.«k '^ T^oii 5 '^/^ai ' "^^^AavaaiH^ ^^omm 5 — O u_ %a]AiNn o "^/sajAiNft ^ofcaiifI iiii JC -Ti o /^ " --^ ^ f J. .- . ^ <' i?- i-^r r i I ! rr\r\ . .n. Li- ^OFCAl ^^VLIBRARY6k. ^>MUBRARYa^ /Tp^h^i^J^, A-cc^ii' POEMS. POEMS, TRANSLATED FEOM THE SWEDISH, OEIGINAL. BY ELLIN ISABELLE TUPPER, S. W. PARTRIDGE, 0, PATERNOSTER ROW MDCCCLXXII. NOTICE The Poems and Translations in this Volume are mostly printed for the first time, but a few have been inserted in Magazines, and some are in "The Poems by Three Sisters." (Moxon.) The Translations are all, with scarcely an ex- ception, in the original metres, and are as nearly as possible word for word. HAS BEEN PRINTED BY WATER-POWER AT g^t m. Partija |ri«ti»g maths, CHILWORTH, SURREY. These Works are tlie first in this Country where Water Power has been applied to the Art of Printing. Univin Brothers, printers. CONTENTS. TRANSLATIONS FROM THE S^^EDISH. IN THE OEIGINAL METRES. ^g i.p. Carl, Jimg of .^focbcu. PAGE When Thought Woke .... 1 The Heart's Home 4 The Fairies' Dance 7 Evening 9 Who Finds Peace? 10 The Troubadour 11 3u 3-'^-'B' ^k^ priutrss (Eugenia of ^Incbcn. Evening Thoughts 13 VIU CONTENTS. ^g ilif. t^£ |nna Oscar of Sbtbnt. The Baltic To THE Evening Star PAGE 15 19 The Ice Journey 21 ^g Stanislas Mrcbf, ^aronxss ^anukob • To Poetry 23 The Gift of Song . . 25 I MUST Sing • . 26 Despise Nobody . . 28 My Home . • . 35 Thy Eight Place • . 37 Books . • . 38 Seed-Corn . • . 39 Female Courage • * 40 The Heart's Lyre • . 41 Indifference • 42 The North's Winter Sleep . 43 The Earth • 44 History's Sentence * . 45 Eeturn Again . • . 4G Protection . • . 47 CONTENTS. IX The Soul's Freedom . The Human Heart . Invisible Comfort "Would you be Happy ? Be Still The Unattainable To Silence Forward ! . Calmness True Courage . To a Philanthropist A Day in the Woods Saw you my Friend? To Phantasy Longing TniE and Eternity . The Soul's Alliance. Life's Words Fredrika Bremer's Spinning Wheel Am I Old?. " How DO YOU DO ?" . Nature and Art A Spring Day's Snow A Little Evening Song A Winter Storm L'envoi CONTENTS. OEIGINAL POEMS. PAGE Heroes ........ 89 Over the Meadows . • • . 92 In the Moonlight • • . 94 Springtide . • . 96 Baby Fingers . 98 To A Friend on the Birth of her Chil D . 100 The Two Landings at Ebbsfleet . 101 The Life-Boat .... . 105 The Foundered Ship 109 Prayer . Ill Waiting for Light . 113 The Bow in the Cloud 115 Change 117 The Immutable . 118 Praise 120 Salvation .... 121 Hope .... 123 Thankfulness 125 Morning Thoughts . 127 Diligence .... 128 CONTENTS. XI THE Mercy The Faithful Guide Regrets ..... Alone ! Never Again ! . . . . On the Empress Eugenie Visiting Hospitals .... Faithful and True . The Bells Birthday Wishes The Con-version of King Edwin The Chief's Last Rlde . Meteors New Year's Thoughts A Child's Prayer The Christian's Hope On the Death of Three Little Children The Dead An Incident on Board the ' London Buried at Sea .... The Bell Buoy The Wolf Eock Light-House . Cornish Daring Country Pictures New Year's Eve Outward Bound Paris XU CONTENTS. PAGE Homeward Bound 178 Whitsand Bay . 181 The Fisher-Girl's Lament 183 Hill-top Thoughts . 185 Snowdrops .... 188 A Seaside Evening . . 190 In the Spanish Main 191 A Fragment 193 Never Regret 194 Knitting .... 195 POEMS, TRANSLATED AND ORIGINAL. £' r a It s I :i t c b . WHEN THOUGHT WOKE. liV II. M. CAUL, KING OF SWKDEX AND NORWAY. Again mine eyes behold tlic dales, "Where bygone hours of childish glee Were passed, and memory's hallowed vales Again in lingering thought I sec : The winds blow cool, the fountains spring. Fair is the skv, the birds sing gav, And like a swan my fancy's wing Bears mc in spirit far away. 2 2 POEMS. Tlio glorious beaming sun I see, The dew upon the flowers glowing, And Nature's wondi'ous speech to me A mighty Spu-it's image showing ; Lo ! life itself in dust is framed, A new world formed so fresh and sweet. And all together wisely named, Beauty and harmony complete. I see all these and many more Wonders, my soul sought not to know My end, I never thought before Either the first or last to show : Forgot the cradle, saw no grave, But then, as others laughed and wept, The wanderer's staff I took, and brave Anew upon my pathway stej)t. But when my heart's foreboding woke And turned Creation's speech aside, A void was there ! the love which spoke Comfort, and inner hght supplied. Was gone ; gone too the fountain bright In which a child's faith might be shown ; Now learnt I that this love and light Came down from the Almighty's tlu'one. TRANSLATED. I tliank Him for each look of love Vouclisafecl ; pure, frcsli, and warm it flows; He sends life, feeling, from above, The hope -which in my bosom glows Of happy homes in Eden given, "Wliere sins no more my soul disgi-ace. Fly, fly, my Thought ! to highest heaven, ^Vith God tlioii hast thy dwelling-place. POEMS. THE HEARTS HOME. BY THE SAME. Where is thy home ? I ask my throbbing heart Which from my earHest hour within my breast Has in all joy and sorrow taken part, — Where is thy rightful home ? where is thy rest ? Say, is it here ? This world is full of pleasure, And Nature's gifts are strewn with ample measure ; And then my heart made answer — " No!" Where is thy home ? Is it where wild storms rage And fast the streams flow from the rock's cm- brace ? Where the bold hunter's joy is to engage In all the stirring pleasures of the chase ? Or is it v.'hcrc war's heavy thunder crashes, Whore bullets fly, and keen the sword-stroke flashes ? Calmly my heart made answer — "No!" TRANSLATED. O "Where is thy liome ? Perchance a Southern clime Alhires thee with its x)urple-tinte(l sky, Beneath the tropic sun to pass thy time, Idly among the roses sweet to lie ? Is that thy home, where lofty palms are hentliug And the green summer-time seems never ending ? But yet again the heart said — "No !" Where is thy home ? seck'st tliou it where the snow For ever lies upon the mountain's height, Where all the summer through, the sunset's glow Is merged into the morning's sunrise bright ? Where through the piuewoods go the glad beams glancing, (Jr where at night the Northern Lights are dancing? But still my heart made answer — "No! " Where is thy home ? Is it with her whose love Is thine for ever, and whose heart beats true '? Where hope dies out within life's sunny grove When you forsake her, or she leaveth you ? Is this the home whereof thou still art thinking This cup of happiness for ever di-inkiug ? The heart with sorrow answered — " No ! '' G POEMS. Where is thy home ? Oh say uow if it he lu that pure blessed hiud heyond tlie sides, "Where men helieve their souls return, set free. When death has loosened all our earthl}- ties ? Is that thy home, — that unknown jilace, where nightly The glittering starry hosts are blazing brightly '.' And then my heart made answer — " Yes ! " "There is my home," it softly made reply, " The home from whence I came, whither return. And though with earthly fetters bound I lie, A heavenly flame within shall ever burn, E'en though it be a tiny spark, undying, My steps to guide, until, to Cxod's courts flying, I go, — for with Him is my — ' Home ! '" TRANSLATED. THE FAIRIES' DANCE. BY THE SAME. No siTii, with golden beams on Ligli, Shows from above the bkie-arched sky ; The sunset redness fades away, The stars come forth, so coy and clear The lake-waves ripple without sound, A solemn stillness reigns around; The noisy brook is hushed, for day Has ended, and the night di'aws near. Hark ! does old Nycken on his reeds Make music ? No, 'tis in the meads. From the high oak-trees sounding, Where nightingales all hidden he, And, wliilc the clear tone sweetly rings, Forth from the wood, on aii-y wings. Light, graceful forms come boundhig, And fays and elves go trooping by. 8 POEMS. O'er summer flowers and ferus tliey trip, And then, ^Yith graceful bound and skip, The dance begins upon the green : No sound is by these revellers made, The soft wind waves the feathery pine, Beneath whose shade on moss recline At ease the fairy King and Queen, In jewelled robes and crowns arrayed. With evening dew the grass is wet, And from its glittering di-ops they get A cup of nectar, pure and sweet ; They drink, — the dance begins anew,- Quicker the mazy chain they weave, Then suddenly the i^lains they leave, And, like the wind, so strong and fleet, Back to the woods their flight pursue. The pale stars in the sky decline, Between the leaves the moonbeams shine, While in their mossy dells and glades In happy sport they pass the night, Until the purple eastern ray Heralds the coming of the day ; Then, as with morn a vision fades, The faii'ies vanish out of sight. TRANSLATED. 9 EVENING. BY THE SAME. On the clieek the warm sun Hngers In the western shade, And the wind with gentle fingers Touches hill and glade : All is silent, far and near, Nought disturbs the quiet here, Waves are creeping, Flowers sleeping. In this little green retreat. Quiet evening ! vain regretting For that hour again Memory feels, while unforgetting In the heart remain Thoughts, which evermore shall live ; And our throbbing pulses give, "With their beatings. Thousand gi-eetiugs To this cvcuing-tide so sweet. 10 POEMS. WHO FINDS PEACE ? BY THE SAME. Where is Peace ? Say, who can find licr,— Dwells she with the glad and gay ? Quick as time she leaves behind her "Wealth, and flics from pomp away. Find we Peace when day is closing ? "When the silent moon we view. And her image is reposing On the cahn lake's waters blue ? No ; at night, dreams without number Cause us grief and pain and strife, And we go again in slumber Over all the woes of life. Peace alone we find, wherever Constant hearts with hearts unite, Peace dwells there, where nought can sever Faithful friends who love aright ! TRAKSLATED. 11 THE TEOUBADOUn. BY THE SAME. He sings of love ! and all the air suiTOimding Is full of gentle tones and happy words, And as liis heart on that sweet lute resounding Poiu-s tuneful -wishes from its silver chords, Upon his cheek the evening hght is glo-^ing. And in liis eye peace and contentment beam Like summer lake, whose waves are calmly flowing "When winds are hushed, and waters brightly gleam. lie sings of love ! and busy thoughts come rushing, And to his mind spread out their gorgeous view, Though now to earth he looks, his brow is flushing. The world to him is clothed in rosy hue ; Now memory wakes, and visions bright are stealing Out from their secret chambers of repose, "While all his bosom throbs with deepest feeling, One only love this constant lover knows. •12 POEMS. He sings of love ! aucl faithful he will never lu life or death licr loveliness forget ; Oft on the sand her name he writes, and ever Each hill and dale re-echoes his regret ; But sand-inscriptions fade, and sound is fleeting, Soon and for ever, this world shall he leave, And go to where his love, with silent greeting. Upon his brow th' innnortal crown shall weave. TE.VNSLATED. 13 EVENING THOUGHTS. BY H. R. H. THE PRINCESS EUGENIA OF SWEDEN. Beauteous evening ! -wlicn all nature Covers with a misty veil Every verdant laughing feature, And no storm is in the dale ; Then to then- Creator's praise "Woods and hills then* voices raise, — The Lord Himself is ever near, — O heart ! forget thy grief and fear, Though perfect peace is not found here. See the day is quickly flying, And the weary soul, opprest AYith the strife, is longhig, sighing For a sheltered place of rest ; Yet finds it not, while here she lives ; 'Tis God alone contentment gives ; O heart ! he patient, upward soar "Where thou may'st dwell, when life is o'er, "With God in peace for evermore. 11 POEMS. Thanks, Lord ! for every hour Given to us of joy to-day, Tln-ough cloud and sunshine by Thy power Safely kept upon our Avay ; And, when the hour of death is come, That calls the faithful to their home, Then, when redeemed, our troubles cease, And from all grief we have release, Oh ! then we shall have perfect peace ! TRANSLATED. 15 THE BALTIC. BY H. R. H. PRINCE OSCAR OF SWEDEN. Thou dark-blue sea which for centuries past Hast Laved Scandinavia's shore, Each spring-tide breaking the ice-fetters fast Which bound thee, — now free as before, To thee I dedicate this my song When the waves beat on the rocks. How cool and pleasant it is to stand When soft spring-breezes blow, And rippling billows play on the sand Iiich-hucd in the sunlight's glow : See ! the glistening foam is bright When the waves beat on the rocks. But lo ! tlic hun-icano comes in his might. And the sca-nymph's cheek is pale ; J 11 a thousand pieces with rare delight He tears my Happing sail ! Yet my heart beats proudly as on I steer Mid the waves which roar on the rocks. 16 POEMS. It soimtls like a clanging of steel true and tried, This changing magnificent tone, A thing of life rushing o'er waters wide Its mighty voice to make known ; And the winds sing together, now soft and now strou^ When the waves beat on the rocks. Oh ! hard is the sailor's life, and dark The winds which storm and rave, But calm he stands in his fragile hark On the edge of a deep blue grave ; And his way amid hidden perils steers When the waves beat on the rocks. He wrestles with furious wind and rain, Heat, mist, are over him spread ; And hope has failed him again and again In midnight's hour of dread ; "When no witness was there of the deadly strife But beating waves on the rocks. Yet with his whole being he loves the sea. No danger makes him quail, He thinks of the billows, so foaming and free, At home in his quiet dale ; TRANSLATED. 