THE CHRISTMAS ROSE From a painting by Alice Barber Stephens reproduced in water colors by Mary H. Weber New Songs of Nature THE COLLECTED POEMS OF AUGUSTUS WIGHT BOMBERGER WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY ALICE BARBER STEPHENS AND OTHERS PHILADELPHIA THE JOHN C. WINSTON COMPANY MCMXV Copyrigtt (915 by The John C. Winston Company All Right! Reierved .O^v^^^ JAN 28 1916 (0)Ji.A420562 THIS BOOK IS DEDICATED TO HIM WHO WROTE When I am stretched beneath the pines. Where the evening star so holy shines, I laugh at the lore and the pride of man. At the sophist schools, and the learned clan; For what are they all, in their high conceit. When man in the bush with God may meet ? Many of the poems in this volume have already appeared elsewhere under copyright; and for the privilege of republishing these the author of them is indebted to the courtesy of Harper's Magazine, The Youth's Companion, The Out- look, The Book News Monthly, The Independent, The Atlantic Monthly, The Christian World, The Sunday School Times, The Springfield Republican, The New York Observer, The Smart Set, and other periodicals. CONTENTS PAGE By Woodland Ways 11 In Joyous Faith 12 A Legend of Harvest 13 Earth and Infinity 14 The Christmas Rose 15 The Wayfarer 17 At a Tomb in Abydos 18 Over Crag and Barrier 19 Thanksgiving Day 20 Our Mother of Arden 21 My Morning Minstrel 23 My Little Winding Road 24 Wanderlust Song 25 The Angel of the Wise Men 26 His First Offense 28 "In the Waters of Malta" 29 The Hermit Thrush 30 The Lost Child 31 Song Sparrow Brook ^^ Out of God's Crucible 34 "I Travel Light" 35 The Old Ox-Team 37 Magdalene 39 Red-Breast and Song Sparrow 40 The Man Born Blind 41 Five Mile Run 42 My House is But a Cottage 44 The Hills of Pennsylvania 45 Loss and Gain 47 5 CONTENTS PAGE Ascendency 48 Bondman Am I 49 Ruth and Naomi 50 At Yule in the Home-Land 51 The Stream and the Ocean 52 The Boy of the By-Way 53 Red Glory on the Hills 55 At the Sign of the Golden Wedding 56 To Live is More than Life 57 Space and Spirit: Time and Love 58 The Vision of King Thamyris 59 Roosevelt the Night of His Wounding at Milwaukee 62 Sylvia 63 The Hair-Cloth Sofa 64 This is My Faith 65 Janet 66 The Heart of Winter 67 "The Wise Disciple Yen" 68 Lines for the Centenary of an American Borough 69 While Bethlehem Slept 73 To a Goldfinch 75 What Though My House Be Far Afield 76 My Palace 77 Lines for Two Little Dwellers in the Country 78 Man-o' -the-Wood and Golden-Throat 80 The Paraclete 81 God and the Right 82 lo Triumphe — Dies Dierum 84 In Town at Spring 85 The Little Red Top 86 My Guest 88 The Corn Harvest 89 Her Two Angels 91 6 CONTENTS PAGE Spirit of Gray November 92 At Dawn in a Fall Garden 94 Loce Divine 95 The Oven Bird 96 The Builder 97 Song for Virginia Five Years Old 98 On the Edge of a Wood 99 An Autumn Litany 102 To Persepohone Afar 1 03 Oftiimes — Beset by Memory 1 04 At a Teacher's Vacant Chair 1 05 God and Man 106 Sing — Silver Trumpet Divine 107 With Joy Unspeakable 108 The Meadow Lark 110 Unseen Angel of the Night 112 At Valley Forge 113 Fulfilment 114 How Brightly Brave 115 The Song of the Shepherds 116 Outcry and Answer 118 Lines for February Fourteen 121 Love Song of Arcady 1 22 Compensation 124 My First Bobolink 125 Caleb of Bethlehem 1 27 Madrigal 131 "Mount Misery and Mount Joy" 132 A Farewell for One Pledged to the North Country 133 To a White-Throated Sparrow in March 134 Love's Deathless Votary 135 At Break of Battle 137 HeLiveth 138 7 CONTENTS PAGE Ah Me How Bright 139 The Starry Clematis 141 The Willow and Her Brood 143 Morning Hymri 144 My Meadow-Brook in Winter 145 The Angel of the Sheepjold 146 Oh Comrade Keep Thee 148 James My Boy— My Boy 150 Sighting the Golden Day 151 Daybreak ^^2 Boy of Bygone Days 153 Think Not God's Hand is Holden '54 The Nasturtium 1 55 I Breathe Thy Name 156 Daffodils 157 The Dawning Century 158 Faith 159 The Star of the Magi 160 Sonnet 162 Violet and the West Wind 163 The Going Forth of Summer 1 65 My Man of Arcady 166 At Norriion Churchyard 168 NEW SONGS OF NATURE BY WOODLAND WAYS I KNOW some holy places This side the Holy Land, Where acolyte nor priest have been. Nor carven altars stand; Whose other-world seclusion Is garrisoned with trees: Oh, would that more from day to day Made pilgrimage to these! Here worship is right easy, And sacrifice is sweet; And some that sing with never a word Celestial themes repeat; And weary hearts are rested, And old, grow young again: Oh, would they were forever sought By all the sons of men! Come here and get forgiveness From travel-stain! — they cry; These fountains, too, are fed from heaven, Beneath the open sky; These, too, have blessed healing For many a foolish sin: Oh, hearken to their silver bells! Oh, come, and enter in! Oh, come! This joy of flowers Uprising everywhere — 11 NEW SONGS OF NATURE This subtle incense 'round about, Is nature's perfect prayer; Breathe deep! God shares it with thee, And meeting him alone, Ye twain may hold communion here, And here be made as one. IN JOYOUS FAITH IN joyous faith, from mountain top and vale, Hark, hark, they come — the myriad birds of spring! Swift as an arrow, at the Master's call They pierce the frigid air with steady wing. And laugh to shame the winter winds that rail Against the precious promises they bring. They wake the lonesome wood with sound of song; They stir the drowsy violets with mirth. And send a thrill of gladness into all The dark and mournful silences of earth. Until at last, a sweet, exultant throng. They swell the triumph of perennial birth. Oh, wondrous miracle of victory! In joyous faith they win, — and so may we. 12 NEW SONGS OF NATURE A LEGEND OF HARVEST IN cincient Israel, so say the seers, Two brothers lived in peace — as brothers should. And tilled that ground whereon in cifter years King Solomon's illustrious temple stood. A common heritage, each gave the field His honest share of toil, and took therefrom An equal portion of the summer's yield. Nor grudged his part — nor held in doubt the sum. But on the night the harvesting was done, And all the com lay heaped beneath the skies, The elder kinsman sat in thought alone And gently reasoned with himself this wise: — "My brother is not strong, and suffered sore Beneath the heat and burden of the day, Lo, I will take some sheaves from out my store, Unkno%vn, and add to his across the way." And reasoning thus, he did; then found sweet sleep. Not so, howe'er, the younger of the twain. Who lay av/ake and said: "How can I keep My great, full half of all this golden grain, I who am still but one, whilst he must feed His wife and little children from his share!" So that same night, to meet a greater need. He, too, in secret did what he deemed fair. Now, when at break of day both cheerily Came forth to work — with greeting, name for name, Each scarce concealed his wonderment to see His separate stack of sheaves was still the same! 13 NEW SONGS OF NATURE And when, next night, and next, in love, anew These Jewish kinsmen gave by stealth their best — But all in vain — behold the riddle grew Exceeding strange, and caused them much unrest. Until at last its secret was revealed To both at once (blest be the hand that weaves Such threads of chance), for half across their field They met one night — each bent with heavy sheaves! Ah, kinsmen true, no offering later laid By Solomon upon the costliest shrine Of this immortal ground was better made Than yours, nor gave to heaven a holier sign! EARTH AND INFINITY ' I 'HERE'S part o* the sun in an apple; -«• There's part o' the moon in a rose; There's part of the flaming Pleiades In every leaf that grows. Out of the vast comes nearness; For the God whose love we sing Lends a little of his heaven To every living thing. 14 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE CHRISTMAS ROSE FROM some illumined folio Of mediaeval days, Or missal— of a soul grown tired Of Latin litanies. Hath come, unmarked by moil of time. This closely-margined Christmas rhyme. — This tender tale of Madelon, The little maid forlorn. Who, back of all the orient throng, That night the Christ was bom. Stood weeping in the cattle-cave, The while the rest their treasure gave. Stood weeping, for to see their gold. And frankincense and myrrh, And think that He, the babe divine. Should have no gift from her! To whom, so standing, like a flame Of holy light, an angel came. And took her gently by the hand. And led her just outside The entrcmce to that sacred place. And questioned why she cried. Whom then the little shepherdess Thus answered in her dire distress: "Good angel, woe is me, who heard Thy chorus sing so clear, 15 NEW SONGS OF NATURE With father in the field, that I Come empty-handed here! Oh, would, this dark and wintry hour. There was but one bright summer flower That I might fetch — all fragrant and Begemmed with starlit dew. For Him they worship as their King, And with them worship too! But, bearing naught, I stand alone — Alack, alack for Madelon!" Thus quoth she. But that moment, lo, A silvery, crimson cloud Descended sudden through the night And did them both enshroud! And, from amidst it, with his rod, The angel smote the frozen sod. And there, obedient, burst forth. At Madelon's own feet, A rose unknown to earth before. Pure white and wondrous sweet; And ere the cloud had passed away She knelt, as one who kneels to pray. And took it from the angel's hand, And then with eager heart Bore it, unmindful of the gloom Within, to where, apart. The light-encircled mother kept Deep watch — and gave it Him who slept. 16 Which, quick to see, the orient throng, Still rapturously bent. NEW SONGS OF NATURE Did count in silence, eye to eye, A sign from heaven sent. That He, the holy, undefiled. Should be thus worshiped by a child. And one declared her snow-white flower, (Thus ends the ancient tale). Was heavenly token, too, that hearts Like hers would never fail Henceforth to find some gift upspring For each desire to serve this King. THE WAYFARER AS I pondered whose knock it might be, ** Or stranger, or comrade, or kin. One stood there I trembled to see. And begged me to let him come in. His garments, 'twas easy to trace. Were sackcloth and drenched with the night; But I caught a high look in his face Protesting his heavenly right. So I yielded. And, bearing his woe, He darkened my dwelling with tears; And remaineth: nor ever shall go! — Unfaltering friend of the years. 17 NEW SONGS OF NATURE AT A TOMB IN ABYDOS HOW little hath life changed, ancient king! This fan so delicate and bracelet rare. These dainty, jewelled trinkets for the hair, Were thine own gift, I know, and thine this ring. And Bener-Ab, thy daughter, "Sweet of Heart," Who wore them once, was precious of a truth And dear to thee in all her winsome youth. Unspotted from the world, unspoiled of art: So dear that thou at times didst reckon less Thy royal sceptre than her soft caress; Yet for that cause wert all the more a king. Five thousand years ago when thou didst reign In great Abydos — city of the plain. And now — ah me, how close these symbols bring Thy soul to mine across the vast of years — These toys her marble sepulchre doth keep To tell of thy devotion, though she sleep. And quicken even me to just such tears Of voiceless sorrow thou thyself didst shed That distant day thou laid'st her with the dead: Until, a brother, at thy side I stand. Who find the centuries naught and love the same. And mourn with thee thy child of gentle name. And, mourning, feel the pressure of thy hand! 18 NEW SONGS OF NATURE OVER CRAG AND BARRIER HOW the mountain brook comes bearing Melody along! Crag and barrier in its way Check it not — ah, no! but they Are the secret, — yes, the very Substance of its song. How it leaps them all, and scatters Sparkling showers of light! Showers of light that seem to be Presage of the sun-lit sea. Even here among the shadows, — Shadows dark as night! But for them its voice were silent. Dumb with dull repose. Crag and barrier awake Its wild melody, and make Radiance for it (else deep-hidden) As it onward goes. While resisting, they but lend it Something of their strength, — Something strange of earth and air Which doth give it character Which, transmuted, is the beauty Of its life at length. Oh, the mystic power of hindrance, Whatsoe'er it be — 19 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Crag or barrier — that imparts High reward to valiant hearts, Light and song and strength to help them Toward eternity! THANKSGIVING DAY NOW every leaf has fallen And every flower is dead; And all the orchard branches Are empty overhead; The meadow-land is mournful, One time so bright and gay; And yet we seek the fields serene. For 'tis Thanksgiving day. A shadow walks beside us; A silence broods above; But still our hearts are happy With an inviolate love; A love that makes November More beautiful than May, The love that springs from faith in God Upon Thanksgiving day. 20 NEW SONGS OF NATURE OUR MOTHER OF ARDEN LONG ago, beloved, in this same sweet country, with its winding river, And these hills of harvest, glistening like gold, Lived a woman — worthy, for her gentle spirit and her true devotion. Of the tenderest lyric that was ever told. Listen, little