oems m wm m HUXLEY. Class ?3g Q44. Book A\^_- OofpglrtN? COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. HUXLEY'S POEMS Miscellaneous Poems BY Edward R. Huxley With Illustrations MCMVI1 ■^ t>k*r LI8RARYofCQNGRESS Iwo Codes Received APP 29 1907 ^ Cop went Entry rLo-v .u t • i *j ok CLASS A XXc„No. COPY B. :_j 1906 Copyright by EDWARD R. HUXLEY, \ •^ ^ & Emma E. Huxley. *^T0 my beloved companion dear, \j\ This book I dedicate, ^^ Who in some bright celestial sphere Reunion doth await. Naught can break love's golden chain That binds congenial souls, As one in thought they still remain, Will ever thus unfold. The Author. frpfar? In this book of poems I have endeavored to express in a candid, instructive and agreeable manner what I believe to be true, regardless of public opinion or former teachings. Truth needs no apology. 6 'T/TEW to the mark, no matter where The chips may chance to fall, As they, like errors of the past — We would not them recall. Nor would we cover up a fact For fear of public frown, Or favor doctrines old and stale, In hopes to gain renown. Tis reason's lamp that lights the world, And truth the choicest flower; Knowledge leads through radiant fields, And love the guiding power. The Author. (Eontpnts The Miser's Will 17 The Banner of Love 22 The Earth . 23 The World Moves 25 The Seeds We Sow 26 Habit 27 Knowledge 28 Man: Whence and Whither 29 The Still Small Voice 31 Angel Hosts 32 Folk-Lore 33 The Angel Mother 34 The Bigot's Garb 35 Kindly Deeds 36 The World's Excursion 37 Gossipers 39 What and Where 41 Man's Progression 42 Life 43 They Say I 'm Getting Old 44 Self Conviction 46 The Trend of Modern Research 47 The Ship of Zion 48 Parent's Solace 49 Not One Soul Lost 50 The New Comer :__. 51 My Boyhood Days Upon the Farm 53 Search for Truth 56 The Parson's Guest 57 Look Within 58 Labor and Leisure 59 12 Huxley's Poems Our Swimming Hole 60 With the Times Keep Pace 62 Riddance 64 An Entreaty for Peace 65 Our Object in Life 66 Evolution of Man 67 Past, Present and Future .__ 71 Adverse Desires 72 The Morning Glory 73 Equality of Man 75 Our Lives Reflect 77 Wealth's Desire 78 Angel Guidance 79 Animality of Man 80 Isms 81 Life's Sunset 82 Oh, Do Not Say That I Am Dead 8.3 A Youth's Adieu 84 My Wife and I 85 Lamp of Reason 86 Our Angel Daughter 87 Superstition 88 Jealousy 89 Earth's Joys 90 Abraham Lincoln 1 91 Nature's Unfoldment 93 The Bachelor's Regret 94 Brotherhood of Man 95 The Human Race ■ 96 The River of Life 97 Meditation at a Picnic 98 What Need You Care 100 Life's Record 101 Wayward Mortals 102 Contents 13 Friendship 103 A Trustworthy Guide 104 The Cosmopolite 105 Needful Amendments^ 106 This Mundane Career 108 A Thunder Storm _.__ 110 Latent Cause 111 Innocent Pleasures 112 Youthful Aspirations 113 A Tramp's Lament 114 Religion 116 A Square Deal for Every Man 117 Advent of Spiritualism 118 The Conservative Man 119 Wedlock's Course 120 A Tribute to the Moon 121 The Universe , 122 Your Mansion Above 123 Known by Their Fruits 124 Man's Innate Powers 125 Where Is Heaven 126 Reformation 127 Thought 128 Wall Street Bulls and Bears___ 129 A Mother's Love _ 130 The Wanderer 130 Fogy Themes _•___ 131 Equal Rights 132 The Comic Valentine 133 Our Neighbors' Hens ___ 134 Baneful Paths 136 Problematic 137 The Soldier's Soliloquy 13B Our Lyceum Picnic 140 14 Huxley's Poems Christopher Columbus 145 Creation 147 Life's Booklet 148 The Demon of Our Land 149 Nature's Work 151 Be Vigilant 152 Paddle Your Own Canoe 153 Our Widowed Mother Is Left Alone 154 Promoter of Health 156 Union of Thought 157 St. Valentine's Day 158 An Infidel 159 The Mocking Bird 160 Wealth a Delusion 161 Aunt Sophy's Notable Experience 162 Youthful Guidance 166 Christian Science 167 Growth of the Soul 168 Home , 169 Occult Healing 170 Man's Unfoldment 171 Fog-Land 173 Labor Day 174 Providence 175 Ancestral Caste 176 Toil and Slothfulness 177 Essential Requirements 178 In Solitude 179 The Bridge O'er the River of Death 180 Harmony is Heaven 181 Liberty 182 You Are Not Alone 183 3IU«sIratiott0 Edward R. Huxley Frontispiece Emma E. Huxley Dedication The Miser's Will 18 The Angel Mother 34 The New Comer 51 The Morning Glory 73 The River of Life 97 A Tribute to the Moon , 121 The Soldier's Soliloquy 138 Our Widowed Mother is Left Alone 154 Aunt Sophy's Notable Experience 162 Aunt Sophy's Notable Experience ,_ 164 The Miser's Will 17 Stye Misns Wxii ^■JTHE miser sat in his rickety chair, Lfl His visage downcast through illness and care. Encircling his head was a bandage white, Completely concealing one eye from sight. The doctor could see scarce any amend, Expressed the thought, he was nearing his end; Which woke no emotion in his calloused heart, But inwardly grieved, from this life to depart. Not a thought to relax his grasping hand, Or divide his wealth with his fellow man. He frequently winced from incessant pain, Whir st harassing problems flit through his brain. The foremost one of all others combined, Now came with great force, depressing his mind. This was in regard to forming his will, Knowing that he was exceedingly ill. Betwixt his distress of body and mind, 'Twas irksome indeed, a solvent to find. Then his thoughts would return to former days, And muse of his scheming and crafty ways. 18 Huxley's Poems Now life's panorama in spite of restraint, Of ghastly scenes with indelible paint, To his weary mind did slowly unfold, Like a nightmare weighed on his gloomy soul. Then all at once with a depressing sigh Says "Send for a lawyer, I'm going to die!" In haste lawyer Hinchman was summoned in, It was thus the sad miser did begin: "Hinchman, I want you to draw up my will And be sure therein my request you fill. ' ' The lawyer now seated with pen and ink, "Wait!" said the miser, "give me time to think; As to my wife, why, she's got all she '11 need, She always an unworthy tramp would feed; Her next man, too, would come in for a share. No, Hinchman, for such I have nothing to spare. Her love for me now ain't any too strong — Will scarcely moan when she knows I am gone. V ve seen too much of such things in my life, Can't help being harsh if she is my wife. ii - 3 it NOWLEDGE, the guiding star of man, 7IV Without it, like a ship at sea Unmanned, and far out sight of land, In grasp of wind and waves would be. Wisely guided, it lights man's path, And points the way to brighter fields, With love and truth in its behalf, Abundant recompense doth yield. Man: whence and whither 29 iHatt: tuljpttrf an& uiljttlffr %£|RE-EMINENT in the deepest minds, ^lJ From ancient sage to present time, ^p In this and every enlightened land, Is, whence and whither, this called man. Traditions, legends, of his birth Were weighed and held of little worth. They've searched through misty days of yore, Traversed this globe from shore to shore, In hope to find in recess old Some clew this secret to unfold, That would dispel this darksome gloom And lift man from his mystic tomb. Each nook with microscopic sight, Was scanned, in hope to bring to light, Primitive man with scarce a soul — Thereby a wonderous tale unfold, How by process long, severe He 's reached the height of present sphere. Proceeding from a cause unknown, From earth environs he has grown; In grooves of thought, numerous, wide, As sands washed by the ocean tide, Varying in breadth and depth of soul, As case permits him to unfold. 