17 Wliat strange faseiuatiou there is to all, lu the ■v\-aves -wliicli beat ou the rocks. "With heart inspii-ed, my voice shall soimcl And praise these billo-«'s gi-and, Which of ancient time have cradled round Our bold Scandinavian land ; While thousand tales of old the waves Piin" out from among the rocks. Thou wild tumultuous biUowy grave, Yet beautiful glittering sea, Tell me of strifes with the bold and brave. And teach this song to me ; I listen enchanted to tales like thine, When the waves beat on the rocks. But should'st thou sec peril near our land Or an enemy's fleet behold, Then sound the alarum upon the strand, " To arms both yoimg and old !" And not in vain shall thy voice be heard When the waves beat ou the rocks. 3 IB POEMS. For those who dwell iu most Northern dales, "Who trust in God and the right, Shall throng to the shores from then- peaceful valc.'^, And for their country fight ; The foe who defies us shall find his grave In the waves which beat on the rocI:s. TRANSLATED. 19 TO THE EVENING STAB. BY THE SAIIE. IIail ! Summer evening, calm and still, "When every palace, cot, and lull Is bathed in rosy light ; Hail to thee, holy Sabbath ! peace, Which, when the day's wild turmoils cease, Comes with the hush of night. And now beyond the pine-edged Sound, While all is quietness around, The setting sun dips slow : The light dies out on sea and land. Where rippluag billows kiss the strand, Leaving no track below. Yet for awhile this Western sky The purple streamers richly dye. And cast their beams afar ; Then twinkling from a fleecy cloud, And stealing forth as from a shroud, Looks out the evening-star. 8 :: 20 POEMS. could I undcrstaud thy speech, My star ! and Icaru what thou dost teach, It now should be my theme : ^ly lyre I strike, but all in vain 1 send thoughts following in the train Of thy refulgent beam. It is so far away to thee, Thy wandering path is dim to me, When first thou dost appear ; But as night deepens o'er the land Neai'er to me thou seem'st to stand, Ghmmering full and clear. ^o Then from thy twinlding beam hope springs, And whispers, " Leave these questionings, Thou shalt know all one day ; Tliine eyes are closed, yet not so mine, All the night through so true I shine Not long seems time or way ! " "Why should I not then watch thee, though None of my heart's best tones can flow From golden strings to thee ? Yet once again, my star, I'll sing, Enchanted thus with listening To what thou tcllcst me. TRANSLATED. 21 THE ICE JOURNEY. FROM TEGNER's " FETTHIOF SAGA." Ki\G Eing with liis Queen a journey would take, When clear as glass was the ice on the lake : " Try not the ice," the stranger said, " If broken, too deep is that cold bed." "A King to be drowned?" said Ring, "not so! Let him who is fearful round the lake go." The stranger looked dark, as, with eager haste, The steel skates on to his feet he braced. The sledge-horse started, with joy and pride, — lie snorts out flame from his nostrils wide ; " Speed on," cried the King, " my good steed, show If thou art of Slcipner's* blood, or no !" • Odin's celebrated horse. 22 POEMS. And away like a storm o'er the lake tliey fly, rdng never liccdiug liis poor Queen's cry ; — But faster than they, that champion fleet Is travelhng on with his steel-shod feet, — Strange runes he traces, as on he slides, Fair Ingeborg over her own name glides ! So onward they go on the icy way. But underneath them the false Ean''= lay ; She thrust a hole in her silver roof, And the water froze o'er the horse's hoof ! Fair Ingeborg' s cheek grew pale with dread, — As a rushing wlihlwiud the stranger sped, — He struck his skate in the ice with speed, And clutched at the mane of the gallant steed ; Then, lightly wheeling, turned him about. And horse and sledge from the ice dragged out ! " This day will I prize," the King said, "long ; Thou hast done it as bravely as Frithiof the Strong." * The Swedish waterspritc. TRANSLATED. 28 TO POETRY. BY STANISLAS WREDE, BARONESS BARNEKOW. Poetry ! why clroop thy head and mouru, Art thou indeed forgotten and forlorn '? Thy heavenly voice, once full of joy, now fled, And dumb thy song as if thy soul were dead ? No, no ! 'tis only that this busy life, — Full of self-interest, paltry claims and strife, — Veils all the pleasure of thy cheering smile And makes thee seem iinhceded for awhile. Yet, long as in the woods the nightingale Sings, and the dove coos softly down the vale, Long as the evening sun lights up the glade And the sweet tlowers blossom in the shade. And natiu-e speaks to the iuquu-ing heart, Shall Poetry sweet iiuickening grace impart. So long as hallowed love to us is dear, And friendship's liame is felt and cherished here, Whose tender light, fed by a faithful hand. Warms and cnli'-^htens all this wintry land, — 24 POEMS. So long as truth aspiring fiucls oii earth (Where men deny her persecuted worth, And Vice reigus revelling till his folly cease), No homo, no pleasure, no repose, no peace, — So long as sense and feeling's torrent rolls Out from the secret chambers of men's souls, — • That noble voice must evermore resound, Preaching salvation, love, content, around ! Yes ! long as in man's breast we find a heart, Shall Poetry sweet quickening grace impart. TRANSLATED. 2& TEE GIFT OF SOXG. BY THE SAME. How liappy tliey whom God lias taught To sing the soul's deep di-eam of thought ! "Who from the di-eary autumn-day Can draw out comfort on the way ! Eegret is soothed, and son-ows flee At sound of that sweet melody ; Each bitter grief is hush'd, when floats Soft music like Eolian notes. As through the room it gently steals, Pleasure and hope each bosom feels ; Deceit can here no longer stay, Distrust and falsehood flee away ; And purest truth, and truth alone, Remains to hear the heavenly tone, Which, like the simsliine clear and l)right, bhall cheer the soul with fresh delight. 26 POEMS. I MUST SING. BY THE SAME. I SING out my song, like the birds in the wood, "With them all in their joy taking part; For flowers, for beauty, for everything good. Pouring out the deep thanks of my heart. Yes, yes, I must sing, though dangers may lower. Bringing trouble and sorrow and strife. For singing alone has a true blessed power And can cm-e all the ills of my life. I care not for honour, I care for no praise. But again and again I must sing, Till swiftly and merrily pass all my days, Full of song, as of flowers the spring. TRANSLATED. 27 I sang in my cradle, or in cliiklisli i>lay, When the morn shed its first rosy light ; And still in old age I can carol a lay, That inits my life's troubles to flight. Xo, the heart may grow old, but it never forgets Tlie bright tones of its youth fresh and strong ; And Hst'ning to them, I can feel no regrets But sing sweet as the swan my death-song. 28 POEMS. DESPISE NOBODY. BY THE SAME. A LITTLE lady, finely cli-ost, one day From her " Bonne's" side so gaily slipped away ; She felt so happy, filled with childish glee, Away she went, with footsteps light and free ; Tni, deep down in the forest's shade, she met A ragged child — one of the tattered set She oft had heard the servants sending back, " Get out from our great gates, j^ou beggar pack ! " His hands were filled with flowerets — she forgot He was a stranger-beggar ; of the lot She begged one, and he, much denied before, Looked at the blossoms — they were all his store ; But at the little maiden's next request, Quickly and joyfully he gave his best. And on together, through the woods, with joy Wandered the little lady and the boy. (0 freedom ! dear to every one thou art, — No earthly splendour has in thee a part.) TR.^SLATED. 29 They cliasc the butterfly, they fiutl uew flowers, Eoamiug o'er hill aucl dale, through sunny hours. And now they spring o'er streamlets in the glen. And endless questions ask each other then. " AVhy is your coat so ragged, thin, and hare ? Can you not get some better clothes to wear ?" " Why do you live in such a splendid hall Wliilo mother's cottage is so very small ? Perhaps you are an angel ? sister mine Hings of the angels beautiful and fine." " No ! angels must have wings ; hut sometimes I Think I shall one day too have wings and fly : Then when I am an angel you shall he With me, — and then my ' Bonne ' I will not see, And you shall have a towered castle there.' "And you shall have a long-horned stag, — see where lie springs ; and look — look ! there arc others now Hiding away beneath the leafy bough ; Come, let us seek them." So in pleasant talk. The little ones went on their happy walk, Till the swan came and laid her down to rest, And till the blackbird sought her hidden nest, The flowerets closed their- eyes, and all was still, In cvcrv dale and vallcv, glen and hill. 80 POEMS. Thcu the sun sank; yet on and on tlie}' went, Free from all care, and full of sweet content ; And dark and dim became that forest land. " Oil, look at these long shadows ! take my hand. "What have you in your bag ? do let me see ; Ah, can you not spare one small cake to mc?" He laughed, then took his bag the little lad. And gave for answer of the best he had ; Ux>on a stone his store he quickly spread. And the rich giid ate of the poor boy's bread. " Take what you will," he said, " I in-ay you eat, — To 5'ou belongs half of this bread so sweet." And, hungry with her walk, the little maid Gladly the beggar-boy's request obeyed. "Ah ! if I had a little water too ! " She murmured. Said the boy, " I'll bring' it you ; It springs here fi-esh and good." Quickly a cup Out of birch bark he made ; filling it up With water cool, to his new friend in haste He gave the draught, far better to her taste Than richest vane. And off again they set, ^Yalking until the ground with dew was wet. "I am so tired," said she. " Then you shall sleep ; Lie down, and I watch over you will keep ; TRANSLATED. 31 Nought shall disturb you as you slumber here ; Behove rue, you have uothmg uow to fear." " Where shall I sleep ? the nioou shines clear and bright, And yet no bed you have for mo to-night ! " His bag and tattered coat he took and made Into a pillow ; then he gently laid Down on tho couch the weary curly head, While soft as eider was the mossy bed ; And then the boy, with accents clear and mild, Said gently, " God i)rotect and bless His child ! " The little maiden heard him with surprise. Then quickly closed her weary drooping eyes ; Tho long fringed lashes on the lair cheek lay. And, tu-ed v»'ith the wanderings of the day, Secure and smihngly she slumbered there. Yes, surely God had hoai-d the poor boy's prayer ; And he his watch so nobly, wisely kept, Guarding his httle friend while now she slept. But to the rich man's eyes no slumber came The whole night through ; he called for her by name- Ilis only child, his darling, loved so well, Lost ! lost ! and at the thought his spii-its fell. ii'l POEMS. Aud then the " Bonue," all trembling and in tears, Quite terror-stricken with her inward fears, AVith incoherent language urged on all The crowd of servants ; they obeyed her call, And through the night searched all the country round But all in vain ; the child could not be found. The father then set out, with staff in hand, Piesolved to seek her over all the land; With anxious heart he took his dreary way Through the dim woods, just at the dawn of day. And now the east was flushed with rosy light, And pleasant breezes stirred the green leaves bright, Till in his splendour rose the king of day. And from on high sent down his cheering ray. Then hurriedly set out the faithful hound, Bejoicing when the lost child's track he found ; ]3ack to his master he returned, and seemed So glad, he almost human might be deemed : He leaped upon him, as if he v/ould say, " I know where she is now ; do come away ! " And then the track the father followed too, And soon a ragged boy came into view, Seated against a stem, with stick in hand, And deep sunk down in dream's mysterious land. TRANSLATED. 33 Aud by Lis side — oh ! tlieu, what saw he there ? His only child, his darling jewel fair ! Fresh as a rose she lay in happy di'eams, Her red lips kissed by the sun's golden beams, "Which peeped between the green leaves' dewy folds, And in her hands the blossoms still she holds. Now sang the nightingale her trill of joy, And hastily nprose the sleeping boy, Looked at the slumbering child, and with a bound, Stood by the side of that great noble hound. He had been frightened at him oft before, When tiu'ued back from the rich man's castle- door ; 15ut now all fear has vanished, as he stands Close to the dog, his beech twig in his hands. All this the father saw ; filled with delight He looked on charmed. Oh ! was it not a sight Worthy a better world ? Then to his breast, With tearful liastc, his darling child he pressed ; While slie, affectionate and innocent. Related how the past day she had spent, And then, quite wearied out with childish joy, Secure had slept protected by the boy. 4 iJl POEMS. Autl tliou niay'st guess liow tlic proud father's heart Felt, and how each word pierced him Kkc a dart. The little pair he took in either hand, Knovring that one of this scorned heggar-band Must, after God, he thanked ; so hack he went Unto his house, a changed man, and content. TK\NSLATED. 35 MY HOME ! BY THE SAME. WiiERE^-ER on earth, pain fierce and strong, Changes to soiTOvr the joyful song, — "Where patient virtue sufiers long. There is mv home ! Wherever a noLlc heart and hand Tiises for God and Fatherland, And against error makes a stand, There is my home ! Wherever the soul uprising springs. With hope and joy on her buoyant wings, To brighter light and better things, There is my home ! 