kinsman! She was small and slender — almost frail of body. Yet as brave as Dian, and as full of mirth; For her heart was heaven, and her lips were music, and her eyes were April — April that comes bearmg sunbeams to the earth. Lean thee near, my laddie! It was I who knew her — I and all the orchards. Forest nooks and fountains, flowered fields afar; Birds of spring and summer; all the wilding breezes; morningtide and twilight — Twilight with its silence and its silver star. For she made us comrades — happy, faithful comrades, trusting one another. We who were but strangers till she passed our way; Till she stopped and showed us all we have in common — all we share as children. Some new bond revealing unto us each day. Nor bereft, beloved, are we at this moment of the joy she brought us, Neither I, nor any bird, nor flower, nor breeze; 21 NEW SONGS OF NATURE But it lingers alway like a breath of Eden, though she hath departed, Softening the shadows, trembling in the trees. How I still remember every fond occasion when they sent me for her To the town that could not keep her when I came! How they sang together — even in the distance — when they first beheld us! — How the water, rippling, whispered her dear neime! How we yielded to her — with what quick abandon — all our hidden treasure! How we gave it — eager, bountiful and glad! Birds, their brightest carols; flowers their rarest perfume; each of us his substance. Lavishly outpouring everything we had. And we do not falter even now, beloved, but are ever tranquil — With a deep, mysterious, wonderful content; For, amidst the darkness (bend thine ear a little!) we have found her footprints, And the night is leading whitherward she went! 22 NEW SONGS OF NATURE MY MORNING MINSTREL IN sackcloth clad, from hill and plain, The day advances, bathed in tears ; But music stirs my sluggish ears — A robin singing in the rain! I rise, and in the dull gray light I see him from my window-seat. The leafless branches 'neath his feet Half hid by lingering mists of night. Against his draggled front, forlorn. The chill March breezes moan and sigh; But still, with head uplifted high, He carols bravely to the mom. Then I, who listen, feel a glow — A quick thanksgiving — touch my heart; The veil is rent, the mists depart, Again the vernal zephyrs blow. While with the song, from everywhere, A sudden flush of Spring descends. And, even as the singer ends. Sweet breath of blossoms fills the air. ruby-throated minstrel mine, I bless the dawn that gave thee birth, And set the tenderest chord of earth Within that sturdy breast of thine! 23 NEW SONGS OF NATURE MY LITTLE WINDING ROAD MY little winding road will soon have met Its last horizon on the hills; and yet I am content, nor vainly ask to know Aught of the darkness whitherward I go. Content, because I count it but the same As the wide, mothering darkness whence I came; And find that darkness still, from mom to mom, Fecund with love divine as on the day It gave to earth its primal rondelay, And the first lilies of the field were born! Behind me, from its vast, inviolate verge. All life and joy and beauty still emerge. Age upon age it yieldeth more and more Th' unfailing largess of its hidden store: Transcendent streams of infinite delight Poured forth from out its gateways of the night.- The seasons, with their circling mystery Of bird, and flower, and plant, and fruitful tree; Whose angels leave — but to return again. And lift their silver tmmpets to the sky. Anointed with new glory from on high, For glad redemption of the hearts of men: And children, in a sweet and countless throng: And music, in a never-ending song: All these, and more, surpassing tongue to tell, Creatures of its tremendous miracle; Its silence, not a silence as of death. But the deep breathing of immortal breath! 24 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Such is my goal! — a fate I do not fear; Believing rather, as the stars draw near, That this great source, whereunto now I come. Which gave me trustful, shall so take me home. WANDERLUST SONG IT is summer — it is June! Heaven and earth are all atune: All the roses of the garden sing to roses in the sky; All the voices of the meadow answer voices from on high; All the joy that bloomed in Eden sixty centuries ago Is still dancing, bright as ever, where the vernal waters flow. True-of -heart, come forth with me! Crown the choral melody! I have broken loose a little from the tyranny of trade. For the sweet emancipation nature yields ; I have felt upon my spirit her mysterious accolade; I have found again my freedom in the fields. True-of -heart, come forth with me, Share the glad discovery! Heaven and earth are all atune: It is summer — it is June! 25 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE ANGEL OF THE WISE MEN WHAT though the kings that came From orient lands afar. But counted thy celestial flame A new and wondrous star? — And, as they onward sped. Aglow with ardent love. Dreamed not their burning hearts were fed From thy great soul above? — The barren wastes of sand They trod were none the less Visioned with bloom on every hand And heavenly palaces. And like as doves that fly. Instinctive, to their nest, Or day or night, with eager eye. They kept their holy quest. Pursuing, unexplained. Thy true, unfailing fire. Until at length they had attained The hope thou didst inspire. And what — ah, what though we. Who follow on as they. Are not permitted e'en to see Thy light above the way? — 26 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Still, still thou hoverest near! Still, still the breezes stir With breath of music, soft and clear, And frankincense and myrrh! Till — questioning not — in some Deep hour of joy, behold. Star Angel, we ourselves, have come To Bethlehem, as of old! And worship with the Wise, Who proved thine ancient tryst; Finding beneath the riven skies Their very Lord — the Christ. 27 NEW SONGS OF NATURE HIS FIRST OFFENSE OUT of a vagabond throng That tells its own pitiful tale, An urchin is hustled along And given his turn at the rail. Hungry, bedraggled, forlorn. Destitute, desolate, dumb, He stares like an infant new-bom. In wonder what next is to come. Wait, ere you utter his doom! Who shall thenceforward atone Once he is sent from this room Into the darkness alone? See, how he questions your face! What shall he find here today? Whither go forth from this place? Wait, Judge! — which way, sir; which way? Promise of something divine Pleads from his riveted eye; Destiny noble as thine Warns thee his angel is nigh. Justice draws quickly aside; Mercy, advancing to see. Measures him ere he is tried: Wait, Judge! — let this one go free! 28 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Free, to some friendship of men; Free, to some kindly control That shall lift to high heaven again Another regenerate soul. "IN THE WATERS OF MALTA" IN the waters of Malta, long moments before ■■• The vessels approaching gave sound of an oar. From wave-crest to wave-crest was wafted along The solemn refrain of the galley-slaves' song. Dull, barbarous, heart-broken, still it arose. Intoned of an angel that only grief knows. — A star in the blackness, a bloom in the night; A ray from the zenith, unquenched in the soul; A dream of some distant renascence of right; A freedom no collar of steel could control: In the waters of Malta, long moments before The vessels approaching gave sound of an oar. Oh, note everlasting; oh, rhythm of God!— Or grave of the ocean, or tomb of the sod Holds in it immortal the joy of thy wings Uplifting the hopeless to heavenly things! 29 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE HERMIT THRUSH SWEET singer, in the high and holy place Of this dim-lit cathedral of the hills; With reverent brow and unuplif ted face, I quaff the cup thy melody distills! What sparkling well of limpid music springs Within thy breast, to quench my thirst like this! What nameless chords are hid beneath thy wings, That all my soul is quickened by thy bliss! Perchance the same mysterious desire Hath brought us both to this deep shrme as one; For now — it bums a single flame of fire. Dropped through the branches from the setting sun. And, as thou singest, lo, the voice is mine, Each note, a thought; each thought, a silent prayer. Of joy, of peace — of ecstasy divine, Poured forth upon the fragrant woodland ziir. And I, who stand aloof, am not alone. Here, in these great cathedral aisles untrod; Hermit, thou hast opened heaven, unknown. And through thy song have I conununed with God! 30 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE LOST CHILD 1KN0W one who hath gone from me a space; One whom I love well, with unwaning love, Although I see him not; a little boy, Blue-eyed and brave, and of a countenance Where played continually from lips to brow A spiritual gladness, as some light Reflected down from heaven. What time he went My heart was mad with longing, and a while I was so fain to follow him, these hands Reached out into the emptiness to find Some other hands to lead me. And yet, now, I have deep peace and am content to wait. For many signs have shown from year to year He is not far away. And one — this memory Which fell upon me as a voice divine, A still, small voice, and comforted by woe. A twelve-month, more or less, ere he had gone, I strayed forth with him to a wood one day; A wood of beechen-trees and towering oaks. Where squirrels ran and the brown mock-bircj sang. And amorous winds made court among the leaves. And purple violets decked the mossy turf; — A place of sweet allurement to us both. Proceeding vagrantly, with devious course, We came at length upon a limpid brook That flowed along with many a variant mood From darksome pool to sharp and shelving ledge. Yet ever happy on its wilful way: 31 NEW SONGS OF NATURE And here I sat me down to rest and read. Letting my lad keep company meantime With all the birds and flowers 'round about. How many minutes passed me, thus engaged, I know not; but was suddenly aware, By reason of a silence and a void, That he was missing. Straight, I dropped my book. And, anxious on the instant, did arise. Searching, distraught, the trees on every side. And calling loud his name; yet vainly. Then Descended, all a-tremble, to the pool; But saw no trace. Then stept across the stream. And, entering the denser growth beyond, Began to pray at heart for my dear boy. That God might keep him safely; for I found The wood bewildering, and of great extent. On, on I went — ^half sick and half afraid; Ran; climbed anon; crept now thro' bush and vine; To right, to left; returned; retraced my path; Looked; listened hard; continuing, till at last. Confounded in the quest, I leaned against A smooth and silvery bole, and shut my eyes. To quell foreboding and becalm my mind. Whereon, mine ears, left wholly to themselves. And rendered subtle and the more alert In answer to the soul's intense desire. Caught the faint echo of a childish laughl Doubting, I waited. But, 'twas borne once more Unto my straining sense, scarce heard, yet sure; — As sweet a sound to me in that still spot 32 NEW SONGS OF NATURE As ever kissed the winds of Paradise; And lifting up moist lids I started fast Whither again it rose, till I espied A narrow, glimmering maze of gold ahead. Far through the verdant gloom, — a shining marge That beckoned beautiful, and, hurrying on. Grew bright; and then I neared the voice; and then Emerged upon a meadow eagerly— A broad and smiling meadow, daisy-strewn, And there beheld my darling boy at play! And this it is hath helped to give me peace Since he hath left me for another realm — This memory. Ah, it is a holy sign. That tells me often as I walk alone He is not dead; nay, nay! But, even so As he escaped from me within the wood And crossed the brook and vanished 'mongst the trees, And, wandering forward, found the meadow fair. Where we were reunited, heart to heart,— So, even so, upon that later day He did but cross to heaven, in the which I, following, shall discover him right soon; And bless the blessed God that brought me forth. Whose breath is on each breeze, and leaf, and flower. And quickens every sunbeam of the sky. 33 NEW SONGS OF NATURE SONG SPARROW BROOK E3K — this is Song Sparrow brook! Come — here is the path we took In bygone days, beneath the trees! How sweet to find its melodies Of limpid water quite the same! And he, the bird that gave it name Still singing on, as brave as ever! Ah, dear companion, take my hand. This is our own, our native land. Such heav'n can not be lost, no never! But here, as children once again, Far from the sinfulness of men, You but a girl and I a boy May drink again the olden joy! Look — this is Song Sparrow brook! Come — ^here is the path we took! OUT OF GOD'S CRUCIBLE "VVTHAT alchemy divine is this! — W Mixt of the night, and sorrow's black alloy. And fire of pain, my soul hath found the bliss Of perfect joy. 34 NEW SONGS OF NATURE "\ TRAVEL LIGHT" 1 TRAVEL light— that I may bear The heat and burden of the day More buoyantly, and better share With others by the way What strength is mine, untaxed by things That heap the shoulders, and harass The hands that would be free as wings With healing, as I pass. I travel light — not weighted down With heavy hamessings of pride, And leaden love of vain renown And lust of gold beside; But trig and trim from foot to crown, With swift reliance for my blade, I fare me on from town to town, Alert and unafraid. — I travel light! I travel light — that I may get Spare moments on this pilgrimage Of mine amidst a throng, nor let It all my time engage; But gain occasion — ^now and then. For sweet adventure, far and wide From th' loud multitude of men And traffic's weary tide. In helping of some heart more frail. Or bowed beneath a deadlier blow Than I have known — and fain to fail For bitterness of woe — 35 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Out, out to where the country yields A calm surcease from toil cind grief. And all the fair and fragrant fields Breathe rest and deep relief. — I travel light! I travel light — that I may keep, Unhelmeted, my head on high Toward the great hills of heav'n, where leap. Eternal to the sky. Those upper fountain-springs of life, Whose freshening waters fall below. As dew, on pilgrims faint with strife. To cheer them as they go With an uplifting sense, and sure Of triumph even in defeat. I travel light — who would endure Must bear (for death is fleet). Not weapons that but sap his strength — (Death-given, to betray his trust) — But arms that in the end at length Shall turn them not to dust. — I travel light! 