30 Huxley's Poems Now, as he stands in broad noon-day, Viewing the breadth of time each way — These earnest thoughts pass through his mind: Is there an end of man or time, Or does time ever onward roll, And man possess an endless soul? Or does he live a few brief years, And then forever disappear; His bark strand on a lifeless shore, A forlorn wreck forevermore, Naught but a bubble on life's sea, Resulting in nonentity? Since man possessed a reasoning brain, These thoughts have come, and oft' remain, With yearnings great, beyond control; For truths that he might grasp and hold, Knowledge on which he could depend, And doubt at once forever end. When reason sheds its fulgent light, Erroneous thoughts are put to flight; And those who seek will surely find, Facts to disabuse their mind, And set to rest a longing deep, That death is not an endless sleep. The Still Small Voice 31 ^t mm £maU loir? 31 F you would live quite free from sin, Listen to the still small voice Which is the monitor within, If heeded ne'er will bring remorse. Oft' heedless of this guide divine; Groping through life's course we move, 'T is thus too oft' we go it blind In selfish, willful, sinful groove. Then let us all, henceforth, begin, Guided by a love divine, To heed the monitor within, Which e'er insures a tranquil mind. 32 Huxley's Poems Angrl leasts ORTAL man is oft' controlled By angel hosts unseen, Aiding him to here unfold, More happiness to glean. Many years with them have gone Since traversing this sphere, They now do guide our bark along, The rocks and shoals to clear. Folk-Lore 33 iFolk-IGnr? ^f F it were so, how truly good 't would seem, Jjl That all do search the naked truth to find. Exclude the myths, that are as childish dreams, Ever destined to fog the human mind. The rural tales that old folks used to spin To those assembled round the glowing hearth, Legends untrue, and yet 't was thought no sin, As oft' transformed their thoughts to mirth. Trained from infancy in such mystic lore, Would grow to think that some perhaps were true, And hasten to repeat as those before, Until stern reason bade them change their views. The magic of the moon with some holds sway, To zodiacal signs, too many hold. 'T is hard to rid the mind of these to-day, They seem to sink within the very soul. Myriads of signs and omens handed down, Mingled with foolish whims, and queer belief; Void of logic, inconsistent, and unsound, Which often leads the thoughtless into grief. 34 Huxley's Poems ®fn> Angel iHo%r ORROW not my precious children, As you wend life's lonely way. This may solace: I am with you, Watching o'er you night and day. When earth's sojourn here is ended, In celestial fields we '11 roam. I will meet you at earth's portal, Escort you to our Angel home. All your sorrows then will vanish, Bright will be your cloudless sky. Hence, be patient in your waiting, For the gladsome "bye and bye." Page 34 'This may solace: I am with you, Watching o'er you night and day. The Bigot's Garb 35 Gtyp Stgof b (&nvb <"THOSE wrapped in creeds and dogmas old, ill So held in great repute, ^^ Disrobe from them, they 've threadbare And don a modern suit. [grown, One more becoming with the times, Bright gems of earnest thought. The warp and woof of golden truths Through dauntless martyrs wrought. Divest yourselves of pious "cant" Deceptions arrant fount, Apollyon wore the self same garb With Jesus on the mount 'T is old and shoddy as your creeds, Long since gone out of style; Try on a suit of modern facts, Discarding all your guile. Why cling to legends gray with age, Which eagerly you sought, While present demonstrated truths Do scarce give them a thought You will in time cast off the myths As worthless old debris; Will weigh each thought in reason's scale. Thus loose your bigotry. 36 Huxley's Poems SCmMg iwda ?i ACH this gem of thought should heed, Noble acts and kindly deeds, Are more valuable than pearls, When you reach the other world. Man's selfishness then would cease, Deadly strife would end in peace, Vice and want no longer stay, Life one joyous holiday. The World's Excursion 37 ®ijp UorUf lExntrston W (For Children's Recitation.) E have planned for an excursion, For the people of this globe, Regardless of your present state, Or the texture of your robe. No distinction will be given As to color, or of caste, If in a lowly hovel born, Or mansion made of glass. Will be no first or second class To cause a separation, In this extended pleasure trip, Comprising every nation. We '11 lay aside conflicting views, That spring from social wrong, And in fraternal brotherhood, Unite in heart and song. That fancied gulf 'twixt nations now, Will, as phantoms, disappear, And on this gay, protracted tour, May your friendship prove sincere. 38 Huxley's Poems 'T will be the most exalted trip That mortals ever planned, United as one family, Nations of every land. The world with one accord must join This majestic enterprise, As in union, you have heard it said, The greatest strength oft' lies. These gladsome days will soon be here, Then stand by one another, Ne'er let one selfish thought creep in, Be true and loving brothers. Now, this excursion trip will last Through life upon this ball, And when the final end is reached, You will have a higher call. Gossipers 39 (goHHtpprs A VOID them, as a serpent's hiss, If in this course they do persist; Ne'er listen to their artful tales, Who would their neighbors oft' assail. Their poisonous tongue often rends The good opinion of your friends. Sifting their prattle, if you do, Scarce a word you '11 find is true. Plagues of Egypt, will not compare With the scandal oft' they bear, Approaching with deceptive smile, With full intent, you to beguile. Traduce, perhaps, your nearest friend, Who is not present to defend. Pray do not mention this, they say, My confidence do not betray. 40 Huxley's Poems Do you not think hades the place, For such a portion of this race? Whose malignant course, oft' defame, And blight perhaps an honest name. Let each who views this, search within, And see, if free from a like sin. If not, at once commence to cleanse; Of those you wronged, try make amends. What and Where 41 'Ytfrtl'HAT are you and where now tending, llJ ^ n ^ e ' s pathless, fitful sea, Are you but a useless ending Of all there was and is to be; Or are you for a fixed purpose, Have a work none else can do, Filling a nook that was intended Here especially for you? If the latter, then be moving, Linger not by. the way side; Make a showing of your labor You can view with honest pride. Then when comes the sweet transition Earth ones often miscalled death, You will have no sad misgivings, Knowing you have done your best. * 42 Huxley's Poems Mms flrogrpBatmt AN is but a tiny atom, On the endless shores of time, r Of rude beginning, though unending, To this opinion we 're inclined. A germ from out the fount eternal, Endowed with thought, what e're that be, Ever nearing the supernal, As all who reason, will agree. Traversing these earthly fields, Interspersed with varying scenes, In his sojourn storing knowledge, Whil'st on the staff of reason leans. His unfoldment never ceasing, Thus evolution plainly shows, Always sifting facts from error, As up the steeps of time he goes. Watch his footsteps slow ascending, From his lowly forest home, Onward, ever been his watch-word, WhiPst to present status grown. Looking upward for assistance, Reaching downward, aiding those That perchance might be beneath him, Transmitting to them what he knows. w Life 43 ICifr ERE I to write an ode on life, The question comes, What would I say? As penetrating thought, most rife Has failed to clear the mist away. It manifests in myriad forms, The thoughtful, on them wondering gaze, And fain would know from whence 't is borne, And where this latent power lays. Each atom in this universe, Is pregnant with a vital force, To every form it giveth birth, Yet none can trace it to its source. 