enemies are mighty, 
 
 Their strength 's beyond my own. 
 
 I need Thee every hour, 
 
 I know not what will come ; 
 
 When Satan next will tempt me, 
 What work should next be done. 
 
 I 
 
 I
 
 / Need Thee Every Hour. 33 
 
 I need Thee every hour, 
 Lest I a chance should lose 
 
 Of growing in Thy likeness, 
 And working as Thou choose. 
 
 I need Thee every hour, 
 
 For thought and mind and heart 
 Must have its constant portion, 
 
 To be of Thee a part. 
 
 I need Thee every hour. 
 
 For sin wears strange disguise ; 
 
 Dark looks light to finite sight. 
 And daze my mental eyes. 
 
 I need Thee every hour 
 
 In all my work or rest ; 
 Lest ease too much should tempt me, 
 
 And work fail to be best. 
 
 I need Thee every hour, 
 
 That others, too, may see 
 
 How sweet and bright may be a life. 
 
 When all is spent with Thee. 
 
 c
 
 34 / Will. 
 
 And, oh, my heart throbs quickly, 
 The tears bedew mine eyes, 
 
 To think my suppHcation 
 Is heard beyond the skies. 
 
 And soon will come the answer : 
 My child, I 'm close to thee, 
 
 And faith shall make it clearer 
 Till thou My face shall see. 
 
 I WILL. 
 
 " I will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is 
 stayed on Me, because he trusteth in Me." 
 
 How wonderful the promise, 
 
 Which towers thus on high ! 
 Like grand and mighty mountain peaks 
 
 Clear cut against the sky ; 
 It stands so sure and steadfast, 
 
 A help in every ill, 
 Shall we not rest upon the strength 
 
 Of God's complete — I will ?
 
 / Will. 35 
 
 'Tis spoken by the Father, 
 
 Therefore we unist believe, 
 For He is our unchanging God, 
 
 And never will deceive ; 
 So, every doubt must vanish, 
 
 All murmuring be still ; 
 Ah, let it sink into our hearts. 
 
 His glorious — I will. 
 
 And closely linked unto it. 
 
 There soundeth full and free. 
 The separate call that makes it 
 
 So fit for you and me ; 
 Fresh as a sparkling fountain 
 
 Which bubbles to the brim, 
 Enough for each, the love of God, 
 
 Which says — I will keep him. 
 
 Yet fuller grows the promise ; 
 
 God condescends to show 
 The way in which He keepeth those 
 
 Who in His grace doth grow. 
 How true and free and perfect 
 
 Is that divine release !
 
 35 / Will. 
 
 God, Father, Son, and Spirit, 
 Will keep in — Perfect Peace. 
 
 And now, like sunset glory. 
 
 It bursts upon the view, 
 Showing the tender depth and power 
 
 Of God's love, pure and true. 
 No hard command He gives us, 
 
 But sayeth constantly — 
 I will keep him in perfect peace, 
 
 Because he trusteth Me. 
 
 Oh, how we yearn to have it. 
 
 That peace which God can give ! 
 Oh, how we pant to know it, 
 
 That peace in Christ to live ! 
 And yet, how clear and simple, 
 
 A child the truth might see, 
 / will keep him in perfect peace. 
 
 Whose mind is stayed on Thee.
 
 Trials not Troubles. 37 
 
 TRIALS NOT TROUBLES. 
 
 To M. P. 
 
 Nearer to Him, 
 Then can they troubled be ? 
 
 Nearer to that 
 Which doth enHghten me; 
 
 Nearer to Him 
 Who all the work hath done, 
 
 Nearer to that 
 Which shows the victory won. 
 
 Nearer to Him 
 Who gives the glad release ; 
 
 Nearer to that 
 Which brings my spirit's peace. 
 
 Nearer to Him 
 Who bore the cross and shame ; 
 
 Nearer to that 
 Which makes us love His name. 
 
 Nearer to Him 
 Whom it is joy to know ; 
 
 Nearer to that 
 Which healeth all my woe.
 
 38 Unselfishness. 
 
 Quite near to Him, 
 Then life indeed is bliss ; 
 
 And all things must be good, 
 Which lead to this. 
 
 UNSELFISHNESS. 
 
 Written for E. R. 
 
 Oh, virtue pure, that bears the sway. 
 We 'd crown thee aye with royal bay. 
 And bid thee with us ever stay. 
 
 Unselfishness. 
 
 The dullest spot thou canst make bright. 
 And homely tasks with power incite ; 
 Till hearts shall beat with true delight, 
 
 Unselfishness. 
 
 In many a home how sweet thou art. 
 So noiselessly thou dost thy part, 
 Quietly healing wounds that smart. 
 
 Unselfishness.
 
 Unselfishness. 39 
 
 No pettishness can dwell with thee, 
 From sullen looks thou art quite free, 
 And hidden blessings thou canst see, 
 
 Unselfishness. 
 
 In thee real patience has her work, 
 No trying duty wilt thou shirk, 
 And no one's feelings canst thou hurt, 
 
 Unselfishness. 
 
 Numberless burdens thou wilt bear. 
 Making another's good thy care ; 
 Willing thy joy with them to share, 
 
 Unselfishness. 
 
 What pure enjoyment thou dost bring ! 
 Coming like bird on silent wing, 
 Sweet as the balmy breath of spring. 
 
 Unselfishness. 
 
 Yet oft unnoticed dost thou dwell 
 'Midst selfish ones, who cannot tell 
 From whence the power that serves them 
 well. Unselfishness.
 
 40 Midnight Thoughts. 
 
 When we begin to know thy worth, 
 And that great Love that gave thee birth 
 And scatters thee o'er all the earth, 
 
 Unselfishness : 
 
 Then, then we want thy way to learn, 
 Clearly thy beauty to discern ; 
 And pray our hearts may hold thy germ, 
 
 Unselfishness. 
 
 MIDNIGHT THOUGHTS. 
 
 In the silence of the midnight 
 Do the spirits hold control, 
 
 And whisper solemn secrets 
 To the humble waiting soul. 
 
 In the silence of the midnight 
 How I long Thy love to know, 
 
 Falling like a benediction. 
 Healing all my sin and woe.
 
 Midnight Thoughts. 41 
 
 In the silence of the midnight 
 I would lift my heart to Thee, 
 
 And beseech a revelation 
 Of the sweetest mystery. 
 
 In the silence of the midnight 
 I the spirit's touch would feel, 
 
 To make Thy cross and sacrifice 
 So near, so true, and real. 
 
 In the silence of the midnight 
 Then a living Lord I need, 
 
 With tender love and sympathy 
 To give me strength indeed. 
 
 In the silence of the midnight 
 To this hope my spirit clings, 
 
 And o'er me it seems hovering 
 Like the waft of angel wings. 
 
 In the silence of the midnight 
 I need more than words express ; 
 
 A loving, growing consciousness 
 Of Thy sweet peace and rest.
 
 42 Jesus Only. 
 
 JESUS ONLY. 
 
 St. Mark ix. 8. 
 
 Jesus only, Jesus only, 
 
 'Tis Thy face we wish to see ; 
 
 When we are most sad and lonely 
 We would find our rest in Thee. 
 
 Jesus only, help us onward 
 
 Through the trouble of each day ; 
 
 Though with stumbling steps and slow, 
 Lord, 
 Keep us in the narrow way. 
 
 Jesus only, when in danger 
 Unto Thee for help we call ; 
 
 Thou whose bed was lowly manger 
 Now hast power over all, 
 
 Jesus only, let Thy presence 
 Take possession of our heart ; 
 
 May we feel Thy very essence, 
 
 Then from Thee we ne'er can part.
 
 Real Love. 43 
 
 'Tis the same, the old, old story. 
 Unto Thee our voice we raise ; 
 
 When in heaven's perfect glory, 
 Jesus only ! still our praise. 
 
 REAL LOVE. 
 
 One angry word or one cold look, 
 How deep the pain 'twill bring ! 
 
 Acting as frost upon a brook. 
 To check its gushing spring. 
 
 As the full current deep and strong 
 Leaps o'er its pebbly bed, 
 
 So flows the tide of love along 
 By looks, words, actions fed. 
 
 But if the streamlet shallow be, 
 No bright green turf be near. 
 
 If shaded by no spreading tree, 
 It soon will disappear.
 
 44 Real Love. 
 
 The weary traveller in vain 
 May seek his thirst to quell, 
 
 No sparkling drops or verdant plain 
 Of murmuring waters tell. 
 
 And so if love be weak and poor, 
 
 'Twill surely pass away ; 
 For tiny trifles, light as air, 
 
 Will wear it day by day. 
 
 But if the love be firm and pure — 
 True, constant, brave and strong — 
 
 Each trial will make it more secure. 
 And bear it safely on. 
 
 If, at the very spring of love, 
 
 Real trust stands strong and brave, 
 
 Guarding it like a spreading tree, 
 Affords a leafy shade, 
 
 Then confidence and candour sweet 
 Will e'en go hand in hand ; 
 
 Truth, gentleness, and patience meet 
 To form a noble band.
 
 Real Love. 45 
 
 If, as deep banks of verdant green, 
 
 Religion's pleasant ways 
 Guard either side of love's pure stream 
 
 From sin and Satan's rage, 
 
 Then fear ye not that love is true, 
 
 It ever will abide ; 
 No time or trial, friend or foe, 
 
 Can check its flowing tide. 
 
 But where can such a love be found. 
 Such height of human bliss ? 
 
 Beats there a heart in all around 
 That feels a love Hke this? 
 
 Oh, doubt it not, but own the sway 
 Of love's most mighty powers ; 
 
 And then in truth we '11 humbly say, 
 Yes ! such a love is ours.
 
 46 Freedom in Christ. 
 
 FREEDOM IN CHRIST. 
 
 Romans viii. 2. 
 
 Thy spirit's law hath made me free, 
 Oh, glorious thought is this to me, 
 I know I owe it all to Thee, 
 My Lord and God. 
 
 No claim is there in aught I do, 
 The grace and power comes all from you, 
 And my right actions, oh, how few ! 
 Jesus my King. 
 
 What should I be without Thy grace, 
 Bereft of faith, to see Thy face, 
 How woful then would be my case. 
 Redeemer Christ. 
 
 Help me to feel it more each day, 
 In everything I do or say ; 
 May it be Thine, not mine the way, 
 Jehovah Lord.
 
 Nothing to Fear. 47 
 
 Let self be daily crucified, 
 And I live nearer to Thy side ; 
 That Thou, not I, be deified, 
 O King of kings ! 
 
 NOTHING TO FEAR. 
 
 Romans viii. 31. 
 
 Nothing to fear, my soul, nothing to 
 
 fear! 
 In every time of doubt, Jesus is near ; 
 By His omnipotence, mighty to save, 
 Through the great ransom paid, deatJi is 
 
 His slave ; 
 Only by faith look up, all will be clear, 
 Rest in His love complete, nothing to 
 
 fear. 
 
 Satan comes creeping near, tempting to 
 
 sin. 
 Hard thoughts and discontent murmur 
 
 within ;
 
 48 Nothing to Fear. 
 
 Self then will try to rule, strive for the 
 
 prize, 
 Friends often prove but foes, though in 
 
 disguise ; 
 When everything in life looks so severe, 
 Still amid all this strife, nothing to fear. 
 
 What spear can pierce the shield faith 
 
 gives to thee ? 
 Girt with God's truth around, art thou 
 
 not free ? 
 Shod with the peace He gives, safe 
 
 canst thou tread, 
 Salvation's helmet to cover thine head. 
 E'en through the starless night, though 
 
 dark and drear, 
 Lift up thy voice and cry, Nothing to fear. 
 
 Stand by the pebbly beach, where is the 
 
 bound, 
 Yon mighty wave will dash with solemn 
 
 sound, 
 Tearing with giant strength, rock, cliff 
 
 and strand.
 
 Ye Ask and Have Not. 49 
 
 Wreathing with scattered foam each 
 
 point of land ; 
 But see that tiny child, precious and 
 
 dear, 
 Plays past the water-mark, nothing to 
 
 fear. 
 
 In those dim ages back long, long ago, 
 God spake that " hitherto " each wave 
 
 should know ; 
 So every foe thou hast cannot step o'er. 
 For, like that " hitherto " guarding the 
 
 shore, 
 God fights upon your side, safe will He 
 
 steer, 
 You can in triumph cry, Nothing to fear. 
 
 YE ASK AND HAVE NOT. 
 
 To Mrs. P. 
 
 Is it so. Lord, have I been asking Thee 
 In some wrong way, for what I yearn to 
 see? 
 
 D
 
 50 Ye Ask and Have Not. 
 
 Is it so, Lord, a something in the way 
 I thee have sought, and still most earnest 
 pray? 
 
 Or is it, Lord, some doubt that takes 
 
 away [day ? 
 
 The resting trust, as I seek Thee each 
 
 Or is it, Lord, that Satan takes this 
 
 Word, 
 And makes me doubt my prayer will 
 
 find Thee, Lord ? 
 
 Full well he knows where best to find 
 
 his dart, 
 And from Thy Word, can pierce into my 
 
 heart. 
 
 So artful he a form like angel's make, 
 And my dazed sight may of his wrong 
 partake ; 
 
 And he would keep me with a despot's 
 
 rod, [his God. 
 
 Who took the Word and dared to tempt
 
 Let. 5 1 
 
 Lord Jesus, now lift up the veil that lies 
 Between Thy love and my poor mental 
 eyes, 
 
 That I may see Thee as indeed Thou 
 art, 
 
 Then not a doubt shall touch my faith- 
 filled heart. 
 
 LET. 
 
 " Let him take hold of My strength that he may 
 make peace with Me, and he shall make peace with 
 Me." — Isaiah xxvii. 5. 
 
 Lord, this Let seems to me like a grand, 
 mighty mountain, 
 Too high and too noble for my strength 
 to climb ; 
 So I turn unto Thee for a draught from 
 Thy fountain. 
 To aid me drink in this permission 
 sublime.
 
 52 Let. 
 
 Let, and may tell me much that my 
 heart now doth covet, 
 To know Thou art willing Thy 
 strength to impart, 
 To accept each command finding soul 
 and mind, love it — 
 Ah, this is Thy strength, Lord, I need 
 in my heart. 
 
 Strength to grasp the full grace which 
 Thy love now doth proffer, 
 And find Thy peace glowing through 
 heart, mind, and soul, 
 Not in fear turn away from Thy wonder- 
 ful offer, 
 But give all self up to Thy loving 
 control. 
 
 For hast not Thou set, in Thy great 
 condescension. 
 Thy seal with its " shall thus " to cast 
 out each fear,
 
 Thy Strength is as Thy Day. 53 
 
 No, not hell, with its prince, dare curtail 
 the dimension, 
 Of love, light, and strength, which that 
 " shall " bringeth near. 
 
 Wrapped up in a peace which trans- 
 cendeth the telling, 
 For words are too weak the full force 
 to impart, 
 It only is known by the Spirit's indwell- 
 ing, 
 Revealing God's love to the sanctified 
 
 heart. 
 
 THY STRENGTH IS AS THY 
 DAY. 
 
 As very weak and weary, 
 
 In quietness I lay, 
 These words came sweet and clearly- 
 
 Thy strength is as thy day.
 
 54 Thy Strength is as Thy Day. 
 
 No need just now for power, 
 
 My work is to lie still 
 And patiently be learning, 
 
 Then bow unto Thy will. 
 
 Thou knowest I am feeble, 
 My strength is very small ; 
 
 The Cross Thou givest to me 
 Is hard indeed for all. 
 
 Help me to trust Thy wisdom. 
 And rest me in Thy love ; 
 
 To hear Thy voice sound softly 
 To me from heaven above. 
 
 Thy spirit's eye shall open 
 To see the work is Mine, 
 
 The Holy Ghost shall lead thee 
 To knowledge more Divine. 
 
 'fc>^ 
 
 Each lesson shall grow sweeter. 
 Each joy more purely glow ; 
 
 The fount of living waters, 
 Thy thirsty soul o'erflow.
 
 Thy Strength is as Thy Day. 55 
 
 Thou wilt look up in gladness, 
 Though weak may be thy frame ; 
 
 Each sign of gloom and sadness 
 Will flee before My name. 
 
 Believe I am thy Saviour, 
 
 Thy ransom I have paid, 
 A crown of endless glory 
 
 For thee in heaven laid. 
 
 Is thy name surely written 
 In the Lamb's Book of Life ? 
 
 Then, where should be thy trouble, 
 Thy doubts, and fears, or strife ? 
 
 Canst thou not rest thee calmly 
 
 Within My arms of love, 
 And feel that I will bear thee 
 
 Safe to the home above ? 
 
 And then the sweet sound faded. 
 While brighter grew the dawn ; 
 
 The light o'er moor and mountain 
 Proclaim another morn.
 
 S6 Am I His Child? 
 
 A calm content came o'er me, 
 I felt God's ways are best ; 
 
 I '11 humbly strive to trust Him, 
 And leave to Him the rest. 
 
 AM I HIS CHILD? 
 
 Romans viii. 17. 
 
 Oh, mighty If, how great Thou art ! 
 
 Where doth Thou stand for me? 
 A portal to the highest bliss, 
 
 On God's good just decree. 
 
 Can I say. Yes, I am His child, 
 What wondrous view folds out ! 
 
 For time, and for eternity. 
 Without one fear or doubt. 
 
 For if a child, why, then an heir — 
 The thought 's almost too grand ; 
 
 If 'twas not from the Lord Himself, 
 We could not understand.
 
 Am I His Child? S7 
 
 An heir of God, what 's hid beneath 
 Those words of truth sublime ? 
 