4- 36 POKMS. Yes, wheresoever my heart shall see The love I give given back to me, With pure and holy sympathy. There is my home ! And last when from each home below My Father calleth, to Him I go. Peaceful and glad, for there I know Is my true home ! TRANSLATED. 37 THY RIGHT PLACE. BY THE SAME. Nature can teach thee much, but cannot tell Why on this earth thou now art made to dwell, luiow, then, that each, in palace or in cot, Fills hh rvjht j)lace, — he has his work to do, His daily toil or business to pursue Unwearied ; rest or pleasure heeding not. Yet hindrances we meet ; see genius strive Against adversity, see deep thoughts rise In minds which must with ignorant people live, See noble women, gentle, kind, and wise, Doing their duty faithfully always. And are they honoured ? Yes ! in time to come, Wlien they shall cuter their eternal home, They shall receive their due reward and praise. 38 POEMS. BOOKS. BY THE SAME. You, faithful frieucls in many a lonely hour, Have cheered my soul and taught my inmost mind : books ! in you what pleasure do I find ! What can compare with Thought's all potent power ? My dear companions in my silent home, My remedy in son'ow's darkest day, My shield when dangers hover round my way, — 1 hear your voices wheresoe'er I roam, And love them : and what joy it is to me To clothe in living words, fresh from the heart. The inner thoughts, and so to bear a part In bringing courage, comfort, sympathy, Hope, joy, or peace, by this most blessed art, To those whom we on earth may never see ! TRANSLATED. 39 SEED-COB N. BY THE SA3IE. CHILD of man, liow oftcu vrastest tliou Upon a rocky soil thy choicest seed, In youth, thy fresh and warm young feelings lead Thee on, forgetting all thou sowest now Will vanish as the air which fans thy brow ! Yet bettor so than if we take no heed. But trample on life's path each word and deed; For some will flourish and produce good grain, Though thorns may suffocate and men may laugh, Yet there are fine rich cars amid the chaff, And tliy good deeds return to thee again. Oh, take the Holy Bible for tliy staff. And lot the precepts of each hallowed page Support tliy vigorous youth, thy feeble age. 40 POEMS. FEMALE COUJRAGE. BY THE SAME. AxL> dost tliou say that female courage fails ? In error then no longer slialt thou go ; Nobly does woman by example show How even when man's courage faints and quails, By poverty or trouble quite deprest, New life and vigour fills her faithful breast, And her weak hands labour by day and night To make the heavy burden feel more light. See how she vrorks untiringly, and lo. See how she calmly meets fate's crushing blow ! And as the sun's rays tint the clouds in space, So tears and smiles are blended in her face ; Thus, by her courage, patience, and by prayer, She gains triumphantly a victory there. TRANSLATED. 41 THE HEARTS LYEE. BY THE SAME. Our heart is as a stringed lute, Never to joy or sorrow mute ; Oh ! happy he who has not heard The chords of love with anger stirred : The strmgs vibrate not as of yore ; The same sounds come not as before ; The whole world then seems cold and dead, And the worn spirit droops its head : But even then, when most alone In life, can sympathy's clear tone Speak truth and hope, and so impart Joy to the weary trembling heart ; And sorrow's deepest sigh may be To God as sweetest harmony. 42 POE3I3. INDIFFERENCE. BY THE SAME. There is a state, alike to all maukiucl, "Wasting the strength and darkening all the mind, — Indifference, this wretched state we name, — Man loses by it knowledge, wisdom, fame ; And as the dust spreads over earthly things, Or the thick fog shuts out the starry rings, So more and more it quenches every light, Until it ends in blackest, coldest night ! Thou who canst in thy heart this weed discern Bee that thou pluck it by the root to burn ; Once give Indifference entrance to thy mind. Danger to truth and duty thou shalt find ; Better with fiery ardour to contend. Than with Indifference thy life to end. TRANSLATED. 4S THE XOETH'S WINTER SLEEP. BY THE SAIOE. O^-ER the North the snow has sxn-cacl A fine white veil on the shimbcriug laud, Already has "Winter crowned his head "With many a frosty icy hand. See from the clear and azure height The Sun looks down with a rosy light ; In glory he shines, while to Nature's ear He is speaking, in accents low and clear, — " Sleep, my beloved, forget thy pain — Sleep till I walvcn thee up again ; Till thy stiff cold limbs I gently jiress, And give new life by my soft caress : Then sleep in peace, my beauty, my bride. To watch thy slumbers shall be my pride." 44 POEMS. THE EARTH. BY THE SAME. Thou noble mother-earth, well love I thee, What joy and freedom hast thou given me ! Eich art thou : oh ! what warmth and strength and light Lies hidden silently away from sight, Deep in thy bosom, which is overspread With sweetest flowers ; and though here and there A thorn may wound amid the blossoms fair, Yet should no anger in man's heart be fed — Thou givest me fi'om out thy bounteous store All that I need for earthly wants ; and more In thee, as in a book, I ever find. If I will search, — food also for the mind : And when at last I wearied fall asleep. Thou for a little shalt my body keep. TKAXSLATED. 45 HISTOEYS SENTENCE. BY THE SAME. Methinks I Clio iu the glass behold, — No smile is ou her lips, her look is cold : Who would aspii-e to her stupendous height ? Soon bends his head with sorrow at the sight, — For she must write the truth of good aud bad. Alas ! poor Clio, how couldst thou be glad ? To the world's great ones, too, this grief you give. That seldom as their promise do they live ; For History's unblemished page contains Full many lines set down in hopeful strains : But ah ! the tempter, too, his plan makes up, And fills with earthly dross his ghttering cup ; And so men fall. God ! in pity look On all we love, and -^Tite them in Thy book. 46 POEMS. BETUEN AGAIN. r,\ THE SAME. " Thus far — but no way further slialt tlion go," Is the command to every Christian given, And when hard pressed by evil thoiTghts below, May we look np, and seek new strength from Heaven. Soon that command is broken, men begin To find then- pleasures in deceit and sin ; Tempted by promises, both false and vain, The world's applause is all they seek to gain : But man's good Angel stands with weeping eyes, And to the heart, " Keturn again," he cries, " Return again, be as a child once more, See virtue waiting for thee as of yore." Happy is he who listens, ere the gate Is shut, and going back will be too late ! TRANSLATED. 47 PBOTECTION. BY THE SAME. Should man God's gift of love despise ? "What He ordains, is it not wise ? Should not man always cheerful go And praises sing while here below ? Whatever ills may us befall, God can in mercy cure them all : Then why should hate and envy find Such ready place in every mind ? Like wax let malice melt away, And look, man ! to Heaven and pray ; Take courage, soon thy woes shall end, Forget not God, thy loving friend : He sees the trials of thy life. And gives thee victory in the strife. 48' POEMS. THE SOUL'S FREEDOM BY THE SAME. Freedom will I praise, Life's best gift always, — Freedom thou art miue ! What if heavy bauds Fetter fast the hands. Can they too entwine Thoughts ? No ! free and light The Spirit takes its flight To a better land, Soon each earthly band Breaks ! Who shall control The pure enlightened soul ? Which from dangers free Lives through Eternity ! TRANSLATED. 49 THE HUMAN HEART. BY THE SAME. Of all the aclniii-ablc things of earth Which the Creator placed here in our view ; Of all the glorious wonders ever new, Man has become the work of highest worth. "Who now will i^onder for a time apart, On that small world which bears the name of heart ? Now like the sea in siimmcr, calm and mild It slumbers : look, a sudden change, the wild Fierce waves leap high ! and now with frantic ire It bums and rages, full of hidden fire. Now is " Allcgi-o " burden of the song, And now " Adagio " Fcarccly creeps along. A tyrant's force will fail this world to move, Yet it obeys a simple look of love ! 50 poEais. INVISIBLE COMFOBT. BY THE SAME. Feiend, hast thou marked that just iu trouble's hour, When most thou wautest counsel, help, and love. Unseen by thee, comes some mysterious power, Filling thy breast with courage from above ? Then, should the fevered hand thou boldest sadly, Lie cold and stiff, look up and take no heed ; All that the ears hear, or the eyes see, gladly Bearing, strength will be given in thy need. And though the soul from thee is ever hidden, Yet some thread leading to her source on high Soon thou shalt trace ; and thus by thee ixnbidden Faith, hope, and love shall evermore be nigh ! Then comfort take, invisibly protected, Joy iu the thought, thy steps are all directed. TRANSLATED. 51 WOULD YOU BE HAPPY. ^ BY THE SAME. Let each lleetiiig hour In love and zeal be spent, And to thy utmost po"«'cr Be faithful, diligent. Strive not to pierce the gloom In ■which thy futiu-e lies, But seek beyond the tomb That hope which never dies. \Vhcu in that hope secm-e Thou passest to thy rest, Fear not, for evermore In God thou shalt be blest ; Thus though thy life be quickly past. Thy happiness will surely last. 5- 52 POKMS. BE STILL. BY THE SAME. Woman ! sent to help the weak Sad hearts here, Be silent when thou canst not spealc "Words that cheer ; But be hold when truth demands. Bid strife cease, Then men will listen, and thy hands Shall bring peace. Bearing witness onward go, But forget not how Every woman's brow Goodness best adorns ; If this crown she scorns, God shall judge her now. TRANSLATED. 53 THE UNATTAINABLE. BY THE SAME. Try not : tliou canst not to Ins height attain, Nor enviously ch-ag him down to thee ; Thy stratagems and toils are spun in vain, And weak as spider's web thy net shall be. He stands aloof from flattery and wrong, lie stands aloof from Censure's busy tongue; Firm, true, and noble is his purpose still, ^lalice may strive, but cannot do him ill. What is this strength ? whence comes this courage high, Keeping him stedfast though his foe be nigh ? Why stands he on his i^edestal so strong, Smihng at all the world's attempt to wrong ? It is that love, so holy, good, and pure, I'ills him with peace, now and for evermore. 54 POEMS. TO SILENCE. BY THE SAME. Thou hallowed silence ! nowhere do I find Such sweet repose as when I come to thee To ease my weary, over-burdened mind, Thy voiceless speech is music unto me. My inmost soul with liighest pleasures thrills, New strength for duty all my bosom fills ; Here, free from Scandal's tongue and petty strife, I listen for the tones of heavenly life : A glad and glorious hymn I seem to hear. The victor's crown and palm to me are near; And myriad voices of the angel-throng Join in a never-ending joyful song, And while the silver harps' clear notes resound, " God our Salvation," echoes all around. TRANSLATED. 55 FORWARD . Stljool-sJons' ,|ouriuii $ong. BY THE SAME. Forward, m.y comracTes ! iu book aud iu play, Fight against iudolence every day ; What though we dwell iu a palace or cot, God will protect us whatever our lot ; Courage aud gladness and life He can give ; In love, not in wrath, strive ever to live. Forward ! Forward, my comi-adcs ! the world shall belong To those who are fearless, to those who are strong ; Diligent ever truth's lessons to learn. To God, above all, with meek reverence turn ; Then honour tlie King, and in reachness stand To defend with thy life's blood thy dear native land. Forward ! 56 POEMS. Forward ! is ever tlic watcliworcl of life ; Fonvartl ! it cheers lis along through all strife ; Forward ! in earnest as "well as in play Press on, — though the grape-shot di-ive thick on thy way; Set duty hefore thee, then flowers shall bloom, And strong in our faith we shall shout through the gloom — Forward ! TRANSLATED. 57 CALMNESS. BY THE SAME. Be calm, my child, no peril will be given, But God will guide thee safely on thy way; In midnight's hour, see the stars in Heaven Lighting the darkness with a cheering ray. Be calm, my child, though black mists gather round thee, Hopefully looking for a brighter dawn. Till inercing through the dense gloom that has bound thee, Lo the sun brings a fresh and briUiant morn. Be calm, my cliild, though troubles may befall thee, Make peace a constant dweller in thy home, And lot not even death itself appal thee. It is the way the Father bids thee come. 58 POEMS. TEUE COUBAGE. BY THE SAME, Storms may rage upon tins earth, And words of hatred cloud the hearth, But I have never trembled j-et, For hi high God my trust is set ! Troubles frown on every side, And snakes amid the roses hide, But I have never trembled yet, For in high God my trust is set ! Though many trials on my way Have crushed me down, still I can say That I have never trembled yet. For in high God my trust is set ! But grief and joy are not for long. Soon shall I smg my latest song, For I have never trembled yet, And in high God my trust is set ! TRANSLATED. 59 TO A PHILANTHROPIST. BV THE SAME. ■suncicstta bi) thf supposed (Ctnius of ;i "4"ittlc yirrtg-.tr-^lo!). In tatters goes the little cliikl, Hunger and cold he feels, But starlike shining, clear and mild, His eye for aid appeals. The proud ones i^ass him, hut liis need They will not deign to see, There, seeker, wake up ! now, take heed, A genius here may he ! This gift of God is free to all, Not fixed to clime or spot, But like a shooting-star may fall On palace or on cot. 60 POEMS. It may be liitlcTeu with distress, AucT pining in despcair ; Oh ! thou whom light and riches bless, Prove now thy love and care. Stretch out thy hand, give help alway,- "Why shouldest thou have fear '? — Of genius proud to be the stay Though poor his lot be here. TR.VXSLATED. 