44 Huxley's Poems ©fjnj g>ag 31 m Cutting <®to JTHEY say I 'm getting old, alas; II T is true my hair is gray, And three score years with me have passed On this my earthly way. ul I scarce can see a difference now Than thirty years ago, Except some wrinkles on my brow, My movement somewhat slow. Now when I laugh and merry seem, May dance a step or two, They say my actions are extreme, Such course I soon will rue, Or when I out a walking go, They often to me call, " Watch where you step, you 're getting old, And liable to fall !" They want me now to look sedate, Have long and solemn face; That levity is not in state, But wholly out of place. They Say I 'm Getting Old 45 In fact they watch my every move, And caution me each day, That I from out the proper groove Unthinkingly, might stray. Perhaps I 've reached decrepitude — My second childhood days, In years gone by were sometimes rude, As they, in youthful days. 'T is thus of life, the strong grow weak, Our children take our place, While we a quiet corner seek, They must our hardships face. 46 Huxley's Poems 1 ^ff ITTER, the bread produced by those enslaved, In it I taste their sweat and tears, And feel their sunken hopes and fruitless years; For this I deem myself a knave, A sentence grave. My clothes they choke, and irritate me sore, Mournful I sigh, my heart is sad, Musing of the producer, clothed in rags; Such injustice I do deplore, Forever more. Within its stately walls, my palace home, My soul so oft' is filled with dread, Vain would I have its builders in my stead, Exchange with those without a home, Henceforth would roam. I 've ate the fruit of the forbidden tree, Have scorned the rights of fellow man; Now, self-convicted, penitent, I stand And long that man, through equality Be ever free. The Trend of Modern Research 47 ^t Srato of iUn&rrn Ifospardj 8 EMOTE from ancient superstitious views, Of priestly source, who sat and vainly mused, And seemed to see in nature's abstruse plan, Secret works of some mysterious hand. It is not what some holy records state, That men of thought, with bated breath now wait, But delving- deep in natures endless mine, Search for facts, that they may aid mankind. From the infinitesimal atom here, To cosmic universe of spheres; Their aim, and zeal, with modern skill to aid, Is, truth may come to light, wmTst errors fade. Too long on vague hypothesis man '& leaned, Of demonstrated facts he 's scarcely dreamed. There 's naught but proof that satisfies the mind, Without, 1 is blind, that simply lead the blind. The trend of modern research is to know! Thus, to the world a legacy of facts bestow, To light man's course, as doth the orb of day, Dispelling mists of error from his way. 48 Huxley' s Poems ®Ij? g>ljtp of 2tnn ^fl EHOLD the vast concourse drifting along 1lB On misty tradition's whimsical tide, Depending on faith to weather the storm, WhiPst on the ship Zion resignedly ride. No thought bestowed on this antiquate craft Unworthy the name of a modern sail, But on its gray deck thoughtlessly bask, Confiding in myths, both musty and stale. That heavenly port you 're aiming to reach, Like the ocean mirage seen in the sky, When you are landed on death's dreary beach, You will find in dismay, 't was in your mind's eye. Why further pursue that will-o'-the-wisp, Through the dense marsh of mental decay, 'T is truly a phantom, why not desist, And travel where reason lights up the way? Parent's Solace 49 ANOTHER call to higher spheres, From out our quiet ville, Causing a void in home and hearts, There 's only one can fill. Just in the morning of life's day, Joyous and undefiled — Was called to join the spirit bands, A bright and happy child. Death 's but the opening of a door That leads to higher joys; More lovely scenes than earth affords To those, her girls and boys. Why then lament that blissful change When they are called to go, You surely do not wish for them Earth's bitter cup of woe? Their spirit home is not so far But what they oft' return, As couriers from that sunny shore Of which they 'd have you learn. With thoughts as pure as choicest flowers That send their fragrance forth, Striving with their united powers To cheer your lonely course. 50 Huxley's Poems 01 Not (®w £out ICoat . . HROUGH man's unending stage, I i As viewed in higher sphere, Chronicled in every age, By those earth would revere; Those that scanned his progress here, From remote stage of life, Realized his hope and fear, His joy and deadly strife. Find that all, no matter what Their earth career has been, Whether grief or joy their lot, Or how they met their end; Each will reach that self-same goal, As time speeds on its way, Nor can there be one lost soul, Though myriads may delay. The New Comer 51 m 0% Sfatu Comer 'HEN night had spread its mantle o'er the earth, A mother to a darling babe gave birth. The clock hands pointed to the hour of three, From natal bondage it then was ever free. Adding one more to numbers here untold, The primal course their being to unfold, Subject to changing scenes of joy and woe, But what 's in store for thee, we little know. Numerous paths and intricate you '11 find, Conditions ever needful for the mind, Sunshine and shadows seem to interblend, That mark life's rugged pathway to the end. As now I gaze on your infantile form, That soon must face life's bitter storms, I hope that truths which thoughtful minds impart Will much assist to guide your earthly bark. You '11 find this world is filled with good and bad, Some joyous days and some extremely sad. Now that you 're here, there is no better way, Than to bravely face your duty, day by day. 52 Huxley's Poems O'er rocky steeps, as well as sunny planes, Due vigilance is what you must maintain; In other words — be ever on your guard, Or often times you '11 find your motives barred. Along life's route there 's paths that intersect, That lead astray, which you must need detect, Or time is lost that you can never gain, While you inhabit this terrestial plane. And then again, along some line of thought, Grave doctrines, that for ages have been taught, These you should weigh with calm and thoughtful And glean the truths, if any there you find, [mind But let your reason have unbounded sway, 'T will light your path, and guide you on your way, And when you 've ended this, your earthly sphere, Of other climes you '11 need to have no fear. My Boyhood Days Upon the Farm 53 logwood lags Iprnt % iFarm M Y boyhood days upon the farm Gives pleasure to relate, r My children gather 'round me now And eager do await, To hear the tales oft' to them told — But ever have their charms, Of scenes which there took place with me Ere I had left the farm. To college 't was my lot to go, My parents to me said That I a graduate must be— In highest branches read; That some profession I must take, The farm is growing small For such increasing family To make a living all. I never shall forget the scenes That met my youthful eyes, To me it seems most like a dream, As they in fancy rise. The old farm house, extending fields Of golden waving grain, Where oft' we plowed, sowed and reaped, Our livelihood to gain. 54 Huxley's Poems And yet were many happy hours