 Why, ever growing holiness, 
 Through all my span of time. 
 
 For as the heir when of right age 
 
 Should be fit to inherit 
 Whatever wealth his father left, 
 
 So shall we grow in spirit. 
 
 Our Father's hand will guide His child 
 Safe through all toil and danger ; 
 
 Daily more fit to share with Him, 
 Whose cradle was a manger. 
 
 And as from dawn the growing light 
 Brightens to noon-day splendour, 
 
 So all through life our hearts to Him 
 A glowing love shall render. 
 
 Oh, joyful thought, a child of God, 
 An heir of heaven's brightness ; 
 
 How beautiful each life will be 
 
 Stamped with the Saviour's likeness.
 
 58 What Can You Do? 
 
 WHAT CAN YOU DO ? 
 
 Written for a School Recitation. 
 
 A FIERCE battle is raging around us each 
 
 day, 
 Of what wondrous powers no mortal 
 
 can say; 
 It appeals, fellow-creature, to me and to 
 
 you. 
 With the heart searching question, 
 
 Now, what can you do ? 
 
 In this battle I speak of, no steel may 
 
 appear, 
 No visible armour, or glittering spear ; 
 But it cries to us all, Will you fight with 
 
 the few ? 
 Oh, answer this question ! 
 
 Say, what can you do ? 
 
 There 's no rich silken banner, or charger 
 so bold,
 
 W/iaJ Can You Do? 59 
 
 No gorgeous procession our senses to 
 
 hold; 
 But it pleads with a might, There is 
 
 right with the few, 
 Now, brother, pray tell us, 
 
 Which part can you do ? 
 
 There 's no time to be lost, if we 'd help 
 
 in the fray, 
 For our brothers and sisters are passing 
 
 away ; 
 And if we have power to aid but the 
 
 few, 
 Shall we waste it by failing 
 
 In what we can do? 
 
 The Generals are mighty which lead on 
 
 the van, 
 With deep skill and knowledge their 
 
 armies they plan ; 
 And the cry still goes on with its accent 
 
 so true, 
 Come, sisters, and tell us. 
 
 Which part can you do ?
 
 6o What Call You Do? 
 
 Do you know the Great Captain, who 
 
 leads the small band, 
 A strong faith can see Him, so noble He 
 
 stands ; 
 He cheers up the faint-hearted with love 
 
 strong and true, 
 And gives to the weakest, 
 
 Some part they can do. 
 
 Oh, believe there is power with those on 
 
 the right, 
 See how firm, true, and steadfast, they 
 
 stand in the fight ; 
 They know that the victory will come 
 
 to the few, 
 And no doubt mars the action 
 
 In what they can do. 
 
 There patience is waiting for what may 
 
 betide, 
 And content, her twin sister, stands 
 
 close to her side ; 
 Faith, so clear-eyed and strong, with 
 
 gaze full and true,
 
 W/iai Can You Do? 6i 
 
 And hope, beaming with gladness, is 
 
 following too ; 
 Kindness there is, all ready to place on 
 
 the brow 
 Of thrift, temperance, and labour, the 
 
 laurels won now ; 
 Humility 's willing to take a small place, 
 That trust, goodness, and meekness 
 
 have their own in the race, [band, 
 But time would me fail to tell how that 
 In this wondrous battle fight close hand 
 
 to hand. 
 
 But gaze on that phalanx where many 
 
 are seen, 
 What fearful companions are found 
 
 there I ween. 
 If they held up their character full to 
 
 our view. 
 We should cry out in horror. 
 
 Oh ! what can I do ? 
 
 There is self in all grades, from cobbler 
 to king,
 
 62 What Can You Do? 
 
 Deceit offering honey, under which is 
 the sting ; 
 
 There is envy's false smile, her feelings 
 to hide. 
 
 Black hate, in rebellion all rule to 
 deride ; 
 
 Impudence ready his foes to attack, 
 
 And greed failing to fight through the 
 load on his back. 
 
 There is luxury and sloth, anger, artful- 
 ness, strife. 
 
 Despair's downward look — what's his 
 interest in life ? 
 
 Indifference comes slow, discontent very 
 near, 
 
 Suspicion's quick start and sly stealthy 
 leer; 
 
 Unitarian, deist, drunkard, and thief, 
 
 With some great men of Science ; 
 
 But my list shall be brief, 
 
 For we shrink to take time with so fear- 
 ful a crew. 
 
 Yet they show us each moment, 
 
 There 's much work to do.
 
 What Can You Do? 63 
 
 But their leader is artful, so subtle and 
 
 strong, 
 He looks well about him while marching 
 
 along ; 
 And if some weak straggler 's apart from 
 
 the few, 
 He will send one to tempt him with 
 Great things to do. 
 
 Though we all have our duties, yet oft 
 
 in a day 
 There are moments of time we would 
 
 well give away 
 To win from the many, and strengthen 
 
 the few, 
 For there 's always work waiting that 
 Each one can do. 
 
 So look to our Captain, He is waiting 
 
 quite near, 
 With strong loving power our small 
 
 barks to steer,
 
 64 Possibilities of Grace. 
 
 He will show the best way we can add 
 
 to the few, 
 Then we never need doubt as to 
 What we can do. 
 
 POSSIBILITIES OF GRACE. 
 
 Possibilities of Grace, 
 
 Has my pen the power to trace 
 
 How we speed upon the race, 
 
 Under the banner of Jesus ! 
 
 Oh, the grace of faith how strong ! 
 It will deepen as we go on 
 Doing right and shunning wrong. 
 
 Under the banner of Jesus. 
 
 Grace of love, how sweet art thou ! 
 Our glad hearts to thee will bow, 
 Brightly pressing on just now, 
 
 Under the banner of Jesus.
 
 Possibilities of Gj'ace. 65 
 
 Grace of peace, what wondrous power 
 Comes from thee when sorrows lour, 
 Calmness grows with every hour. 
 
 Under the banner of Jesus. 
 
 Grace of patience, true and meek, 
 How thy growth we daily seek ! 
 Knowing thou wilt aid the weak. 
 
 Under the banner of Jesus. 
 
 Sweet content, how dost thou spread 
 Feast for those who truly fed 
 By thy power and onward led, 
 
 Under the banner of Jesus, 
 
 Gratitude, how dost thou bring 
 Speedy blessings from our King ! 
 Higher still our praise shall ring, 
 
 Under the banner of Jesus. 
 
 Humility, O grace so rare, 
 Pure as lily wondrous fair ; 
 Yet in thee we have full share, 
 
 Under the banner of Jesus. 
 
 E
 
 66 Pray On. 
 
 Joy, thou perfume of all grace, 
 Thou wilt gild our daily race, 
 Stamping on each hour thy trace, 
 
 Under the banner of Jesus. 
 
 Holy Spirit now reveal 
 Christ unto us, till we feel 
 His indwelling power is real. 
 
 And we live by faith in Jesus. 
 
 PRAY ON. 
 
 Pray on, pray on, O troubled soul. 
 Though darkness dense as night 
 
 Hath wrapt thee like a garment round, 
 And thou canst see no light. 
 
 Pray on, pray on ; there 's peace and rest, 
 
 And deep full joy to come, 
 Before you gain the Heavenly land, 
 
 If God's will 's fully done. 
 
 Pray on, pray on, the light shines clear. 
 Doubt not nor be dismayed ;
 
 Pray 0?t. 67 
 
 The power of perfect trust will come, 
 Though for a time delayed. 
 
 Pray on, pray on, though words should 
 fail, 
 
 And helpless seem thy case ; 
 God only waits until we see 
 
 The light from Jesus' face. 
 
 Pray on, pray on, still take thy need. 
 
 That burning wish of thine, 
 Close to the Cross, look up and see 
 
 The human and Divine. 
 
 Pray on, pray on, with earnest zeal, 
 
 Give doubt no time to rest, 
 For that will but delay the peace 
 
 You need within your breast. 
 
 Pray on, pray on, ask not the why, 
 
 For that is not thy part ; 
 The why is with the great I Am, 
 
 Who readeth every heart.
 
 6S In the Name of Jesus. 
 
 Pray on, pray till self-consciousness 
 
 Is crucified in Him, 
 Then grace renews what sin hath made 
 
 So foully stained and dim. 
 
 Pray on, pray till His image grows 
 
 To likeness all can trace, 
 For living Him thou wilt become 
 
 A monument of grace. 
 
 Pray on, pray on, //// prayer becomes 
 
 A lower note of praise, 
 Then peace and joy and work be thine 
 
 With Him through all thy days. 
 
 IN THE NAME OF JESUS. 
 
 What a gleam of brightness, doth His 
 name bestow ! [below ; 
 
 Glinting on the actions of His saints 
 
 What a light of glory will His name 
 afford ! [Lord. 
 
 In the heavenly mansions of our risen
 
 /// tJie Name of Jestis. 6g 
 
 Tiny cup of water, given in His 
 name, 
 
 Brings a richer blessing than some deeds 
 of fame ; 
 
 In the light of heaven will the ran- 
 somed sing, 
 
 Joyfully receiving praises from their 
 King. 
 
 Words and deeds of kindness, done in 
 
 Jesus' name, 
 Though unknown to others, on Him 
 
 have a claim ; 
 And in heaven's brightness, how each 
 
 deed will shine ! 
 As it bears a likeness to our Lord 
 
 Divine. 
 
 Poor and all unworthy as each act may 
 
 seem — 
 Slight and unsubstantial, as phases of a 
 
 dream,
 
 70 I Ask not the Why, 
 
 Yet look, word, and action, done for 
 
 Christ the King, 
 Shine with a perfection nothing else 
 
 will bring. 
 
 How they glow and glitter in the glori- 
 ous light ! 
 
 Where no sun is needed, where there is 
 no night, 
 
 As the glory chaseth all the gloom 
 away, 
 
 For Jesus is the brightness of that end- 
 less day. 
 
 I 
 
 I ASK NOT THE WHY. 
 
 Why taken to London at all ? 
 
 That 's a nut I defy you to crack, 
 It's too much for a mouth large or 
 small ; 
 
 Though Satan suggests an attack.
 
 I Ask not the Why. yi 
 
 Why taken to breathe in the air 
 That was poison to every part, 
 
 Making pain so much harder to bear, 
 And nerves so much quicker to start ? 
 
 Why, why, should the money be lost, 
 Pass away like a storm in the wind ; 
 
 Or as boat in a tempest be tossed, 
 Till it leaves not a vestige behind ? 
 
 Why, why, should the artful ones thrive 
 And flourish, like bay tree so green. 
 
 While the honest ones struggle and strive. 
 Through deep waters and trials un- 
 seen ? 
 
 Why, why, should the pain often rack ? 
 
 Is a problem he 'd fain have me try, 
 And follow the tortuous track, 
 
 To find out that wonderful why. 
 
 Ah, Satan ! but that is your case : 
 
 You could give me fine reasons by 
 dozens —
 
 72 I Ask 71 ot the Why. 
 
 But in every one I could trace 
 
 Such a likeness, that makes them 
 first cousins. 
 
 You say, Find out the why, and there '11 be 
 A clear light on the path you can 
 tread, 
 
 All mystery be taken from thee, 
 And knowledge be granted instead. 
 
 You say, Why is the key that unlocks 
 The gate of that palace so fair ? 
 
 Once enter, no other thing blocks 
 One way to the joys that are there. 
 
 Now, Satan, be off with your why ! 
 
 With tJiat I have nothing to do ; 
 It 's strength I 'm not going to try, 
 
 For 'tis held by one stronger than you. 
 
 He knows this mysterious why ; 
 
 I 'm content it should rest in the hand 
 That was pierced, soul and body to buy. 
 
 With a love that we can't understand.
 
 I Ask not the Why. 73 
 
 Love that promises nothing shall harm, 
 But all things shall work for our 
 good; 
 Love that keeps the soul restful and 
 calm, 
 To the body sends clothing and food ; 
 
 Love that gives the mind quiet and 
 peace. 
 
 Causing each anxious fear to depart, 
 Making all our best powers increase, 
 
 Till Christ dwell by faith in our heart. 
 
 So, Satan, be off with your why ! 
 
 An answer I 've given to thee ; 
 No doubt, you will other souls try, 
 
 But this time you Ve quite failed with 
 me.
 
 74 To My Husband. 
 
 TO MY HUSBAND. 
 
 Fain would I greet the thirty-first 
 With deeper sense of all your worth ; 
 And tender wishes, warm and true, 
 That richest blessings rest on you. 
 Through the changes of the year, 
 May there be no doubt or fear ; 
 Every step be taken right, 
 Feeling all is in God's sight ; 
 Trust His wisdom and His grace. 
 To fix aright our dwelling-place, 
 To fix it where, through this life's day, 
 We best may tread the narrow way. 
 Finding joy with one another, 
 Giving help to friend or brother. 
 Have what's good for strength and 
 
 health. 
 Better far than worldly wealth. 
 And peaceful Sabbaths as they come 
 Sanctifying all the home. 
 
 I feel as if I now could creep 
 
 Close to God's footstool and there keep. 
 
 I
 
 To My Husband. 75 
 
 To think that I 've no power to be 
 A better helpmeet unto thee. 
 So many things I long to do, 
 That would bring comfort unto you ; 
 For all your burdens I would share, 
 And give my help in every care — 
 Oft meet you with a glad surprise 
 To bring the brightness to your eyes ; 
 Lighten the shadows of the way 
 In cheerful spirits day by day. 
 
 But this has all been put aside — 
 
 God bids me quietly abide 
 
 And do the work He gives to me, 
 
 Instead of that I want for thee. 
 
 And so His work vmst be the best ; 
 
 In this great thought I fain would 
 
 rest, 
 That by His grace I '11 help you most, 
 Rightly to seek the Holy Ghost ; 
 Help in the wondrous mental strife 
 Which must be in Spirit's life. 
 Must be in all who strive to tread 
 In the same steps where Jesus led.
 
 76 Wall-Flowers. 
 
 Higher and higher onward still 
 Until we glory in God's will ; 
 And if this grace be granted me, 
 Then a real helpmeet shall I be : 
 Content through all this care and pain, 
 Content to find my loss thy gain. 
 Content until in endless day 
 Our God shall wipe all tears away, 
 And you and I together be 
 Happy through all Eternity. 
 
 WALL-FLOWERS. 
 
 One of the first to show my buds 
 Amid the clustering green ; 
 
 One of the last to fade away 
 Before the north wind keen. 
 
 I need no gardener's tender care 
 To make me blossom right, 
 
 No house of glass or heated stove 
 To bring fort'-' petals bright.
 
 Wall-Floivers. TJ 
 
 A little cranny in the wall 
 Holds room enough for me ; 
 
 If there my tiny seed should fall, 
 I bloom both full and free. 
 
 Up, up, upon some lofty tower, 
 My banner streams on high, 
 
 My yellow buds and bright green leaves 
 Seen clear against the sky. 
 
 How fine I look in some bit spot 
 
 Beside a cottage door ; 
 Of flowers striped and crimson dyed 
 
 I show a goodly store. 
 
 The children as they go to school 
 
 Will gather many a spray, 
 Inhale my perfume with delight, 
 
 And then, I 'm flung away ! 
 
 Some gaily painted butterfly 
 
 They chase along the road, 
 Or climbing up a goodly tree 
 
 To view the bird's abode.
 
 78 Wall-Flozvers. 
 
 I often grow in quiet spot, 
 On some great lord's estate ; 
 
 And even there my perfume sweet 
 Will gratify the great. 
 
 But poor or rich, it matters not, 
 
 No difference I trace ; 
 Yet strive my very best to fill 
 
 Aright my little space. 
 
 You see me heaped in many a pile, 
 And carried through the street ; 
 
 In squalid alley, foul and dim, 
 I send my perfume sweet. 
 
 And in the wider thoroughfare. 
 
 The passers-by will smile, 
 As 'mid the dust and glare they scent 
 
 My perfume for awhile. 
 
 And dirty little children run 
 
 To catch a fallen spray. 
 For if they find a flower or two. 
 
 With glee they run away.
 
 Wall-Flowers. 79 
 
 And many a weary sufferer 
 
 Will greet me with a smile ; 
 For pleasant thoughts oft come with 
 flowers, 
 
 Their sadness to beguile. 
 
 Thus day by day I gather up 
 Smiles, laughter, gladness, joy, 
 
 And through each season do the work — 
 For God doth me employ. 
 
 And if I, but a common flower, 
 Some holy thoughts can win, 
 
 What should you ? who hath reason's 
 dower. 
 Find work to do for Him. 
 
 Oh, art thou not encompassed by 
 
 Real work to do for Him — 
 To aid the souls which Satan bound, 
 
 And help them from their sin ? 
 
 What ! is your wondrous intellect, 
 The power of will and thought,
 
 8o Happy Home. 
 
 To pass away like idle dream, 
 
 Which no good work hath wrought ? 
 
 Up ! and be doing, woman, man, 
 
 Find out the Master now, 
 Then, close to Him, give all thy strength 
 
 To aid the Gospel plough. 
 
 HAPPY HOME. 
 
 Happy home, happy home, let the words 
 linger. 
 Full of sweet melodies, close to our 
 heart ; 
 Tracing each thought with love's own 
 fairy finger, 
 Ne'er from our households we '11 let it 
 depart. 
 
 Happy home, happy home of the earth's 
 treasures, 
 This is the greatest that e'er could be 
 given ;
 
 Happy Home. 8i 
 
 Bringing each day of our heart's deepest 
 pleasures, 
 Giving to each one a foretaste of 
 heaven. 
 