36 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE OLD OX-TEAM FULL fifty years have passed, and yet — Amid the city's noise and fret, With wistful feelings of regret I do remember still The quiet farm I used to love. Its sunlit fields, so sweet to rove. And, best of all, the days I drove Its old ox-team to mill. Ah, those were happy days, I ween! And fresh and beautiful and green. And all the long, long space between Seems nothing to my heart; Seems nothing now and fades away^ And lo, a barefoot boy and gay, And lord of all my eyes survey, I mount that lumbering cart! 0-ho, how royally we go! And how the cows look round and low. As if to tell us that they know The secret of our quest! Out, out, along the orchard lane. And up the hill at last, where, fain, Spite whip and goad, my stubborn twain Would stop a while and rest. Sooth, is it real, or do I dream? Beneath the elm-trees now, my team, 37 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Hitched clumsily with yoke and beam, Has reached the rumbling mill; Where, after many a call and shout, A flour-bedizened form comes out And backs my rig around about And loads it to the fill. And now, perched high on sacks of bran, And feeling very much a man. And businesslike, the road I scan. Then take my whip and turn Homeward — and slower than we came; But not too slow, for still the same Bright summer skies, with joy aflame, Above us softly burn. Yes, slow and sleepily we went. And yet, how careless and content! Oh, would those hours were still unspent. And this loud, restless mart, Which grows so wearisome and sad. Were dream itself — and I the lad I used to be, supremely glad. Within that old ox-cart! 38 MAGDALENE Painted by Ada C. Williamson NEW SONGS OF NATURE MAGDALENE UP to the wicket-gate of heaven, Alone and bent with years, One Magdalene came at last: About her (like as tears) The darksome dews of evening fell: Inside the gate stood Gabriel. "Woman, what claim hast thou to these Celestial courts?" he said. And Magdalene, pierced with shame. Shrank back and bowed her head. For, toiling thitherward, ah me, 'Twas not this face she hoped to see! But from a tree of living bloom, (Whose branches overhang The very wall of heaven itself) Behold, a blackbird sang, "Oh, Gabriel, forget her sin. She is so weary, let her in!" He waited; then again he spoke, "Woman, why art thou mute?" And lo — and nearer — sang the bird. Like some sweet silver flute, "Oh, Gabriel, forget her sin. She is so sorry, let her in!" But the great angel turned away With no relenting word; 39 NEW SONGS OF NATURE And the deep silence gave no sign, Save that the gentle bird — As one that weepeth! — warbled low, "Ah, Gabriel, how could'st thou go!" Yet, as she stood disconsolate, Down to the vvdcket came One that she knew (oh, love divine!) And called her by her name. And loosed the gate and threw it wide, And Magdalene went inside. RED-BREAST AND SONG SPARROW] HAIL, bravest, earliest harbingers of spring! Or ever the first flower hath shown its face. Or April hath revealed his hiding-place, Ye come in joyful faith, on dauntless wing. Skies give no promise, and the breezes bring No gentle sign of unforgotten grace To field or forest, but with stem embrace Unbroken winter reigneth, till ye sing — Sweet little servants of the living God! Till ye, Red-Breast and Sparrow, one and all, Unfaltering where no vernal feet have trod, Confront the darkness and serenely call; And bright Arbutus hears beneath the sod And starts again to keep high festival. 40 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE MAN BORN BLIND SAY what ye will of Him, one thing I know — Know, by the witness of these eyes of mine. That this same Christ ye would belittle so, His healing — is divine! Nor care I aught His toil-worn hands may be Proof of the carpenter and Nazarene; The blessed touch of them hath brought to me Heaven — beautiful, serene. And shall I now gainsay the voice I heard. And call it blasphemous, for such as you? No, but the rather glorify His word Who found it wondrous true. Aye, cast me from among you, if ye will; Ye gave not, nor can take the light of day That Ccime to me — outcast, indeed, until This Jesus passed my way. Nor go I forth alone — ^for He hath made The whole wide earth sweet company and fair; And e'en His presence, like a sunlit shade. Attends me everywhere. Ah, Lord, 'tis but a moment since I thought — Banished of all — to seek Thy face again; And Thou, behold, hast found me, ere I sought — My king, my man of men! 41 NEW SONGS OF NATURE FIVE MILE RUN (The Stony Creek) DEAR little man — do you mind the brook Called "Five Mile Run" and the route we took To reach it by that last small street Where the sky and the old town seemed to meet? And how glad we were, little man — do you mind? — To leave the noise and the heat behind. And feel the houses were out of sight And we needn't be back again till night! How we stopped to hark, where the willows grew. For its first, faint music stealing through? — That limpid stream, with its rippling song. That laughed with joy, as we came along, Through bush and bramble, by vine and tree. Lured by the wilding melody ! How we kept together, and, crouching low. Caught deep, bright glimpses of its flow Down, down through a dim and leafy maze. All woven with branches overhead, That closed at length on its silver thread And set a bound to our eager gaze? — Yet not to our feet, which followed still. Sure to find again our merry rill! And then, do you mind — dear little man. That break in the woods where the water ran Right into the open for half a mile. To go to sleep in the sun a while? How we loved those fields, so broad and fair. With the blue above, and the Lark's clear call. And the big, white clouds, high over all, 42 NEW SONGS OF NATURE And the fragrant, breezy, golden air! And then — that place on its winding way Where the water spread to a little bay On which the ducks kept holiday ! — Dear little man — do you mind that too? Ah me, ah me, if I only knew! For, behold, this very afternoon Our brook is singing its old, sweet tune; And, lo, as I seek it, lone and sad, I remember that woodland call we had. And, hungry to hear you, fain would try To lift it again through the trees to the sky! Yet I will not doubt — I will not fear! For at times in the stillness you seem quite near; And your face is always so full of joy That I think, with a thrill — my own dear boy, You perhaps have discovered where you have gone Some stream just as lovely as "Five Mile Run"! 43 NEW SONGS OF NATURE MY HOUSE IS BUT A COTTAGE MY house is but a cottage Beside a country lane; Not grand, nor large, nor stately. But simple, small and plain; The proud and ostentatious All pass it by unseen; But, ah, this little house of mine Is beautiful within! Let others fill their mansions With every gilded toy. The furniture of my dear house Is sweet content and joy. And sacrifice and service. And thoughtfulness and cheer; And, over these, that perfect love Which casteth out all fear. NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE HILLS OF PENNSYLVANIA O SPLENDID Pennsylvania hills, How mightily they stand, To keep the sinuous, silver streams That feed the meadow land! For one is here beneath my feet. And the next — this peerless day. With a thousand sheltered farms between. Is twenty miles away. Is twenty miles away, and yet Their great, far-reaching arms Are round about each nestling vale That shrinks from rude alarms. And so they stand, serene and strong. In the clear September air — Grave sentinels, unmoved since God Himself first set them there. A stately peace is on their crest That nothing can destroy. And here the breezes gain new life And speed away with joy! And here the golden sunlight rolls In billows broad and free. While from on high the deep blue sky Looks down in love on me. Glad faith and hope are garrisoned Within their noble bounds. And from their summit men of earth 45 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Are stirred by heavenly sounds; While vision quickens with delight As nature stands revealed In wide expanse, from lofty cloud To hamlet of the field. splendid Pennsylvania hills, My hold, my help, my home. Through every storm of days gone by And all the days to come! Encircled by the firmament And crowned with towering trees — Safe, safe am I, and lifted up 'Midst battlements like these! 46 NEW SONGS OF NATURE LOSS AND GAIN ^ I 'riAT night the ship Titanic sank at sea, i And some so stood amidst the encircling tide That every poor and sodden thing that mars The goodly face of Death was swept aside. And they beheld him but as Victory, And won the high approval of the stars ! That night, so beautiful above the wave It drew these, drowning, from the gulf that yawned Beneath their feet, and gave them v/ings to save Their souls forever, as the daylight dawned: That holy night! — one, from a hundred more Not less heroic, but not summoned by The ministering angels of the sky To quite so sweet a privilege, loomed before The swinging lifeboat, holding hand in hand Two boys, and, answering, was heard to cry — "No, no; of course not! Bless you, no; not I! But these! — their mother waits upon the land! I have but charge of them, they are not mine!" Then leaned far down and kissed them from on high: And, turning back again, became divine And godlike, in the twinkling of an eye! 47 NEW SONGS OF NATURE ASCENDENCY O SPIRIT of all sacrifice, That, beckoning, leads apart Some chosen ones for utmost toil. Come, thou, inspire my heart! Inspire my heart to scale the hills Only thine own have gained; Striving, unmindful of my strength. Till I, too, have attained! For in such striving, lo, I see A man that was concealed — A very angel of the Lord, Within my soul revealed. A man in whose fair lineaments Transcendent beauties shine; A mighty man — victorious, Of countenance divine. And I am not myself — this clay That I would fain disown. But something high and pure and fit To stand before God's throne. No longer the misshapen child Of an ignoble race; But some new creature, born of heaven And touched with royal grace. 48 NEW SONGS OF NATURE And then, as I behold, I know That this which is — shall be; My deathless part — arisen and sealed With inunortality: Something secure — ^which neither time Nor sense hath power to mar; And looking — lo, I bow and breathe Its triumph from afar. BONDMAN AM I BONDMAN am I. yet gloriously free! Vassal of Truth, but by that high estate Of right redeemed and set at liberty From servitudes that make life desolate: With every chain unloosed and shackle riven For those sweet bands that gird the soul for heaven. 49 NEW SONGS OF NATURE RUTH AND NAOMI WHAT though the plain of Moab, broad and fair. Lay ripe with harvest in the orient air. That sun-lit morning from the hillside where Ruth lingered and looked down! Unmoved of spirit at the goodly sight Of native field and forest bathed in light, She stood as one encompassed by the night. In some strange land alone. But when Naomi whispered "come" — ^behold The fields seemed suddenly aflame with gold. And all the earth grew radiant as of old. The while they journeyed on. 50 NEW SONGS OF NATURE AT YULE IN THE HOME-LAND "T^INK you that the Lord of children A Keeps not Christmas-time on high? Think you, as we sing together, They are silent in the sky? Hark! I hear this very moment, As we lift our happy song, Wondrous halleluiahs rising From a sweet, immortal throng! Listen! the celestial music Hath a sound of holy mirth. Look! the trees of life are shining Like the Christmas-trees of earth. Look again! from every portal Come they now with loud acclaim. And the glory, and the gladness And the words are still the same. And the Christ! — He moves amongst them In that dear and blessed land. Smiling ever as He passes. Answering gently each demand; Or, in tender exaltation, Pausing, silent, as afar E<;hoes of their carols reach Him From the Christmas where we are. Nay, nay! — He hath not forgotten, And beholding Him they know. 51 NEW SONGS OF NATURE By a deep and heavenly knowledge, We, too, keep the feast below. Therefore let us keep it nobly. And on spirit-wings aspire To our loved-ones and their Saviour, And the goal of our desire. THE STREAM AND THE OCEAN 1KN0W a shining river That goes to meet the tide. Spreading a last triumphant sound Of singing far and wide; As though it loved the billows. And ran to their embrace With joyful sense of nobler life Unhedged by narrow space: And I have wished that I might be Like it when I put out to sea ! 