Oft' woven in between, That brightened up our daily toil And made our lives serene. And when I think of that old farm, Or some connecting scene, I often wish I could return, Once more its pleasures glean. As when I rambled o'er the fields, Or midst the shady grove, Where oft' with robust, gleeful lads In concert there did rove. To boat and fish, or swimming go, Down by the old mill pond, Or picking berries down the lane; Of each were very fond. And then what joy in nutting time, When Autumn days drew near, To climb the lofty hickory trees Without the least of fear; With cudgel send them rattling down To leafy ground below, Then when our sacks were crowded full We trudging home would go. My Boyhood Days Upon the Farm 55 I 've gained repute in legal lore; Have served my country well As officer and minister, Not boasting, this to tell. Have seen the guilded side of life, Know its alluring charm, But don't compare with boyhood days I had upon the farm. Huxley's Poems £>? arrlj for ©rtttlj m HEN will this plodding world outgrow The dogmas of the past; Seek fearlessly the truth to know, And dauntless hold it fast? When will they, too, discard the myths Of generations gone, Who, truth with sophistry did twist, Till right was seeming wrong? 'T is when from myths, and legends free- Rubbish of long ago— They '11 cease to search on withered trees Where fruit has ceased to grow. Or needless trace some foreign field In search of golden grain, When home unceasingly doth yield The wealth they would obtain. The Parson's Guest 57 A young man one time was invited to dine As a parson's honored guest, He, as you '11 find, was caught napping this time And thus was put to the test. Grace just had been said, when the parson who lead In passing the food to his guest — When it came his turn, as you will discern, Unthinking, said he would "pass. " It was just the night before, which, now he deplores, He was playing euchre, alas! E're the parson supped, said, "I order you up," As this game to him was well known. This he dare not ignore, thus, made for the door, Exclaiming, "I '11 go it alone ! " So it is we find, with the most of mankind, No matter their station or zone, Just at the right time, it 's a blessing they find If able to go it alone. 58 Huxley's Poems ftaak »ljm 31 T is hard oft' times to be good, As we traverse this mundane sphere, To conduct ourselves as we should; The brambles and pitfalls to clear. When you look back over the past, Are there no mistakes to behold, No acts you would recall, alas, No faults that you should control? Sit you down and carefully pen An invoice of your inner soul; May come to the conclusion then, In goodness, yet, you might unfold. If each, as said, their life review, On their own horoscope will see A grand and noble work to do, From ills of life to be set free. Be careful, then, what seed you sow, Lest you might reap sorrow and pain, Seeds are thoughts and acts you 'd know, That generate within the brain, Labor and Leisure 59 IGabor mb IGriaitre . HE working world dream of pleasures 1 1 That absence of labor will bring, Constantly yearning for leisure, Of its rapture e'er longing to sing. ® Could they but control Father Time, Their pleasing air-castles would build. Assuredly then they would find Their measures of ecstacy filled. Ask of those who are unemployed, Those holding this magic wand, If leisure is always enjoyed When wholly at their command. Response doth come, 't is this: alas! Inaction wearies more than toil, And those who try to shirk their task Their earthly mission spoil. 60 Huxley's Poems Why #twtmmmg Ifolp UR swimming on Rountree Creek, About one mile from town, Makes my heart leap with youthful joy, When memory hovers 'round. The dam was built of logs and brush, Smeared with sand and clay, Which like our hopes in future years, Was sometimes washed away. Oft' retrospective thoughts renew Those blissful sunny days; Oh, would that I once more was placed, 'Midst their enchanting rays. How ardently we longed for spring To break its frozen tomb; That we, a score of hardy youths, Our pent up joys resume. We scarce could wait for summer sun Those chilling waters warm, Than we upon those turfy banks In gleeful groups would form, Shedding our clothes as down the path In single file we speed, That circled 'round the willow marsh Which to the pond did lead. Our Swimming Hole 61 Between tree trunks, or on some bush, Or- strewn upon the ground, Our hats and pants and hickory shirts Promiscuously were found. And then such strife to see which one First plunged into the stream, T was often, too, the buttons flew In this contesting scene. Ah me, that foaming, rolling pool Encircled to our waist, We dove, we splashed, and leaped about, Then too; the swimming race, Would climb the banks, and play leap-frog, Our bodies striped with clay; Then in the liquid frothing flood, Again resumed our play. T was not until the western sun Cast long and deepening shades, That with blue lips and shriveled hands, Reluctant out did wade. Then quickly hustling on our clothes, We homeward wend our way; At night to dream of pleasures past, To be renewed next day. 62 Huxley's Poems ttlj % ®tm?H Knp flar? '01 IS said by some, that all is just, That nothing can be wrong; A loving Father guides our bark And moves the world along. That what seems wrong is surely right, If we His sequels knew; Whereas, through His omnipotence, All things are just and true. Are tornadoes, and pestilence, And famines o'er the land, Held in their destructive course By His protecting hand? When children, from their parents torn, Left here to fight their way Amidst a cold and selfish world; Can this be just, we say? With the Times Keep Pace 63 Similiar scenes, in myriad forms, Are daily passing by; Can we to them close eyes and ears, Or these plain facts deny? Then let us use our reasoning powers, No longer held by faith; And search, and try to reach the truth, And with the times keep pace. 64 Huxley's Poems ^/F honest, candid people knew JIJ Just when, where, and what to do, Doctors, lawyers, and willsome priests, Their mission here would surely cease; Would have to seek some better end Than prey upon their fellow man. 'T is strange, indeed, all do not see Such worthless, base absurdities, And institute at once a fight, Rid from their midst these parasites. Too long, too long, these drones have thrived; Grown sleek and fat within your hive. If you the laws of health observe, In fellowship each other serve, Are just in all your dealings here, Of the future have no fear; Can then dispense with those we 've named, On you, henceforth, they '11 have no claim. An Entreaty for Peace 65 An lEntr? aty for |bare m HEN will earth's nations in unison join, Their corrupting armies disband; Forming a social confederation, That will reach throughout the land? Then devastations of wars would cease, Vain conquest which ever brings woe, Will then give place to a reign of peace, And efface our once deadly foe. The war cry, surrender, surrender or die! 