 Happy home, happy home, where every 
 member 
 Takes a full share in the joy, toil, and 
 care, 
 And carries the brightness of May in 
 December — 
 Then even in trouble we '11 never 
 despair. 
 
 Happy home, happy home, Christ in the 
 centre, 
 To hallow each hour while passing 
 away ; 
 To open each heart that His own love 
 may enter, 
 Then home will be dearer through 
 every day.
 
 82 Be Thou Faithful unto Death. 
 
 BE THOU FAITHFUL UNTO 
 DEATH, AND I WILL GIVE 
 THEE A CROWN OF LIFE. 
 
 Oh, blessed I, oh, blessed thou, 
 What golden link doth bind us ; 
 
 And, set with many a heavenly gem, 
 What glory hath enshrined us 1 
 
 The glistening light from Topaz bright 
 Tells of His patient dealing ; 
 
 And Beryl's gleams each moment seem 
 To aid our deepest feeling. 
 
 The Sapphire blue, with heaven's own 
 hue, 
 
 Shine there as truth most glorious ; 
 Carbuncle's glow, blood-red, doth show 
 
 That love hath been victorious. 
 
 Thus gold and gem united them, 
 That thou and I can't sever ;
 
 Be Thou Faithful unto Death, ^l 
 
 Unless thy heart take Satan's part, 
 The Saviour's thine for ever. 
 
 From death came life, and peace from 
 strife, 
 
 Good work from self-denial ; 
 His love to thee, so grand and free, 
 
 Brings joy through every trial. 
 
 Thus day by day His truth display, 
 And self we '11 find retreating 
 
 Back, back to him whose presence grim 
 Made Eden's bliss so fleeting. 
 
 Let patience work, no duty shirk, 
 The great I Am will lead thee 
 
 Onward each day the conquering way, 
 With heavenly manna feed thee. 
 
 No earthly crown or great renown. 
 His love shall be thy brightness ; 
 
 And just His way to perfect day. 
 Then glistening robe of whiteness.
 
 84 His Face Unveiled. 
 
 HIS FACE UNVEILED. 
 
 Written after reading a sermon by A. Brown, of Bow. 
 
 Lord, 
 Let us see Thy face of love 
 Beaming on us from above ; 
 Chasing every sigh and tear, 
 Lifting every doubt and fear ; 
 Winning us to follow Thee 
 In that love light, full and free. 
 So each day we grow in grace. 
 As we see Thy unveiled face. 
 
 Lord, 
 Thy holy face we 'd see, 
 That from evil we may flee ; 
 Yearn for purity within. 
 Shrink from every touch of sin ; 
 See Thy human nature true, 
 Learn what thou wouldst have us do ; 
 Strong will be our growth in grace, 
 Seeing that unveiled face.
 
 His Face Unveiled. 85 
 
 Lord, 
 Thy face when it is sad 
 We would see to make us glad ; 
 Glad to know that Thou dost share 
 Every burden we must bear ; 
 All our sorrow then will be 
 Working good to us by Thee ; 
 Truly we shall grow in grace 
 When we see that unveiled face. 
 
 Lord, 
 Dare we ever ask to see 
 Thine own face in agony ? 
 See the woe that sin there wrought, 
 See the victory dearly bought, 
 See Thee more than Conqueror now 
 With the blood drops on Thy brow ; 
 Deeply shall we grow in grace 
 If we see that unveiled face. 
 
 Lord, 
 All sin must hateful be 
 When Thy dead face we can see ; 
 See it in the holy calm 
 Satan had no power to harm ;
 
 86 Look Up. 
 
 With its majesty of peace, 
 Testifying our release ; 
 Restful be our growth in grace, 
 Gazing on that unveiled face. 
 
 Lord, 
 Thy face with radiance bright. 
 In its resurrection light, 
 Showing us the victory won, 
 And the great work fully done, 
 Nothing left for us to do 
 But to share the joy with you ; 
 Glorious be our growth in grace 
 While we see that unveiled face. 
 
 I 
 
 LOOK UP. 
 
 Look up, although we may not see the 
 light that there is shining ; 
 
 Look up, for only there is strength to 
 keep us from repining. 
 
 Look up, until we catch the gleam from 
 Jesus' face so glorious,
 
 A Birthday Wish. 87 
 
 Look up, for His great love in us shall 
 
 prove at length victorious. 
 Look up, that we may catch His light as 
 
 clouds when sun is setting ; 
 Look up, that by His peace inwrought 
 
 the soul is kept from fretting. 
 Look up that there may be revealed the 
 
 truth of love and beauty ; 
 When we look up there shines the light 
 
 on every daily duty. 
 Look up till life becomes a spring of 
 
 constant growing pleasure, 
 For God's own love is just the source of 
 
 untold hidden treasure. 
 
 A BIRTHDAY WISH. 
 
 "The Lord be with thee." 
 
 Oh, can I ask a greater gift, 
 
 Or breathe a better prayer, 
 Than in your thoughts and words and 
 ways, 
 
 The Lord may have His share !
 
 88 A Birthday Wish. 
 
 Ruling all powers thou dost possess, 
 
 With His expanding grace ; 
 That in each circumstance of life 
 
 You rightly fill your place. 
 
 Giving the Lord the first of all, 
 
 How nobly wilt thou live ! 
 And in the grace that owns thy gifts, 
 
 His love more joy will give. 
 
 We know not till the Spirit comes j 
 
 What power we have to do, " 
 
 Even the trifling acts of life. 
 With highest aims in view ; 
 
 We cannot tell the joy of faith 
 
 Till that joy fill the breast ; 
 Nor can we know how sweet His peace 
 
 Till His peace we possess. 
 
 The joy and peace which come from faith, 
 
 True, simple faith in Him, 
 Will leave 7io void, for Christ Himself 
 
 Will fill life to the brim.
 
 A Birthday Wish. 89 
 
 How full the living waters flow, 
 
 All dross to purge away ! 
 No room for sin to bud and grow — 
 
 The Lord with thee will stay. 
 
 Not as a stranger comes and goes, 
 
 Perhaps at eventide ; 
 But at the daily social meal 
 
 He ever will abide. 
 
 Nearer and nearer thou wilt grow, 
 
 As branch unites to vine, 
 Thought answering thought, heart beat 
 with Him, 
 
 Closely as tendrils twine. 
 
 And though the everlasting life 
 
 Here only can begin, 
 And thou must wait a purer world. 
 
 The higher bliss to win ; 
 
 Yet even here, how sweet and bright 
 
 The daily life can be ! 
 The promise still stands firm and true : 
 
 The Lord will be with thee.
 
 90 TJie Other Side. 
 
 So let us hail the thirty-first, 
 With praise for every grace, 
 
 And seek each passing year to be 
 More fit to see His face. 
 
 THE OTHER SIDE. 
 
 O Power that maketh two hearts one, 
 O stream which hath no tide, 
 But deeper, fuller, brighter flows, on to 
 
 The other side. 
 
 O Love which lightens every woe, 
 As on life's stream we glide, 
 Thou dost bridge over death itself, safe to 
 
 The other side. 
 
 O Spell, what mystic influence thou. 
 Which in few hearts abide, 
 In such deep, tender, clinging strength, 
 to reach 
 
 The other side.
 
 The Other Side. 91 
 
 O Bond that binds so closely dear, 
 That nothing can divide, 
 But with a purer flame will glow, when on 
 
 The other side, 
 
 O Breath from Him who gave the power, 
 What joy Thou dost provide 
 For those who love and look to be, com- 
 plete 
 
 The other side ! 
 
 O God, whose highest name is Love, 
 Come, in our hearts abide, 
 That one in Thee we here may be, and on 
 
 The other side.
 
 92 Not Worthy to Work. 
 
 NOT WORTHY TO WORK. 
 
 Ah, Satan ! what ? you here again, 
 You always know where to find me ; 
 
 Well, I think I have strength to sustain 
 Another small battle with thee. 
 
 Don't hurry, don't hurry to-day, 
 
 For your parcel is done up with care, 
 
 As if you quite meant to display | 
 
 A tempting bit so rich and rare. 
 
 Just something to make me consent 
 To your verdict, and say 'tis quite 
 right, 
 That of walking by faith I repent, 
 
 And henceforth I '11 try walking by 
 sight. 
 
 Oh, open your parcel, I pray, 
 
 Its contents I must plainly see ; 
 For so artful and sly is your way, 
 
 You would say black was white to 
 tempt me.
 
 Not Worthy to Work. 93 
 
 'Tis only suggestions you bring, 
 
 Which might not occur to my mind ; 
 
 If I think out and reason the thing, 
 I shall find them both helpful and 
 kind. 
 
 Looking back to the past, I must know 
 How the time passed with nothing 
 to do ; 
 And the hours dragged heavy and slow. 
 While no work that I wished came to 
 view. 
 
 Well, Satan, I take up your hint, 
 
 And let my thoughts follow the track ; 
 
 The trouble and time I '11 not stint. 
 To answer this artful attack. 
 
 I left London with eager delight, 
 To dwell in the country so fair, 
 
 And drank in each beautiful sight, 
 For of blessings I had a large share. 
 
 How friends gathered round I well know, 
 With actions and words full of love ;
 
 94 Not Worthy to Work. 
 
 In return I had naught to bestow, 
 But thanks to our Father above. 
 
 How I welcomed those tracts as a work 
 Through which even I might do good ! 
 
 By thus teaching no one could be hurt, 
 For they told them of spiritual food. 
 
 I felt knowing of Jesus would be 
 The power to put all wrong right ; 
 
 How dirt, drink, and vice must then flee 
 From those blessed with spiritual 
 sight. 
 
 And the Bible-class, yes, I was glad 
 To have those girls gather around ; 
 
 I was often more hopeful than sad, 
 For I prayed that good fruit might 
 abound. 
 
 Oh, yes, Satan, I freely confess, 
 From all this I was taken away ;
 
 Not Worthy to Work. 95 
 
 And the trial no mortal can guess, 
 How my heart yearned and pleaded 
 to stay. 
 
 Then to utter good-bye to each friend 
 Was such tender and exquisite pain ; 
 
 Though many were earnest and true, 
 I expected to see them again. 
 
 And my heart often aches with desire, 
 Once more in that dear spot to be ; 
 
 Feelings come as if they were inspired 
 That my work there is waiting for me. 
 
 Now, Satan, I open your wares — 
 
 'Neath these covers and wraps, what 
 dost lurk ? 
 
 Why the centre bit briefly declares, 
 'Tis because I 'm not worthy to work. 
 
 Oh, Satan, what trouble you take 
 To rub up my bump of conceit ; 
 
 But in this, like the " Why," I must make 
 Not an instant's delay to defeat.
 
 96 Not Worthy to Work. 
 
 Not worthy to work ! understand, 
 I always unworthy must be 
 
 In that work purely noble and grand, 
 That takes not one moment to see : 
 
 And unworthy I ever shall be, 
 To tell of the love that did give 
 
 All those years of the glorious bliss, 
 To teach sinful creatures to live. 
 
 Tell of patience, so noble and grand, 
 That bore contradiction and sneers ; 
 
 And with meekness of power did stand 
 'Midst the scoff of those foul Roman 
 jeers. 
 
 Tell of one life quite free from all sin, 
 Which He lived in the flesh on this 
 earth. 
 Ever ready the weakest to win, 
 
 Till they sought from Him spiritual 
 birth.
 
 Education. 97 
 
 Can I ever be worthy to plead 
 
 With others to trust in His Word ; 
 
 To seek till their souls too may feed 
 On the Fountain of Life from the 
 Lord ; 
 
 Till they learn what He came here to 
 teach — 
 That this life may be flooded with 
 bliss ; 
 For Be brought that pearl within reach — 
 Oh, yes, I 'm unworthy for this. 
 
 So, Satan, you 're wasting to-day, 
 And useless is all your disguise ; 
 
 You may just take your parcel away, 
 'Tis, as usual, a packet of lies. 
 
 EDUCATION. 
 
 I 'd crave a little explanation 
 
 Of what you mean by Education : 
 
 G
 
 98 Edztcation. 
 
 Surely it cannot be, my dear, 
 That, now you move in first - class 
 sphere. 
 You wish to have within your reach 
 The ready word or well-turned speech ; 
 To talk as glib of things at Rome, 
 As those you daily see at home ; 
 Or speak of many a king whose reign 
 In France or Italy, Greece or Spain, 
 Were marked by some event so great, 
 Or how he kept up sumptuous state ; 
 How for a mad king they invented 
 Those cards, and many have repented 
 That ever they beheld the face 
 Of king or queen, of knave or ace. 
 Don't think I 've any inclination 
 To write a sneer at any station ; 
 I 've true respect for each and all — 
 The high and noble, rich or small — 
 But this is what I most resent. 
 That in the mass so few 're content ; 
 Think of the many in this nation 
 So discontented with their station. 
 Instead of trying with all might
 
 Education. 99 
 
 To make their tiny circle bright, 
 Doing their best each day to give 
 Some joy to those with whom they Hve, 
 They tread upon their neighbour's 
 
 ground, 
 And show surprise because they found 
 So many prickly thorns and briars 
 To irritate their own desires ; 
 And civilisation made it worse, 
 Whether we worship mind or purse, 
 So many things are twisted round. 
 The trumpet gives uncertain sound, 
 Among the rest in consternation, 
 Is this high-sounding Education ! 
 Yet often are we made to feel 
 'Tis like thick varnish over deal. 
 Not honest polish by the hand — 
 If 'twas, then we could understand 
 Whether the wood was good or no, 
 If fit for use or only show ; 
 Could trace each mark and fibrous vein. 
 But this I earnestly maintain 
 That people often make mistake 
 With those they think they educate.
 
 lOo Education. 
 
 The word itself aright defined, 
 Means nurture, discipline of mind ; 
 'Tis something higher, nobler, better 
 Than all they teach by form or letter ; 
 Not graceful flow of words and prattle. 
 As if our tongue were doing battle. 
 But clasp my hand and we will rise 
 To fairer views and brighter skies. 
 Just think how grand is the foundation 
 When God begins our education • 
 How deep He dives within the heart 
 To sanctify each hidden part ! 
 Lay but our will before His feet 
 And He will make the work complete. 
 Then love becomes both pure and holy, 
 And, though we note the growth but 
 
 slowly, 
 It grows with every little trial, 
 Until the power of self-denial 
 Becomes a clear and well-known part, 
 Rooted within a Christian's heart ; 
 For deep 's the trench where self is laid. 
 And with humility 'tis paved ; 
 How vanity must slink away
 
 Education, i o i 
 
 Before the power of Gospel ray, 
 Not only vanity of station, 
 Of look or dress or education, 
 But that of a more subtle kind, 
 When praise can elevate the mind ; 
 And like to Nebuchadnezzar's feeling 
 A gladness o'er our senses stealing. 
 Till satisfaction sits in state, 
 Before we know she 's in the gate. 
 I do not mean that sweet sensation 
 When God shows us His approbation, 
 After sore struggle and prayer, maybe. 
 When grace has gained the victory ; 
 Nor do I mean when one most dear, 
 Whose deathless love is mixed with 
 
 fear 
 Lest we should say or do a wrong, 
 Knowing our enemy 's so strong, 
 That if we leave the smallest place 
 Unguarded, he will find the space ; 
 But when a loved one gives us praise, 
 'Tis food to last for many days. 
 And God permits us such to eat — 
 The manna was itself most sweet ;
 
 102 Education. 
 
 Then every day as God works more, 
 So all our pleasure will be pure ; 
 If we enjoy because He gives it, 
 We shall not cloy when we receive it ; 
 Then sweet content will fill the part 
 That 's built for her in every heart ; 
 It keeps the lips from many a grumble, 
 And guards the feet from many a stumble ; 
 Opens our eyes to joys unknown, 
 That thickly cluster round our home. 
 And if we have this grand foundation, 
 We each may build our education. 
 Art ! build thy edifice most fair, 
 With pinnacles and arches rare — 
 Picture the galleries with food 
 For mind and eye in all that 's good ; 
 And music ! let the joyful sound 
 Of melody float all around ; 
 Measure the heavens, name each star, 
 Learn of the countries near and far. 
 The mountains grand, the cedars tall, 
 The desert sand, the waterfall ; 
 Class everyflower that gems theground 
 And beautifies this earth around ;
 
 Cast Thy Burden on the Lord. 103 
 
 As time and wealth and health are 
 
 given, 
 Each day, more fit for earth and 
 
 heaven. 
 Should we be sure that we inherit 
 A double portion of the Spirit — 
 It then will give us small vexation 
 If we lack earthly Education. 
 
 CAST THY BURDEN ON THE 
 LORD. 
 
 May 2,'ist. 
 
 Every bit of my burden, 
 
 Lord, I 'd give to Thee ; 
 I crave for that grand liberty 
 
 By which Thou dost make free. 
 
 Every bit of my burden, 
 
 1 would not keep a share. 
 But casting it before Thy Cross, 
 
 I 'd leave it in Thy care.
 
 I04 Cast Thy Burden on the Lord. 
 
 Every bit of my burden, 
 For I would walk upright, 
 
 With joy fulfil my daily work 
 Completely in Thy sight. 
 
 Every bit of my burden, 
 
 Or it will mar my speed, 
 And spoil the power of heart and 
 mind 
 
 Which every day doth need. 
 
 Every bit of my burden. 
 No clouds want I between ; 
 
 But love, and joy, and peace to flow 
 From Thee the great Unseen. 
 
 i 
 
 t>' 
 
 Every bit of my burden. 
 Then dark despair will hide 
 
 Its puckered brow and dismal look 
 Far from Thy wounded side. 
 