61 A DAY IN THE WOODS. BY THE SA5IK. How pleasant in vonlaut wild wootUaucls to rest, Far, far, from all trouble and noise, Here enry comes not, deceit fills not the breast Which Nature's bright treasiu'e enjoj's. The old beeches clad in theh' summer attire Of velvet so soft and so green. Speak to us of God, and as we admire We say, " Oh ! what beauty is seen." How pleasant to di-eam, by the breeze lulled to sleep, Of hearts full of peace and of love. And then to awake by the brook's rushing leap From its cool rocky fountain above. 62 POEMS. How pleasant to hear the wiucl's musical sound "While happy thoughts till us to-day, Coutentmeut to Icaru of the warblers arouud, Aud bid sorrow fly far away. Let meu take iu splendour and riches delight, And seek praise and glory to gain, But give me the woods — they are dear in my sight, And worldly allurements are vain ! For nowhere such pure joy or pleasure I find As when Natm-e's beauties I view, For it seems that the fancies then filling my mind Come straight from the heavens so blue. TRANSLATED. 63 SAW YOU MY FBIEND? BV THE SAME. Say, little Ijird, who ou fluttering wiug, From foreign lauds comest to herald the spring, »Saw you my friend ? When will he return ? Tell mc, wind, that hast kissed my brow And liurriest onwards — uo rest for thee now, — Saw you my friend ? When will he return ? Tell me, star, from the firmament high. Bending down on us a radiant eye ! Saw you my friend ? When will he return ? "Never!" bird, wind, and star, answer to mc, " But in thy heart's deepest depth it may be, That thy dear friend Shall meet thcc again ! " 64 POEMS. TO PHANTASY. BY THE SAME. Friend of my dreams, in this calm eveutide Stretch out thy hand ; Tlirough the grove softly, walk we side by side To the sea-strand. Look where the sun, in glorious splendour bright, Sinks slowly down. And the moon rises with her tender light And her star-crown. What joy it is to wander with thee here In perfect peace ! I would these festal hom-s, to me so dear, Might never cease. Thou long ago, in childhood's happy hours, Wast dear to me ; And now through Autumn storms or summer flowers. Still dear shalt be. TK.VNSLATED. 05 Thou, holy truth, thou never canst be slighted Or veilecT from sight ; E'en in the nun's poor heart, so sad and bhghted, Thou hurnest bright. Is it not sweet thyself beloved to find By a true friend ? And casting all thy life's cares to the wind, Quiet hours spend ? To us the stars send greetmg from the sky, — See how they shine ! They are God's angels, bending from on high "With looks benign. 'o' I am thy love : and to thee will never, While here I dwell. Hide my joys or sorrows, but will ever Them to thee tell. In fancy's world, oh ! may we often meet Happy and free ! Thus, thou wisest, noblest, best, I greet Lovinglv thee ! 66 POEMS. LONGING. BY THE SAME. I LONG for that land ^Yllcre, fresh from the heart, We speak soul to soul, and the sphit is glad, Where, not as in earth's dark valleys apart We live on alone, unthought of and sad. Their serpent-like Envy never is found, Truth hides not her face, hut is free evermore, And there no malicious deccivings abound To add by their stings to the throbbing heart sore. There true loving friends confidingly meet, No more to be parted by night dark and long ; There every commonest duty is sweet. There all is light, love, and peace, joy, hope, and song. TfiAXSLATED. t37 I ioiiL^s oil ! I long, to fly thitlier away From the strife and couteutiou of this barrcu land. Courage ! victory comes, soon will it be day, Soon shall I find peace on that joy-lighted strand. * 08 POEMS. TIME AND ETE UNITY. BY THE SAME. What is our life ? A breath which soon will perish ; What is our soul ? Eternal light to cherish ; Wliat is our time ? Ah ! trouble and paiu prevail ; What is our hope ? A joy which shall uot fail. The tear of sorrow falling from our eye Is like joy's flower-clew dropping from on high ; When with false peace the world contented goes, The Lord of all with sorrow sees our woes. Oh ! child of God, be qiiiet and content, Whatever comes, is for thy welfare sent ; With patience bear the ills of fleeting time, And gain eternal peace in realms sublime. TRANSLATED. 69 THE sours ALLIAXCl'J. BY THE SAME. AVhen tlic summer sxiu laughs, wlicu tlic uoitlieiii winds rave, Tlien 3'ou, my goocT friends over sea, over laud, EemcmLcriug ever the frieudship you gave, In joy or in sorrow you give me your hand. For often when wandering here all alone Jjesidc the deep sea, on tlic silvery sands, A message comes flashing to me, whose soft tone, Uulieard l>y the world, my soul well under- stands. A duet it is (yet the world hears no sound. And cars all unheeding in this have no part) ; For when this life's pleasures or sorrows abound, Then sympathy (jiiickly speaks thus heart to heart. 70 . POEMS. As a tolegrapli, running from pole unto pole, Takes messages swiftly of joy or of woe, So chords of deep mystery join soul to soul, Invisible threads link tliem closely below. Thus purest-toned harmony sweetly shall blend "With the joys and the cares of our daily life here ; From angel-harps, ever undying, descend These gifts of God's love, to His people most dear. And though now such only as visitor comes. How holy, how cheering is comfort like this ! And gladly one hour we greet in our homes A herald of better and infinite bliss. So sorrow not, friends, if in far distant lands, Away from each other our lot is now cast, For minutes and days quickly run out their sands, Eternity comes, — then all partings arc past. TRANSLATED. 71 LIFE'S WOBDS.—FABEWELL. BY THE SAME. What lucancth this autumn Tvoodlautl sound, When the night wind shrilly sigheth around ? What doth the leaf to the leaf then tell In million -whispers ? — Farewell, farewell. What saith the flower when night is nigh, And clouds veil over the purple sky '? Hath the north wind kissed her Iragi-ant bell ? yes ! she crieth, — Farewell, farewell. What singcth in twilight hour the stream, While the moon down-pourcth her silent hcam ? What doth one drop to another drop tell As the brook flowcth on ? — Farewell, farewell. /li 2 POEMS. AVliat roarctli the sea, as with angry crest The wild waves rise on her heaviug breast ? And foaming billows to billows swell, Pieturning again ? — Farewell, farewell. Wliat throbbeth the heart, with heaviness crushed As the wild storm over it madly rushed ? What to the soul doth memory tell In midnight's hour ? — Farewell, farewell. TRAXSLATED. 73 FREDBIKA BREMER'S SPIXNIXG-WHEEL. BY THE SAME. (It was one of Fi-cilrika Bremer's last requests, " Dear Stanislas, sing about my Spinning-Wheel.") Ah, well ! — good fricuds from far or uear, Who listened to Fredrika here, Who her bright pure heart's glances caught, And understood her inmost thought ; For you this simple song I raise, The noble Spinning-wheel to praise, — That wheel which she so lately twirled. And rang its sweetness tln-ough the world. See with what swift and joyful tread. For hours untii-ed, she spins the thread, Which through all time shall last, for lo She works to bless the sous of woe. 71 , POEMS. For love, true love to all mankind, Is with her life's-thread closely twined, — In her pure maiden breast is found, And comfort sheds on all around. Much more than gold she values worth, Where brightly glows her childhood's hearth, She spins her rich life on with kind Submissive, tender, grateful mind. She comes back to her foster-land With treasures from a foreign strand. Gathering up where'er she roams Dear gifts for Sweden's well-loved homes. With voice prophetic now she claims For woman's lot her higher aims, Combining in one haxipy whole Man's strength and woman's lucid soul. ^o' From England's and Columbia's shore. She spins sweet memories from her store ; Throughout all Europe drawing fine The magic of her silken line. TRANSLATED. 75 From Swiss vales to the Norseman's land, Free, liappy, that sweet sx^inner's hand Weaves her rare flax to where in peace The Mid-Sea laves the Isles of Greece. Athens, Wisdom's mother thou, That spinning-wheel hath touched thee now, — Methinks I see Fredi-ika's look "WTien tracing thee in memory's book. She dares the desert wilds to brave. And the far ocean's di-eaded wave. And gives her kmdly Christian aid When plagues and strife the coast invade. Now the flame burns with glorious light. She spins her finest fancies bright. Behold ! Jerusalem appears, God's holy city now she nears. And all her fears and doubts take flight On the Mount Olives' sacred height! Thus, all that flows through thought's bright land, Becomes silk thread in this soft hand. 76 POEMS. But the wheel fails ! she speaks uo more, A sph'it on the hcaveuly shore She rests ! while wo, witli earnest e,ye. Watch liei- bright tlireads "twixt cartli and sky. TRANSLATED. 77 AM I OLD? UY THE SAME. Am I then old ".' Ali ! yes, tlic ciphers showmg Wj' age are many, aud youth's friends grown gi-ay ; No more the roses on my chcolv are glowing, No more my pulses throh with youth alway. The silver tlu-eads amid my locks are stealing, And ^lomory taxed with cares of long ago (lets shy of speaking out her thoughts, now feeling The tones may open former springs of woe. Yet inexperience hy the table sitting Urges my tongue to loose his band and teach Those words of truth to me so much more fitting Thau careless jest, or merely idle speech. 78 POEMS. Injustice imsses by me, but I care not ; Tears fall not now as in the days gone by ; In the (Tesire for hidden things I share not, No self-conceited folly's track I try. But more than formerly I pluck fresh flowers AMiicli Love Almighty strews upon my way, And sympathy falls in rch-eshiug showers, While echoes sweet allure my soul to-day. Am I then old ? Yes ! no, — though Time fast flying Takes from me all the joys which once he gave, I gladly keep within me, all undying. That youthful life which lasts beyond the grave ; For love, and hope, and truth, and friendship never Perish, but shall as long as life remain ; And youth eternal dwelleth with those ever Who at God's holy will do not comi^laiu. TKAXSLATED. 79 "JTOTF DO YOU DOT' tto u (Ll)ili) of tl)c wlorlb. BY THE SAME. " How clo you do "? " is this life's commou (|ucry Where cheeks with worldly joys are pale ; Those thoughtless joys which make so weary, But before heavenly hUss must quail. The worldly child, false roses adoriiiug, Her pale check answereth, " All is well:" With laughiug looks solicitude scorning, Yet can we di-oss for pure gold sell '? Tliou poor sick child, thou canst not deceive me When wisely I ask of thee, " How do you do ?" There is no charm in deceit, believe mc. And what is thy need I will tell tlice true. Thy need is truth far above all other ; Thy need eyes, ears, thy danger to tlee ; Thy need is love to God and thy brother. Thy need is thy innermost self to see. 80 POEMS. Thou rusliest forward iu giddiness gaily, Yet never dreamest what is true joy : Thou canst not govern thy own will daily, And should earth all thy thoughts employ ? The more from this wi-etched well thou driulcest The more will thirst be all thine own ; The more on worhUy joy thou thinkest The less true joy to thee is known. So " how do you do ?" will you not be heak'-d ? A great and a good Physician I sing. From certain death unto new life sealed Through secret means He will thee bring. O hasten ! His arms are held out to bless thee, Health-giving medicine He doth impart; No more shall the world's giddy shouting distress thee, Peace and eternal bliss visit thy heart. Eest in His sheltering care but one hour, Take from His eyes only one glance of love ; And the world over thee then has no power. If for salvation thou lookest above. TRANSLATED. 81 NATUEE AND ABT. BY THE SAME. Poor Meud, who nature lovest uot, Deaf art tliou to her sweetest voice : Never is happiness thy lot, Thou canst not in its light rejoice. The halls of art are thy delight, Flattery charms thee with her song; Beware lest afterwards the night Cometh upon thee cold and long. The artist breathes his very miud Into a statue grand and fan- ; Yet search the world, thou canst not find One work with nature to compare. Go pluck the very smallest flower, Hast thou the skill to make tlie same ? Sec myriad stars at midnight's hour. And couldst thou kindle "/(c such flame"? 7 82 POEMS. Spleiuloiir aud pomp may cliarming be To many a cold and worldly breast ; But Avliat is all this art to me, Compared with nature's peace and rest ? Well, then, to thee I show the way, Yea to the noblest things of earth ; Wearied with pleasure's toilsome day Come, sec what is of better worth. God's image we in nature view If we will open eyes aud heart : But a mere shadow of the true Is the most gorgeous work of art. TRANSLATED. 83 A SPEING DATS SNGW. %n improfaistb 2?ni)-so;ici, 1S71. BY THE SAME. Are wc glad now that Spring witli its verdure is here ? No : winds sigh so cold, and the days are so drear ; It snows, oh ! it snows on the flowerets x^alc. While heaven is hid with a veil. So present-time joy is with ice-showers quenched. And often its flight is with tearfulness di-enchcd ; It sighs, ah ! it sighs over land, over wave ; Alas ! shall love find here a grave ? Le patient, thou poor one ; whose spring-joy the snow Hides from thee ; he patient, it dies not ! for lo, It brightens, it hrightens in heaven's blue sky, And soon shall these earthly mists fly. 7 * 84 POEMS. .1 LITTLE EVENING SONG. BY THE SAME. Where I would travel well I know, If, leaving this world's cares below, I now could mount the clouds and fly Swiftly across the golden sky This evening. The wind should bear me on its wings Far, far above all earthly things ; With joy and haste I'd spread my sail. And glide o'er forest, sea, and dale This evening. Well, wherefore shall I not thus roam With cloud and wind ? ]\Iy heart's loved home Is here ; no other rest I find So sweet and welcome to my mind This evening. TRANSLATED. 