'Tis ever the cruel demand; Why further cling to this barbaric course For ages has cursed every land? Oh, hasten the time when nations agree To lay down their swords and their guns, And settle disputes in some peaceful way ' Than the lives of their heroic sons. 66 Huxley's Poems (§«r (ihjefl in £tfr ^f S it to labor for wealth and fame J|J Regardless of every one else, That blatant throngs may herald our name And potentates may drink to our health; To trample down what comes in our way, So we but secure our ends, Selfishly hoarding the comforts of life, Unthoughtful of even our friends? How do you think our lives will compare, When judged in the courts above, With those bowed down with burdens and care, Yet filled with true goodness and love? And also those whose lives have been spent In aiding the poor of the land; Would we in their presence feel content, Or self-condemned would we stand? Evolution of Man 67 iEvolutum nf ilan JtJ ACK through misty scenes of yore, 1|a Remote from deluge days of Noah, ^^ Or Eden with its noted pair, In search of facts, receding bear, Exploring, pass o'er barren fields That now abundant harvest yields, Through dense forests, o'er mountain range, Across deep seas and desert plains, O'er vast expanse and obscure time, The starting point of man to find. Passing his protoplastic state, We '11 view him at a later date, When more advanced in stage of life, Presenting scenes of fiercest strife, Environed with foes on every hand, Including nature's 'stern demand. Beings that you would loathe to claim Are your ancestors, all the same; Yet 't is encouraging to see How man 's attained this high degree; Instead of perfect beings made, They step by step have reached this grade. 68 Huxley's Poems To some, preposterous it may seem, A vague, discordant, foolish dream, That man when first he viewed the light Was a savage of lowest type, Naked and dumb, pursued his way In search of food like beast of prey. Though lightning flashed and tempest raged, And on him fiercest warfare waged, Fearless he wends earth's darksome way, Slowly unfolding day by day; Fishing and hunting daily pursued With implements extremely rude. As ages passed on wings of time, Man's progress has been slow, we find; Emerging from his cavern deep, He next is found with herds and sheep, In tents of skins he now resides, And doubtless feels some inward pride To note the growth of his career, Than when he used the bow and spear. More civilized he then became, And thoughts less crude more frequent came. His frontal brain increased in size; In many things became more wise. Evolution of Man 69 To express desire, words were framed, Thus language slowly to him came. Rude garments he began to wear Which hid from sight his coat of hair. Tiring of migratory life, Of constant change and bitter strife, A husband man he now is found. With forked stick he tills the ground, Growing more skilled in many ways. Slight signs of art he now displays, And from his dingy tent we find Into a cottage he has climbed. Advancing now with quickened stride Through gates of progress opened wide, And avenues that have no end Most willingly his thoughts doth wend. Science, literature, and art, Conceived by him oft' played their part In his unfoldment to maintain, To broaden and expand his brain. Light from celestial fields above Illume his soul with sacred love, His vicious passions to allay, That nobler powers he might display. 70 Huxley's Poems Concluding our retrospective course In tracing man to primal source, Would say of homogeneous class Distinct remain though ages pass. So, from the prehistoric man Conceding but a just demand, Must yield to him our starting place— The germ of all the human race. We now have reached the present date Still time speeds on with rapid rate; Man's limit we will never find, Onward will move through endless time. Past, Present and Future 71 $aat f rtsmt nnh Shtturp %£JAST, present and future, comprising the whole, IS Ceaseless and endless for man to unfold. *i In thought, through infinite space he ascends, No limit to growth, no beginning nor end. Onward, may traverse the glittering fields, The more you advance, more beauty it yields. No halt in your progress, the days are as one, You ne'er reach the goal, your course never run. Past, present and future, they are as one, Precisely the same, as never begun. Past, present and future, the three combined Are unfoldings, or growth of the mind. When strictly defined, 't is the eternal, now, Which reflection proves, as each will allow. The past and the future are relative terms, That deep meditation clearly discerns. 72 Huxley's Poems XbwtBt IbstrpH m HEN tempestuous waves of trouble roll, Merging life's hopeful longings of the soul, Annihilation would then seem most sweet, To rest beneath the calm oblivion deep. Where all emotions of the soul are stilled, No more of life's delusive castles build, Desire, what e'er he was, there 's naught remains But sleep, the sleep that never wakes again. When love's celestial calm the storm allays, The sun of joy returns, makes glad our ways, We would the soul live on through endless years, Bright star of hope shines thro' the glittering tears. The clouds send forth their pearly drops of rain, Assist to bring the fruits and flowers and grain. Thus, storms of grief that cloud our earthly way May aid life's germs, make bright the future day. ■'" . -W^ ■■■■" ■: . "■■ ;' ;■ ■•■■■'■':■'■. ■'''■'>>- : ^ • Op* Page 73 'In youth I sought thy trailing vine, And kissed thy flowery lips sublime." The Morning Glory 73 31 ®Ijp fMnrmtuj dlory MPERIAL gem of floral fame, Entitled thus by rank and name. What angel shaped thy trumpet form, And caused thy bloom at early morn? Displaying shades of varied hue, White tinged with purple, pink, and blue. Artly arranged with choicest care, As by some floral angel fair. In youth I sought thy trailing vine, And kissed thy flowery lips sublime. E'en now to greet thee, wend my way, Ere orient hues have cleared away. Cheerfully musing, pass along Absorbed in nature's joyous song, Sweetly blending with every soul That would their being here unfold. 74 Huxley's Poems Seated beneath the arbor wide, Peering forth o'er head and side, Thou flowery bells, pure and serene, Encircled in thy leafy green. The bee has found thy glossy cup, In hope to gain a honey sup, Whilst feathered songsters' morning lay, In concert join, to cheer our way. Oh, would that we were pure as thee, From guile and selfishness as free. Thanks be to cause that placed you here, To brighten this, our earthly sphere. Equality of Man 75 iEqualttg of Ulan ^Zi 'VE sojourned here some sixty years or more, JJI Many dominions I have traversed o'er. With honest thoughts I viewed the men of earth, Distinguished ones, and those of lowly birth, And find the space betwixt them not so wide, When undue prejudice is laid aside. And when we stop and think, why should they be? When deemed as should — as one great family, If those termed high, and low, could be reversed, Those seeming least, might show intrinsic worth; Might bring the blush to those who had supposed What they knew not, must be; there 's no one knows. The smiling face, with costly robes adorned, With inner life perhaps may not conform. We gain at best, but little in this world, Our scroll of knowledge is but slight unfurled. Each counts as one in this vast earthly throng, A simple link that binds us here as one. 76 Huxley's Poems Some have their eyes on given points ahead, WhiPst others, seeming unconcerned, are led. Some, weary trudge and long to reach the end; Amidst the throng, not one would seem their friend. The philanthropic would assist the race, On equal footing, have each mortal placed. No high, no low, but all of equal grade— Unto the world this plea has oft' been made. And there 's those of selfish make, from birth, Would if they could, possess the whole of earth, And tramp beneath their feet each human right; Would have no law, but that of