 Every bit of my burden, 
 And I shall be quite free 
 
 From all the bondage Satan tries 
 Each day to cast round me.
 
 Col. i. IQ ; a. g. 105 
 
 Every bit of my burden, 
 
 Lord ! is it really true 
 That I should live without a care, 
 
 And all should fall on you ? 
 
 Oh, send Thy Holy Spirit ! 
 
 That I may clearly see 
 My every care is truly Thine, 
 
 And Love, Thy Love 's for me. 
 
 COL. i. 19 ; ii. 9. 
 
 For it pleased the Father, oh wonder- 
 ful thought. 
 
 How free the salvation for sinners Christ 
 bought ; 
 
 For it pleased the Father, and glad 
 should we be 
 
 To rejoice in the goodness which thus 
 set us free;
 
 lo6 Col. i. ig ; it. g. 
 
 For it pleased the Father who all things 
 
 does well, 
 That in Jesus our Saviour, all fulness 
 
 should dwell ; 
 For it pleased the Father, in Christ to 
 
 complete 
 A safe narrow pathway for stumbling 
 
 feet ; 
 For it pleased the Father, whose full 
 
 name is Love, 
 To hold out the hand-clasp from 
 
 heaven above ; 
 For it pleased the Father, the weakest 
 
 to win, 
 By lifting the barrier to let them all in ; 
 For it pleased the Father a body to give, 
 Prepared where the Godhead in Jesus 
 
 could live ; 
 For it pleased the Father that bright 
 
 crimson stain 
 Should sprinkle the pathway for deaf, 
 
 blind, and lame; 
 For it pleased the Father, yet how can 
 
 we tread
 
 Just as Thou Wilt 107 
 
 On that holy ground where the Saviour 
 
 hath bled ? 
 For it pleased the Father, and Satan 
 
 must feel 
 He was but permitted to bruise the 
 
 Lord's heel ; 
 For it pleased the Father, then loud let 
 
 us sing, 
 And grow in the knowledge of Jesus our 
 
 King; 
 Each day in the sunshine of love, we can 
 
 tell 
 That in Jesus our Saviour God's fulness 
 
 doth dwell. 
 
 JUST AS THOU WILT. 
 
 Just as Thou wilt. Lord, 
 Sickness or health ; 
 
 Just as Thou wilt, Lord, 
 Poverty, wealth ;
 
 io8 Just as Thou Wilt. 
 
 Just as Thou wilt, Lord, 
 If I 'm only Thine, 
 
 To serve Thee on earth, 
 Then in glory to shine. 
 
 Just as Thou wilt. Lord, 
 
 Teach me the way 
 Daily to seek Thee, 
 
 To serve and obey. 
 Just as Thou wilt, Lord, 
 
 Shall be all the rest. 
 For well do I know 
 
 That Thy way is the best. 
 
 Just as Thou wilt, Lord, 
 
 Live Thou in me ; 
 Happy my life, Lord, 
 
 Joyous and free, 
 To one so unworthy, 
 
 If grace be but given 
 To tread the bright pathway 
 
 From earth up to heaven.
 
 Almost Saved. 109 
 
 Just as Thou wilt, Lord, 
 
 Satan is strong ; 
 Stretch out Thy hand, Lord, 
 
 To keep me from wrong ; 
 And when he is tempting 
 
 Me to the broad way, 
 Lord, send me Thy Spirit 
 
 For fear I should stray. 
 
 Just as Thou wilt, Lord, 
 
 Make my will Thine ; 
 In every trial 
 
 I ne'er shall repine. 
 My faith will be steadfast, 
 
 And firm to the end ; 
 The love that has bought me 
 
 Will always defend. 
 
 ALMOST SAVED. 
 
 Almost saved, almost saved I 
 Sadly the words ring out to me,
 
 no Almost Saved. 
 
 Like the boom of a gun from a sinking 
 ship, 
 Sounding over the stormy sea, 
 
 Almost saved. 
 
 Almost saved, the land so nigh 
 
 That loving ones could clearly hear. 
 In the midst of the roar of the troubled 
 sea, 
 That wailing, piercing cry of fear, 
 
 Almost saved. 
 
 Almost saved, as still they see 
 
 Those twinkling lights along the shore ; 
 Which so tauntingly gleam to despair- 
 ing eyes 
 So near the well-known cottage door, 
 
 Almost saved. 
 
 Almost saved, some tiny sin 
 
 Tempted them with its smiling face ; 
 Till it led far away from the narrow 
 path. 
 Deeper, deeper into disgrace. 
 
 Almost saved.
 
 Almost Saved. 1 1 1 
 
 Almost saved, they thought no wrong 
 Just to step off from God's straight 
 way ; 
 There could be no harm, 'twas done all 
 around, 
 Yet those poor souls would have to 
 say, 
 
 Almost saved. 
 
 Almost saved, 'twas angel eyes 
 
 They thought would lead them on the 
 road ; 
 And they deemed it right to follow the 
 track 
 Which led away from God's abode, 
 
 Almost saved. 
 
 Almost saved, a little more 
 
 Of wrestling with the tempter's power; 
 Had they sought for His aid, with a 
 firmer faith, 
 Never would come that gloomy hour. 
 
 Almost saved.
 
 112 A Bee^s Soliloquy. 
 
 A BEE'S SOLILOQUY. 
 
 " If no honey, then wax." 
 
 O Joy, I can't find thee to-day, 
 Come patience, let us plod away 
 And stop my moaning ; 
 
 sweet content, where canst thou be ? 
 Well industry, I '11 bide with thee 
 
 To cease from groaning. 
 Ah, praise with thee the woods should f j 
 
 ring, 
 But perseverance help shall bring, 
 
 Lest work should tire. 
 And gratitude, hast thou too fled ? 
 Then faith shall fill the place instead 
 
 And aid desire. 
 
 1 fain my heart with peace would fill. 
 Humility abide here still, 
 
 I '11 not stop growing. 
 O Bee, could I but learn of thee j 
 
 And use each opportunity f| 
 
 Of God's bestowing.
 
 Take No Thought for the Morrow. 113 
 
 Until I really see His love 
 Shine clear on me from Christ above, 
 And my glad heart can send back love 
 Fresh, full, and glowing. 
 
 TAKE NO THOUGHT FOR 
 THE MORROW. 
 
 One day at a time, one day at a time, 
 How sweetly those words can tell 
 
 That the wisdom and love are all Divine 
 Which measured my strength so well. 
 
 One day at a time, one day at a time, 
 
 'Tis surely enough for me ; 
 If the light from Thy face on each duty 
 shine, 
 
 It must brinfj me nearer Thee. 
 
 ^t> 
 
 One day at a time, one day at a time, 
 There 's plenty of work to do ; 
 
 But the work which I crave must all be 
 Thine — 
 I would labour with the few. 
 
 H
 
 1 14 Birthday Wishes. 
 
 One day at a time, one day at a time, 
 Take my powers and let them be 
 
 Made pure by Thy love, till all combine 
 To lead a soul to Thee. 
 
 One day at a time, one day at a time, 
 My strength with TJiy joy now fill ; 
 
 Let a pulse of Thy life make my own 
 sublime, 
 As I work into God's will. 
 
 One day at a time, one day at a time, 
 
 In simple trust I say 
 That the wisdom and love are all Divine 
 
 Which guideth me through each day. 
 
 BIRTHDAY WISHES. 
 
 May 2)\st. 
 
 Now what shall I wish you ? a full self- 
 surrender 
 To Him who hath borne all thy 
 sorrow and sin,
 
 Birthday Wishes. 1 1 5 
 
 And proveth Himself a completed 
 
 Redeemer [win ? 
 
 By giving the power each victory to 
 
 Now what shall I wish you ? a peace 
 ever flowing 
 Through the water and blood from 
 His spear-riven side ; 
 His peace which TJiy trials shall aid in 
 the growing, 
 Then ;/^^'Z;/;/^ shall harm thee whate'er 
 may betide. 
 
 Now what shall I wish you ? a trust so 
 resplendent, 
 Just wedged between mountains of 
 faith in the Lord, 
 No thing can disturb, 'tis securely trans- 
 cendent, [Word ? 
 Because the foundation is built on His 
 
 Now what shall I wish you ? a faith so 
 clear-sighted, 
 That invisible things in their power 
 are near ?
 
 Ii6 Birthday Wishes. 
 
 Then the thickest of clouds will not find 
 thee benighted, 
 For Christ is the compass by which 
 thou wilt steer. 
 
 Now what shall I wish you? a love deep 
 and glowing 
 To worship the Lord in the strength 
 of thy soul, 
 And finding Him ready. His own love 
 bestowing, 
 Engulfing thy heart where no tide 
 doth control ? 
 
 Now what shall I wish you ? a joy full 
 of brightness 
 To dwell in your heart as you live 
 through each day ? 
 Then the cares and the trials of earth 
 will find lightness 
 As you consciously walk in the 
 strait, narrow way.
 
 This Space to Let. 1 1 7 
 
 Now what shall I wish you ? a dignified 
 meekness, 
 As you walk on this earth with His 
 calm in thine heart, 
 May the praises of men or their blame 
 find no weakness, 
 Nor Satan get room to discharge a 
 swift dart. 
 
 Now what shall I wish you ? why, bless- 
 ings unnumbered. 
 That circles a home, where the souls 
 learn to see 
 That true work for the Master is free 
 and uncumbered ; 
 And this work I ask Him for thee 
 and for me. 
 
 THIS SPACE TO LET. 
 
 On the blank page of a letter these words were 
 written — This space to Let. 
 
 This space to let, come, let me try 
 Some thoughts to borrow, beg, or buy ;
 
 1 1 8 This Space to Let. 
 
 This empty space wherewith to fill, 
 To do it well is past my skill. 
 
 This space to let, now oft might we 
 Write this above our memory ; 
 So many blessings are forgot, 
 So dolefully we bear our lot. 
 
 This space to let, 'twas never meant 
 That we should rest with this content 
 But strive to have no empty space. 
 With good work filling up each place. 
 
 This space to let, God grant that we 
 May do His work with energy ; 
 For taint of sin, remember, yet 
 Clings close around each space to let. 
 
 This space to let, soon Satan's eye 
 The smallest vacant space will spy, 
 And quickly send some evil thought 
 To fill the space he never bought.
 
 All on the Surface. 119 
 
 This space to let, O Saviour dear, 
 Send to us, from Thiy own bright sphere, 
 Thy Spirit good our hearts to fill 
 With love unto Thy blessed will. 
 
 That every space may bear its fruit, 
 From Thine own self its spring and root ; 
 Then we '11 not murmur with regret, 
 Would I had left no Space to Let. 
 
 ALL ON THE SURFACE. 
 
 All on the surface, and no thing beneath, 
 Like a vine full of leaves, or no sword in 
 
 the sheath ; 
 All on the surface, the show and parade, 
 With their bows, smiles, and compli- 
 ments, all ready made; 
 All on the surface, the coat must fit well, 
 Or society's frown at the culprit will tell ; 
 All on the surface must follow the code 
 Of fashion, in each thing be quite a la 
 mode ;
 
 120 Live io God. 
 
 All on the surface, the cut of the vest 
 Must be perfect ! no matter what heart 's 
 
 in the breast — 
 It may swell high with passion, or turn 
 
 cold with hate, 
 It may revel in envy at other's estate. 
 But if all on the surface be calm and 
 
 serene, 
 Who heeds any tempers that dwell there 
 
 unseen ? 
 
 LIVE TO GOD. 
 
 No matter where should be my lot — 
 Be it a palace or a cot ; 
 To throw the shuttle, turn the clod. 
 Be this my motto — Live to God ! 
 
 If it be wealth with grand estate. 
 Or toil from early morn till late, 
 Or tremble at a despot's nod, 
 Be this my motto — Live to God !
 
 Sympathy. 121 
 
 To never have one moment's ease, 
 Or never do one thing I please, 
 Or look for rest but 'neath the sod, 
 Still be my motto — Live to God ! 
 
 Though every day should bring much 
 
 care, 
 And great the burden I must bear, 
 I '11 humbly bow beneath the rod, 
 And keep the motto — Live to God ! 
 
 SYMPATHY. 
 
 Although I am a stranger, 
 Yet how pleasant it will be, 
 
 If like a gleam of sunshine 
 I brought comfort unto thee. 
 
 For I know you must be weary, 
 So tired of sitting still ; 
 
 While hands and feet are wanting 
 To move just as you will.
 
 122 
 
 Syinpathy. 
 
 You see so many duties, 
 And wish each one to do ; 
 
 To sit still is so irksome, 
 Almost too much for you ; 
 
 And I can just feel with you, 
 I know how great the loss 
 
 Not to have power to move about, 
 That is a daily cross. 
 
 Yet liberty is given, 
 
 There are three paths to choose ; 
 And 'tis my past experience 
 
 I give for you to use. 
 
 First, I could be rebellious. 
 And say it was not right 
 
 That I should just be put aside 
 From work that was delight. 
 
 And why should other people 
 Have power to come and go ? 
 
 While I in weary pain should count 
 The hours that drag so slow.
 
 Sympathy. 123 
 
 And oft my mind was fretted 
 
 In thinking of my cross ; 
 And many an hour I wasted 
 
 In pondering o'er my loss. 
 
 A second way was open : 
 I could sit in sullen mood, 
 
 Bearing the great monotony, 
 Taking my daily food ; 
 
 The done could not be undone, 
 All my talk would be in vain ; 
 
 If I was fated here to sit 
 I had better not complain. 
 
 But a third way yet was offered, 
 
 Very narrow to my view ; 
 And patience must be taken up, 
 
 If I would travel through ; 
 
 Self must be placed in bondage. 
 And grace must have full power 
 
 To lop off every useless twig 
 That sprouteth any hour ;
 
 1 24 Sympathy. 
 
 I must never put a limit 
 
 To weariness or pain. 
 But rest upon the promise given 
 
 That loss would yet be gain ; 
 
 Believe and trust, trust and believe, 
 God doeth all things well ; 
 
 The why must be put on one side, 
 What 's best to me He '11 tell. 
 
 And as the weeks thus lengthen out 
 To months, and on to years. 
 
 How graciously He helpeth me 
 Through all my doubts and fears. 
 
 Each day He giveth to me power 
 
 To live within the day ; 
 Each morning He is waiting still, 
 
 To help me on His way. 
 
 What He has for to-morrow's strength, 
 That need not trouble me ; 
 
 It may be light upon a path 
 I shall delight to see.
 
 With a Gift. 125 
 
 The clouds at any moment's time 
 May let the sunshine through ; 
 
 I only need to know His Will, 
 And seek that Will to do. 
 
 WITH A GIFT. 
 
 " Gold, gold, gold, gold, 
 
 Bright and yellow, hard and cold, 
 
 Molten, graven, hammered, and rolled, 
 
 Gold, gold, gold, gold." 
 
 Hood. 
 
 Thus said the man whose ready wit 
 Could make the lines so quaintly fit. 
 
 That reading was a pleasure. 
 Whose subtle brain could twist and 
 
 turn 
 To use the words which others spurn. 
 
 Such wit 's a boundless treasure. 
 
 But my poor brain can not compare 
 With such keen power, rich and rare, 
 I could not write a sonnet.
 
 126 With a Gift. 
 
 For difference vast be understood, 
 Tvvixt him whose head could own a 
 Hood, 
 And one who wears a bonnet. 
 
 Now to commemorate this day, 
 And make its memory live for aye, 
 
 I send this golden present. 
 Though small its worth, thou '11 not re- 
 fuse, 
 Often the little gift to use, 
 
 With recollection pleasant. 
 
 The stars and stripes thereon engraved, 
 May illustrate the light and shade 
 
 To us in this life given. 
 So near each other yet apart, 
 Like joy and sorrow in a heart. 
 
 When pressing on to heaven. 
 
 O happy thought for us to know 
 'Tis stars above, and stripes below. 
 If we believe the Word :
 
 With a Gift. 127 
 
 And looking forward clearly see 
 An endless, bright eternity, 
 
 For those who love the Lord. 
 
 But now my earnest wish shall be. 
 That when this gift is used by thee, 
 
 'Twill always strengthen right. 
 That goodness, honesty, and truth. 
 Those sure, safe guides to age and 
 youth, 
 
 May aid thee in life's fight. 
 
 O Pen, how wonderful thy power 
 For ill or good in one short hour, 
 
 Should gifted mortal use it. 
 Few of thy strokes it takes to make 
 A vast amount of cash at stake, 
 
 Your trust, should friend abuse it. 
 
 How great our trial is none can tell. 
 
 Save Him who doeth all things well. 
 
 And knows our one desire :
 
 128 An Appeal from a Sick- Bed. 
 
 That we like gold, when sorely tried, 
 May come out clean and purified, 
 By passing through His fire. 
 
 AN APPEAL FROM A SICK-BED. 
 
 Sister, turn from sin and sorrow, 
 
 From all the tempting paths of guilt ; 
 
 Come to Him who gently calls you, 
 For your soul His blood was spilt. 
 
 Sister, turn from guilty pleasure, 
 
 Though hard the struggle, great the 
 pain ; 
 
 Come to Him who now will help you. 
 And take away your sin and shame. 
 
 Sister, turn from Satan's whisper. 
 That 'tis too late for such as you ; 
 
 Come to Him who has the power. 
 Now to create your heart anew.
 
 An Appeal from a Sick- Bed. 129 
 
 Sister, turn ; our hands are open 
 
 To welcome yours with loving clasp ; 
 
 Our hearts in tenderness are yearning, 
 To rescue you from Satan's grasp. 
 