52 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE BOY OF THE BY-WAY ONE April morning, as I went To work, depressed and uncontent, I met a lad who made me glad In a trice with some odd tricks he had. The air was cool and brightly clear. And he cried, the moment I drew near, "Oh, uncle, say — isn't this a day? — Turn off that street and come my way!" "It's farther, I know, thro' the fields, but yet You're early — and think of the fun you'll get!" And he coaxed — and still he coaxed, until I said at last "I believe I will!" So over a fence we leaped and then Ran down a hill and up again; Then wheeled about and shouted out. And drove away my lingering doubt. Then he did a handspring, and then a lot Of other stunts I had half forgot; And he stoned a mark, and whispered, "Hark — While I whistle a bit and lure that Lark!" And the more he did the better I felt, And the sweeter the vernal breezes smelt; Till, at last, when he sang till the echoes rang, I tingled clean thro' with his own wild tang. 53 NEW SONGS OF NATURE And I vowed to myself I had never seen The sky so blue or the grass so green; Nor everywhere the earth so fair And utterly free from pain and care! And, feeling thus, when we came to part, I thought, "Here's a youngster I've liked from the start. And henceforth — egad! — when I'm sour and sad 'Twill be well to remember this same lad." So I called, as he vanished from sight, "Old man, Let us meet some day again, if you can!" "Sure! count on me" — with a laugh said he, "For I'm simply the boy you used to bel" 54 NEW SONGS OF NATURE RED GLORY ON THE HILLS O ED glory on the hills, ■■■ ^ But lengthening shadows here; And in the secret of my soul A longing — and a fear! The flaming fire grows pale Beneath the deepening haze. And in my soul a mist of pain Enshrouds the golden days. The solemn night descends. The distant flame is gone, And now — beside a grave — I stand In darkness, and alone. Alone, yet not alone! — For, lo, there shines afar, Upon my head, bowed down by grief. The splendor of a star! A star whose light is love — Love wonderful and great; And, lifted by its power, behold, I am not desolate! 55 NEW SONGS OF NATURE AT THE SIGN OF THE GOLDEN WEDDING ^ I WO travelers passed here late this darksome day, A With faces set serenely toward the night; And merry, too, as though the old delight Of summer flowers still garlanded the way: Long, long I watched them coming, hand in hand, Far down the road across the meadow land. What time they stopped for quiet rest and cheer (Twas but a little spell) I found them both Surpassing sweet in converse, and was loth To have them leave, with evening so near: But when I questioned whitherward they went. They smiled, with deep foreknowledge and content. Yet told me not; but having gently said, "Good friend, farewell!" resumed their course, like those On some sure quest, grown eager at its close. — "And now?" you ask. Ah, yes! — the hearth burns red, Come, comrades, while their memory lingers, come. And pledge them — that, ere this, they are at home! 56 NEW SONGS OF NATURE TO LIVE IS MORE THAN LIFE TO live is more than life! Immersed in night Mere life is but the process of decay; He lives — who struggles upward toward the light, And finds immortal day: Who listens deeply to the first faint cry Of quickened spirit summoning his strength. And follows — follows on, till eye to eye He stands with God at length: Who solves the mighty language of the sea; Who reads great thought inscribed on stock and stone. And hears with awe his final destiny Unfolded from a throne: Who gathers surely as he goes along The subtle things — the verities of earth. That feed his new-born self and make it strong And glad with vital mirth: Whose hours — escaped from dull routine of sense. All-valiant and with splendid labor rife. Discover truth in ample recompense; To live is more than life! 57 NEW SONGS OF NATURE SPACE AND SPIRIT: TIME AND LOVE OH, what is space to spirit! — Naught, less than naught, I say. Or time, with Love! — unnumbered years, With Love, are but a day. 'Tis of myself I know this. For I have felt my soul Arise, and giving space no thought Circle from pole to pole. And I have found within mc His tenderness the same Who fashioned the first flowers — and set Alcyone aflame! 58 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE VISION OF KING THAMYRIS Who builds for immortality — Or churl, or man of high degree, The m.otive of his house must be Unselfishness and love. THE work was finished; and at eventide King Thamyris went forth in royal pride To look upon the temple he had made. — From marble plinth to towering colonnade Its snow-white beauty, rich and manifold, Rose all aflush with hues of red and gold And flaming purple from the sunset sky. Deep silence reigned about, nor ventured nigh Vassal or serf to where, serene and grand, Aloof from all, the monarch took his stand, Enrapt with exaltation in the thought Of what at length his mighty arm had wrought; How men had smiled and sneered at first, but how Their doubt had turned to wonderment, till now His was the triumph, his^the eternal fame! Aye, had they not indeed inscribed his name In splendid letters 'gainst the crowning height Of topmost tablature, in blazoned sight Of every lifted eye, that earth might call That king illustrious who had planned it all? And God — whose house it was — oh, would not he. He, too, with that great name well pleased be. And grant, what time it met his holy gaze. Increased dominion and new length of days! Thus mused the king — with self-complacent heart. Of coming glory as he stood apart; Nor marked the hour. 59 NEW SONGS OF NATURE And now the solitude Of night drew on — but still entranced he stood Beneath the stars which one by one appeared Above the matchless building he had reared. Till, lingering there alone, behold, he saw A wondrous thing that smote his soul with awe. For, suddenly, athwart the darkness ceune. In noiseless flight, an angel all aflame. Who, circling 'round the marble walls a space On shining pinion, with resplendent face. Sought out and found the writing that bespoke Their royal builder, and at one swift stroke Erased it all, and in its stead set down A name unheard of and of no renown — A woman's name; then, where with covered head The king now prostrate lay, descending, said: — "Vciin creature of the dust, know thou this hour Not unto thee, despite that wealth and power Which built this shrine — not unto thee is due Chief praise, but unto one ye never knew; Whose naune high heaven hath given thy lofty place. Because it, only, hath befitting grace. For, while from day to day thou toil'd'st and strove And laid'st these stones in pride, she watched in love. In thankful love, that man should thus accord Such honor unto God, her sovereign Lord! Each pillar here, each sculptured marble rare Hath breathed, king, the incense of her prayer. Into the mortar went like subtile wine Her faith and her unselfishness divine. Year after year, in utter sacrifice. She gave her life that this great fane might rise. To her — or man, or beast of low degree, That labored here shared like nobility. 60 NEW SONGS OF NATURE She cheered with song the masons at their task; Or kept cool drink for all who came to ask; Or even fed, betimes, the ponderous ox. That drew v/ith patient steps these great-hewn blocks And rested for a moment by the way, Handfuls of springing grass, or toothsome hay; And kindly, too, with many a gentle word: Till toil was sweetened and each toiler stirred With one supreme desire to labor well That God might find the work acceptable. — For which, king, I witness to thee now She is immortal here — not thou, not thou!" So spake the voice. And then the king was left Alone again — aye, more than that, bereft Of pride, the very substance of his crown ! And in the dark — abased— with head bowed down, He turned, retraced his steps, and desolate. Passed in unseen beneath his palace gate. Oh, builders all, great brood of Thamyris! — Who strive today as he, whose hope was his. Still, still the old requirement doth remain. And, else love move the heart, ye, too, in vain Sue heaven for that approving word whose breath Alone can make you mightier than death. 61 NEW SONGS OF NATURE ROOSEVELT THE NIGHT OF HIS WOUNDING AT MILWAUKEE ^ I VIIS sort the valorous Arthur strove to be; A This — was the ancient glory of the Graeme; This — ^won for Lincoln immortality, And gave to Washington a deathless name. This — ^Douglas nobly dreamed of, and was true; This — fired the spirit of Joan of Arc; Thjs — made an Iron Duke at Waterloo, And held his eye to a celestial mark. This — moved a pontiff so that he released His men from barbarous homages, and taught The real sway of every righteous priest. The power so great the potentate is naught. And this once more hath made a people proud. As little children, unashamed of tears; Whose hearts in jo3^ul gratitude are bowed. Nor grudge the bitter travail of the years. 62 NEWSONGS OF NATURE SYLVIA TrIE one on whom I lean me *■ In days of deepest need, The world, regarding, doth esteem At best a broken reed; — At best a feeble ally For any man to trust, When other help he counted on Hath crumbled into dust. But I — ah, I have tested This unpretentious heart! And let the world think what it will In secret and apart, I know its dauntless courage, \^^o find amidst my fear The high endurance of the hills Serenely centered here. — I know — who, turning hither. Have never been deceived; But live to bless her fortitude. In whom I have believed. 63 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE HAIR-CLOTH SOFA COMRADE, spare me your derision. Playful though it be! This, to you so worn with age. Still appeals to me! These rude arms were comfort once — True, unquestioning joy. Deep and faithful sanctuary For a little boy! Daily I remember how He who came and went Nestled here in peace at evening, Happy and content! I have never changed it since — Nay, and never will! Like an altar of the heart. It shall stay, until Alien spirits enter here — Those that Ccinnot know! Then, perhaps, this hair-cloth sofa. Left alone, may go. 64 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THIS IS MY FAITH '"yrilS is my faith — the power that holds me fast •fi- To one from heaven with whom my life is cast; Whose very heart thereby is knit with mine, Never less human, hardly more divine. A power — not separate and apart from me, But soul of what I am and hope to be. I know nor seraphim, nor angels know. Nor any God that dwells not here below; But this — ah, this Man from the stars above Hath made my sorrow his, his love my love! He feels as I do, and I understand His thought, his look, the pressure of his hand! And we both toil, and rest from toil as one, I, and this Man of men, from sun to sun; And when strife comes we battle unafraid. Armed with the weapons he and I have made. 65 NEW SONGS OF NATURE JANET JANET, do you mind the crossing At the ford of Jellicoe, How you said you liked it better Than the dusty bridge below? And the stepping-stones, my Janet — How I fixt them for you there. Firm and smooth above the water. Swirling onward everywhere? Still I see you passing over. Gay of spirit, and unshod; Moving lightly as the current That threw kisses where you trod. And the music of your laughter. And the vision of your feet, As I watched, in love, and waited — Ah, 'twas all exceeding sweet! Janet, Janet, gone forever. Would I had you back again! Fresh at morning, fresh at evening — Every day was heaven then. Would that you had always let me Fix the path for you to go, As I fixt the crossing, Janet, At the ford of Jellicoe! 66 NEW SONGS OF NATUR E Oh, the cool and limpid water. Singing summer's gentlest hymn! — Ah, the dusty bridge and highway. And the city far and dim! THE HEART OF WINTER HAIL, Springs of life within the silent rock! I know the secret of your hiding-place, I hear the hidden music of your flowing, I see the vernal sunbeams brightly glowing Above the limpid depths of your embrace. And though no bolt of heaven nor thunder-shock Hath aught of power to pierce your mighty prison, Yet this, this too, I know, that, by and by. Some messenger of song that God hath sent Will seek these solid walls, and find their portal. And gently call you forth, in faith immortal, — Will gently call till every bar is rent. And Earth awakens with the joyful cry, "Behold, behold, the Springs of life are risen!" 