selfish might. With such, we 'd ask, what would you have us do? Be just! such course in time perhaps they '11 rue. Stand by the right with high uplifted hand, And let these words vibrate throughout the land. All human souls should have an equal right, By this we '11 stand, and lend our earnest might Our Lives Reflect 71 (®m Ilium Meft UR lives, as a song, we write the words, And set them to music at pleasure; Making life sad, or perhaps glad, As we choose to fashion the measure. We spin and weave, our garments to make From words and acts, in our journey here; Spotless and white, if in the right, If not, they will be scanty and drear. The home we 're building for future life, Depends on us, as to size and shade, This we detect — our lives reflect, And the structure is what we have made. 78 Huxley's Poems b Sfatr? /^r OULD we but govern this world as we would, l|L Have enactments passed as we justly should, Abridging the rights of the vulgarly poor Through sumptuary laws, this we 'd secure. Firm plutocratic then we would be, From beggarly elements thus made free. Then we 'd establish an orient caste, And those forced to labor, hold in our grasp. We as dictators would govern their course, Class legislation would then be enforced. Those not of our caste, deemed vulgar and low, Would have to accept just what we 'd bestow. A Response. Why so deluded and with selfishness crammed, Who would, if you could, enslave fellow man; Harboring thought, that wealth makes you better Than those on whom you would rivet the fetter; Compel them to slave, that you may enjoy The pleasures of life unmixed with alloy? Angel Guidance 79 Angel (Smfcanr? ^■THE pearly gates now stand ajar, If I Bright angels from on high ^■^ Are seen decending from afar, And lovingly draw nigh; Flooding the world with advance thought To aid the doubting mind In disabusing errors taught, The naked truth to find. In man's sojournment in this sphere, 'T is well that he should know That loving friends are ever near, Assistance to bestow, To make life's doubtful problems clear, Give guidance where he lacks, Relieve the mind of cringing fear, Through demonstrated facts. Then to each doubting soul we 'd say, Resolve the truth to know, Investigate without delay; Where facts may lead, there go. Some obstacles, no doubt you '11 find, But if you persevere, They soon will vanish from your mind, Through knowledge, disappear. 80 Huxley } s Poems Atttmalilg of fcn ^JTHE animality of man Lfl Heedless allowed to grow, Oft' into flames doth passion fan That proves his greatest foe. When one submits to such control, Ne'er strives this bane to check, 'T will darken, yea, pollute the soul Through criminal neglect. 'T will lead you on a downward course, Unless perchance released By those possessed of moral force, You '11 sink beneath the beast. Nor fain think you great pleasure gain Through lustful passions fed, The time will come when you '11 exclaim, I wish of them I 's rid! Isms 81 3lsma 'JfJft'ITH isms stale, the world now teems, 1[i \ Useless for man to learn; Oft' intermixed with myths and themes, And holy writ, in turn. That when one tries the truth to find, With reason for his guide, He finds his course with mystery lined, Adrift in mucky tide. What the world wants, is truth's pure light, Unmixed with myths or creeds, That stand to reason, clear and bright, And all can know, that read. Where no translation is required To hand it down to them, By clergy, pope, and priest that 's hired, Their doctrines to defend. 82 Huxley's Poems IGtfr'a Sunset ' VE reached my three score years and ten, And now the deepening sunset glow Bespeaks the verge of earthly end, The ultimate of life below. 31 Many loved ones have gone before To Elysian fields of ceaseless charms; But one most dear I do adore For me awaits with open arms. In holy wedlock, side by side, We sojourned on this mundane sphere; In concert shared what e'er betide Of joy and grief, year after year. And now I gaze with hopeful eyes Across the placid stream called death, And catch a glimpse, where peaceful lies Our own celestial home of rest. Oh, Do Not Say That I Am Dead 83 ©i? f in Not Buy Gtyat 31 Am %mb /J\B, do i m Orn ^^ That I do not say that I am dead, Or never come to you, no longer see thy face, Surely it is not true. Love's silken threads are just as strong As when in earthly sphere, As ere I made the gladsome change — Our union just as dear. Oh, do not say that I am dead, My interest there is gone, That I no longer love earth home, If so, you do me wrong. For daily visits there I make, Know all your joy and woe, And strive to aid you in life's course, That you more noble grow. Oh, do not say that I am dead, As death I have not seen, The change is simply a new birth, Conditions more serene. Where woven in the self-same hue Are all our former deeds; This life 's a counterpart of earth Wherein we sowed the seeds. 84 Huxley's Poems A f mttlj's Khxm ^■f my schoolmates and acquaintances Lfl This message I send: Though we meet with death's change, Our love never ends. While we cherish each thought Of our pleasure while here, May we meet to renew them In some higher sphere. My Wife and I 85 Mij W\U mh 31 /iJU ANY long years, my wife and I * 1 IL Traversed this earthly field, ^*^And sowed the seed that we must reap, As each their kind doth yield. Some times our course was dark and rough, Again was smooth and bright, As clouds of sorrow passed away, And we stood in the light. Then oft' those mountains viewed ahead, And streams we had to cross; When we had reached the verge of each, Their vastness then was lost. Much of the danger we foresaw, And trouble borrowed, too, When we stood face to face with them, How they diminished grew. And many times when we looked back, Over the route we came, We saw where we had missed our course, Wherein we were to blame. Whereas, if we had thoughtful been, And viewed life's chart more clear, Much of the irksome paths we 'd missed, And reached a brighter sphere. 86 Huxley's Poems Yet not unlike earth's multitude, Each has his grief and joy; No life so pure but what they find It mixed with some alloy. For none there be who error not, So we '11 be satisfied, If we an average here should make In life's uncertain tide. ffiamp of Season ^jJy^EEP your lamp of reason burning, jIV Exploring every field of thought, With the hope and ardent yearning — What you 've gained truth has wrought. Our Angel Daughter 87 /fj\UR angel daughter robed in white Iff/ From the celestial fields of light, Absent from your home above To visit those you dearly love That still remain in earthly bonds — Of you we 're also very fond. Oh, cherub sweet, our own dear child, Aloof from all that would beguile, Pure as the brightest crystal form You unto higher life were born. Fostered and cherished by angel friends Who o'er your couch oft' loving bend, And safely guide your footsteps here As angel courier to this sphere. 88 Huxley's Poems ^upprBttttmt ^UUHY stand you gazing and amazed, Stunned through fear and dread, With faculties benumbed and dazed, Lest you might be misled; Induced to drop fallacious themes, Accepting truth instead? Why be content with bigot's creed, Would you not know the right, And follow e'er where truth doth lead From darkness into light; Where all those fancied scenes of woe Will vanish from your sight? Life will seem one radiant glow Of never ending joy, When you the simple truth shall know Divested of alloy. Then superstition's ghastly form Will cease you to annoy. Jealousy 89 J EALOUSY, thou fiendish monster, Rankling in the breast of man; Like a serpent, every ready To insert its deadly fangs. Constant in thy vague surmising, Filled with bitterness of soul, Blighting every earthly prospect That would aid you to unfold. Likened to a maddened tempest; The raging of a restless sea; Passing of a deadly simoon, Or some contagious malady. Why allow such darkened passions Thus to dwarf your spirit here, Stultify your finer senses, Retard your course in higher spheres. 