 Sister, turn ; no looks of scorning 
 Will Christians dare on you to cast ; 
 
 But humbly strive to help the erring, 
 To turn from all the bitter past. 
 
 Looking back through many ages, 
 See, there a crowd is pressing on ; 
 
 In the midst a helpless woman, 
 Whom they regard with bitter scorn. 
 
 Placing her before the Saviour — 
 
 How great the sin which makes her 
 feel- 
 She cannot meet His gaze so holy — 
 Nor dare she as a suppliant kneel. 
 
 Droopingly she stands before Him, 
 With downcast eyes and heaving 
 breast ; 
 
 I
 
 130 Ajt Appeal from a Sick- Bed. 
 
 How deep she feels her degradation, 
 By words can never be expressed. 
 
 Scarce she hears those clamorous voices, 
 Each eager for an answer now ; 
 
 " Rabbi, Master," so says Moses, 
 
 " Hear us, tell us, what sayest thou ? " 
 
 Scarce she heeds the sudden silence 
 Which follows on the Master's voice ; 
 
 Or her poor brow would cease its 
 throbbing, 
 And her sad heart would then rejoice. 
 
 Hark ! swelling on the solemn stillness. 
 No harsh rebuke comes sounding o'er ; 
 
 But gentlest, tenderest words of pity : 
 " Daughter, go and sin no more." 
 
 Oh ! yes, methinks till life's last hour, 
 Though battling with temptations 
 sore, [power— 
 
 Those precious words ne'er lost their 
 " Daughter, go and sin no more."
 
 To A.B. 131 
 
 TO A. B. 
 
 Far away from the Master, 
 My dear, how can that be ? 
 
 For is it not a glorious fact, 
 He 's never far from Thee. 
 
 Far away from the Master, 
 
 I cannot think 'tis so ; 
 But just some earthly mists which rise 
 
 To keep thy spirits low. 
 
 Oh, think how near was Mary, 
 How earnest she did plead : 
 
 Sir, tell me where you laid Him, 
 That I may go with speed. 
 
 How very near the Master, 
 
 When they cried out with fear. 
 
 In the misty gloom, before them loom, 
 A spirit coming near. 
 
 How near in early morning, 
 When He stood on the shore,
 
 132 To A. B. 
 
 It was not till the wondrous draught 
 That John knew Him once more. 
 
 Near to them was the Master, 
 
 Discoursing by the way ; 
 But eyes were held, though lips did 
 cry. 
 
 Abide with us I pray. 
 
 And are not our eyes holden ? 
 
 We cannot understand, 
 He ever waits in love so strong. 
 
 To take us by the hand. 
 
 Though Satan's ever ready 
 
 To make our doubts seem true, 
 
 With art together he ties our I's, 
 And turns them into U. 
 
 U ought not to have done this, 
 And that U ought to do ; 
 
 His great keynote's a spurious one, 
 'Tis U, and U, and U.
 
 Boys Without Souls. 133 
 
 Yet often do we listen, 
 And then we look within ; 
 
 Till U and I such a burden prove, 
 That we see nought but sin. 
 
 And is not this our failing, 
 Ah, well does Satan know 
 
 If Christ were ruling all our thoughts, 
 Each doubt and fear would go. 
 
 So you and I will trust Him, 
 Then will He draw us near. 
 
 Till faith shall clasp His nail-scarred 
 hand. 
 And love cast out all fear. 
 
 BOYS WITHOUT SOULS. 
 
 Suggested by a Conversation with Mr. C. 
 
 Going home to my lodging weary, 
 
 My spirits low and sad. 
 As I thought of the little progress 
 
 I made with each ragged lad.
 
 134 Boys Without Souls. 
 
 Then I knelt before Our Father, 
 
 Who doeth all things well, 
 And prayed that His Holy Spirit 
 
 Might soon in each young heart dwell. 
 
 But my tired head scarce rested 
 On the pillow soft and clean, 
 
 When away my thoughts were drifted 
 In a strange and vivid dream. 
 
 't>^ 
 
 I was treading the well-known pathway, 
 Each house and shop I knew ; 
 
 And had often counted the paces 
 
 Which would bring the school in view. 
 
 Soon I reached the well-known doorway; 
 
 My watch, thought I, is wrong ; 
 I 'm too early by this deep silence — 
 
 No scuffle, or voice, or song ! 
 
 I slowly went to the schoolroom, 
 The scene there kept me mute ; 
 
 For each lad in my class kept silent, 
 No chuckle or rough salute.
 
 Boys Without Souls. 135 
 
 I knelt, for the bell was ringing, 
 
 And gazed with eager eyes, 
 As they bent in a measured movement, 
 
 Which added to my surprise. 
 
 I was seated with open Bible, 
 And tried each face to scan ; 
 
 I wanted some clue to this silence 
 Before the lesson began. 
 
 Why, Bob, Tom, Jack, William, Harry, 
 What 's the matter with ail of you ? 
 
 Then each head was lifted in silence, 
 While horror thrilled me through. 
 
 *&* 
 
 No gleam of defiance or mischief, 
 
 No saucy smile was there, 
 But a glassy cold and senseless gaze ; 
 
 Then my heart sank in despair. 
 
 I wanted my boys to be quiet. 
 Each lesson learnt aright ; 
 
 Obedience to every order 
 
 Would have given me delight.
 
 136 Boys Without Souls. 
 
 I had wrestled with earnest longing, 
 
 The narrow path to tread, 
 And prayed that each youthful scholar 
 
 Might in that same path be led. 
 
 But these soulless looks awakened 
 A new and startling thought — 
 
 Was I wrong in my way of teaching, 
 Had all self h^en where it ought? 
 
 So I cried aloud in my terror : 
 O Christ, Thou art the goal ; 
 
 Let me bear the burden of patience, 
 But restore each boy his soul. 
 
 I awoke, for the sun was shining 
 
 On me with brilliant beam ; [ing 
 
 My heart throbbed with true thanksgiv 
 
 That it only was a dream. 
 
 But what a lasting lesson 
 
 That vivid dream has taught, 
 
 An ever-living blessing. 
 
 To all my power of thought. 
 
 fc>)
 
 Boys Without Souls. 137 
 
 Each boy stands on the merit 
 Of Christ's great work for me, 
 
 Each soul bought by the Ransom, 
 Whose power can make us free. 
 
 But time does pass so quickly, 
 
 My class is quiet now ; 
 Not with that horrid silence, 
 
 For thought sits on each brow. 
 
 Tom's eyes still have a twinkle 
 
 Of mischief, in the blue ; 
 And William's lost their sullen look. 
 
 Though almost black in hue ; 
 
 Bob's grey orbs often glisten, 
 For Christ is all my theme ; 
 
 I feel more tender o'er them 
 
 Since that vivid, dreadful dream. 
 
 So with much prayer to Jesus, 
 
 I help them fight all sin. 
 And expect no reformation 
 
 From without, but from within.
 
 138 Sorrow. 
 
 SORROW. 
 
 Hush, tread gently, Death's dark arrow 
 Has struck here — our flower is dead ; 
 
 Gone to bloom in heavenly mansions. 
 Where no tear of sorrow 's shed. 
 
 Oh, how dark and strange the curtain, 
 Which hides the cause of this deep 
 woe ; 
 
 Why pass again through troubled water. 
 See another dear one go ? 
 
 Were the tendrils too clinging, 
 
 Which tiny lips and hands had wove ? 
 Were our fond hearts their garlands 
 flinging 
 
 Too close round our treasure trove ? 
 
 Had the precious baby prattle 
 
 Deadened higher, heavenlier sound ? 
 
 In all the fight of earthly battle, 
 Were we getting too earth-bound ?
 
 My Friend. 139 
 
 Thou who knows our hearts' deep feehng, 
 
 And works all things by Tliine own 
 
 will ; [ing, 
 
 In our breasts, like heaven's chime peal- 
 May we hear Thy — Peace be still. 
 
 With hushed lips and hearts o'erflowing, 
 Touched with Thy great love to us ; 
 
 We find our life near to Thee growing, 
 Trial purifies us thus. 
 
 MY FRIEND. 
 
 To dear Mr. Fox. 
 
 My Friend ! there 's magic in the words, 
 More sweet than siren's song ; 
 
 They touch the heart's deep tender 
 chords, 
 And, as they float along, 
 
 'Tis like some lovely mountain rill, 
 
 Whose silvery notes are never still.
 
 140 My Friend. 
 
 My Friend ! whose love we fully trust, 
 Deep, tender, firm, and true ; 
 
 'Tis no spasmodic sudden gush. 
 But strong and ever new, 
 
 Up-springing like a lovely flower. 
 
 Made perfect by the sun and shower. 
 
 My Friend ! the link that binds our 
 hearts 
 
 Was never forged on earth, 
 So finely wrought in all its parts, 
 
 Must be of heavenly birth ; 
 From Him whose spirit can bestow 
 A gift without a flaw to grow. 
 
 My Friend ! how can we praise His 
 name, 
 Who caused us to be 
 So wonderful in mind and frame, 
 
 Yet with a zvill so free, 
 That we can use it any way. 
 And through Christ's love, God's Will 
 obey.
 
 New Year, 1879. 141 
 
 My Friend ! what will the Lord reveal, 
 As we shall know Him more ? 
 
 What strength of spirit-life unseen, 
 That we may Him adore, 
 
 And know a joy that has no end. 
 
 The bliss wrapped up in a real friend. 
 
 NEW YEAR, 1879. 
 
 A HAPPY New Year 
 
 To all who are here, 
 Though sorrow has steeped us in gloom ; 
 
 Yet since Jesus died, 
 
 On the cross crucified, 
 There 's a light on the path to the tomb. 
 
 Our dear one has gone, 
 
 Our loss we must mourn. 
 Her place here will know her no more ; 
 
 Those sweet gentle ways 
 
 From infancy's days. 
 How deeply the loss we deplore.
 
 142 New Year, 1879. 
 
 The tears dim our eyes, 
 
 As we gaze on the skies, 
 And think, Is she with her dear child, 
 
 In union sweet. 
 
 At the Saviour's feet. 
 In bliss, free from sin, undefiled ? 
 
 But yet while we grieve, 
 That us she would leave 
 
 To fight out the battle with sin ; 
 We hope to press on 
 In the path she has gone. 
 
 And a like crown of glory to win. 
 
 When that time shall come. 
 May the welcome. Well done ! 
 
 Fall with rapturous bliss on each heart ; 
 As we enter the home, 
 Pressing on round the throne, 
 
 Never more, never more will we part.
 
 Gentle Friend. 143 
 
 O GENTLE FRIEND. 
 
 O GENTLE friend, whom suffering hath 
 
 refined, 
 Till self seems banished from the pre- 
 cincts of thy mind. 
 O gentle friend, whose words and looks 
 
 breathe blessed calm, 
 As if thy spirit had been bathed in 
 
 Gilead's balm. 
 O gentle friend, to me though art like 
 
 summer eve, 
 O'er which the deep hushed silence of 
 
 our God doth breathe. 
 O gentle friend, thou art linked close 
 
 with peaceful things — 
 A tranquil lake bathed in the light that 
 
 moonbeam flings, 
 A landscape fair on some light, soft, 
 
 grey day, 
 A rippling sea o'er which the sunbeams 
 
 play,
 
 144 -^ Sister. 
 
 A calm, deep sleep, when care is quite 
 laid by. 
 
 Or that full peace when Christ Himself 
 is nigh ; 
 
 O gentle friend, my nature seems so full 
 of strife, 
 
 Strong wishes, deep desires, wrestling 
 for their active life ; 
 
 And hence thy peaceful calm so beauti- 
 ful appears, 
 
 Although its roots were bathed in bitter 
 tears. 
 
 MY SISTER. 
 
 Seven winters' snows have come. 
 Seven springs to flowers gave birth. 
 
 Seven summers' ardent sun, 
 And seven autumns blest the earth. 
 
 Long though swift the time has been, 
 As each season passed away ;
 
 My Sister. 145 
 
 Pain and weariness oft reigned, 
 Clouding many a night and day. 
 
 Time brings no oblivion draught 
 To dim the heart's deep joy or woe ; 
 
 No adamantine wall to check 
 
 The strong full tide of memory's flow. 
 
 Nor would I chase one thought away, 
 Which bringeth aught of thee to mind, 
 
 Thy look or gesture, words or ways, 
 Most loving, gentle, true, and kind. 
 
 Fondly loved, and deeply mourned, 
 As weeks and months and years roll 
 
 by, 
 
 My heart for thee still truly yearns, 
 And oft I wish that thou wert nigh. 
 
 We miss thee in our daily walk, 
 We miss thee at the quiet eve ; 
 
 Thy gentle smile and loving talk 
 All gone, and we are left to grieve. 
 
 K
 
 146 Mrs. Turnhdl. 
 
 And yet we strive to bear our pain, 
 In faith to bow and kiss the rod, 
 
 To feel our loss is but thy gain, 
 
 That thou art safe in heaven with God. 
 
 Thou art not lost, but gone before — 
 This thought alone can help our woe, 
 
 And teach us hope to meet once more, 
 Or check the bitter tears which flow. 
 
 Yes ! blessed are the pure in heart, 
 Are words which fell from lips Divine, 
 
 And as we read, though big tears start, 
 We love to think that bliss is thine. 
 
 MRS. TURNBULL. 
 
 Gone to the eternal home, 
 
 Where angels' songs are sounding ; 
 Gone to join the heavenly choir, 
 
 Jehovah's throne surrounding. 
 
 Gone to everlasting life. 
 
 Free from all pain and sorrow ;
 
 3Irs. Turnbull. 147 
 
 Free from daily care and needs, 
 That here waits each to-morrow. 
 
 Gone to know the wondrous bUss 
 
 No mortal can discover ; 
 Her soul and spirit now are free 
 
 From cumbrous earthly cover. 
 
 Her spirit now is with the just, 
 With joy her face is beaming ; 
 
 She wears a robe of righteousness, 
 With gems her crown is gleaming. 
 
 Gone, gone, gone, still echoes here, 
 Though she has gone to glory ; 
 
 And we with many a sigh and tear, 
 Make her loss all our story. 
 
 We want her here, we want her now. 
 And every want feels double ; 
 
 Her loving care still sweeter seems 
 In all our daily trouble.
 
 148 Mrs. Turnbull. 
 
 The home is blank, each room feels dark, 
 
 In which no sun is shining ; 
 Oh ! how we miss her loving self, 
 
 So precious, so refining. 
 
 Her spirit was so pure and true, 
 So quick each want relieving ; 
 
 She never seemed to take from us — 
 We always were receiving. 
 
 Pleasant her words as rippling rill, 
 Her looks with love were glowing ; 
 
 Constant her work for others' good, 
 Unselfish wisdom showing. 
 
 But now she is so far away. 
 And we so sad and lonely — 
 
 'Twas her bright presence, day by day, 
 That made our home so homely. 
 
 And yet, she may not be so far, 
 
 For true love cannot sever ; 
 The link though broken reunites, 
 
 The parting 's not for ever.
 
 The Boy. 149 
 
 And as the time rolls on apace, 
 Will not the veil grow thinner? 
 
 The shade that parts our spirits now 
 Let through some heavenly glimmer ? 
 
 May not we near and nearer grow, 
 Till death's bridge spans the river ; 
 
 Then in that golden city meet, 
 To part no more for ever. 
 
 Then in the light of Christ the Lamb, 
 We'll learn to know the reason, 
 
 Why through this trial of deepest woe 
 We struggled for a season. 
 
 THE BOY. 
 Henry Edwin Darley. 
 
 20th February^ 1890. 
 
 Five years the Master lent him, 
 A sunbeam in the home ; 
 
 And then to heaven called him. 
 Boy now to " Jedee " come.
 
 ISO The Boy. 
 
 All ready he to leave us 
 
 For that bright home on high : 
 
 " Mama, boy go to Jedee, 
 Yight up into the kie." 
 
 His spirit needs no cleansing, 
 For Jesus' blood had bought 
 
 That bright young soul to love Him, 
 And praise Him as we ought. 
 
 Our boy knew Jesus loved him, 
 His faith, unmixed with sin. 
 
 Could hear the Saviour calling 
 The little one to Him. 
 
 No time had worldly fetters 
 
 To rivet on a sin ; 
 No time had Satan's subtleties 
 
 To make boy foul within. 
 
 But clear, and fresh, and holy, 
 Stamped with the Master's grace, 
 
 Boy could look up to Jesus here, 
 And see Him face to face.
 
 The Boy. 151 
 
 Oh, do not think upon him 
 As boy cold, white and dead ; 
 
 Bind not thy thoughts to earthly clay, 
 As bitter tears you shed. 
 
 But let thy tears be prisms 
 That they may bring to thee 
 
 Some of the light from rainbow bright, 
 Which now the boy doth see. 
 
 Till resting on thy Spirit, 
 
 Crown like the martyrs wore, 
 
 Of glowing light from glory bright, 
 Where boy has gone before. 
 
 Oh, dignity of knowing 
 
 That God did grant to thee 
 A gift so worth his taking back 
 
 While it was pure and free. 
 
 And though this mystic glory 
 Is through heart-sorrow bought, 
 
 Oh, could you offer to your Lord 
 Of that which cost thee nought.
 
 15^ The Boy. 
 
 But every tear of anguish, 
 And every sigh of pain, 
 
 Will in the end bear richest crop 
 Of heaven's golden grain. 
 
 For when in that pure brightness 
 The boy once more shall rest, 
 
 In joyous love and beauty bright 
 Upon thy faithful breast, 
 
 Thou wilt not grudge the sorrow 
 
 Of all the weary years ; 
 The empty place beside the hearth, 
 
 Or joys that passed in tears ; 
 
 But depth of joyous gladness. 
 That here we cannot know, 
 
 Will fill thy being with a bliss 
 God can alone bestow. 
 