85 A WINTEB ST OEM. BY THE SAME. How lie rushes Througli the bushes, The Storm King : Dancing, striving, AYiklly driving Everything. North winds caUing, Howling, bawling, Bring the snow. Hail may clatter ! But no matter Out I go, Courage taking, Though the lake in AVild waves tlow. 86 POEMS. L'ENVOI. BY THE SAME. Ah ! so pleasant to go singing, Joy to young and old folks bringing ; Dealing out, with liberal hand, Eoses from a sunny land ; Pouring balsam for each smart Into man's impassioned heart ; Courage, hope, and strength to give, Bid the soul revive and live : Ah ! how pleasant are these flowers, Gathered in my happy hours. For the friends to me so dear : I strike my lyre, while waiting here ; May we some day meet above. In the realm of peace and love. r ORIGINAL POEMS. ORIGINAL POEMS. HEROES. Not ouly ou the battle-field Do mcu their laurels win, It needs not that with sword or shield They seek war's horrid din ; For in more peaceful scenes of life Ai-e many chances foimd, And victories with honour rife On every side abound. My heroes are a motley baud — Man, woman, child are there; All who with open brow and hand Are quick to do or dare ; Some of their gallant deeds were done In sight of earth and sky, And some arc only known to One Who sees when none arc nii^di. 90 roEMS. At clcail of niglit Avitli awe is licarcl " Fire ! " that tlreaaful cry,— " All safe? " — No, soon goes forth the word That some are left to die ! Not so ; for though the flames are fierce, Into that burning grave Strong men will strive their way to pierce, Their fellow men to save. And when the storm-wind strongly blew, And ships were wildly tost, How manfully the life-boat crew Went out to seek the lost : No thought had they of doubt or fear, They came when duty called, Eeady with steady hand to steer Tln-ough dangers, unappalled ! The miner toiling in the pit May claim his share of praise, For when the deadly gas was lit And all the mine ablaze, Nobly forgetful of his fate He sent the younger home. Then calmly sat him down to wait That death he knew would come ! OEIGIXAL. 91 And women, too, in tlanger's hour Have nobly borne a part ; Ah ! who can tell the might and power Hid in the human heart, Wliich, when the time for action nears, Makes even children brave, And weak ones cast aside theii- fears If they a life can save. The nurse who calmly takes her stand Beside the sick man's bed, Yv'ith soothing voice and skilful hand To case the aching head, Untliinldng of herself always, Or of the danger run, Deserves as rich a meed of praise As ever hero won ! Yet many deeds of noblest worth Are here unknown to fame ; Theii- doers seek not praise of earth Nor strive to make a name ; But many a mother, husband, wife, Who noble acts have shown, Contented live their daily life Uuthought of and unknown. 02 POEMS. OVEE THE MEADOWS. Over the meadows, at early morn, Cheerily sounded the bugle-horu, For uohle gallants and ladies fair And hawk and hound are gather' d there, With jest and laugh and ringing cheer To start from their covert the hern and the deer. Over the meadows, when tidings came Of cruel invaders, and cities allame. The good Knight rode with his trusty band Eager to fight for their Fatherland And his lovely bride, in the Castle-keep, Was left with her maidens, to pray and to weep. Over the meadows, as months went by, Hhc gazed with a wistful, longing eye, OKIGIXAL. 93 And oft her cheek grew jmle with fright, Fearing the death of her own true Knight ; And every hour in every day She thought of him who was far away. Over the meadows, as day was done — His armom- glowed in the setting sun — Back from the war the good Knight came, His honour untarnished, unsullied his fame. But dearer to him than all beside "Was the loving look of liis fan- young hride. 5)4 POEMS. IN THE MOONLIGHT. A MAIDEN ■wandered all alone In the moonlight, AVhile to the wmds she made her moan In the moonlight : " My love, and art thou dead," she cried ; " Ah ! wonld to Heaven I too had died, And' now were lying by thy side In the moonlight." A Knight came riding np the glade In the moonlight, And there beneath the havrthorn's shade. In the moonlight, He saw the one he loved so well. Whose voice, more dear than tongue could tell. Like music on his rapt ear fell In the moonlight. She started ! turned, and would have fled In the moonlight. ORIGIX.VL. 05 For there Lc stood slic mourned as dead In the moouliglit : Is it a di'eani ? With wild surprise Her senses reel, she shuts her eyes, And "weak upon his breast she lies In the moonlight. It was no di'cam, — alive he came In the moonlight Back from the wars, with unstained name, In the moonhght : Soon gladly, joyfully she knew How constant was her Knight, and true, Whom cruel Eumour falsely slew In the moonlight. 'o* And thus ho claimed her as his bride In the moonlight ; And as they went home, side by side. In the moonlight. How changed seemed everything below Since first she cried out in her woe, Only one little hour ago. In the moonlight. V)0 POEMS. SPBING-TIDE. WiNTEE lias tlepartecl, And again lias Spring Into new life started Every living thing. Now are swallows building Underneath the eaves ; Now the sun is gilding All the young green leaves. Foremost of Spring-flowers Comes the primrose pale, Herald of bright hours In the happy vale ; Where each child rejoices Every bud to sec ; Hark ! how ring their voices Under every tree. ORIGINAL. 97 Now, aroused from slumber By the sunny spring, Insects without number Flutter on the wing. Bees with busy humming Gather their sweet store, Laden ants are coming From the threshing-floor. And the lark, up-springing From her lowly bed, Is a carol singing Higher over head. 8 98 POEMS. BABY-FINGEBS. BABY-fingers gently prest On the mother's loving breast, — Can we, in this earth below. Sweeter, hap^ner picture show ? Baby-fingers, — who can tell The mighty magic of their spell ? Healing discord's bitter strife, And giving new delight in life. Baby-fingers have the power To soothe and cheer the lonely hour ; Baby-fingers bring relief When the heart is filled with grief. Mother ! early teach thy child To be gentle, holy, mild ; Baby-fingers fold in prayer. And train them well with tender care. ORIGINAL. 99 Baby-fingers — what strong arm But would shield them from all harm ? What man would not freely give Life to let his darling live ? Yet sometimes the Lord of all Will those baby-fingers call, In Has wisdom and His might, To do His work in realms of light. Baby-fingers, mother, see ! Still they beckon unto thee ; Drawing thee, with cords of love, To fix thy hopes on things above. Baby-fingers thus may guide Thee to thy Eedeemer's side, And their mission be well done. Though so soon the goal was won. 8 * 100 POEMS. TO A FBIEND ON THE BIBTH OF EEB CHILD. Another life is added to thine owu — A little child to cherish and to love ; Again, immortal seed on earth is sown, To ripen in the blessed world above. 0, mother, watch with care this tender flower, Eegard her as a treasure lent to you ; And teach her, day by day and hour by hour, All that is noble, holy, good and true. So may she grow in stature and in grace, Live loving and beloved by every one, Until she sees her Heavenly Father's face, And hears Him say to her, " My child, well done." OEIGINAL. 101 THE TWO LANDINGS AT EBBSFLEET. FIRST, A.D. 450. The autumn-day was closing fast, The waves were rising high, The sun a hirid redness cast On sea and hand and sky ; The screaming sea-birds flew in haste To gain their rocky home. And all the wild and watery waste Was flecked with snowy foam. And see, as night falls on the land, The watch-fire's flames arise, Showing that there the Britons stand. To hail as close allies Fierce strangers, who from Jutland's shore Sail on in vessels three. Eager for coasts unknown before, Across the billowy sea. 102 POEMS. And now at length each crested keel Drives hard upon the ground, And loud and fierce the clang of steel Kises from all around, As gathered 'neath the raven black, They clamour for the fight. And the wild tempest echoes back The cries of war to-night ! Ah ! little thought the Britons then, How, false such friends would grow ! How, leaving them, those treacherous men Would join the Pictish foe, — And overrunning all the coast. Spread war on every side, Till, crushed by the invading host. All British freedom died. SECOND, A.D. 600. Three times had fifty years flown by, "When, on that self-same strand, Beneath the balmy summer-sky There stood a little band. Who watched, with eager eyes, the while A ship sailed on towards Thanet's Isle. ORIGINAL. 103 The rising sun with golden light Lit up a peaceful scene, Shone on old Richboro's Castle height, And marshy meadows green, — It glimmered on the winding Stour, And showed the distant Frankish shore. At break of day, a tiny speck Appeared the longed-for ship, But now they clearly see on deck The preacher, from whose lip The Gospel truths shall freely flow, Heard with delight by high and low. Then, thronging to the sandy shore, With kindly words they gi-eet This Prelate of the days of yore, Now landing at Ebbsfleet, — And hark ! a hymn of joy they raise, "Where rolled the battle in old days. From a far distant land he came, And simple precepts taught ; Yet to all time Augustine's name. And the good work ho wrought, Remain in Cautaur's noble pile, Its vaulted roof and sounding aisle. 104 POEMS. Wliilo those who hxucleJ in their i^ride, That ruthless, godless horde, Who spread dismay on every side, With rapine, fire, and sword, — Even their names have passed away, Forgotten and despised are they. ORIGINAL. 105 THE LIFE-BOAT. Angry and red in the flushing "West, The setting sun went do-^Ti to his rest, And the hillows broke with a sullen roar, As they dashed in foam on the rocky shore. The night came on ; but no friendly light Shone out in the darkness clear and bright ; The thunder pealed from the murky sky, And the forked lightnings flashed on high ; And many a lonely fisherman's wife Shuddered and prayed for her husband's life ; And many a child, at his mother's knee, Pleaded for those on the stormy sea. The gale grew fiercer, and all night long The rain poured down, and the wind blew strong ; And a ship was forced near the perilous shore, Where many another had foundered before ! 106 POEMS. And, -wildly driven about and tost, The crew gave up themselves for lost, — While the niiuute-gun, with hollow sound, Koused all who dwelt in the country round. And crowds stood there with bated breath. As the ship drove on to certain death : — To death ! Ah, must these poor men die In sight of land ? Is no help nigh ? Yes ; though the breakers be their grave, The rescuers will make an effort to save. And the Life-boat is mann'd by a gallant band. Trusty in heart and steady of hand. They are leaving behind them wife and child. And are launch'd on the ocean deep and wild. But they know that God keeps watch over all, And gladly go forward at Duty's call ! And many a moment do those on shore Fear they are lost, and all is o'er ; For often as over the billows they ride. So oft arc they hid in the whirling tide. ORIGINAIi. 107 And now they have near'd the sinking ship, And a cry breaks forth from every lip, — A cry of joy, for they see that a rope Is thrown, and fear gives place to hope ! Then, while a man remains on deck, The boat clings close to the shattered wi-cck. Till dragged from the billows, one by one. The drowning are saved and the duty is done. Saved just in time; for hard on a rock The good ship drives, and then, with the shock, Sinks slowly down on the ocean's bed, Till only the topmast is left overhead ! And back again, through the foaming sea. The rescuers pull right heartily ; And those on shore, with a thrilling cheer. Welcome the Life-boat fast coming near. And, oh ! but it was a heart-touching sight, In the dim, uncertain morning light. To sec that noble, devoted band, I> ringing the rescued safe to land. 108 POEMS. And long as Old England's cliffs endure, Long as the waves beat wild on her shore, May hearts be willing and hands be staunch The Life-boat into the storm to launch ! ORIGINAL. 109 THE FOUNDEBED SHIP. A STATELY ship, long months ago, Sailed from Old England's shore ; Alas ! the men who thronged her so, Will see those cHfifs no more ; And friends at home long time will weep Their loved ones buried in the deep. She sailed, — the winter winds blew cold, But every heart beat high ; And hundreds left us, young and old, A new West world to try ; Their hopes were set across that sea Too soon their mighty grave to be. For o'er the land, when weeks have flod, A dreadful rumour flies, And anxious friends bewail the dead With many bitter cries, — " All, all are lost ! " like funeral knoU The accents of those tithngs foil. 110 POEMS. We know not how the summons came That sent them to theu' grave, We know not whether storm or flame Phmgetl them beneath the wave, Or if the iceberg's chilly breath Gave warning of approaching death. We know not — we can never know The scenes that happened there ; We can but trust that in their woe To God they raised the prayer, That He would them in mercy take Safe to Himself, for Jesu's sake. ORIGINAL. Ill PBAYEE. " Pray without ceasing." — 1 TTiess. v. 17. When the cheerful morn is breaking, From thy slumbers calmly waking, Kaeel and pray ; When thy heart is filled with gladness, Or thy head bowed down in sadness, Kneel and pray. T\Tien no earthly friends are near thee, And no kindly voices cheer thee. Kneel and pray ; When thou thinkest of the morrow, Dreading it may bring thee sorrow, Kneel and pray. When the way seems dark and dreary. And with fighting thou art weary, Kneel and pray ; 112 POEMS. "Wlien temptations come and try tliee, And no refuge seemeth nigh thee, Kneel and pray. "When upon a sick bed lying, Those yon fondly love are dying. Kneel and pray ; When the night is closing round thee, For the mercies which surround thee. Kneel and pray. ORIGINAIi. 