90 Huxley's Poems iEartJj'a Jfnga E IFE would be bleak without the joys That light our pathway day by day; So then embrace each opportune As through earth's course you wend your way. That each may have his equal share Of raptured bliss as they prefer, Selecting as it seemeth best, Earth's fleeting joys without demur. Abraham Lincoln 91 % Abraham ICmrnln 'JPJ EVOID of title, distinction or gold, ^JR| Unknown, and lowly of birth; ^^ As the desert flowers their beauty unfold, He disclosed merit and worth. Through intrinsic virtues deeply inbred, Shielded by justice and love; Truly 't would seem he was fostered and led By unseen forces above. His paths through childhood were rugged and steep, His pleasures, simple and few. Though the wolf of want to his home would creep, Yet chaste and guiltless he grew. His backwoods life made him fearless and strong, Mid wilds oft' lonely and deep, As he mused and wandered, chanting some song With throb of nature to keep. As his orchestra was the sweet songs of birds, The brook o'er the stony fall, Or the tinkling bell of the grazing herd, Would joy to his musings call. Thus, mid rural scenes to manhood grew, His school-days scarcely a year, Of life's restless ocean, little he knew, Or its dangers safely to clear. 92 Huxley's Poems The fond environs of his rustic home, Seemed much diminished in size, The fields and surroundings, narrow had grown, Than viewed by his youthful eyes. So bidding farewell to plow and flail, And many enchanting scenes, And his dear old axe, for splitting rails, On which he had often leaned. Out into the world's arena steps forth To meet the contentious foe; Thus try his mettle, whilst blazing his course, As through life's mazes doth go. His studious mind, to his books did yield, Which wrought a wondrous change, His feet soon tread more extended fields, With deep and broadening range. The implanted seeds of candor and truth, Guided his footsteps aright, Indelibly stamped on his soul from youth, Shone forth as a beacon light. Spotless integrity engraved his name, As seen in his life we trace, In letters of gold, on the tablets of fame, That time can never efface. Nature's Unfoldment 93 Nate b Ittfolftttumt (jyrATURE'S unfoldment, oft' called death, V\ I wait witn fervent cheer, When the mortal is laid to rest, Surely there 's naught to fear. This change we see, is first degree In upward course of man, Forever from earthly bondage free, 'Midst lofty scenes to stand. Nature, 't is seen can not refrain From seal of Winter's tomb, But is not dead, returns again To life and vernal bloom. Thus, with the disembodied soul, When lost from mortal eyes, 'T is nature's process to unfold, But never, never dies. 94 Huxley's Poems ®ljr IBadjelor a iRnjrrt ® nHOSE by-gone days so blithe and fair, Long ere my cranium was bare, There comes through dreamy mist of time, Memory sweet, yea, most sublime, Ere decrepitude's cruel sway Had changed my locks to silver gray. Her charming form and sprightly ways, As in time's mirror backward gaze, Again I see, in fancy greet, And muse of osculations sweet. But cruel fate and Cupid's dart Did pierce and rend two loving hearts. Brotherhood of Man 95 TtftfE are watching, wishing, waiting, T4- Hope— long deferred, may come. *^^ 'Midst the din and strife of battle Faintly sounds the fife and drum. How we wish the conflict ended Ere the coming of the morn, As we view the sad commotion And the ever gathering storm. We are waiting, watching, wishing, When man to man will be As brothers— on this earthly plane, One joyous family. When freed from worldly greed and strife, With motive pure and good, 'T is then, and only then, we '11 see United brotherhood. We are wishing, watching, waiting, In hopes that time will come, When all will lend a helping hand To labor's busy hum. And all the world have equal rights, One joyous, happy band, All deadly strife will then give way To brotherhood of man. 96 Huxley 1 s Poems ®Ij£ ifamatt Uarf ^f N retrospective paths of man we find If I His footprints washed from off the sands of time, Thus, as to origin, or destiny's lot, Sadly regret to say, we knoweth not; And thus far fail to find the missing link, So, from the beast, his class remains distinct. As ages pass, more vast their numbers grow, With wonder gaze upon them, come and go Like varied scenes upon the shores of time, A passing glance, then vanish from the mind. Oh! wondrous race, of this our mother earth, To this vast conquest, ever giving birth. And now with zeal, across death's dark abyss, They 've cast a line, and find life still exists. Have learned, death lifts the latch to higher spheres, Who send the gladsome news to those still here, Firmly believing, from what they hear and see, Their course extends through all eternity. 52 B 2 CO CD 3 ° S3 •si § ft The River of Life 97 ®Ij£ jRtupr of Stfr , - HE wondrous river of life, w\ Without commencement or end; Ceaseless, flowing onward and on Where earth and eternity blend. (U Oft' one's vision of thought grows dim As fain he would follow its course, Or scanning the lapse of time, In hopes to discover its source. The voyage down the river of life, From youth, 'til earth's journey is through, Should be, in maintaining a course You '11 naught have occasion to rue. Be thoughtful, and study life's chart . That points out the rocks and the reef, The shoals and the rapids to shun; In fact every danger, in brief. Then make the best record you can In guiding your bark on its way, Till you 've passed the valley of death, And entered the portals of day. 98 Huxley's Poems Mv bxUtxan at a $ tmtr ^f N concert with friends, on a bright June day, jjlj Through the Ozark Hills we wended our way; Laying life's routine of cares to one side O'er fanciful seas of pleasure to glide. Passing many fine scenes, at last we drew reins On the shady banks of the River James. The sweet songs of birds so gladdened our hearts, That Nature seemed bent its joys to impart. We rambled through dales, high cliffs we did climb; With awe stood entranced o'er scenes most sublime. Strolling the banks of that beautiful stream My thoughts did revert as if in a dream. I fancied I stood 'midst Indian homes, Where long years ago they peacefully roamed, Fishing and hunting and boating as we, At times interspersed with their jubilees. Meditation at a Picnic 99 Spreading their banquets, as we, on the ground, Thanking the Great Spirit with hearts most profound ; Quenching their thirst at the very same spring Whilst their gleeful shouts oft' made the woods ring. Lo! where are they now? All vanished and gone. Sadly lamenting, I earnestly longed To welcome them back to the land they adored, Ruthlessly seized by the wield of the sword. Oh, could we unroll from the scroll of the past, Locked in time's vault, that is ever held fast, Many dark pages recorded would find, We fain would erase from the tablets of time! But the world 's emerging from deeds of night, As time moves on, is approaching the light, And the day is nearing when wars will cease Through compact of international peace. LOFC. 100 Huxley's Poems at N??fc f an (Ear? ^♦UITH all man's faults the world moves on, ill There 's growth in spite of whims; ^^ In spite of creeds, truth will succeed, The right is sure to win. But never think your route be smooth When errors you 'd repair; Doubtless the world will frown on you: But then, what need you care? 