 Then through the great for-ever 
 Thou and the boy shall live ; 
 
 Thou with the boy, the boy with thee. 
 Shall endless praises give.
 
 Lines on Death of a Sister-in-La%v. 153 
 
 LINES ON THE DEATH OF AN 
 AFFECTIONATE SISTER-IN- 
 LAW, 
 
 Who died 2,0th April, 1871. 
 
 Another link is broken, 
 
 Another loved one gone ; 
 Our God the word hath spoken, 
 
 And we are left to mourn. 
 
 Sad, sad, our tears are falling, 
 Deep, deep, our sorrow now ; 
 
 She 's gone beyond recalling, 
 We to the blow must bow. 
 
 And must we bear this sorrow ? 
 
 And must we bear this pain ? 
 Nor look for brighter morrow 
 
 To meet her once again ? 
 
 Is there no gleam of lightness 
 
 To help us on our way ? 
 No touch of heavenly brightness 
 
 To cheer us while we stay ?
 
 154 Lines on Death of a Sister-in-Law. 
 
 Yes, thanks to God our Saviour — 
 Who triumphed o'er the tomb — 
 
 Whose Spirit's gracious favour 
 Can cheer our deepest gloom. 
 
 If He but grant His Spirit 
 
 To teach us how to hve, 
 We '11 bless each joy or sorrow 
 
 His gracious hand may give. 
 
 May this deep trouble bring us 
 
 Closer unto His Cross : 
 His Spirit work within us, 
 
 Bring gain from this our loss. 
 
 Thus day by day we'll journey 
 
 Nearer unto that land, 
 Where waiting are our loved ones 
 
 'Midst God's own chosen band.
 
 Lines on the Death of a Niece. 155 
 
 LINES ON THE DEATH OF A 
 BELOVED NIECE, 
 
 Who died, 26th September, 1871. 
 
 Little Annie is no more, 
 All her pain and suffering o'er ; 
 God has called her far away 
 To the realms of endless day. 
 
 Wipe those tears ! now, kneel and pray ! 
 Thank the gracious Lord this day, 
 That she 's taken safely home, 
 Where no pain can ever come. 
 
 Thank the Lord ! to you who gave 
 Strength to nurse her for the grave ; 
 Think how great your joy will be 
 When your darling you shall see — 
 
 Not in weakness, suffering, pain, 
 But amid the angelic train ; 
 With the chosen Lambs of God, 
 Washed and saved by Jesus' blood.
 
 IS6 To Mary. 
 
 Praise Him ! who to us has given 
 Such a glorious hope of Heaven ; 
 May we meet each loved one there, 
 And eternal glory share. 
 
 Though our little Annie 's dead, 
 Still no bitter tears we'll shed ; 
 But in humble trust now say, 
 God has taken her away. 
 
 TO MARY. 
 
 Little Mary, daisy bright, 
 Art thou gone to realms of light ? 
 Few the steps upon life's road 
 Which thy tiny feet have trod. 
 
 Few the troubles which have pressed, 
 On thy little infant breast — 
 Troubles which to each one come. 
 As they tread the pathway home.
 
 To Mary. 157 
 
 Thou art mourning, Mary dear, 
 That thy darHng is not here, 
 But she 's garnered safe above, 
 Safe within those Arms of love. 
 
 I seem to see her all the while 
 With father's eyes and mother's smile, 
 Which brightened all her baby face, 
 Adding to beauty such a grace. 
 
 No more she '11 need thy tender care. 
 No more in household joys have share, 
 No clinging touch of tiny hands 
 Will seem to strengthen love's sweet 
 bands. 
 
 Well I know thy tender heart, 
 Deeply it will feel this dart ; 
 Wrung with anguish, torn with pain, 
 You scarce can think thy loss her gain. 
 
 Scarce can feel it is true love 
 
 By which thy darling was removed ;
 
 158 To Mary. 
 
 Taking from thy life such joy, 
 From thy hands such sweet employ. 
 
 How much you long to clasp her now, 
 And kiss her lips, and smooth her brow! 
 No joy could be so great on earth — 
 Your heart would hardly hold its mirth. 
 
 But now your heart is full of grief, 
 No thought can bring the least relief ; 
 This cloud sits heavy on thy brow, 
 All earth looks sad and gloomy now. 
 
 Yet Christ is gazing now on thee. 
 
 His love Divine thy needs can see ; 
 
 He feels your grief and knows your 
 
 pain, 
 And He can make this grief your gain. 
 
 In tender love He called thy flower. 
 And gathered it this wintry hour — 
 So deep His love to each one's soul, 
 He gave Himself to make us whole.
 
 Thoughts of Mr. Fox. 159 
 
 THOUGHTS OF MR. FOX. 
 
 Otir precious friend., thatik God lue were 
 permitted to kno%u him. 
 
 He is gone, he is gone, how the echo 
 surrounds us. 
 It ghdes through the sunshine, it 
 floats in the air ; 
 The rustling leaves do but carry them 
 round us, 
 While hearts bowed in grief that 
 same echo declare. 
 
 He is gone, he is gone, oh! the gap in our 
 pleasure, 
 Our words seem too feeble when try- 
 ing to tell 
 How his love used to flow like a tide 
 without measure, 
 And sympathy's touch seemed to act 
 like a spell.
 
 i6o Thoughts of Mr. Fox. 
 
 He is gone, he is gone, but we would 
 not recall him 
 To share in our pleasure, and comfort 
 our pain ; 
 Or check sin and vice which would 
 cower before him, 
 For we know that our loss unto him 
 must be gain. 
 
 He is gone, he is gone, to the Saviour 
 who bought him. 
 He knows the deep bliss of faith 
 crowned by sight ; 
 And though for his life with heart 
 groans we besought Him, 
 We must own it is well, for God 
 always does right. 
 
 He is gone, he is gone, but his words we 
 remember — 
 " Not me, but the Master," he 'd say 
 with a smile.
 
 Thoughts of Mr. Fox. i6i 
 
 When some loving deed had made 
 heart and voice tender, 
 He strove from that subject our 
 thoughts to beguile. 
 
 He is gone, he is gone, but his deeds 
 glow and brighten. 
 As thought takes the draught brought 
 by memory's knell ; 
 So many sad hearts did his kindnesses 
 lighten, 
 And will not his welcome be. Thou 
 hast done well ! 
 
 He is gone, he is gone, yet he beckoneth 
 to us 
 To keep the same path, and press on 
 with the few. 
 Oh, may God by His grace in the 
 Saviour renew us, 
 With single-eyed faith that same 
 path to pursue. 
 
 L
 
 1 62 TJwughts of Mr. Fox. 
 
 He is gone, he is gone, to the heart rest 
 for ever, 
 Where peace of the soul is not 
 ruffled by strife, 
 Where Christ is the centre from which 
 nought can sever, 
 The joy and the glory, the life and 
 the light. 
 
 He is gone, he is gone, but the heart- 
 link remaineth, 
 For though he is lost to material 
 sight, 
 Is there not subtle power which ever 
 sustaineth, [unite ? 
 
 That spirit with spirit may often 
 
 So we weep for the loss, yet hope's 
 whisper reminds us, 
 That we all are one who are found 
 in the Lord ; 
 With His spirit to guide, may each pass- 
 ing day find us, [cord. 
 Bound closer together by sympathy's
 
 To Mrs. Emma Roan. 163 
 
 TO MRS. EMMA ROAN, 
 On hearing of her brother's death, zZthJuly., 1 885. 
 
 I KNOW your heart is very sad, 
 
 How deep its sorrow none can tell ; 
 
 You hoped for tidings bright and glad. 
 While death was pealing forth its 
 knell. 
 
 How deep the mystery of that blow, 
 And heart-felt struggle seem to cry, 
 
 That wife and loved ones need him so, 
 We 're tempted sore to ask the WJiy. 
 
 Hush, hush, sad heart ! weep on awhile. 
 On earth no reason can you trace ; 
 
 Wait till in heaven you see his smile. 
 And feel once more his glad embrace. 
 
 Now you must mourn and weep and 
 sigh. 
 
 And Jesus shares in all your grief; 
 In His good time He'll show you why 
 
 This sickness met with no relief.
 
 164 Thinking of Lizzie Ogilvie. 
 
 So hard, so hard, we mourning cry, 
 To place our dear ones 'neath the sod ; 
 
 But solemn sounds both far and nigh, 
 " Be still and know that I am God." 
 
 And as time's balm with softening touch 
 Gives us the power on Him to rest, 
 
 We '11 cease to sorrow over much, 
 
 And humbly say — God's way is best. 
 
 THINKING OF LIZZIE OGILVIE'S 
 PURE LIFE AND EARLY 
 DEATH. 
 
 " Consider the lilies how they grow, they toil not, 
 neither do they spin." 
 
 Not Solomon in all his prime, was ever 
 
 half so fair. 
 Though purple rich, fine linen white, and 
 
 costly gems were there ; 
 And gold, the bright, pure, yellow gold, 
 
 became of little worth, 
 Silver was such a trifling thing, like 
 
 common clods of earth ;
 
 Thinking of Lizzie Ogilvie. 165 
 
 And peace fell on the nations round, by 
 God's great mercy given — 
 
 Not all of this was half so fair as Lizzie, 
 gone to heaven. 
 
 We know not why some lilies wear their 
 petals purely white, 
 
 Or how they gain their sweet perfume 
 we greet with such delight ; 
 
 We only know that Jesus made them 
 perfect of their kind, 
 
 And nature weaves each particle by un- 
 seen powers combined : 
 
 And so He wrought in that pure life, 
 which unto you was given, 
 
 Daily to see His precious work in Lizzie, 
 gone to heaven. 
 
 Ah, well ! the Master knows His own ; 
 
 what need the lily fair 
 To toil and spin, or spend its strength. 
 
 His great love to declare ;
 
 1 66 Thinking of Lizzie Ogilvie. 
 
 She only lifts her snowy face, each passer 
 
 by well knows, 
 It is enough in simple words to say she 
 
 lives and grows : 
 And so it was this higher work the Lord 
 
 to her had given. 
 For you could read it in the face of 
 
 Lizzie, gone to heaven. 
 
 Ah ! father, mother, on your brows, 
 
 although our eyes are holden, 
 There surely rests the Spirit's wreath, 
 
 whose flowers and stems are golden ; 
 Bestowed by Him who giveth back a 
 
 full and plenteous measure, 
 Because He called you to give up your 
 
 priceless, precious treasure : 
 And He who drank wrath's bitter cup 
 
 knows how your hearts are riven, 
 How blank the home, how great the loss 
 
 of Lizzie, gone to heaven.
 
 Edgar Archer. 167 
 
 EDGAR ARCHER. 
 
 Only twelve summers' suns, twelve 
 
 winters' snows, 
 Were passed on earth, before those dear 
 
 eyes closed ; 
 Only twelve years of this small change- 
 ful scene, 
 And now our hearts cry out for that 
 
 which might have been. 
 We picture him from youth to manhood 
 
 grown, 
 Many a bright laid scheme from which 
 
 all light hath flown, 
 Till thought comes back to us with 
 
 weary sigh 
 And strives to find the clue to that 
 
 mysterious Why. 
 Full well we know God could have 
 
 spared our boy, 
 And filled our hearts with thankfulness 
 
 and joy :
 
 1 68 Edgar Archer. 
 
 He need but speak the Word, death's 
 
 shadow grim 
 Must yield itself, nor dare contend with 
 
 Him ; 
 But silence reigned, and the bright spirit 
 
 fled, 
 Now, now, our sad hearts mourn for 
 
 Edgar dead — 
 The burden seems too great for us to 
 
 bear, 
 Our lips are ready with the cry, Lord, 
 
 why not spare. 
 
 Oh, hush! fond hearts, who can the reason 
 
 tell? 
 For He is God^ and doeth all things well. 
 Death does not finish thy boy's precious 
 
 life- 
 Only removes him from this worldly care 
 
 and strife. 
 Not long had he to fight with Satan's 
 
 power, 
 Whose darts fall thickest when deep 
 
 sorrows lour ;
 
 Edgar Archer. i6g 
 
 Not long had he to kneel and ask for 
 
 grace, 
 Or plead for clearer growing light from 
 
 Jesus' face; 
 And now his soul, free from its earthly 
 
 clay, 
 Oh, how the light of heaven may o'er it 
 
 play! [Him, 
 
 The glowing radiance which comes from 
 Before whose presence, bright sun, moon, 
 
 and stars are dim. 
 The bliss of being ever with the Lord, 
 The depth of rapture which is love's 
 
 reward, [pain. 
 
 Free from all sin, all trial of doubt and 
 Think, think, cannot your dear one now 
 
 have all this gain ? 
 And time, which makes so many things 
 
 on earth 
 Become unto our hearts of little worth, 
 Will but increase the love which God 
 
 hath given, 
 To link together His redeemed in earth 
 
 and heaven.
 
 170 To Mrs. Rob. 
 
 And so I think of thee, subdued and sad, 
 In hallowed sorrow for your little lad, 
 Over whose grave the sunbeams seem to 
 
 say — 
 God's glory yet shall gild the strait and 
 
 narrow way. 
 
 TO MRS. ROB, 
 Whose husband died after a very short illness. 
 
 Short the summons, brief the message, 
 And yet we must believe it love, 
 
 That called him from his earthly duties 
 To the glorious home above. 
 
 Scarce time to realise the trial, 
 
 Strange, mysterious, it must be, 
 Thy heart still holding hope's last frag- 
 ment, 
 When death's dark shadow compassed 
 thee.
 
 To Mrs. Rob. 171 
 
 But still, the Lord is ever loving : 
 
 E'en when He takes what most we 
 prize, [darling 
 
 There 's some good reason why your 
 So soon to heavenly life should rise. 
 
 So soon leave work and home and loved 
 ones, 
 
 The fight, and struggling daily care ; 
 So soon lay down the earthly weapon, 
 
 And in the higher joy have share. 
 
 But thou, sad heart, must mourn and 
 sorrow ; 
 
 Not yet canst thou lift up thine eyes 
 To see the heavenly light, which shineth 
 
 Beyond thy dark, beclouded skies. 
 
 And human words sound harsh and 
 cruel. 
 While human hands are far too rough ; 
 For thy poor heart so crushed and bleed- 
 ing 
 We scarce have sympathy enough.
 
 172 Little Robin. 
 
 'Tis only He, the Lord of Glory, 
 
 Whose tender touch can soothe and 
 heal, [power, 
 
 He killed the sting of death's dark 
 The shadow now is all we feel. 
 
 But when the balm of time shall soften 
 The bitterness of all thy pain, 
 
 Then patience, love, and hope shall 
 strengthen, 
 Until in heaven you meet again. 
 
 LITTLE ROBIN. 
 
 Little Robin 's gone to glory, 
 Here his baby lips are mute ; 
 
 He has reached the home before thee, 
 There to wear his bright new suit. 
 
 Suit as white as snow-capped mountain, 
 
 Beautiful beyond compute ; 
 Washed within the crimson fountain 
 
 Is this glorious new suit.
 
 Little Robin. 173 
 
 What it cost, our human powers 
 To judge the worth it must refute, 
 
 Only within those heavenly bowers 
 Can they value that new suit. 
 
 Oh, how happy is your darling ! 
 
 Sweet his voice as gentle lute ; 
 Radiant as the sons of morning, 
 
 In that glistening new suit. 
 
 Not one tear his bright eye dimming, 
 No sound of wrangle or dispute ; 
 
 For all his life with joy is brimming", 
 As he walks in that new suit. 
 
 Free from every sore temptation. 
 Which in this world of ill-repute 
 
 Tries all our wayward inclinations. 
 Until each wears that pure new suit. 
 
 Just now when daily care and trial, 
 Thy patience tests to unknown bound, 
 
 When duties call you by the dozen. 
 And life seems but a weary round,
 
 174 Little Robin. 
 
 So many things which need attention, 
 So many wants to be supplied, 
 
 So many pleasures you would give 
 them, 
 Which reason says must be denied. 
 
 And though your body oft is tired — 
 You fain would rest the busy brain, 
 
 How sweet to realise the feeling, 
 That Robin's life was not in vain ! 
 
 For while the young ones sing God's 
 praises, 
 
 With voices fresh as morning dew, 
 The thought of Robin nerves to action, 
 
 And others will be blest through you. 
 
 So as the young and tender branches 
 Are grafted on the living vine ; 
 
 When age comes creeping swiftly on- 
 ward. 
 You never, never can repine,
 
 To Henry and Florence. 175 
 
 But looking forward to the moment, 
 Your lips dear Robin shall salute, 
 
 And Jesus gives to you a garment, 
 So both shall wear a white new suit. 
 
 TO HENRY AND FLORENCE. 
 
 You are going to build a home, dear, 
 Now mind you do it right ; 
 
 Making a firm foundation, 
 With jewels rare and bright. 
 
 Be sure you place the ruby there, 
 Rich, warm as glowing love ; 
 
 Not first unto yourselves, dear, 
 But to the Lord above. 
 
 Oh, let it shine around your path, 
 
 Your daily portion be ; 
 Remember it was love Divine 
 
 Made Jesus die for thee.
 
 176 To Henry and Florence. 
 
 Then let it to each other grow 
 More bright and pure each day ; 
 
 Making your home the brightest spot 
 On all the earthly way. 
 
 Then place the emerald's brilliant green 
 
 To shine like faith so true ; 
 That child-like trust in God's good way, 
 
 As life unfolds to you. 
 