67 NEW SONGS OF NATURE ♦THE WISE DISCIPLE YEN" AV 7HILE the years were young in hoar Cathay, VV The wise disciple Yen, Through a time of dire confusion, That filled his fellow-men With deep despondency of soul. Still kept him in complete control; Nor found his humble cottage mean, But in its calm seclusion Lived on unruffled and serene — While the years were young in hoar Cathay ; His meat — a single bamboo-cup Of rice — enough against each day ; His drink — though but one small gourd-dish Of water — ^yet full sweet to sup. And much as any man might wish. For — not alone earth's meat and drink Were joy to Yen, who lived apart. But food of noble thoughts to think And gentle feasting of the heart ! And so, while others found distress And poverty in life — and pain. He dwelt within his narrow lane Abating naught of happiness. Oh, would such wisdom were alway As this of Yen, to strengthen men Through times like that in hoar Cathay! 68 NEW SONGS OF NATURE LINES FOR THE CENTENARY OF AN AMERICAN BOROUGH (Read at Norristown, Pennsylvania, May 5th 1912) T HEY make a city great — they give a town In course of time illustrious renown, Who lift it up with patient hardihood To high achievement for the common good; Whose minds are set, whose lives are dedicate To fashion it a model for the state: Knights of the proletariat, who see, Even above its unheroic pale. The ancient glory of the Holy Grail Still beckoning on toward better things to be. For places only win immortal fame When linked with heaven in purpose and in deed; The full-blown splendor of a noble name Springs not, nor flowers from ignoble seed; But rather out of planting, brave and wise. Of virgin stock, committed unto soil Deep-nourished by the blood of sacrifice. And brought to fruitfulness by bitter toil. Do we forget? Then let us seek anew That narrow, unpretentious wooden span Where once the "embattled farmers," man for man In Concord village gave to God his due! I know well why each bares his reverent head For those who fell here, and yet are not dead; Nor count it strange I hear no trivial sound Above this richly consecrated ground. 69 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Or, turning thence, while memory yet distils Tears undenied, hark with me to the hills Of Valley Forge! What palaces of kings Tower upward toward the everlasting stars So proud as these? What other silence sings Freedom's great song in such transcendent bars As this, whose choristers one theme repeat — Sublime recovery from sublime defeat! Or, circling thitherward, let us obey The call of other places on our way. If but a few, where some souls played a part In war, religion, literature, or art. So well, so dauntlessly they lent to each A voice to speak for them beyond the reach Of human utterance, written down in books: Dan vers, for Whittier; Boston-town, for Brooks; Cambridge, for Lowell, Longfellow and Holmes; Who built existence into sunlit domes As deeply vaulted as the blue above; Nor fail to note that town of brother-love Exalted in a measure over all By those who christened Independence Hall. Or, last, in our own meadows, broad and fair. For Bayard Taylor, pause at Kennett Square; — Or, Plymouth Meeting, where a prince of men, (Who painted pictures pure and undefiled And gave his life to save a little child) Left after him the heart of Hovenden. And so, returning from our spirit quest Made better by these precincts we have trod, And seeing things as he — the wise Lord God 70 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Would have us see them, may we here stand forth. This day of all a century the best, To a wide vision of intrinsic worth! Beholding out of what our town hath done. These hundred years, deeds only that endure; And thinking most of those who one by one Set lofty standards and then made them sure By valorous devotion to the end. Twin Captains* first, arising to defend Our mother country in the throes of war — Tall men and true, who fought so long and well In her behalf, their splendor spread afar; And those of other walks Fame doth not tell, But cherished equally within their sphere; And some still militant among us here; (Not a large company, and yet enough When knit together of majestic stuff!) In church and school, in court-house and in store — Who, counting not material gain the less. Have ever reckoned other gain the more. And wrought that this our borough might possess, With every new advancement we have made, A fuller mead of civic rig hteousness. Above mere ostentation and parade! That virtue which will neither take nor give Aught other than an honorable wage; That quality which, living, says "let live!" To all who share the common heritage; Which, laboring for the universal need. Meets every fellow-laborer face to face. And scorns to make its native town a place Of exploitation for unworthy greed; * Major-Generals John Frederick Hartranft and Winfield Scott Hancoclc. 71 NEW SONGS OF NATURE But spendeth and is willing to be spent In many things for love, without reward; That glory of those doers of the word Whom we should magnify in every home Today and always! and to whom can come No monument more beautiful — more fit, Than that we raise in elevating it! Therefore, let civic righteousness be made The chief petition of our festal prayers, In secret and in general affairs; That we may front the future unafraid. Beneath its gonfalon against the sky; And, having here received its accolade. May guard it here — nor suffer it to die! 72 NEW SONGS OF NATURE WHILE BETHLEHEM SLEPT ONE night in deep December, In Israel of old, From the hill-tops over Bethlehem, Where the sky was clear and cold, There fell a light so wondrous It turned the streets to gold: But the people slept and saw it not. In Israel of old. For high above the heavens. Where many mansions are. While tongues of fire, responsive. Leaped forth from star to star. The gates of life were opened. And splendor flamed afar — The splendor of Jerusalem, Where many mansions are. And thro' the flaming splendor. There streamed a mighty throng Of endless, white-robed angels. Singing an endless song; A song of peace and gladness. And right for every wrong: But the people slept and heard it not — Heard not the endless song. Only a few poor shepherds, Who kept their flocks in fear, 73 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Beheld those singers beautiful, And, as the song drew near. Heard all its tender message, Across the midnight clear: Beheld — and heard — and worshiped, Beside their flocks in fear. And one triumphant mother. Within the village, heard That same great song celestial. Until her soul was stirred To tears of love unbounded, With every gracious word: But all the town about her slept. Nor knew, nor saw, nor heard. child of earth, be watchful, These brooding Christmas days; Faint not, but guard thine altar. Thine eyes, expectant, raise; Still Bethlehem's choir angelic, Pours forth its song of praise. And some there be will hear and see. These brooding Christmas days! 74 NEW SONGS OF NATURE TO A GOLDFINCH (Perched on a Thistle Weed above the Snow) ETLE Yellow-bird, delaying Bravely in a blighted land; Left alone, but still obeying Summer's sorrowful command; She hath gone, but thou art token Of her love, and wilt remain Till, earth's icy thraldom broken. She shall come to us again. Winds may rail against thy gladness. Fain to drive thee far away; Winter hem thee in with sadness Till thy gold be turned to gray; All their hardship doth but make thee Dearer than thou wast before. And as field and sky forsake thee We but cherish thee th' more. Thine unfaltering devotion, (Sweet remembrancer, and true!) Kindleth a divine emotion Making us courageous too; And, upon our spirits stealing, Qjmeth strength to do and dare* — Little Yellow-bird revealing Springtime in the frozen air! 75 NEW SONGS OF NATURE WHAT THOUGH MY HOUSE BE FAR AFIELD "YY /HAT though my house be far afield, ▼ » By darkling wood and starlit sky, If God hath set his mighty shield, Invisible, on high! I find the solitude my strength, — The solitude that bringeth near Such shelter; and through all the length Of night, I feel no fear. But that sweet sense of things unseen With which, in deep tranquillity, — I know the encircling gloom, serene, Is garrisoned for me! While with the day — ah, with the day! — When shadowy coppice-aisles grow bright. And crest and summit far away Appear impearled in light: When silence trembles with a song, And wakening winds take up the strain, Till mead and vale and thicket throng With melodies again: Then do I lift mine eyes in bliss At love so wondrously revealed. And thank the Lord of all for this — My dwelling far afield. 76 NEW SONGS OF NATURE MY PALACE I LIVE in a palace of love, I live in a palace of joy, I live in a palace of wonderful peace. With four little girls and a boy. With four little girls and a boy, And one who is mother of these. And then still another who calls himself "brother," And dresses in kilts to his knees. With these, and a cherub of light Who is gone but whose spirit remains. And at times in the evening above us repeats The gentlest of heavenly strains. My palace is not builded high. Nor splendid, nor stately, nor strong; Ah, no — and yet still a true palace it is. With its children — and sunshine — and song! For everything changes when these Their magical building begin; And a very plain place, at their touch, may become All beautiful ever within! And such is this palace of mine, This palace of love, peace, and joy. And mother — and cherub — and brother in kilts — And four little girls, and a boy. 77 NEW SONGS OF NATURE LINES FOR TWO LITTLE DWELLERS IN THE COUNTRY I HAVE not seen your house at all, Yet know that angels love it And keep it ever, 'round about, (Dear Eleanor, and Edith, too) And ever watch above it! For angels seek just such as you. And, when you little dream, delight To be your guardians by day, Your sentinels by night! So — if, some winter afternoon. When all is very quiet. There seems to flit across your room A joyful shadow, like a bird In summer passing by it, — • Then sit you close, and speak no word. And bow your heads, and do not fear. And you may see them, bending down Together, and quite near! Or — if, may be, at night time, when The fires begin to darken, A wind outside appears to call. As though, in accents soft and low, A clear voice whispered "hearken!" — Then think the sweetest song you know. And listen sharp, nor be afraid. And you may hear the angels sing Their slumber serenade! 78 NEW SONGS OF NATURE But, should you fail, perchance, to see, Or even fail to hear them, Oh, doubt me not, they do indeed Love little girls (God's angels fair) . And often hover near them. And watch about them everywhere, And count it a supreme delight To be their guardians by day. Their sentinels by night! 79 NEW SONGS OF NATURE MAN-O'-THE-WOOD AND GOLDEN-THROAT (Lines written upon meeting the Brown Thrasher) 6 i "^ V 7HAT are you singing for — Golden- throat? VV The earth is empty here; In all these forest aisles remote There is not one listening ear. That glorious strain, celestial bird. Deserves a raptured throng; To pour it forth alone, uiiheard, Seems but a waste of song." "What are you loving for — Man-o'-the-wood With heaven in your face? Amidst this utter solitude All love is out of place. Your heart's-desire hath passed aifar To brighter realms above; To keep on loving where you are Seems but a waste of love." "Just for the joy of it! — Golden-throat, The joy a true love brings." "And I, dear man, miss never a note For the joy a true song sings." — 0, blithesome bird — thrice happy man! Such love, such song as yours Made life divine when life began, And will, while life endures. 'WHAT ARE YOU SINGING FOR— GOLDEN THROAT?' h'rom a photograph tinted in water colors NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE PARACLETE THE battle hems me hard; I reel With mortal weakening and fear; When, lo, amidst the dark, I feel A Stranger drawing near! I dare not turn; but as His breath Falls close upon my cheek, I pray He may not see me yield to death And perish by the way! And then — with sudden joy divine — I feel, although He hath not spoke, A mighty shoulder touching mine, And dealing stroke for stroke! He holds the foe in check — His glance Hath caught my eye! I press His hand. And thank him for deliverance, And bless Him where we stand! 81 NEW SONGS OF NATURE GOD AND TI^ RIGHT ACROSS the deep, from the ends of earth, ^ Comes the cry of Almighty God! Of Him that hung with fire and cloud O'er the path that Israel trod! And poor and thin is the lion's roar 'Mid Jehovah's thunderous call to war! What though the king be small and weak. And weak and small his land. If the reins of his battle-steeds are held In the grip of an unseen hand I If at the bar of his standard swings The gonfalon of the King of kings! You may beat him back to his northern kraal. But beware the solemn day When he turns to die, and you find, too late, You have driven God to bay; That your claims are valueless and vain. And He of the heavens is suzerain! Midlothian's voice, deep-toned and true That spoke for peace before; For peace, with honor, in defeat. Now speaks for peace once more With holier fire and deeper tone. From beside the great, white Judgment Throne! Who died for the freedom of Brabant Shall die for freedom still, 82 NEW SONGS OF NATUR E At Laing's Nek, or red Ingago, Or fierce Majuba Hill! Has earth not seen — in dread alarm — The Judge of Earth make bare his arm! Still live "the Beggars" that stood for right 'Gainst the men of greed and power! The brood that William the Silent led Through the Lowlands' blackest hour; That fought five days for a victory In the dauntless ships of the Zuyder Zee! The sturdy "Beggars" that rode the waves Of a universal doom. And, sailing bloody seas, emerged Triumphant from their gloom! That made the Dutch republic's star Shine with the glory of brave Alkmaar! And they shall live through flood, or flama Or woe, or women's tears, Till they reach, in some new century. The first of the Thousand Years ! Then, Lord of Hosts, make war to cease, And bless their land, and give them peace? 