'T was once supposed the world was flat And rested on the main; Copernicus pronounced it false — By that he lost his fame. Galileo claimed it moved, Was round instead of square; For that, the Pope imprisoned him: But then, why need he care? For thus it 's been for ages past, When man proclaimed a truth That lead from out the beaten path, He 's herald with abuse. Heed not the rabbling, thoughtless crew, Fearless the truth declare; In time the world will honor you: So then, why need you care? Life's Record 101 F our journey down the steeps of time, Unerring record we keep, Registered on the enduring mind, Indelible and complete. Each act through life is chronicled there, And our thoughts— whether evil or good, Are recorded with explicit care, And by each are understood. No judge or jury then will we need When we reach our home over there, As each in earth's book of life will read, And their own verdict declare. So then it behooves us — one and all, To have a bright future in store, That each may hear the merited call: Thou blessed forevermore. 102 Huxley's Poems Hagutarfc ilnrtala (ff H wayward mortals, frail indeed, Who cultivate the noxious weeds, And when your earthly course is run, To find them garnered, every one, In the vast future storehouse laid, Which represents your stock in trade, Each labeled with the choicest care, With information, when and where. Redemption from your sins, you '11 find, Simply consists in growth of mind. Nor can you shift your misdeeds here, Through prayer or vain pretentious tear, And those that once seemed to appease Your conscience, when on bended knees, For some foul act that you had done, No absolution had you won. How strange, mankind can not see The grand results of unity, Of making earth a joyous home Where care and sorrow ne'er is known, A lifelong course of noble deeds, Fruits and flowers, instead of weeds, Then when you reach the higher spheres Your greetings will be void of tears. Friendship 103 iFrottdBljtp 3 RIENDSHIP unites with silken cord Congenial souls as one; In joyous bands of one accord, As life's rough course they run. Earthly vicissitudes they view, Mingled with grief and joy; But friendship as a magnet true, Admits of no alloy. 104 Huxley's Poems A SntBtronrtljij (&mb? K OW that you have barely started On life's course that has no end, Listen to the voice of reason — You will find no better friend. It will guide you through life's valley, Up the rugged, steep hill-side, Through the darksome days of sorrow As in sunshine be your guide. When you are gleaning golden thoughts From the varied sands of time, Reason is your only safe-guard, Aiding you the truth to find. The Cosmopolite 105 (U • HO' the world's ensigns, unfurled to the breeze, I L The cosmopolite you '11 find at his ease, No fixed habitation his course to stay, Of the earth's wide range has absolute sway. Where e'er he sojourns is always at home, As fancy dictates, thither he roams, Free as the fountain that bubbles forth, Or skylark winging its songful course. Bound to no country, no honors await, His bark ever waft by the winds of fate; Ever aloof to the- world's bitter strife, Peacefully wending his journey of life. Foot-sore and weary at the close of earth's path, Quietly lays down his compass and staff, To resume his travels in higher spheres 'Midst enchanting scenes and visions more clear. 106 Huxley's Poems (For Children's Recitation) H heedless man, could we dissuade Your mind from fogy rules, Then we 'd suggest a higher grade Of spelling in the schools. Orthography we'd have you change, Pronounce the way you spell, You then would cease to rack your brain, Your scholars, too, as well. Tis true you 've grown with rapid turn In many lines of thought, But strange you seem so unconcerned With orthography, as taught. The old stage-coach is out of date, Propelled by horse and mule; Spelling should meet an equal fate, At least should change the rule. In spelling of a simple word Use letters just enough, That you may gain the proper sound, Yet having no surplus. Needful Amendments 107 And those that do adopt the rule Of spelling words by sound, Will rid the world of much abuse, And make themselves renowned. Strange so long it 's been deferred, On each with wonder gaze, So easy thus in spelling words, You '11 simply be amazed. The superfluous letters used Take much important time; Besides, each needless one refused Will shorten up the lines. The well-sweep and the wooden plow, The flail to thresh the grain, Are only seen as relics now, But our lexicon 's unchanged. Why longer now postpone this need Important to us all? 'T is hoped you will at once give heed, And answer to this call. 108 Huxley's Poems fOUTH, with his myriad visions bright, Looks out upon life's tranquil earth With bouyant hopes and footsteps light, That note the zeal of future worth. The world is filled with magic scenes; Views fleeting time — without concern, And yet amid these blissful days, To reach manhood he often yearns. Onward he moves, as pathway lies Through destined course of earth's career, But soon to manhood he arrives, Then youthful visions disappear. Life, then, is not what he had dreamed — Finds frequent barriers in his way; Oft' things reverse from what they seemed, Retarding progress day by day. There 's untold avenues to face — The time has come for him to choose— Some lead to honor, some disgrace, As much depends on methods used. If he an upright course would lead, Would shun the vile and darksome ways, If just, most surely he '11 succeed, And bright will be his closing days. This Mundane Career 109 Placed in the earthly furrow now There 's no such thing as turning back; Must hold the handle of his plow And strive to garner only facts. Errors, likes tares amid the wheat Must separate, with watchful care, If he would have his work complete, That will with solid facts compare. His aim (as likewise others should), In traversing this mundane sphere- To strive to render all the good To those that see their way less clear. So when the shades of closing day Shall fall across his aged bier, All who knew him could truly say The world 's improved, his being here. 110 Huxley's Poems (Recitation for Children) ^JTHE summer sun with reddening glow, ill O'erlaid as with a pall ^■^ By deepening clouds, sullen and low, The rain has commenced to fall, The rumbling thunder overhead Bespeaks a dreaded scene, The loveliness of earth has fled, Chaos now rules supreme. The lightning flash, and forked darts, Passing zigzag through the skies, As if some ogre fain would impart, That he the world defies. The scene more dark and fearful grows, Death-dealing bolts are hurled, 'T would seem that now' the airy foes Meant destruction to the world. But the clouds are breaking in the east, The rain has ceased to fall; A conference, beseeching peace, By storm king now is called. And lo! the sun has cast aside The veil of darksome gray, And through the azure sky it glides, Shedding gladness on its way. The Latent Cause m ICafrni daufip , HE latent cause that governs worlds in space, JL Is a problem scientists now face,