 Let not dark doubt its shadow fling 
 One moment o'er your mind, 
 
 But faith as clear as that green light, 
 Your hearts tos^ether bind. 
 
 't>^ 
 
 Now don't forget the sapphire blue, 
 That shines as truth most clear ; 
 
 Let God's grand truth. His Holy Word, 
 Each day become more dear. 
 
 And on this truth an altar build — 
 
 The altar of thy home ; 
 Where prayers like sweetest incense rise 
 
 From hearts already one.
 
 To Henry and Florence. 177 
 
 Let pearls be there for purity, 
 In thought, look, word and deed ; 
 
 And garnets tell of earnest care, 
 For all the daily need. 
 
 Hospitality without a grudge 
 
 The amethyst will show ; 
 And topaz bright, with golden light, 
 
 As earnest friendship glow. 
 
 And fix the shaded onyx there, 
 
 For charity most kind ; 
 Stern self-denial for others' good, 
 
 We oft occasion find. 
 
 While round about, and in and out, 
 
 Let turquoise' smiling face, 
 Keep fresh within your hearts' warm 
 home, 
 
 Each loved one's sacred place. 
 
 But as the chief grand corner stone, 
 Oh, place the diamond there ! 
 
 For it will tell of blessed work. 
 When each may have a share. 
 
 M
 
 1/8 Frank's Trouble. 
 
 It will reflect love's glowing hue, 
 And faith's clear earnest gaze ; 
 
 And every hue that gem can show, 
 Is where the diamonds blaze. 
 
 So every grace is gathered up, 
 In Christ our heavenly King ; 
 
 His love will shine upon each need, 
 Our daily life can bring. 
 
 Then let Him rule within your hearts, 
 
 More perfectly each day ; 
 Until in His bright blissful home, 
 
 You with Him ever stay. 
 
 FRANK'S TROUBLE. 
 
 Oh, dear ! what a tiresome question to 
 
 me 
 Is that constant cry of — Frank, what will 
 
 you be?
 
 Frank's Trouble. 179 
 
 My school days are over, and Latin put 
 by, [to try, 
 
 No problems to puzzle or French verbs 
 No theme or analysis is there for me, 
 But now comes the question — Frank, 
 what will you be ? 
 
 I won't be a lawyer, I don't like the pen, 
 Nor Bevan, nor Kean, nor my Lord 
 
 Tenterden ; [suit me. 
 
 To stand before big wigs would never 
 So now comes the question — Frank, 
 
 what will you be ? 
 
 I won't be a doctor, to cut, blister, bleed. 
 To send pints of physic where there 's 
 
 little need ; 
 So much pain and suffering 1 've no need 
 
 to see, [be. 
 
 To answer the question of what I will 
 
 I won't be a soldier — I never could fight, 
 As they often do for the wrong, not for 
 right ;
 
 i8o Frank's Trouble. 
 
 To conquer by force could have no 
 
 charm for me, 
 So still there's that question — Frank, 
 
 what will you be ? 
 
 I won't be a sailor, a captain or mate, 
 Unless on our yacht, would no feeling 
 
 elate ; 
 The storms on the deep I have no wish 
 
 to see, 
 So now there's that question — Frank, 
 
 what will you be ? 
 
 There 's plenty to choose from, but still 
 
 I 'm in doubt, 
 The thing best to suit me I cannot find 
 
 out ; 
 And no other person can make choice 
 
 for me, [be. 
 
 And settle the question of what I shall 
 
 'Tis no trifle, I tell you, this trouble of 
 
 mine, [too fine ; 
 
 Though some may imagine my fancy 's
 
 Frank's Trouble. 1 8 1 
 
 'Tis business for life, and a great thing 
 
 you see — 
 A very grave question is what I shall be. 
 
 I 'm sure I 've no wish to be wasting my 
 
 time, 
 But pleasure with work I would like to 
 
 combine ; 
 As I have the chance it is vexing you 
 
 see, [be. 
 
 Not to settle the question of what I shall 
 
 Whatever it is, I '11 be good of the sort. 
 And work shall be work, then sport will 
 
 be sport ; 
 When once I am started I '11 press on, 
 
 you see, 
 Nor disgrace the profession, whate'er it 
 
 may be. 
 
 A voice softly whispers. Seek counsel by 
 
 prayer 
 To Him who has granted each creature 
 
 a share,
 
 1 82 To Nellie. 
 
 To aid in the good and the evil to flee, 
 He sends us the answer to what we shall 
 be. 
 
 His wisdom shall make every crooked 
 
 way plain, 
 And none ever earnestly sought Him in 
 
 vain ; 
 Then all thy life long 'twill delight thee 
 
 to see [shall be. 
 
 How perfect the answer to what you 
 
 TO NELLIE. 
 
 Jessamine round cottage window, 
 Jessamine by leafy bower, 
 
 Jessamine on stately terrace, 
 
 Still the same white starry flower. 
 
 Growing o'er fantastic rock-work, 
 Or some portal old to grace ; 
 
 Loved alike by high and lowly 
 Is thy bonnie wee white face.
 
 To Nellie. 183 
 
 How thy clear cut tiny flowers, 
 
 By thy dark green leaves revealed ; 
 
 Though so many budding clusters, 
 By the foliage is concealed. 
 
 Jessamine, as I gaze upon thee, 
 Never shall 1 make thee vain, 
 
 Though gently I may speak thy praises, 
 As the thoughts flit through my brain. 
 
 Whisper what thy graceful leaflets. 
 And thy snowy blossoms teach. 
 
 Of those rare and priceless virtues, 
 Lying just within our reach. 
 
 Thou dost teach of sweet contentment, 
 For I 've seen thee green and tall 
 
 Spending all thy strength to brighten 
 Some dark, sooty London wall. 
 
 Thou dost tell of silent working. 
 Simply filling well thy place ; 
 Sending forth thy gentle lessons 
 \ For us mortals to embrace.
 
 1 84 To Nellie. 
 
 Then thy humble obeisances, 
 
 To Summer's faintest breath respond ; 
 Do we show such winning gladness ? 
 
 Are we of quick obedience fond ? 
 
 Do we stand at all times ready 
 To answer every one's appeal ? 
 
 Sympathy in word and action, 
 Is it always strong and real ? 
 
 And when Autumn storms are blowing, 
 Though roughly thou be tossed about, 
 
 We ne'er can think an angry accent 
 Would answer to the wind's wild shout. 
 
 So quickly do thy swaying branches 
 Return unto their quiet rest ? 
 
 They make us think of prayer-raised 
 fingers 
 Pleading for God the soul to bless. 
 
 Jessamine, how many lessons 
 
 Could thou teach, if I would learn, 
 
 Were my spirit higher, purer, 
 All thy beauties to discern !
 
 To May. 185 
 
 Other minds may read the clearer, 
 
 Other pens thy virtues tell, 
 Other lips may sing thy praises, 
 
 But, Jessamine, I love thee well. 
 
 TO MAY. 
 
 Oh, tell me, do you love them, our bonnie 
 
 English lanes, 
 With the freshness of their verdure where 
 
 a wealth of beauty reigns ? 
 Oh, have you sauntered through them on 
 
 a balmy day in June, 
 When buds were opening sweetly, and 
 
 all nature seemed in tune ; 
 And marked the glowing colours which 
 
 bank and hedge adorn, 
 Blending there like a gay mosaic, in 
 
 quaintly varied form ? 
 And in what wondrous beauty each 
 
 separate blossom grows, 
 What multitudes of tints and shade 
 
 leaflet and petal shows !
 
 1 86 To May. 
 
 Look at yon climbing bindweed, with 
 
 cups so purely white, 
 And lingering tufts on hawthorn 
 
 boughs to give us keen delight ; 
 But of all the wayside beauties there 's 
 
 none so sweetly fair, 
 As our bonnie English wild-rose which 
 
 shows its flowerets there. 
 No gardener attends it, no toil or care it 
 
 needs, 
 But it springs forth in its beauty from 
 
 among the lowly weeds. 
 We welcome in the spring time its sprays 
 
 of brown or green, 
 And through all the summer brightness 
 
 what a wealth of blossom 's seen ; 
 Even the cold of winter its brightness 
 
 will not slay, 
 Can you count the glowing berries hang- 
 ing on every spray? 
 And May is like the wild-rose, sweet, 
 
 winsome, bright, and true, 
 Standing forth firm and steadfast, with 
 
 warmth of love for you.
 
 To May. 187 
 
 When once rose-buds are open, and the 
 
 bee can creep within, 
 It is sure to find some nectar to carry 
 
 'neath its wing ; 
 And from the yellow centre it gathers 
 
 many a store 
 Of sweet and luscious honey, valued by 
 
 rich and poor. 
 So if we ope the portal of our May's 
 
 loving heart, 
 We shall find the golden centre and 
 
 ne'er from it depart ; 
 And if she shows some prickles — for a 
 
 rose will have a thorn — 
 She will not mean to hurt us or really 
 
 make us mourn. 
 So as we gather roses from the hedge in 
 
 sunny June, 
 And gaze upon its beauty and sing its 
 
 praise in tune ; 
 So we will fondly cherish, while heart's 
 
 warm pulses beat, 
 Our May's a precious treasure which 
 
 makes our lives more sweet.
 
 1 88 To Mrs. K. 
 
 TO MRS. K. 
 
 How can I tread this thorny path, 
 Dark, rugged, bleak, and wild ? 
 
 I shrink, as from some winter blast 
 Retreats the timid child. 
 
 Those flinty stones, those briery thorns, 
 
 My feeble steps delay ; 
 Is there no sjuoother path for me 
 
 To tread the narrow way ? 
 
 This heavy weight of constant care 
 To which each day gives birth, 
 
 Like iron bands, hard, firm, and strong. 
 They press me down to earth. 
 
 My children have such varied needs, 
 
 They many things dislike ; 
 How shall I help each untried heart 
 
 To seek the Lord aright ?
 
 To Mrs. K. 189 
 
 Oh, teach me, Lord, the way to Hve, 
 
 Aright my cross to bear ; 
 For Thou didst shed Thy precious blood 
 
 That I Thy joy should share. 
 
 But what is this, for as I gaze 
 A change comes o'er the scene ; 
 
 No longer dark, for glowing light 
 Shines with a mellow beam. 
 
 Those flinty stones look straight and 
 smooth, 
 
 And with the thorns are flowers, 
 While angel hands now beckon me 
 
 Unto their leafy bowers ; 
 
 And underneath this weight of care 
 I see two nail-pierced hands ; 
 
 Which bear the load, till scarce I feel 
 The pressure of its bands. 
 
 Still as I gaze, my children dear 
 
 Before me seem to pass ; 
 Methinks I see their future clear, 
 
 As mirrored in a glass.
 
 I90 To Mrs. K. 
 
 First Lizzie, gentle, patient grown. 
 How sweet her rule of love ; 
 
 Those pierced hands are leading on 
 With unseen power above. 
 
 Then Dora, mild, obedient child, 
 
 Goes on her quiet way ; 
 She hears the Saviour's loving voice, 
 
 And serves Him day by day. 
 
 Next Hilda, active, bright, and quick, 
 
 What ready help she gives, 
 With self-denial, for the sake 
 
 Of Christ, in whom she lives. 
 
 Now follows Mabel, sweet young flower, 
 
 She too will seek His face ; 
 And, drinking from the well of life. 
 
 Go on from grace to grace. 
 
 Tibby and Baby, though so young, 
 
 For them God's love is free, 
 As when He called the little ones 
 
 And said, Come unto Me.
 
 Thoughts on the ^ist of May. 191 
 
 And now the vision fades away, 
 While tears bedew my cheek ; 
 
 I, in the quiet darkness, lay 
 Close to the Saviour's feet. 
 
 Lord, wilt Thou do all this, I cry, 
 
 If so, my path is clear ; 
 I '11 take my cross up day by day 
 
 Without a doubt or fear. 
 
 Thy Word to teach, Thy love to guide, 
 
 Thy Sabbaths duly given ; 
 And Jesus ever at my side. 
 
 Through life in death to heaven. 
 
 THOUGHTS ON THE 
 31ST OF MAY. 
 
 Twelve months more of time is past, 
 Another year has o'er us cast 
 
 Its many shades and lights ; 
 For hope is still our guiding star, 
 Though oft it glimmers faintly far, 
 
 And nearly out of sight.
 
 192 Thoughts on the -i^ist of May. 
 
 Little change this year hath seen, 
 And slight improvement has there been 
 
 'Tvvixt this year and the last ; 
 And prayer must make faith's anchor 
 
 sure, 
 Or else it never can endure 
 
 And keep her moorings fast. 
 Yes ! prayer to Him who yet can give 
 Us patience 'midst our trial to live, 
 
 Nor murmur at His will ; 
 And taking up our cross each day. 
 Press on with joy the narrow way 
 
 O'ercoming every ill. 
 But oh ! these sinful hearts of ours, 
 How slight their faith, how weak their 
 powers 
 
 To hold the promise fast ; 
 We want ourselves to work and do, 
 And cannot see that glorious view 
 
 When all the struggle 's past. 
 The view when on that dreadful day. 
 That He, the Truth, the Life, the 
 Way, 
 
 Was lifted up for sin ;
 
 Thoughts on the 3UV of May. 193 
 
 And bore the fearful untold load, 
 That awful weight, the wrath of God, 
 
 Eternal peace to win. 
 Oh, could we know the mighty love 
 He felt, when from His home above 
 
 He came our work to do, 
 With joy we 'd bear each trial and pain. 
 And count each loss but blissful gain 
 
 With Him so clear in view. 
 Oh, may His heavenly grace be shed 
 In rich abundance o'er thy head. 
 
 May peace dwell in thine heart ; 
 The precious pearl of love be thine, 
 Through all thy life its lustre shine, 
 
 Quenching each fiery dart ; 
 And if no more mine eyes shall see 
 The varied tints in sky or tree, 
 
 Of Nature's glorious dress ; 
 No more my foot shall press the sod 
 When spread abroad the works of God 
 
 In all their loveliness ; 
 No more, as in the western sky 
 The sun in all its majesty 
 
 Sets in a flood of gold, 
 
 N
 
 194 To My Husband. 
 
 Making each fence, tree-stump and stone 
 Glow with a beauty not its own, 
 
 I may no more behold ; 
 If all the rest of my life's day 
 I 'm doomed on this sick couch to lay 
 
 And strength no more shall come, 
 May grace be sent us from above, 
 That we can feel God still is love, 
 
 And say, Thy will be done. 
 
 TO MY HUSBAND. 
 
 Fain would I write some loving words, 
 To make your heart beat high ; 
 
 Fain would I catch some noble thought 
 And fix it ere it fly. 
 
 Fain would I pen some words of fire 
 
 With glowing pathos rife, 
 To strengthen every good desire. 
 
 And brighten all thy life.
 
 To My Husband. 195 
 
 But, like a bird on drooping wing, 
 
 I cannot soar on high ; 
 Down, down to earth my spirits cling, 
 
 My eloquence a sigh. 
 
 My words are languid, poor and weak, 
 
 No life within them glow ; 
 They '11 ne'er revive the power I seek, 
 
 So meaningless they flow. 
 
 Oh, for a dash of brilliant thought, 
 
 That I might give to thee 
 Some strain more worthy of the day 
 
 Of thy nativity. 
 
 When I would gather from all good, 
 
 To lay it at thy feet. 
 Nor deem the offering fair enough, 
 
 Thy joyful smile to meet ; 
 
 But earthly gifts too worthless seem, 
 The heart's wish to express ; 
 
 Their tinsel value light I deem 
 A trouble to redress.
 
 196 Maggie's Hands. 
 
 Then I will ask for higher bliss 
 Than this world can bestow, 
 
 May faith, joy, peace and happiness 
 Increase while here below. 
 
 And may the Holy Comforter 
 Within thy heart now dwell, 
 
 And Jesus Christ reveal Himself 
 As thine Emmanuel. 
 
 MAGGIE'S HANDS. 
 
 Little fingers, oh ! how busy, washing, 
 
 working, day by day. 
 Ever o'er some object flitting, making 
 
 work seem more like play. 
 Little fingers, oh ! how lightly they can 
 
 touch the aching brow. 
 Passing o'er the work so slightly, how 
 
 they move before me now.
 
 Maggie's Hands. 197 
 
 Little fingers, oft I watch thee, as some 
 
 hidden mystery, 
 Wondering what may be the future 
 
 weaving of thy destiny ; 
 Thou dost speak to me in language now 
 
 half-hidden, half-revealed, 
 Showing many little glimpses which to 
 
 others are concealed. 
 Thou dost tell of timid shyness, many a 
 
 needless fear misplaced. 
 And a want of self-reliance brings the 
 
 hot blood to thy face ; 
 Thou dost tell of quick emotion, and the 
 
 hasty spoken word 
 Which has scarcely passed lips' portal, 
 
 than you wish it was not heard : 
 Thou dost tell of clinging purpose, hard 
 
 to alter, change, or move — • 
 I don't mind, 'tis just what / think, what 
 
 you say does nothing prove — 
 Thou dost tell of indignation if a thing 
 
 but seem unjust, 
 You at once would have it altered before 
 
 you think which way is best ;
 
 198 To Our Sister in Ireland. 
 
 And there's yet another feeling, which 
 
 oft a stumbling-block may be, 
 Only think, one cannot help it, 'tis 
 
 reason quite enough for thee ; 
 Thou dost tell of strong affections, deep 
 
 and constant though not shown, 
 In a time of grief and trouble, then thy 
 
 worth would best be known. 
 Fingers, I must leave off writing ; are my 
 
 words both clear and true ? 
 Then I think that sister Maggie knows 
 
 just what I think of you. 
 