113 WAITING FOB LIGHT. " What I do thoQ knowest not now, but thou shftlt know hereafter."— St. John xiii. 7. As the Lours of life flit by Clouds will oft obscure the sky, Turning into sorrow's night The day that rose so clear and bright. Then, be still, and calmly rest ; All thy trials shaU be blest ; God, who watches from above, Sends them all to us in love. Yes, in love ; for well He knows Our temptations and our woes ; He has borne our griefs and cares, And all oui" joy and sorrow shares. 9 114 POEMS. And tliongh now we cannot see What His purposes may be, And the way seems dark and drear As we toil and labour here, One day we shall see and know All was ordered here below, And joy and sorrow both were given To fit us for our rest in Heaven. ORIGINAL. 115 THE BOW IN THE CLOUD. Lo a tempest fills the sky, Day is quickly turned to night, Art thou fearful ? look on high, See a raiuhow clear and bright ! Bow of promise, this fair shore The flood shall cover never more. Clouds will overcast our life, Some days will seem dark and chill, Look above this petty strife See a rainbow o'er thee still ; Bow of comfort sent to show God takes care of us below. Sorrow comes, and many fears FiU our minds with anxious dread, Look beyond this vale of tears, See the rainbow overhead ; Bow of hope, it seems to say Soon thy griefs sliaU pass away. - 116 POEMS. Years go on, and death draws nigh, Soon the portal must be passed, Though black clouds obscure the sky The rainbow shincth to the last, Bow of blessing and of love Sent to herald us above. OEIGINAL. 117 CHANGE. Autumn leaves around are falling With the dying year, And in whispered voice are calling •• All is changing here." In the green churchyard are lying Friends we hold so dear, And the frosty wind is sighing ♦'All is changing here." Is there notliing lasting near us In our earthly lot ? Yes, these words were sent to cheer us, " Jesus chanfjeth not." 'o^ When our faith is weak, and falters, And the world seems strange, There is One who never alters, Christ can never change ! 118 POEMS. THE IMMUTABLE. Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away." Gather up each fleeting minute, Work wliile it is day ; For tins world and all things in it Soon shall pass away. Verdant i)laiu and lofty mountain, Sea and cliff and bay, Flowery field and sparkling fountain, — All must pass away. Yea, the moon and stars, that nightly Shine with silver ray, And the sun, now blazing brightly. All must pass away. ORIGINAL. 119 Christian, seek not worldly pleasure, Hear the Saviour say, "Let your heart be where your treasure Cannot pass away." On God's promised Word abiding, "When all things decay, Safe from harm we rest confiding, Though earth pass away. 120 POEMS. PBAISE. GvTE blessing and honour and praise to the Lamb, Bow down and worship the mighty I Am, ^Vho for a season His glory laid by, And for us men was contented to die. Praise Him, ye angels, who numberless throng Eound His pavilion with harp and with song ; Praise Him who, once in humility slain, Rises triumphant to Heaven again. But chiefly should we our voices iipraise, Though faint are our efforts and feeble our praise. And thank Him for all His ineffable grace "Which in the kingdom will give us a place. All glory to God, who gave us His Son, All glory to Christ, who the ransom hath won ; Yes, glory and honour and praise to the Lamb, Bow down and worship the mighty I Am ! ORIGINAL. 121 SALVATION. Listen to the wondrous story, How upon the Christmas morn Jesus left the reahns of glory, As a little child was born ; Left those bright and hapi)y regions Of His Father's home above. And the glorious angel legions, In His great and boundless love I Came into a lowly manger, Dwelt beneath a humble shed, And among His own, a stranger, Knew not where to lay his head : "Went from city unto city, All His life was doing good, Weeping o'er His friend with pity. When beside the grave Ho stood. 122 POEMS, Love all human love exceeding Brought Him to a cruel death ; Even then, though hanging bleeding On the Cross, His latest breath Spent He for His murderers praying To His Father to forgive, — To the thief repentant saying " Thou in paradise shalt live ! " Oh ! what love in God the Father To bestow His only Son, — Oh ! what love in Christ, who rather Than the world should be undone, Came Himself to seek and save us, Came to claim us for His own, Freely all our sins forgave us, Raised us to His glorious throne I OEIGINAIi. 123 HOPE. " Sorrow not as those without hojK!." — 1 Then. iv. 13. Tread softly ! uuderneath this ground, I'ree from all care and pain, The dead await the trumpet's sound To rise to life again ; Here lie, until the judgment-hour, The friends we loved so well, Beneath the shadow of that tower Whence tolled their funeral-knell. But while with tears we laid them down, And dust to dust returned, Hope pointed to the glorious crown Wliich they by grace had earned ; It bade us wipe our weeping eyes, And hush each murmuring word, And, looking upward to the skies. Give thanks to Christ the Lord ! 124 POEMS. Thanks for this blessed hope which sends Us comfort while we weep, That, when our dear and loving friends In this world fell asleep, They joined a radiant, joyful throng In the bright realms above, Who raise a never-ending song Of blessing, praise, and love ! ORIGINAL. 125 THANKFULNESS. For all that God in mercy sends, For health and children, home and friends, For comforts in the time of need, For every kindly word or deed. For happy thoughts and holy talk, For guidance in oiu* daily walk ; In everything give thanks. For heauty in this world of ours, For verdant gi-ass and lovely flowers, For song of birds, for hum of bees. For the refreshing summer breeze, For hill and plain, for streams and wood, For the gi-cat ocean's mighty flood ; In everything give thanks. 126 POEMS. For the sweet sleep which comes with night, For the returning morning light, For the bright sun that shines on high, For the stars glittering in the sky ; For these and everything we see ! Lord, our hearts we lift to Thee ; In everything give thanks. ORIGINAL. 127 MOBNING THOUGHTS I LAID me clown in pence, in peace I slept, Knowing that God safe -watch around me kept ; And now, well guarded through another night, Again I hail the cheerful morning light. Again I rise, and bend the knee to pray For help and guidance through the coming day, For safe deliverance from all kinds of ill, And strength my daily duties to fulfil. "Wliatcver work I find to do this day, Whatever thoughts I think, or words I say, May I do all as doing it to Thee, Remembering Thou, Savioiu-, seest me ! Thus, day by day, protected by Tliy might. May I go on, and when at last the night Of life di-awH nigh, and all my wanderings cease, May I lie down to rest in perfect peace ! 128 POEMS. DILIGENCE. " Let ua not be weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap if we faint not." — Gal. vi. 9. Be not weary, the way may be long, The imtli uphill, the conflict strong ; For He who giveth thee work to do Will give thee strength sufficient too. Be not weary, but scatter around The seeds of truth on every ground, And in thy mind this promise keep, "If we faint not we shall reap." Be not weary, but do thy best. And to thy God leave all the rest ; Then in His own good time will He Give a blessed reward to thee. Be not weary, the race must be run, — No loitering here, there is work to be done ; The course is open before our eyes, The goal is Heav'n, a crown the prize. ORIGINAL. 129 MERCY. Graciously Lord most High ! Bend on me Thy pitying eye, And listen to Thy servant's cry, Have mercy. Lord, on me ! "Wash me from all stain of sin, Make me pure and clean -n-ithiu, That new life I may begin : Have mercy, Lord, on me ! Keep me from all kinds of ill. With Thy Holy Spirit fill, And in Thy bounteous goodness still Have mercy, Lord, on me ! 10 130 POEMS. As I pass upon my way, Kept by Thee from day to day, Ever teach me thus to pray, Have mercy, Lord, on me ! So, till my life on earth is o'er, And, freed from sin for evermore, I stand upon the heavenly shore, Have mercy. Lord, on me ! ORIGINAI.. 131 THE FAITHFUL GUIDE. When thou passest tlirougli the river, When the floods are rising high, Be not faithless, — Chi-ist is ever Eeady at His people's cry ; Hear Him saying at thy side, " Fear not, — I will be thy guide." Wlien thou walkest through the fire It shall not have power to harm, Christ is ever di-awing nigher, Tnist to His Almighty arm ; Hear Him saying at thy side, " Fear not, — I will be thy guide." When the storms of Ufe o'crtake thee. And the winds and waves arise, Christ alone vrill ne'er forsake thee. Ho wiD count thy tears and sighs ; Hear Him saying at thy side, " Fear not, — I will be thy guide." 10* 132 POEMS. In affliction's louely lioiir When all earthly comforts flee, Christ Tvdth His Almighty power "Will sustain and strengthen thee ; Hear Him saying at thy side, "Eear not, — I will be thy guide." When temptations dire assail thee. Almost more than thou can'st bear, There is One will never fail thee, — God will listen to thy prayer ; Hear Him saying at thy side, " Fear not, — I will be thy guide." OEIGINAL. 133 BEGBETS. All too soon have fled the hours Of the glorious summer-day, All too soon the lovely flowers Fade and fall into decay ; All too soon, spring's promise ending, Brought fresh verdure on the land. All too soon the fruit-trees bending Gave then- rich store to our hand. All too soon our hfe is speeding. Days and years too quickly fly, And we move on, scarcely heeding How the fleetmg hours die ; All too soon the fi'iends we cherish To a brighter world have flown, All too soon our best hopes perish And we wander here alone. 13-i POEMS. All too soou ? No !— God's own finger Beckon' d them from earth away ; When He called they might not Hnger, Eaised to realms of endless day : All too soon ? Nay, — for He knoweth What is best for each below, In His own good time He showeth Us the path we all must go. All too soon ? Nay,— hush thy gri&ving. Many pleasures too are thine, Live and work, till, this world leaving, Thou may'st go and not rei^ine ; Hoping for the glorious token Of a Saviour's love to thee. And to hear the good word spoken, " Thou wast faithful unto Me." ORIGINAL. 135 ALONE ! The sun on the ivied tower Shed its last rosy gleam, As alone, at the evening hour, I stood by the rij^pling stream, And thoughts came rushing o'er me, The thoughts of long ago, When the world was all before me, And life had a golden glow ! It was here in my childish hours I tlreamed my days away, When my path was strewn with flowers And I was always gay ; It was here in life's young dawning We wandered side by side. And here on a summer morning She promised to be my bride. 186 POEMS. The stream flows on for ever Aucl no one heeds my pain ; Alas ! I know that never We two shall meet agam : In early youth w^e parted, And many years have flown, Yet still quite broken-hearted I stand here all alone ! ORIGINAI.. 187 NEVER AGAIN! Never again ! how slowly, sadly, On mine ear these two words fall. Never again ! and yet how gladly ^Yould we childish days recall : Never again ! shall we together Eamhle over moorland fells ; Never again ! shall the puri)le heather Eing out for us her fah-y bells. Never again ! by the streamlet wander, Under the moonUt summer sky ; Never again ! shall we musing ponder Over those glorious worlds on high ; Never again ! in twihght roaming, Stand by the shore of the ebbing sea ; Never again ! in the golden gloaming. Talk of things which were yet to be. 138 POEMS. Never again ! our lives are parted, All our beautiful di-eams are o'er ; Never again ! shall we liglit-bearted Laugh as we did in days of yore ; Never again ! but, unforgetful, Memory ever rej)eats the strain ; Never again ! and, still regretful, Echo answers, Never again ! ORIGINAL, 139 ON THE EMPRESS EUGENIE VISITING THE PARIS HOSPITALS, IN 1864, From room to room, with Queenly grace And kindly words she moved, Willie sorrow, wi'itten in her face, Love for her people proved. For them, without a thought of fear, She left her palace bright. And sought the fainting heart to cheer, "When others fled in fi-ight. She knelt beside the dying bed, To join the parting prayer, And, bending o'er the drooping head, Spoke words of comfort there. 140 POEMS. Nobly the Empress did her part In that dark time of woe, And long from every loyal heart Shall blessings on her flow. So, gladdened by her people's love, Thrice happy may she live. Till the Great King who reigns above, A brighter crown shall give ! ORIGINAIi. 141 FAITHFUL AND TRUE. FOR MUSIC. I WILL be faithful, love, faithful to you, Ever while life shall last, faithful and true ; Peaceful and calm may our days glide along, Bright with heart sunshine, and joyous with song, With deep afifection nerved and made strong, I will be faithful, love, faithful and true ! I will be faithful, love, faithful to you, Though the world part us, love, faithful and true ; Troubles may come to us, dangers assail, Fears may arise too, and courage may fail, Foes try and tempt, but they shall not prevail, T will be faitliful, love, faithful and true ! 