83 NEW SONGS OF NATURE 10 TRIUMPHE-DIES DIERUM ODAY of days, crimson mom of moms! Jemsalem may sleep, but Olivet Cries out in joy, and all her sons have met To swell the choms of thy silver homs! Hark, hark, with victory The very battlements of heaven are ringing; And e'en in tear-bedimmed Gethsemane Glad birds are singing! Haste, haste, ye faithful ones, for well you may! There is no sorrow here but in your hearts: Across the vale the lingering gloom departs And new-bom splendor flames along the way: See, see, — the radiant trees Have heard the truth, and stir with life to tell it. While night — that flies before the early breeze — Carmot repel it. Such thrill of triumph never filled the air As that that beats about your narrow path; Each opening flower a deeper beauty hath Than ever bloomed before in Judah fair. Haste, haste, — there is no death! — The Crucified hath broken death's dark prison, The Son of Man hath breathed immortal breath, The Christ is risen! Now let the stately palm uplift its head. That gave its branches once with head bowed down; And let the dews of night flash forth a crown Upon its crest, for Him that is not dead! 84 NEW SONGS OF NATURE The King — the King, for whom The sun appears again, as at creation; Hail, hail the King! — come gather at His tomb In adoration! IN TOWN AT SPRING IN town at Spring, when some first golden day Seems far as heaven from the squalid street And alley-way where hapless children meet 111 fed and clothed, to pass an hour at play; Behold, I find them still so bright and gay With game and dance and simple, artless song, I think sweet April of the fields must be Moving unseen — unknown of them or me In tender love amidst the tattered throng! And, with a magic only April knows, Lending each little heart, and eye, and Ccir A bloom as beautiful as Sharon's rose — The gladness of a lute they never hear, The brightness of a face they never see — . Sweet April with his gentle ministry. In town at Spring! 85 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE LITTLE RED TOP i < A ND are these things all?" A shadow fell •**■ On the Angel's brow, like a mist of pain; And he Wciited a moment, loth to tell The man he had come in vain. "Thine alms have been many; the list is long; But sifting each one I find no trace Of the brotherly kindness — deep and strong, That winneth redeeming grace." Transfixt with sorrow the pilgrim stood. Nor made one plea for himself; but, lo. As he looked back into the solitude And girded his cloak to go, There ran by the Angel, with outstretched hand. And a sudden cry, exceeding glad. Straight forth from the gates of the better land, A brave and beautiful lad: Who, calling the traveler, bade him stop. And seizing his arm, said eagerly "Oh, don't you remember the little red top? Quick, tell him of that!" said he. "The little red top? — do I hear aright?' Fell the answer doubtfully emd slow; For the weary man had forgotten quite This deed of the days below. 86 NEW SONGS OF NATURE But the Angel, following close, was now Beside the boy, in the gloom apart; And gently commanded "Tell me, do thou. Of the little red top, dear Heart." So he told — how, once, at the village shop This very pilgrim, so old and gray. Went in, though a stranger, and bought him the top He had longed for, many a day; And, bringing it out to him, kissed him there, And whispered he too was once a boy. And patted his head and stroked his hair, And leaving him wished him joy. It was nothing. And yet the face of the child Lit up at the end with a wondrous light As he saw (oh, love of the undefiled!) 'Twas enough in heaven's sight: For the Angel turned, and tenderly Took each by the hand, when the tale was told; And, leading them back again, all three Passed in through the gates of gold. 87 NEW SONGS OF NATURE MY GUEST OH, miracle of life, A little child hath come, Breatliing the spirit of a king To tcirry at my home ! The marks of high degree Are plain upon his face; His hands, his feet, his lips, his heart, Are touched with royal grace. And when in wondering love I gaze into his eyes. The clear light of nobility Deep-mirrored in them lies. While, oft, at sound of song. He suddenly appears Enrapt with joy, as though there still Fell faintly on his ears Some last melodious strain. Unheard — undreamed of earth. That swept his own fair palace gates, The moment of his birth. Ah, lineage half revealed. Glimpse of immortal line, I look, sweet prince, and heaven is near That was— and shall be thine! NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE CORN HARVEST IN beautiful battalions, That stretch from sea to sea. Unnumbered as the stars above And plumed with victory. Behold, behold — ye sons of men — Mom following glorious mom. On mead and vale and mountain-side, God's hosts of waving com! What armies of a mighty land Were e'er arrayed as these! Not helmeted for strife they stand. But bearing gifts of peace; A hundred thousand regiments Of veterans straight and tall. Each girt about with treasure-trove And waiting for his call. Astir with sound more eloquent Than loud acclaim of war. They flash their emerald shields, and spread Jehovcih's fame eifar. Host answers unto murmuring host. Till all the shining ranks Seem animate with one great cry — "Give thanks, earth, give thanks!" September's red and fiery sun Bronzes their sturdy breasts; 89 NEW SONGS OF NATURE The North-wind turns to deeper gold Their richly tasseled crests; While God above, not scant in love. Still multiplies their store. That plentiful prosperity May bide at every door. Legions of blessing, sooth, are they. Upraised by some still voice Of power divine that no man knows. To make the year rejoice; Legions of blessing, laden down With bread from heaven, borne To mead and vale and mountain-side- God's hosts of waving corn! 90 NEW SONGS OF NATURE HER TWO ANGELS SHE walked with Seraphim on either side, (And one of them was Joy, and one was Sorrow) Who came with gifts, and yet were moved to borrow Gifts in return from her they glorified. Each fain had led her by a separate way. But lo, behold, she choose the path, not they? And, going forward, holy signs were wrought In silence by this pilgrim they had sought. For, soon, grave Sorrow bore beneath the spell Joy's rose; and Joy, grave Sorrow's asphodel. Whereafter, Joy displayed a lovely sadness; WTiile Sorrow, brightening into gentle gladness Kept pace with them a little less supinely, Anon uplifting her white brow divinely. And, step by step, their voices both grew sweet With mortal kindness, as some instrument A master touch hath tuned, with high intent That it may nobler, loftier themes repeat! Until (oh, miracle of earth!) these two. Unconsciously, in perfect measure knew That wonder, of all wondrous things below. The concord of a woman's weal and woe: Who, ever tranquil and unfoiled of fear. In her own course, thro' shadows dark and drear As night fell 'round about — afar and wide. Still walked with Seraphim on either side. 91 NEW SONGS OF NATURE SPIRIT OF GRAY NOVEMBER SPIRIT of gray November — left alone, With fields forsaken and unfriendly skies — Thou hast a tranquil beauty all thine own, And I have learned to love thy solemn eyes! In thee, at last, the passion of the year Gives way to resignation's noblest mood; While patient peace descends from far and near, To soothe and dignify thy solitude. Thy coming throws a calm upon my grief. And when I follow where thy feet have trod, I am as that one, seeking for relief. Who yields the burden of his life to God. And so, as earlier each waning day Night drops its mantle on the golden hills, I bow my head, I brush my tears away. And drink with thee, the cup that nature fills. For after all the summer's joy and pain The weary earth hath need of longer rest. And why should this poor soul of mine detain The wakeful fire that lingers in the west? No, no; for, lo, there shines another light — The very faith and hope for which I cried. As, piercing through the deeper shades of night. The stars of heaven draw closer to thy side! 92 NEW SONGS OF NATURE While in the darkness, from the stilly air, Some bird of winter bids my spirit sing; And all about my pathway bleak and bare, The nestling grain gives prophecy of spring! Spirit of gray November— from thine heart Do I behold the glory of thy face, And there, in stately company apart, Rejoice to find a blessed hiding-place! 93 NEW SONGS OF NATURE AT DAWN IN A FALL GARDEN The God, who, out of black earth, upon the open verge of winter, can raise up a rose of rarest beauty — hath he no word for you? O WHITE rose, royally arrayed Amidst the darkness from eifar. And brought forth, calm emd unafraid. To greet the morning star! The mystic silence of the night. And night's deep restfulness divine. And sense of pure, siderial light — All these, and more, are thine. And more! — for as I gaze, behold. Thy heavenly petals seem to move With music that I knew of old. And, knowing, learned to love. Till, gazing on, enrapt, I hear, Arising in thy dewy breast, A message beautiful and clear From gardens of the Blest. And, close as thy sweet breath to thee, And not less sure, although unseen, A gentle presence comes to me. Seraphic and serene. Late is thy day of life, and late The glory of thy wondrous bloom, Which, even as I watch and wait. Emerges from the gloom; 94 NEW SONGS OF NATURE But not too late! — white rose — ^for I, Who erstwhile lay me down forlorn Look forth, as thou, upon the sky. Triumphant and new-born! LOVE DIVINE OLOVE Divine! — ^He came, and gently singing At earliest dawn in secret to a bird. Thrilled it with joy till it awoke, and winging Its way aloft, proclaimed Him with no word. Yet surely, sweetly, by the holy sign Of His own melody. Love Divine! Then, in a little while, bent low and kneeling Deep in a lecify wood with dew bedight. He lured a wilding flower forth, unsealing Its tomb with living touch, and toward the light Turning its face, that these dull eyes of mine Might trace His presence too. Love Divine! Nor this alone: but, where angelic fingers Wove pearl and rose amidst the orchard trees. He came again — to breathe the breath that lingers, When Spring is at the flood, on every breeze; That, deaf and sightless, I might not repine. But still discover Him. Love Divine! And then — e'en at my hearth — when day was ended, And in the dusk I soothed my suffering child. He, crowning all His tenderness, descended Once more, unseen, cuid where I sat beguiled The little one to sleep. "Ah — else than Thine — There is no heaven!" I cried: Thou Love Divine! 