 TO OUR SISTER IN IRELAND. 
 
 May happiness and peace be thine, 
 And that bright joy which is Divine 
 
 Dwell in thy heart ; 
 So as each year shall roll away 
 May grace be thine from day to day 
 
 To do thy part.
 
 To Onr Sister in Ireland. 199 
 
 All that sweet power He can give, 
 Within thy being richly live 
 
 And work aright ; 
 So shall each piece of labour be 
 A blessed, true reality. 
 
 Done with all might. 
 May each creation of thy brain 
 Help to encourage and sustain 
 
 Some noble thought ; 
 That as the sands of time depart, 
 In this life's work you leave thy mark 
 
 So clearly wrought, 
 That others by thy work shall learn 
 To hate all evil, and to spurn 
 
 Things low and base ; 
 Then onward, upward they will press, 
 Each for a crown of righteousness, 
 
 Through God's great grace.
 
 200 Dear Jennie, 
 
 DEAR JENNIE. 
 
 Lying on a bed of sickness, 
 
 Full of weakness, suffering, pain, 
 
 This thought comes hovering o'er me — 
 Shall I ever rise again ? 
 
 Will the pleasant April breezes 
 Ever fan my wasted cheek ? 
 
 Or with cheerful hearty accent 
 
 Shall I friend and neighbour greet ? 
 
 All around are many loved ones — 
 Father kind, and sisters dear ; 
 
 And my tender, loving mother, 
 At my bedside ever near. 
 
 Now my John sits quiet by me, 
 
 With earnest gaze and loving heart. 
 
 And an infant form of beauty 
 Seems to cry, we cannot part.
 
 Dear Jennie. 201 
 
 And on this Sabbath afternoon 
 
 When the Big-Kirk bell has ceased, 
 
 Plants, flowers, and all around me 
 Breathe an atmosphere of peace. 
 
 While I think of other loved ones 
 Who have homes so far away, 
 
 When the evening shadows gather, 
 Will for me so humbly pray. 
 
 That I may have strength now given 
 To take up my cross aright, 
 
 And truly do or suffer, 
 
 As most needful in God's sight ; 
 
 In love, should He my health restore, 
 May I rightly live each day ; 
 
 In my thoughts and words and actions 
 Pressing on the narrow way. 
 
 Should He see fit to call me hence. 
 To that glorious home above, 
 
 Then I ever shall be praising 
 His great and wondrous love.
 
 202 To Wee Forry. 
 
 When a few more years have passed, 
 May I meet each loving one, 
 
 Therefore my grateful lips shall cry, 
 Father ! Thy will be done. 
 
 TO WEE FORRY. 
 
 Far away in Bonnie Scotland, 
 Fanned by the healthful breeze, 
 
 There stands a pleasant cottage, 
 Shaded by waving trees. 
 
 And in that cottage lives a lad — 
 
 A good one I am sure ; 
 Now do you wish to know his name- 
 
 They call him Forry Muir. 
 
 But Forry has been very sick. 
 So weak, so low, and sad ; 
 
 And truly sorry still I feel 
 For this same little lad.
 
 To Wee Forry. 203 
 
 He could not walk, he could not play, 
 
 Nor could he lie quite still ; 
 But tossed about from side to side, 
 
 He was so very ill. 
 
 His grandmother with anxious care 
 
 To every want attends ; 
 And many an earnest heartfelt prayer 
 
 For him to Heaven ascends. 
 
 Now courage take, thou loving heart 1 
 
 Thy prayer is heard above ; 
 Health and strength once more shall 
 come 
 
 Unto the child you love. 
 
 And so it was, for bright and clear 
 Those childish eyes now shone ; 
 
 Oh ! cast away each gloomy fear, 
 The fever's power is gone. 
 
 And here I fain would end my rhyme. 
 
 But trouble is not past. 
 For once again is Forry Muir 
 
 On bed of sickness cast.
 
 204 To Wee Forty. 
 
 Look, look, the sight is sad to see — 
 
 Here comes at rapid rate, 
 A horse has taken sudden fright, 
 
 He nears the churchyard gate. 
 
 Quick ! save the child, oh, save the 
 child, 
 
 He still is very weak ! 
 Ah, 'tis too late, for there he lay, 
 
 And cannot move or speak. 
 
 And once again dear grandmother 
 
 The loving nurse must be ; 
 For pain is very hard to bear. 
 
 And makes us sad to see. 
 
 But Forry will be very good. 
 
 In patience bear the pain ; 
 And then I hope we soon shall hear 
 
 He 's getting well again. 
 
 So now good-bye, if you like this 
 
 I think you may be sure 
 That Aunt will try to write again 
 
 To little Forry Muir.
 
 Oiir Boys. 205 
 
 OUR BOYS. 
 
 Our boys ! what would we have them- 
 Why earnest, brave, and true, 
 
 Seeking each day something to learn, 
 And noble act to do. 
 
 With bright and cheerful spirits, 
 No shade upon their brow. 
 
 Thorough in study, play, and work. 
 We want them happy now. 
 
 Oh, boys, what wondrous power 
 Dwells in your mind and heart ! 
 
 To help in all this busy life 
 Where each should do his part. 
 
 For you ninst help or hinder 
 The progress of the right, 
 
 And every action, look, and word, 
 Will go to swell its might.
 
 2o6 Our Chapel. 
 
 We want you strong, yet gentle, 
 With courage to say No ; 
 
 Not daunted by a sneer or laugh 
 Wherever you may go. 
 
 Oh, take the higher view of life, 
 And close your doings scan ; 
 
 Remember, every boy who lives 
 Is father to the man. 
 
 OUR CHAPEL. 
 
 Let me say a few words, with a hearty 
 
 good will, 
 Of a place near to London, 'tis called 
 
 Buckhurst Hill ; 
 Not a detailed account of houses or 
 
 people, 
 The age, style of the church, and the 
 
 height of the steeple,
 
 Our Chapel. 207 
 
 But there's one little spot you might 
 
 pass any day, 
 'Tis so modest a building you 'd ne'er 
 
 glance that way — 
 To describe it aright might an architect 
 
 baffle, 
 But folks about here call it Wesleyan 
 
 Chapel. 
 
 Though the outside is grim — there is 
 
 nought to admire — 
 Yet within, we believe, oft are sparks of 
 
 true fire ; 
 Though 'tis rather the work than the 
 
 building, I guess, 
 That lays claim to the thought which 
 
 I wish to express. 
 
 Meditate on the power of heart, mind, 
 
 and brain. 
 Which the members united within them 
 
 contain.
 
 2o8 Otir Chapel. 
 
 With a super like Ingram, whose spirit 
 
 so mild 
 Makes us think of the Master when 
 
 blessing a child. 
 
 When sermons breathe forth from 
 
 hearts full of love, 
 And descend on the hearers like a 
 
 peace-giving dove, 
 And prayers are heart breathings of 
 
 fervent desires, [aspires. 
 
 Towards holier living each member 
 
 When the singing is true from the lip 
 
 and the heart, 
 Real thanksgiving to God that in Christ 
 
 we have part ; 
 When classes are met for improving 
 
 each other, [brother ; 
 
 With true family greeting of sister and 
 
 Where the prayer-meetings all are com- 
 munions with God, 
 
 And we follow the steps which the 
 Master has trod.
 
 Our Chapel. 209 
 
 With a schoolroom quite full, as each 
 
 Sabbath comes round, 
 Super, teachers, and scholars in love's 
 
 work may abound. 
 
 Thus in union complete, with the Spirit 
 to guide. 
 
 What a wondrous power in this spot 
 might abide ! 
 
 For as trickling rill from a green moun- 
 tain side, [its tide, 
 
 Till it reaches the ocean and flows with 
 
 So the spirit that 's pure, by the might 
 
 of the Lord, 
 In each pathway of life will abide by 
 
 His Word, [bless. 
 
 To comfort or strengthen, encourage and 
 Any brother or sister in want or distress. 
 
 And implore them to seek for the com- 
 fort Divine, 
 
 Until infinite love through their daily 
 life shine, 
 
 O
 
 2IO Our Chapel. 
 
 So we still prize the building where 
 there 's nought to admire — 
 
 No melodious organ to lead on the choir; 
 
 It boasts not of Gothic or Saxon or 
 Grecian, 
 
 The glass is all plain, not rich tinted 
 Venetian ; 
 
 No Corinthian columns our fine taste to 
 
 please, 
 And the seats seem invented our comfort 
 
 to tease, 
 But if God's Spirit 's here, though we 've 
 
 no cushioned stall, 
 Our Wesleyan Chapel 's right dear to us 
 
 all.
 
 Housekeeping Difficulties. 211 
 
 HOUSEKEEPING DIFFICULTIES 
 WITH TWO YOUNG SER- 
 VANTS. 
 
 Now, Emily, why will you do the thing 
 
 that is not right, 
 I cannot trust the least to you, when 
 
 working out of sight : 
 Oh, Lizzie, see how black you are, what 
 
 are you doing, child. 
 The soot upon your hands and face 's 
 
 enough to make one wild. 
 Just look at those potatoes, girl, they 
 
 are not half done through. 
 And cabbage leaf is near as stiff as when 
 
 on stalk it grew. 
 Mind, Emily, your master's boots clean 
 
 ere you go upstairs, 
 I will not have them standing there 
 
 until there are two pairs. 
 I strongly do object to have the dusting 
 
 done in stripes, 
 'Tis rubbing keeps the polish on, and 
 
 not those gentle wipes ;
 
 212 Housekeeping Difficulties. 
 
 Now, do you think the whiting should 
 
 be left upon each spoon ? 
 You are finishing at six o'clock what 
 
 should be done by noon. 
 There, Lizzie, see those knives are left, 
 
 though dinner is at two. 
 Oh, girl, I wish you would give heed to 
 
 what I say to you ; 
 Good gracious, see those dish covers, no 
 
 sweep could make them blacker, 
 Well, dirt, I think, agrees with you, for 
 
 really you are fatter. 
 
 So I go on from day to day, like ever- 
 sounding bell. 
 
 With just this difference in our tongues 
 that tolls / have to tell ; 
 
 And yet there must some reason be for 
 all this daily fuss, [worry thus ; 
 
 It never is my wish, I know, the girls should 
 
 Oh, patience, come, my old tried friend, 
 help me jog on apace. 
 
 To reach the peace which always comes 
 to those who run The race.
 
 On Receiving Ha If -a- Sovereign. 213 
 
 ON RECEIVING HALF-A-SOVER- 
 EIGN FOR MY DORCAS FROM 
 AN UNKNOWN FRIEND. 
 
 Oh, thou little bit of gold, 
 1^^^^ Can thy worth by me be told ? 
 
 Looking on thee I can see 
 Many things to do with thee. 
 Calico and flannel too, 
 Outer garments not a few ; 
 When the winter comes again, 
 And the little ones complain. 
 Thy help will make them warm and snug, 
 With a blanket, frock, or rug, 
 Covering many a shivering limb. 
 Thou wee, brilliant, golden thing. 
 Showing how true love did grow 
 In the heart that could bestow 
 Thee on me to use for others, 
 Sad and suffering sisters, brothers. 
 Trusting me, that I may do 
 The very best I can with you, 
 May the one who sent thee here, 
 Find the Master very near;
 
 214 Doctor Llyle. 
 
 Know His love and see His smile 
 
 Beaming on her all the while ; 
 
 Giving back in fullest measure 
 
 Of her heart's most precious treasure ; 
 
 Filling up unto the brim 
 
 Every day with joy in Him. 
 
 So each year will gather up 
 
 God's own gold into Life's cup. 
 
 Now, on behalf of many poor, 
 
 Deep, warm thanks from Emma Muir. 
 
 DOCTOR LLYLE. 
 
 When people now are very ill, 
 Away with plaster, draught, or pill, 
 What need to treat them in that style — 
 Copy the clever Dr. Llyle. 
 No embrocation doth he need 
 To bring back health with mighty speed 
 But doctors with a word and smile, 
 So works the wonderful Dr. Llyle.
 
 Doctor Llyle. 215 
 
 No journey long doth he them send, 
 Protesting it their health will mend ; 
 No patient would he thus beguile, 
 Far simpler works great Dr. Llyle. 
 No shock of battery need you bear 
 To get your health in good repair, 
 I never heard it all the while, 
 One shock was given by Dr. Llyle. 
 No seaside lodging must you take, 
 Where money melts like small snow-flake, 
 Such wasteful ways he would revile — 
 Far cuter man is Dr. Llyle. 
 And as for German mud-baths too, 
 Be sure he '11 not send me or you, 
 But, holding such as fashion's wile, 
 That 's not my cure, says Dr. Llyle. 
 And, one thing more than all of these, 
 I never heard him ask for fees, 
 So even if you had the bile 
 You 'd not get cross with Dr. Llyle. 
 Now let us wish him all good speed, 
 For health and happiness we need, 
 And in return at him we '11 smile. 
 And bid good-day to Dr. Llyle.
 
 2i6 Curling ; or, Beef and Greens. 
 
 CURLING; or, BEEF AND 
 GREENS. 
 
 You bid me in verse 
 
 My thought now rehearse, 
 
 But how shall I manage a line, 
 With you far away, 
 This slow passing day, 
 
 And such hard throbbing pain all the 
 time? 
 
 'Tis no love to roam 
 
 That takes you from home, 
 
 And your health 's worth the tenderest 
 care; 
 Yet fain there I 'd be, 
 The loved faces to see, 
 
 And the warm earnest welcome to 
 share. 
 
 I can fancy the scene 
 The frost must have been, 
 
 With the sunlight on each tiny spray ;
 
 Curling ; or. Beef and Greens. 217 
 
 Making great your delight 
 To witness the sight, 
 
 As the train bore you swiftly away. 
 
 My thoughts swiftly turn 
 To mountain and burn, 
 
 Or the loch where the curlers are met ; 
 Those big curling stone — 
 Each plays with his own, 
 
 And some think theirs the very best 
 set. 
 
 Hark to the glad shout 
 From all round about — 
 
 Well done (Beef and Greens) ! Forry 
 Muir! 
 The sound lingers long, 
 As loath to be gone. 
 
 Then floats faintly away o'er the 
 moor. 
 
 Among all the rest, 
 And doing his best, 
 
 Though seldom he 's seen on the spot,
 
 2i8 Curling ; or. Beef and Greens. 
 
 Is young Forry Muir, 
 And you may be sure, 
 
 He will give them a very fair shot. 
 
 The game still goes on, 
 The victory *s won ; 
 
 When the sun 's sinking low in the 
 west, 
 Each object looks gay 
 In its bright glowing ray, 
 
 And the curlers are needing a rest. 
 
 The bright stars above 
 Seem to look down in love 
 
 From the sky where they twinkling 
 shine ; 
 As if they would say, 
 Walk the strait narrow way, 
 
 Live each day in the love that's 
 Divine. 
 
 If ever I come 
 
 To my Scottish home. 
 
 When winter has ice bound each brook.
 
 Margate. 219 
 
 'Twill my journey repay 
 If I can, any day, 
 At the curlers just have a good look. 
 
 My thoughts I call back, 
 From the curlers' bright track, 
 
 Though my sympathy still with them 
 leans ; 
 So a happy new year 
 Unto each curler here, 
 
 May you all often get " Beef and 
 Greens." 
 
 MARGATE. 
 
 On the jetty, on the jetty, 
 
 Where the girls delight to flirt — 
 
 To show how small their waists are, 
 And how short or long their skirt. 
 
 Should the feet be small and pretty. 
 And the ankle well turned too,
 
 220 Margate. 
 
 You may be sure the skirt is short, 
 Perhaps high heeled the shoe. 
 
 Should the foot be large and ugly, 
 And not well shaped one bit, 
 
 Oh, be quite sure the robe is long, 
 Though so nicely it may fit. 
 
 Here are many kinds of chignons, 
 Large and small and round and 
 square ; 
 
 They do not always suit the face. 
 Though they show off so much hair. 
 
 On the jetty, on the jetty. 
 
 Where the band plays every day ; 
 But, remember, if you listen 
 
 You will also have to pay. 
 
 I think pay must be the watch-word 
 Of the folks now living here ; 
 
 No matter what it is you want, 
 They will make you pay so dear.
 
 Margate. 221 
 
 Should you be strolling on the sands 
 
 For a quiet evening walk, 
 And you wander on unthinking, 
 
 Engaged in earnest talk ; 
 
 When suddenly you are brought to — 
 There runs just across your path 
 
 The water, which is deep enough 
 To give both your feet a bath. 
 
 You stop to think what 's best to do, 
 
 Over it you cannot spring, 
 But there are large stones near to you 
 
 Which are just the very thing. 
 
 Over you go, but scarce have placed 
 On the dryer sand your feet, 
 
 When standing there, awaiting you, 
 A boy or man you meet. 
 
 With touch of cap, and, If you please. 
 
 Now a copper, sir, for me, 
 For putting of them stones down there 
 
 To keep you from the sea.
 
 222 Margate. 
 
 And thus it is where'er you go, 
 
 To the jetty, pier, or sand, 
 Along the town to the parade — 
 
 There 's always some demand. 
 
 On, on it goes from day to day, 
 Till patience, pocket, purse 
 
 Is near worn out ; but really I 
 Must finish now this verse. 
 
 So, friend, your kind indulgence grant 
 To all the faults here penned — 
 
 I scarcely think they will reward 
 Your reading to the end. 
 
 LORIMER AND GILLIES, PRINTERS, EDINBURGH.
 
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