142 POEMS. I will be faithful, love, faithful to you, Should the grave sever us, faithful and true; Yes, though unerring Death's terrible dart, Take thee away from my desolate heart, Waiting the summons to go where thou art, I will be faithful, love, faithful and true ! ORIGINAIi. 143 TEE BELLS ! Toll out, Bells ! for the year just dead, With its hopes, its joys, its sorrows now fled, The tree with its flowers and leaves all shed, ToU out, Bells ! Peal out, Bells ! on the winter night, Peal out a melody clear and hright, A joyous proan, our hearts to delight, Peal out, BeUs ! Chime out, Bells ! chime out and raise High to the heavens your notes of praise, A foretaste of hrighter and happier days, Chime out, Bells ! 144 POEMS. BIRTHDAY WISHES. I WISH you many happy years, Free from sorrow, paiu, and tears. Yours be days of calm delight, Unclouded by dark shades of night ; Many sunny bhssful hours Strew your daily path with flowers,- Cares and duties then shall be Lightly felt and borne by thee. May you have a happy life As a maiden or a wife ; Contented with your earthly lot, While the peace that passeth not Fills you with all joy and love Till you join the saints above. Thus to you may grace be given, Blessings here, and rest in Heaven. ORIGINAL. 145 THE CONVERSION OF KING EDWIN. King Edwin sat in his Castle-hall, Twelve huncbed years ago ; He had no traitor within the wall, And he feared no foreign foe ; Yet his face was weary and full of care, And bent was his thoughtful brow, As if the weight he had to bear Had overpowered him now. His realm was broad and fan- to view. With valleys, woods, and rills. Wild moorlands, and calm waters blue Nestling among the hills ; From Humbor away to the Fu-th of Forth All people owned his sway ; Yet this fair kingdom of the North In heathen darkness lay. 11 140 POEMS. Tlie uews had to tlie Iviug been brought, That from a southern shore A stranger came, and that he taught A faith unknown before : And therefore was it that he looked sad. And filled with gloomy doubt ; And straight his messengers he bade Call all his people out. They met upon a lofty hill, All in those days of eld; (Though long ago, men point out still Where this debate was held) ; Long time they talked, and loud and fast Opposed with might and main Each scald and priest ; until at last Uprose a worthy Thane; And thus he spake — " When thou, King ! Wert supping one cold night, A httle sparrow on swift wing Came into the warmth and light, A moment stayed, then fled away Into the frosty air ; From whence it came, we cannot say, It went, we know not where : ORIGINAL. 147 " And is not this the case with men Here in this world helow ? We come and stay awhile, and then We know not where we go : It is all dark ; but if indeed This man can new things preach, Oh, let us to his words give heed, And hear what he will teach." He ceased, and then replied the King — " Thy words are wise ; go thou, worthy Thane, and quickly bring This man before me now." He came — a simple, aged man. With purpose high and good ; Among that fierce and heathen clan, Fearless, alone he stood. And then he told, in accents mild, That story loved so well. How the great God became a child. With men on earth to dwell ; And how, betrayed by His own h-iend, His precious life He gave, And died, that our life should not end, But last beyond the grave. 11* 148 POEMS. He told tliem of that Heaven above, Where, freed from this world's care. They too might dwell in peace and love, The bliss of saints to share. And God so blessed His holy word, Spoken in love and power. That King and people, all who heard, \Vere converts from that hour. And so this dark, benighted land Received the Hght of day. That as a beacon she might stand In ages far away ; And still are seen the Minsters twain,* Pointing their spires on high, ^^^lich lung and people, priest and Thane, Foimded in days gone by. * Beverley and York. OKIGIX.VL. 149 THE CHIEF'S LAST BIDE. Snggcstcb bg a ^irlurc in tbc IloDal 5-c"''i>t'iiL' some gtars ncjo. Drest ill their wampum and best array The warriors gather at close of clay, Each wigwam gives its boldest son, As in their war-paint, one by one. They join the chief in his last di-ead rido Over the prairie vast and wide : On with galloping stately tread Away, away they go with the dead ! — Yes ! he who sits the centre horse Is only a breathless, senseless corse. ilis brothers, one upon either side, Tlie veteran chief's grey charger guide, Tlie charger which had borne him well On eartli. and now with him should dwell Wliere in tlie happy hunting-ground, Tlie hunter's joy is ever found ! 150 POEMS. In silence they ride through the summer night, While the moon shines down on them clear and bright, Until in the distance the goal is seen, That bold bluff rising from seas of green, Which, dark and horrid, goes down sheer A thousand feet to a stagnant mere ! So on they go, in that terrible race, Faster and faster becomes the pace, Till — over the precipice, yawning black. One steed leaps wildly, — the rest shrink back ! A shudder, a quiver, a neigh of despair. And all again is silence there ! ORIGINAL. 151 METEORS. Ilobcmbr U% 1866. In the still solemn hours of night, When stars shine forth on high, What myriad messengers of hght Flashed countless through the sky. Oh ! say, bright globes, where is your home ? Whence comes this vast array ? And whither do you onward roam As quick you pass away ? Are ye for ever circling near A great and glorious Sun ? And do ye always reappear When years their course have run ? Are ye the fragments of a world, Once pure and fair, in space. Which for some awful crime was hurled Out of its primal place ? 152 POEMS. We cannot solve tliat problem now, We see not face to face ; But when before His Throne we bow, Who saved us by His grace,— When in the realms of perfect clay Our weary wanderings cease, Then all our doubts shall flee away, Our troubled minds find peace. Then we shall feel, and know, and see How ignorant is man. And learn, through all eternity, Our great Creator's plan. ORIGINAL. 153 NEW YEAR'S THOUGHTS. Toll tlie bell ! the year is dead, — Peace to its ashes be ; Let only the blessings so lovingly shed, And only the kindly words that were said, Remain in our memory ! Let feuds die out with the passing year, And aU in friendship live ; Better it is to be peaceable here, Than wait in continual dread and fear, So let us forget and forgive ! Men-ily, merrily ring the bells. And, from their tower on high. Hark ! how loudly the music swells, As to tlie listeners round it tells The glad Now Year is nigh. 154 POEMS. The year comes swiftly, on silent wings, Laden with joy and woe ; But this we Imow, that whatever things May happen here, the King of kings Has willed it shall he so ! ORIGINAL. 155 A CHILD'S PBAYEIi. Lord, look upon a little child, And teach me how to pray ; Make me obedient, gentle, mild, And lead me day by day. Keep me from every sort of harm. From every thought of ill. Protect me with Thy guiding arm, And make me do Thy will. So as I grow up, year by year, May I increase in grace. That, when my work is finished here. I may behold Thy face. Lord, v-ithout Thee I could not Hve, Without Thee fear to die. Oil ! then Thy blessed Spirit give When my last hour draws nigh t 156 POEMS. THE CHBISTIAN'S HOPE. " I'm going home to God." — Sih Waltek Kaleioh. Going home, tlie warfare ending, In a calm and happy rest ; Gohig home, to bhss ascending, And the dwelHngs of the blest ; Going home, the pilgrim laden With the weight of many years ; Going home, the little maiden. Child of many hopes and fears ; Going home, the infant sleeping Sweetly on the mother's knee ; Going home, the schoolboy keeping Holiday with youthful glee ; ORIGINAL. 157 Going home, the strong man Tveary With the burden of the day ; Going home, the weak, whose dreary Life in pain has passed away ; Going home, when Christ shall call us. By the pathway He has trod, Death itself shall not aj^al us Since we're " going home to God !" 158 POEMS. ON THE DEATH OF THREE LITTLE CHILDREN. " Ami she answered, It is well." — 2 Kings iv. 26. Yes ! it is well ; from a world of strife Calmly they passed away, Far from this weary and restless life, To realms of perfect day ! Father and mother, thy children live ! Still may you call them ' mine,' They are only gone to One who will give A fuller love than thine. They have passed away in early years, Are freed from sin and pain. And though we mourn them with bitter tears, Can we wish them back again ? ORIGINAL. 159 No ! for God knowetli what is best ; So in His boundless love He took these infants to His rest, In the bright world above ! Think of them happy in Heaven now, Joining the Angel throng, With spotless robe and glory-crown'd brow. And never-ending song ! Take comfort ; look for that joyful time When you shall join them there, And in those blessed courts sublime Their bliss for ever share ! l60 POEMS. THE DEAD. SUGGESTED BY THE EXPHESSION " POOR," SO OFTEN USED WHEN SPEAKING OF DEPARTED FRIENDS. They have fought the good fight, The last conflict is wou, — And in mansions of Hght They shall shine as the sun ; Though hard was the strife, It is over and past, — They have entered the life Which for ever shall last ; Oh ! call them not " poor." This world has its pleasures, Yet none can compare With the heavenly treasures Laid up for us there, — OEIGIXAIi. 161 Where the friends whom with weeping "We leave to their rest, For ever are keeping A feast with the blest ; Oh ! call them not " poor." They are rich, they are glad, Free from sorrow and pain, — The poor and the sad Are we who remain ; Pity us, that are left, With life's troubles opprest. And of dear ones bereft ; — But the loved who now rest, Oh ! call them not " poor." 1-2 162 POEMS. AN INCIDENT ON BOARD THE 'LONDON.' Fierce raged the storm, on every side The waves dashed high, and far and wide As eye could see, no help is nigh ; The ship must sink, and they must die. Oh ! who can paint with feehle j)eu Their agony and terror then ; Nor how resigned at last, and brave They calmly faced that yawning grave ! A mother looked upon her boy — He was her only one ; her joy Had been to think his father's eye So soon would see him, — must he die ? (That father, for a foreign shore. Had left Old England long before, And now to his Australian home He gladly bids liis loved ones come. Alas ! they never more shall meet Till standing at the mercy- seat !) ORIGDIAIi. 163 And as she wept vnth. terror v»-ild, Quite calmly spoke that little child : " Mother, mother, weep not so, We shall to the Angels go ; Tliink how glorious it will be AH those Holy Ones to see." And now upon the Heavenly shore He stands, his short life quickly o'er ; He sees the Angels round him throng, And joins the never-ending song Of praise to God, whose mercy blest Mother and child with perfect rest i 12 * IGi P0E3IS. BUBIED AT SEA. Fak, far away from friends and home, The hxst great summons came, And underneath the surging foam, O'er which in hfe he loved to roam, Uncoffined and without a name. They left him to his rest : Left him, what time the evening-gun. Booming across the wave, Told that another day was done, — Fit hour for him, whose race was run, To sink into his mighty grave Beneath the glowing West ! To wait, until the trumpet's sound Awaken all the dead, Then, if the soul he perfect found. What matter, whether sea or ground Eeceived the weary pilgrim's head. From care and trouble free ?. ORIGINAL. 165 Oh ! better far than Ahbey high, Better than sculptur'cl stoue, Away from haunts of men to lie ; For funeral-pall the golden sky, For knell the wind's unceasing moan, For monument, the sea ! 166 POEMS. TEE BELL-BUOY. Foe ever unceasingly ringing, For ever unceasingly swinging, To and fro from side to side, Swayed by tlie ever-biu-rjdng tide, Loudly clanging when storms are high, Telling the mariner danger is nigh, So, thou doest thy duty well, By night and day, faithful Bell 1 Softly borne on the summer breeze, Wafted over the moonlit seas. Comes a sound of music stealing. Like the church-bells faintly pealing, Calhng all who hear to prayer For the loved ones buried there, As with ceaseless tone the Bell Eises and falls with ocean's swell ! ORIGINAL. 167 So, a requiem for the dead, Daily, hourly is said ; While the waves, which evermore Break upon the rocky shore. Toss upon their foaming crests, In a world which never rests. To and fro the warning Bell Tolling out a funeral-knell ! 168 POEMS. THE WOLF-BOCK LIGHTHOUSE. Where the wild Atlantic surges Break upon the Cornish shore, Einging out their solemn dirges With a sullen, hollow roar ; There where Lyonnesse lies hidden Far below our mortal gaze. Land of song, where knights have ridden In King Ai'thur's golden days ; Out, where foaming billows eddy Round and round with horrid shock. Huge, and black, and stern, and steady Rises up the dread Wolf-rock ! Many a vessel there is lying Fathoms deep below the wave, And the winds are sobbing, sighing O'er the seaman's nameless grave. ORIGINAL. 169 Slowly, surely, liour by hour, Men have laboured, not in vain. Till at last a stately tower Kises proudly o'er the main. Seven long years, with patience toiling, Worked that resolute small band, Undeterred by fierce waves spoiling Oft the labours of their hand. And where once destruction lurking Found an easy, ready prey. Now the lighthouse men are working. Keeping up a steady ray ; And when ships are homeward steering, Joyfully they hail the light, WTiich, with beam so calm and cheering, Pierces through the darkest night. 