95 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE OVEN BIRD i^nPEACHER, teacher, teacher, teacher, teacher!" ■»■ Was there ever such a saucy creature? — Boasting loud and clear, in your very ear, That you cannot find him, far or near! How he sets the forest aisles a-ringing With his merry notes, more noise than singing! And how impudent is his plain intent To divert the quest on which you're bent! Surely, now, you think, he's over yonder; But, next moment, as you peer and ponder. Quick and bright and gay as a boy at play. He invites you, "Look this other way!" Yet, don't blame him; birds have many a reason In the deep, mysterious summer season. Thus to call and hide, and to lure aside Those who seek and will not be denied. In these ferny, redolent recesses. Just where one least dreams of it or guesses. Nestling in the ground, he, the golden-crowned. Has a home 'twould grieve him were it found. Yes, 'twould put him to complete confusion Should you stumble on its sweet seclusion. So be kind to him — have a mind to him. As you tread these pathways cool and dim. 96 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE BUILDER < ^ I WILL build me a house" — a young man said, *■ In the fullness of his heart, "Yea, unto the limit of my strength. With true, untrammeled art." "Of large achievement and broad emprise. And philanthropic deed; Setting no stone for self, but all For humankind's great need." And, so determined, he toiled and strove Through week and month and year; Nor lacked in measure of patient love. Nor felt he any fear. But, e'en as he wrought, his labor failed. Each undertaking fell. Till night came on, sans pillar or post Of the house he planned so well. And, unrequite in the eyes of men For all his life's hard day. Baffled — but still serene, at length He went forth on his way. Yet though Earth, then, saw naught, ah me. But this — the foolish vow Of one forespent thereby, behold, It seeth better now! 97 NEW SONGS OF NATURE It seeth now — erect, sublime, A building that still stands. The while of him who built, undreamed, A house not made with hands; But of imperishable frame. Complete, high-portaled, whole. Which rose to heaven what time he toiled From that young builder's soul. SONG FOR VIRGINIA FIVE YEARS OLD THIS is Virginia — daydawn and roses. Wild summer roses with meadow-larks singing! This is Virginia — lovelight upspringing Into the vernal air. Sweetness of Perdita, fleetness of Dian, Heart of Persephone, April-attended; This is Virginia — paradise blended With things of the earth that are fair. 98 NEW SONGS OF NATURE ON THE EDGE OF A WOOD ' I 'WO little maids there are that dwell •■■ Close by a wood and love it well And find it wonderful with cheer Through all the ever-changing year. A tall, great-hearted wood, whose trees Delight to sing with every breeze. At times — a strain that rolls along Like some sonorous minster song. On, on and upward to the sky; And then, at times, a lullaby In such a low, sweet monotone It must be meant for birds alone. For here, indeed, the birds abide. In every vista — deep and wide. In every nook and leafy close Engirt with fern and briar-rose. Here, bide they — blithesome to the last — Until the summertime is past ; Then hie them southward with the fall. In silent flight. And yet, not all; For here the bonnie red-bird stays E'en in the snow-bound winter days, To help in keeping hearts aglow. For these two little maids, you know, (Pray, did I make that understood) Live all the year beside the wood; And when the fields are wrapped in white The red-bird is a splendid sight — A flaming promise, left by June, That after while — aye, very soon 99 NEW SONGS OF NATURE She will return; nor better pledge Could one desire on tree and hedge! And yet these maidens know quite well Full many another, and could tell How through the cold this wood they love. Holds, for fair June, a treasure-trove Of violet and anemone, (Safe-hid beneath each sheltering tree) To claim when frosty winds are spent; And — knowing well — they rest content; Nor find their store of gladness fail. Whatever time of year prevail — In summer, sweetening with song; In winter, growing hale and strong. And for these twain no mysteries Lurk awesomely among the trees. For they have solved them and have found. Or fairy tread, or elfin sound All very easily understood. Here, in the halcyon solitude — Whose nymphs are squirrels; whose glendoveer Is but a chipmunk, none need fear; Whose faun is but a fox; and so The other sprites that come and go — Each harmless, winsome, full of mirth. Within this sylvan home of earth. And now, thou wouldst their names? — before My rhyme is run? Ah, friend, no more Can I reveal, except to say That one is quiet, and one gay; And one has eyes so bright they look Like wavelets of a laughing brook; 100 NEW SONGS OF NATURE And she — the other — placid eyes. Illumined as from evening skies: — This much. Naught else. Yet — this much said. Oh, come, indeed, let us instead Of names, a gentler plan employ. And call them simply Peace and Joy! — For so they are! — these twain that dwell Close by a wood, and love it well. 10! NEW SONGS OF NATURE AN AUTUMN LITANY OTHOU, who stood above the prostrate Christ Which wrestled thro' Gethsemane's dark night. And, wrestling, won! — and faced the morning light With victory radiant on His lifted brow, Come, pitying God! — come quickly in Thy might To every soul that faints with weakness now. For Thou alone art strong! Elxcept Thine hand renew, from day to day. The poor and crumbling altar of the heeirt. Its incense fails, its votaries depart, To bitter ashes burns its holiest fire. Come, changeless One, that saw the planets start, And in each soul Thy steadfast flame inspire. For Thou alone art true! Frail, faltering man stumbles without Thine aid. Sinks — ^strives to rise — and bites the dust in shame; Father of Love, that knowest all our frame. Bow down beside him — bid him cling to Thee, That he may conquer in Thy conquering Name: Thy life be his — Thy will his fortress be, And make him strong and true! 102 NEW SONGS OF NATURE TO PERSEPHONE AFAR A NGEL of the lengthening days, *»• Beautiful with bloom, To this bleak domain of winter Hasten through the gloom! And with bird, and bud, and blossom Following in your train, Down upon its frozen fountains Rain, rain, rain! Rain your showers of love abundant, Rain ycur floods of song; Rain, oh, rain your joy resistless. Till earth's captive throng, Held awhile in icy thraldom. Quicken to the sound; Wake, arise, and — laughing gently. Leave the bonds that bound. Hark, I hear across the distance Even now your wings, Beating glad the empyrean Where the South- wind sings! And at times the evening air Seemeth strangely bright. As with some mirage, reflecting Your imperial flight. 103 NEW SONGS OF NATURE While a thrill of deep expectance Stirs the silent waste: Angel of the lengthening days. Haste, haste, haste! OFTTIMES-BESET BY MEMORY OFTTIMES — beset by memory, I beg some distant star To answer with articulate voice And tell me where you are; Yet am denied, except to see A face from out eternity Unspeakably afar! And then — at other moments, given A respite even here, Some earthly sign — a breeze, a flower, Or birdsong, sweet and clear, But touches me, with quick caress. And lo, amidst forgetfulness I smile to think — how near! 104 NEW SONGS OF NATURE AT A TEACHER'S VACANT 'CHAIR < ^ A LMOST a lifetime here, from day to day, •*"*• She taught the younger children of the poor." So spake her friend; and, turning half away, I think, "what strength was hers to thus endure!" And then — as if revealed alone to me, Lo, all that course of uneventful years. Through which she labored well and patiently, Before my inner vision reappears! *Tis but a tenuous threading, thin and white, Amidst earth's everywhere encroaching throng. Of little pilgrims toiling toward the light, With one frail figure leading them along. And yet I feel some mighty presence nigh. Brooding above that pitiful, small host; Some glory of the Lord from out the sky. Some hovering angel of the Holy Ghost. While at the end I hear a loving voice That saith divinely — "Daughter, forasmuch As thou wert true to children, rise, rejoice. Enter the place I have prepared for such!" Then, suddenly, above me and around. The dull, rude school-room groweth wondrous fair; Its yard, on either side, is heavenly ground. And she, that came and went, herself is there! 105 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Just for a breath she turneth her glad brow From desk to desk in blessing, but I see, Ere she hath vanished, that she knoweth now The immortal measure of her ministry. GOD AND MAN O MASTER mind, immeasurable heart! — All earth and heaven are thine, and tell of thee. Thy high and holy thought, thy tender love Shine forth at morning in the sun above And sing together from the starlit sea! And I, who am but one, still have my part In th' great cosmic joy thou dost inspire; I feel its faith — I kindle with its fire. And, taking to myself its rhythmic beat, I find the very altars where thou art And bow me down and worship at thy feet. 106 NEW SONGS OF NATURE SING-SILVER TRUMPET DIVINE OUT of an infinite woe, Part of a heavenly plan Purposed for mortals below, Rises the God that was man. High on Jerusalem's hills Myriad angels appear; Over the firmament thrills Melody wonderful clear. Never the Pleiades heard Tidings so good to repeat; Never the voice of a bird Trembled with music so sweet. What was the door of a tomb. Sealed with the seal of despair. Leads to a garden, where bloom Flowers eternally fair. Travelers weary with sin. Begging a place with the dead. Find, as they sadly look in, Life everlasting instead I — Sing — ^silver trumpet divine! Summon the day without fear! Sing — ^for the Christ that was thine Waits again only to hear! 107 NEW SONGS OF NATURE WITH JOY UNSPEAKABLE WITH joy unspeakable and full of glory, I find God everywhere; In nestling vale — on towering promontory Swept by the ocean air: But gentlest, mightiest, divinest when He makes his dwelling in the hearts of men. Behold that figure fearlessly withstanding A multitude alone! He speaks ! — it is the Lord of Hosts demanding For righteousness her own. They strike him down! — but now their curses die, For, lo, he rises taller to the sky. And look again! See now his presence filling Yon woman's face with light; Hark, hark you — hear his tender mercy thrilling Her voice amidst the night! How shines the sacred glow! — how sings the sound! How all the dark grows beautiful around! Or, turn you even to this child so lowly — This boy of humble life! Ah, stretch your hand to serve him! — he is holy. His secret soul is rife With solemn, sweet effulgence from a flaune Lit by the very God from whom he came. For, whether, in the great of earth appearing He thunders forth his will, 108 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Or, through some' unknown spirit, gains a hearing By love alone — God still Is gentlest, mightiest, divinest when He makes his dwelling in the hearts of men. 109 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE MEADOW LARK CLEAR, clear — ^f ar or near. Bird o' the morning, call! — I hear. Out of the swift advancing light Rising brighter and more bright At the end of each quick flight, — Meadow Lark, call! — I hear. Call, call — ^for of all Lures of melody, this the thrall Dawn, awakening in thy breast. Flings forth tenderly to the west. This, oh, this is loveliest — Loveliest lure of all. Free, free — ^bush nor tree Shut the goldening skies from thee! Deep in the clover-field abloom. Fragrant, billowy, great with room. Wide apart from the forest gloom. Thither thy nest shall be! There, where — all the air Bloweth halcyon, hale cuid rare! Up and on with the buoyant day — On into noon and evening gray. Seeking the mountains far away — Hale and halcyon air! Joy, joy! — flute, hautboy. Pipe, or piccolo seems a toy, 10 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Poor and empty, with thy rich voice, Caroling, silver-sweet, rejoice, Silver-sweet, rejoice, rejoice — Unto th' heights of joy! Clear, clear — far or near. Bird o' the morning, call! — I hear; Finding with thee (out, out between Th' boundless blue and rippling green) My heaven not remote, but e'en Gladsomely, gently near. lit NEW SONGS OF NATURE UNSEEN ANGEL OF THE NIGHT UNSEEN angel of the night From the realms of day. One there is who waits impatient To be borne away! — One who sat and felt you passing When you came before: Unseen angel of the night. Come — once — ^more ! Oh, the mystic nearness of you. As you filled the room! Close — ah, closer than its fragrance To a rose abloom! Oh, the soft, clear light that lingered, As you went apace! Never light of earth was like it. Shining on his face! Oh, the long and weary looking Over life's wide sea! Unseen angel of the night Come — take — me! 112 NEW SONGS OF NATURE AT VALLEY FORGE HERE sleep some souls who, fighting well With bitter hardship and distress, Went down unmarked of men — yet fell True victors none the less ! For these brave spirits, driven to bay, First stood till they sublimed defeat. And so, in a transcendent way. Made God's great plan complete. In this high camp no graves abound; All rest with equal honor here; And common strains of heavenly sound Console each patriot ear. Nor pride, nor rank impair the place; But all the hills, from age to age. Proclaim with undistinctive grace One noble heritage. 13 NEW SONGS OF NATURE FULFILMENT OH, happy birds! (I one time said) If you still sing when he is dead, I'll stop my ears against the sound, And falling prone upon the ground Will look to heav'n, and where I lie Beg God to let me also die! . . . But now — oh, happy birds sing on! You seem to come whence he hath gone. And (like glad messengers) to say — "Dear heart bowed down, rejoice, arise! The skies he loved are still his skies. And he — he is not far away; But, listfeing this moment, hears Above the sod you wet with tears These very songs we sing to you, And, hearing, smiles beyond the blue!" . Oh, happy birds! 114 NEW SONGS OF NATURE HOW BRIGHTLY BRAVE HOW brightly brave the fallen year Goes forth to sacrifice! How beautiful — how gently bold Its gonfalons of red and gold Loom heavenward, afar and near, Against the darkening skies! With what triumphant blossoming It doth the hills endue! Oh, heart, turn not in grief away. But worship with each dying day! — For hast thou not a sense of spring Somewhere within thee, too? 115 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE SONG OF THE SHEPHERDS THERE'S a wonderful song from the heavens. That throbs with the quickening year And everywhere to the frosty air Tells a message strong and clear; A song that sweeps to the zenith Like a splendid flame of fire. That thrills the night with a deep delight. And touches the world's desire. 