170 POEMS. COBNISH DARING. Land of Arthur ! famed in story For your giant sons of old ; Never were their deeds of glory Better than could now be told. True, there is no need for fighting, — No fair damsels in distress ; All the ills which want such righting Are gone down with Lyounesse ! But now Cornish lads are ready As they were in days of yore ; Eyes as quick, and hands as steady, As the Knights long gone before. When the storm is raging madly, " Man the life-boat !" is the cry ; And they come forth, bravely, gladly, " One and all," to win or die ! ORIGINAL. 171 As of old, in time of clanger, Ever foremost in the van ; Fear is to their hearts a stranger, While they do the hest they can. And though often unrecorded Are these deeds of true renown ; They shall not be unrewarded, — God shall give the victor's crown. 172 POEMS. COUNTRY PICTURES. How pleasant in the merry May Among the shady trees to stray, When all is calm and still ! To linger in the groves and vales, And listen while the nightingales Melodiously trill. Between the green and ferny banks, And sedges rising ranks on ranks. The river rushes out ; And here the angler takes his stand, With eager eye and rod in hand. To catch the spotted trout. The cawing rooks upon the trees Are settling down ; and on the breeze Is borne the tinkling sound Of distant shecp-bclls, as the flocks, By collies guarded from the fox. Nibble the thymy ground. ORIGINAL. 173 No hum of labour meets the ear, And only rural sounds are near — The day di-aws to its close ; The wearied childi-en seek their beds, The flowers hang their di-oopiug heads — All natui'e takes repose. Behind the hills the setting sun Is slowly sinking ; one by one Each little star appears, — The twilight fades, and darkness soon Eeigns over all ; and then the moon Her sUver circle rears. Half hidden by the mosses damp. The glow-worm lights her tiny lamp. Her wandering mate to gi-eet ; The owl and eve-jar, bmls of night, Begin their swift and noisy flight. And leave their dim retreat. All these are sights and scenes which we, The dwellers in the country, see On everj' summer night ; And, loving Nature, and, yet more. The God who giveth such ricli store, View all with fresh delight. ll-i POEMS. NEW YEAB'S EVE. Quickly tlie months their course have run, Theu* end is drawing near, To-morrow, with the rising sun, We hail another year. Then memories throng in thick and fast. And ere we start anew Upon life's race, the year just past We thankfully review. How many mercies have been shed Upon us day by day ! How wisely have our steps been led Along life's narrow way ! And for the year we now begin. We pray Thee, Lord, to guide Us safely from the paths of sin. And keep us by Thy side. ORIGINAL. l75 Through all the mouths now ch-awing nigh, May daily grace be given, And when Thou callest us to die Grant us a place in Heaven ! 17G POEMS. OUTWABD BOUND. Slowly dropping with tlie.tide Down the ebbing river, Silently away they glide, And are gone for ever. The last farewells are spoken now, And friends have all departed. And, leaning by the vessel's bow. They feel quite broken-hearted. Old men are there and merry boys, The husband, child, and wife ; And hopes and sorrows, fears and joys, In every breast are rife. They sorrow much to leave this land — The laud they love so well ; But still they go, a hopeful band, In distant climes to dwell. ORIGINAL. 177 The sunset over all lias cast A bright and golden glow, Tipping the snow-white sails and masts With radiance as they go. The land is fading fast from sight, And, ere another day Chases the gloomy shades of night, They will be far away. For many daj's, far o'er the sea, Then- stormy course will he, And may their Guide and Guai'dian be The God who dwells on high. 13 178 POEMS. HOMEWABD BOUND. Up the Channel, with all sails set, The ship rides proudly on ; The billows around her foam and fret, As she moves like a stately swan. The sun has just risen, and tipped with gold Old Albion's sea-gu't land, And there on the deck crowd young and old, A breathless, eager b.ind. The voyage and dangers over at last. The land lies full in view, And memories rush on thick and fast. Of bright or dusky hue. To those who back to England come After a length of years. The joy they feel at returning home Is mingled with many tears. OBIGIN'AL. 179 They know that now it will not seem Like the home of their early youth, When Hfe to them was a beautiful di'eam — A fancy dream of truth. The house, perchance, may yet remain, But not one friendly face To welcome the wanderer hack again To the well-remembered place. Where are they all ? Some He at rest, And some to distant lands — The torrid East, or pranied West, Have gone in pilgrim bands. Still it is joy on EngHsh ground Again alive to stand. And one old friend may yet be found To chi.sp them by the hand ; To talk o'er all the merry times When in their youth they i)layed, Rejoicing at the Christmas mimes. Or iu the forest strayed. 13 * 180 POEMS. But the yonug — oh ! they feel none of this- All scenes are new and strange ; They think it the height of human hHss About the world to range. They joyfully hail the wave-washed shore With a cheer that rings afar, Startling the gulls that above them soar Back to their craggy scar ! So up the Channel, with aU sails set, The good ship onward gUdes, Heedless alike of joy or regret She dashes the spray from her sides. OBIGINAI-. 181 WHIT SAND BAY. |lear t^e ^Tanb's f itb. Over miles of liill and moor, Ou a clear bright wintry day, Came we to this furthest shore, And looked down on Whitsand Bay. Sea-;^irt cliffs there proudly stand — Grim old sentinels seemed they, Guarding good King Arthur's land From his foes at "Whitsand Bay. Long green waves came rolling in, Tossing high the glittering spray, Breaking with a noisy din On the shore at Whitsand Bav. 182 POEMS. Sea-birds floated iu the air, Children sported there, at play. All was calm and fresh and fair. Looking down on Whitsand Bay. Ah ! the hours have fled too fast, We must hie us far away, But a memory of the past Is this glimpse of Whitsand Bay. OEIGINAL. 183 THE FISHER-GIBL'S LAMENT. My love, my love ! I make my moan To sea, and earth, and sky, As I wander forth alone, alone. And think of the days gone hy. My love, my love ! oh ! I was sad, Though all around me smiled, And parting cheers rang gay and glad While I wept like a child. My love, my love ! the autumn day Shone out so clear and hright ! "When swiftly, swiftly sailed away The ship with my heart's delight. My love, my love ! ah, never more Shall I hear thy voice so dear. Thou wilt never tread thy native shore, I shall never greet thee here ! 184 POEMS. My love, my love ! thou art lost to me, On earth we meet no more. Thy grave is the deep and foaming sea, Thy knell the wild waves' roar. My love, my love ! I have waited long, Will the angel-voices come To bid me join then- joyful song. And enter their blessed home ? My love, my love ! yes, we shall meet Where storms for ever cease ! Oh ! happy will be my weary feet To rest in that realm of peace. ORIGINAIi. 185 HILL-TOP THOUGHTS. Often- on St. Martha's* sitting, On a glorious summer-day, "While the swallows round me flitting Glittered iu the sun's hright ray, I have thought how little know we Of what passes all around, — There the country hes below me. And I cannot hear a sound. But I know that joy and sorrow, All the cai-es of human life, Povex'ty which dreads the morrow. Health and sickness, peace and strife, - All are there, though closely hidden In the houses, great and small. For these woes and joys unbidden Come alike to one and all. * Near AJbury, Surrey. 186 POEMS. And as I to-day sit gazing, Nothing mars the lovely scene ; Oh ! what love and skill amazing Spread abroad this glorious sheen ! All this beauty sent to gladden, And the sons of toil to cheer, Who would else have much to sadden As they work and labour here. Often, too, my thoughts will wander Back into the misty past, And while here, I, musing, ponder. Lift the veil which time has cast. Here, perchance, in bygone ages, Heroes died and martyrs bled, And unknown, forgotten sages. May lie numbered with the dead. For there is a chapel standing On the summit of the hill, All the country round commanding — Wood and valley, pond and rill ; Here on each returning Sunday Come the villagers to prayer, Here, too, many of them one day Shall lie resting free from care. ORIGIN' AX,. 187 No one knowetb now the story Why this ancient church was built — Whether saints went here to glory, Or to expiate some guilt ; But so long as men are living, And its tower points on high. May God's Word, the true life-giving, Lead our hopes above the sky. 188 POEMS. SNOWDBOPS. When all around is dark and still, Beneath a wintry sky, The snowdi'ops come our hearts to thrill, And lead our thoughts on high. Their tiny hells of virgin white Ahove the ground appear, And, gladdened hy the pleasant sight, We know that Spring is near. Then Nature, from her lengthened sleep Opens her smiling eyes, And songs and praises, loud and deep. From all creation rise. They lead our thoughts to think on those Whose life on eartli is o'er. Who now beneath the grass repose — " Not lost, but gone before." ORIGINAL. 189 For though so long in seemmg death These flowerets hidden He, They only wait the first warm breath Of Sx^ring that passes by — To cover with a carpet white The wood or mossy glen, And make the lawns and borders bright About the homes of men. And as the sunny days of Spring Wake up each blooming flower, So we shall rise on angel's wing, In God's own chosen hour. Thus if it lead our thoughts to Heaven, Where risen sj)U'its dwell, A holy lesson has been given By this sweet lowly bell. 190 POEMS. A SEA- SIDE EVENING. Calmly beneath the summer-sky The waves are rippling in the bay, And nothing but the sea-mews' cry Disturbs the silent close of clay. The fishing-boats with snowy sails, Like folded wings seem half asleep. As, waiting for the favouring gales. They idly rock upon the deep. And quietly the setting sun, Now sinking in the crimson west. Proclaims another day is done, And night descending bids us rest. ORIGINAL. 191 IN TEE SPANISH MAIN. 1583. All night tremendous blew the blast, The sea ran mountains high, The captain stood hard by the mast With calm and steady eye ; Upon his cheek no sign of dread. His Bible in his hand, " Courage, my lads, courage !" he said, " We are safe on sea as on land !" The watchman of the fleet at dawn Looked round him with affright, — One of those gallant ships, down drawn, Had vanished out of sight ! Yes, bm-ied deep below the wave, Lay all that noble band, Whose leader's words such courage gave " We are safe on sea as on land." 192 POEMS. Yes, safe ; for though God's providence Took them from earth away, We trust they passed from darkness hence To reahns of brighter day ; Straight from the stormy Spanish Main, To gain the heavenly strand ; And find the boasting not in vain, " We are safe on sea as on land !" Oh ! many daring deeds has Fame Recorded in her scroll, And good Sir Humphi-ey Gilbert's name Shall live while waters roll, — Who, ever foremost in the fight, The boldest in command. Could say, e'en in the darkest night, " We are safe on sea as on land !" And now, whenever on the seas We or our comrades go. This thought should always give us ease, God orders all below. So, when the tempests rage and roar, Undaunted may we stand, In this belief and hope secure, " We are safe on sea as on land !" ORIGINAL. 193 A FRAGMENT. Look out, look out, this Autumn night, Look over the deep with me ; To where afar, hke a silver star, The hghthouse, beaming clear and bright, Sheds over the waves its cheering hght, Bui-ning so steadily : And ere you seek your pillow, pray For the weal of those who far away Sail over the foaming sea. 11 194 POEMS. NEVEB REGRET. The past is gone for ever, We cannot bring it back ; We journey on, but never Eeturn upon our track. Then cease thy vain regretting "It might have been," for so, Thou murmui'est, forgetting God orders all below. Pass not thy days repining, Thy head with trouble bowed ; Look for the ' silver lining,' Bright'ning the darkest cloud. Anticipate not sorrow, Walk with a cheerful heart. And God shall with the morrow The needed strength impart. ORIGIN Ali. 195 KNITTING. Am I only idly knitting By the fireside to-day ? No, perchance my thoughts are flitting To poetic realms away, — And with every thread I twine Comes a stanza or a hue. While the finer fancies flowing Fill my mind with pure delight. See the work is quickly gi-owing As I ply the needles bright. And this ball of coloured wool Is with many verses full. Yes, we women have a treasure Quite unknown to sterner men. When we find an equal pleasure In the needle and the pen ; And the brain-forced finger weaves Tasty work and golden leaves. 196 POEMS. Tasty work the eyes mil gladden, Golden leaves will touch the heart ; Power have they to cheer or sadden, Or a fresher life impart : Go, my leaves, upon your way. Do the utmost good you may. FINIS. UirWIN BB0THEB8, THE ST. MAETHA PRINTINO WORKS, CHILWORTH. // WILL SHORTLY BE PUBLISHED, BY THE CHRISTIAN BOOK SOCIETY. A COUNTRY LANE ELLIN I8ABELLE TUPPER |Uustrat£& by ^tr lister. " A bbort aud simple prose account of the Natural Hibtory found ilurin^,' a country walk. It is esiK;cially fwlaptcd for children, and thoae who uAt luiacquainted with the beauticH t>f Nature so richlj' scattered round them." f:^C > 7^/ L^:lOSAfJCElfX^ 53 c; if - <