'Tis the ancient song of the shepherds. The song of the star-lit sky. Whose cadence wild grew soft and mild In the hush of a lullaby; Whose mighty halleluiahs Sank to silence in their flow. O'er a mother's head in a cattle-shed. In the days of long ago. Yet the song old Earth remembers, And loves as it loved of yore. From the stately halls of palace walls To the dwellings of the poor; And hearts that wait and listen Still leap, in many a home. As the winds repeat its promise sweet Of a Christmas day to come. 116 While the faces of dream-clad children Turn radiant with joy, NEW SONGS OF NATURE As their eyes behold great gifts of gold At the feet of the baby-boy, — And there in reverence kneeling. The wise men from afar, 'Neath the brightness — best and tenderest That fell from Bethlehem's star. Till the snow-bound hills are lifted To the glittering arch above, And the spirit -land seems close at hand, With its warmth — and light — and love! Oh, blessed song of the shepherds. No music speaks as thine. That told to earth a Saviour's birth In melody divine! 117 NEW SONGS OF NATURE O OUTCRY AND ANSWER I FAITHFUL heart, I know not if there be A heaven even now awaiting thee, Prepared in very truth by one whose eyes Have seen, with me, thy life-long sacrifice! A heaven where the bloom of joy forebome Shall tenderly encircle and adorn That patient brow of thine with such delight As shall atone for all its length of night. And the sweet glory thou hast put aside Shall turn again to thee, thrice glorified: Brave heart, I cannot tell! But this I know. If I were God, who on this earth below Have followed daily in the appointed sphere Where thou hast given thyself from year to year; If I were God, with God's almighty power. If I were God, for but one mortal hour! — And found no bourne celestial set apart As yet for thee, 0, brave and faithful heart! — Nor depths beneath my feet, nor heights above. Nor sun, nor star should stay my hand of love. Nor any claim of angels or of men Divert me from my holy purpose then. But, omnipresent, I would searc^. the sky And seek a place fit for thee, ere thou die; A place where those rewards thou hast not had Should come together at my quick behest. From field and stream and mountains of the Blest, In bright expectancy, to make thee glad. A place of rest— perpetual, divine, 118 NEW SONGS OF NATURE For high and noble weariness like thine; A place of plenty for thy hungry soul — Of gracious plenty, without stint or dole; And soft, Elysian wings of wondrous ease For thy dear shoulders, bringing such release From the dead weights they have sustained so long Thou should'st at first half doubt their strength so strong; A place of tree, and flower, and flight of birds, And hill, and meadow- land too fair for words; And reach of limpid, wind-swept water, kissed At evening-time with gold and amethyst; A place of freedom — ^full and absolute; A place of home, where merry lips, nov/ mute. Should call a welcome to thee, and at last The arms thou faintest for should hold thee fast: All this — 0, faithful heart! — against the time Thou cam'st — and count the labour sweet, sublime — If I were God! . . . II Far — far beyond all the summer days of earth. High — high above all its hills and sunset skies. Deep, deep encompassed with joy and holy mirth And love that never dies — God — God the father — hath kept a goodly land Fresh for the children and them of childlike heart; Fresh, fresh and pure, in the hollow of his hand — His own great hand, apart! TTiere, songs of night itself are sweet as day; There, flowers forgotten bloom in vernal field; And gentle faces, that pale and pass away, Are once again revealed! 119 NEW SONCS OF NATURE Oh, blessed country, fed on every side By fountain-springs of peace, serene and clear; My spirit quickens, as across the tide Thy deathless isles draw near! 120 NEW SONGS OF NATURE LINES FOR FEBRUARY FOURTEEN I WITH ROSES FLOWERS that bloom amidst the snow Are of heaven surely; Symbols whereby we may know Love that loveth purely: These are ever holy sign That, though other love may die, Never this Saint Valentine Sendeth from the sky! II WHEN GENTLE CHAUCER LIVED When gentle Chaucer lived they used to say Birds mated on Saint Valentine's chill day; A thing I thought must surely be untrue Before the time, dear heart, I first met you; Believing, until then, that wintry feast, (Though kept, indeed, for a most kindly priest) Too bleak and cold for Love. But now I see Her brightest sunrise on the hills for me This very hour! — and like the birds I sing Awake, my own, spring calls to us, sweet spring! 121 NEW SONGS OF NATURE 122 LOVE SONG OF ARCADY MY soul is a breeze of night That slumbereth not, nor sleeps. But, wandering passionately alone, Unbroken vigil keeps; Till there comes a plaintive call From the wakening hills afar, The first, faint call of its love — the dawn, Led forth by a flaming star; And then my soul, at peace and free. And stirred with nameless melody, Is the early breeze that sings to thee A heart-song, tenderly. For thou art the morning light That maketh my soul rejoice; The glory of earth is this — thy face. Its music is thy voice! And now I fly to thy breast. As a wind from the southland blown. As the warm south wind to the waiting earth. Close, close to thy breast, mine own; And behold, the sweets of flower and field. Deep-hid, their vernal treasure yield. And the heart of Summer, else concealed. Is all unto me revealed! The pulse of the wild-bird's song Beats at thy throat — and there, As I lift my head, I feel a breath Of violets from thy hair; NEW SONGS OF NATURE And, gentler still, the quick caress Of April skies at break of day. Unveiled within thy lustrous eyes! Oh, cast me not away, But let me, rather, at thy side — Where woodland dell and rippling tide To thee their holiest vows confide — Forevermore abide! 123 NEW SONGS OF NATURE COMPENSATION 1HAVE not quailed in the conflict, but I'm glad of the waning day, And though I fight with a steady eye, my heart is far away; And I look from the noise and tumult — the weary, hot unrest, To the haven of thine arms, my Love, the refuge of thy breast. The smoke of the strife is in my throat, its fever fills my brain. Yet through it all I falter not, and give no sign of pain; For I scent from the sunset hills afar the breath of eventide, And I know the hour is close at hand to nestle at thy side. — To nestle at thy side, mine own, and there in peace forget The wrangling sounds of the dusky mart, its toil and bitter sweat; And find thy faith more precious, thy sympathy more kind. By the foul mistrust and cruel thrust of the battle left behind. 124 NEW SONGS OF NATURE MY FIRST BOBOLINK AT mid-morning yesterday, up in the hills ^ I met a strange bird with such wonderful trills And magical blending of music and noise, (Like the composite voice of a group of small boys. Or perhaps, better still, like a half-dozen girls. Some chatting, some singing, in eddies and whirls Of small talk and melody, all in a mix). He stopped and dumfounded me quite with his tricks. Now who can he be, thought I, thus to pour forth Such warm southern ecstasy here in the north? He's new to me surely — yet surely I've read Somewhere of those black and white wings, and that head Tilted upward so pert, with its saucy buff cap — So far back and so small that the slightest mishap Might, methought, jar it off in a trice to the ground — Oh, who is_this very bird-Babel of sound? Thus I questioned in wonder — yet not lacking delight. As, with all its confusion, his voice charmed me quite; For the sunshine was in't — then the plashing of rain Of a sweet April day — then the sunshine again; 125 NEW SONGS OF NATURE But, most, the great gladness of spring at the flood — The quickening gladness one feels in the blood. So, nearer and nearer I drew, loth to go, Unacquaint with my minstrel, still singing; when, lo, (Mirabile dictu!) the bird seemed to talk, Saying, "How-dy-do, friend, you are out for a walk "And can't guess who I am — that is easy to trace From the puzzled expression all over your face. "I'm a little far north — I'll admit; just the same A field-lover like you should at once know my name. "Here's a strain with a somersault in it, or two. Pray tell me, sir, don't that suggest it to you? — • "Or this, with a movement so much to my taste I sing it both forward eind backward — nor waste "A note or a syllable doing it, — see? There — I've mentioned my name, and you missed it — ah, me! "But I'll give you just one warble more, while you think; — Ho — ^you've hit it at last! — au revoir — Bobolink!" 126 NEW SONGS OF NATURE CALEB OF BETHLEHEM (A Tale of the Night the Christ was Born) I THE middle watch had lengthened to its close. As Caleb, Scribe of Bethlehem, arose And left the chamber where his child lay dead. Seeking the silent street, with covered head. Hour after hour, though compassed 'round about By gloom so deep it whelmed his soul in doubt. And dimmed his earthen lamp and mocked its light, Caleb had prayed to heaven alone that night. But heaven sent no sign, nor heard his cries; And now his little one — whose wistful eyes Pled patiently for help — was mute and still; And Caleb cursed the God of Israel. Smitten and hopeless through the town he strode. By darkling path, and court, cind narrow road, Unmindful where, till, blindly driven by pain, He came — beyond the gates — to Ephrath's plain. II The night was clear; above him stretched the wall. And over that the town, and over all The great, mysterious, brooding, steir-lit sky That saw but heeded not his misery. 127 NEW SONGS OF NATURE He paused; went on; then stopped, with listening ear; For, lo, above the towering palm-trees near, A rising zephyr seemed to fill the air With sudden music, sweet beyond compare. His senses dull, he thought the sound at first Some phantasy of grief — and deep immersed In anguish, but half heard. Yet now again More palpable and sure it throbbed; and then, Subdued, but measureless, from star to star — As though some mighty multitude eifar In swift approach by splendid voices led Sang one great strain — the matchless music spread! Transfixt, he raised his eyes! . . . And lo, behold. The blue-encircled zenith blazed with gold! And there the host appeared, and in the throng Innumerable children swelled the song. Down, down they swept! . . . And now, their very words- "Peace, Christ is come," "your King," "the Lord of Lords," Dropt glorious where Caleb stood apart, Like balm of Eden on his wounded heart. "In Bethlehem, David's city," sang they all; And then, alas, black darkness drew its pall Across the heavens, and silence quenched the strain, Night reigned once more, and earth was earth again. The cadent moon resumed her timorous sway; A faint, far watch-cry told the coming day; And insect voices of the dewy ground, But now forgot, rose one by one around. 128 NEW SONGS OF NATURE While unto Caleb in that empty place The consciousness of woe returned apace. Fell heavily on every quickened sense, And so dispelled the song's sweet influence, That, thinking but of him for whom he yearned, He raised his cloak about his brow and turned Back by the way he came, and passed within The city wall, hard by Ben Hadad's inn. Ill Yet here — oh, night of nights! — new radiance shone Across his pathway as he plodded on; And, pausing wearily to trace the light, He saw, enrapt, the world's transcendent sight. For, whence this radiance proceeded, there. The Hope of Juda slumbered, wondrous fair, Low in a manger of that humble spot, Outcast of men, because men knew him not. But Caleb, who had heard the angels, felt His spirit leap at last, his anguish melt; And falling prostrate, kissed the meagre hay On which the new-bom Prince of Glory lay. "Oh boundless love," he breathed, "to me is given. Bereft, disconsolate, the pledge of heaven! My son is dead, indeed, but Israel Hath found the Christ, whom prophet* did foretell!" "How can I now lament when this glad sign Reveals a better dwelling-place than mine! Ah, host that sang to me, in thy great joy — That fills this night — keep, keep my little boy!" 129 NEW SONGS OF NATURE IV 'Twas gentlest dawn when Caleb turned to go. Dawn on the hills — dawn shining through his woe, And pouring peace upon him, though he wept; And, reaching home, he sought his couch and slept. Nor found God's mercy scant; but dreamed there stood By his beloved, in the solitude. Still dim and pale, of that first Christmas-tide, One with celestial beauty glorified. Who, bending low a moment, gravely smiled. As some fond mother loth to wake her child. Yet took his hand at length; and, at a word. Behold, the dead — to life and health restored. Arose, and, as the presence vanished, came Close to his father's side and lisped his name! . . . Then Caleb woke, and found him there, and knew That by sweet grace of heaven the dream was true. 130 NEW SONGS OF NATURE MADRIGAL MINSTRELS of the morning air. Jubilant with song, Summon to my Love's dear window All your merry throng; And from out the apple blooms In her garden wall. With melodious insistence. Call, call, call! Call her till she hears the music Thro' her dreamless sleep; Till you see her from her lattice Peep, peep, peep! ' Then invite her to the pathway That she loves so well; To the path beneath the maples. With its sun-lit dell. Whisper — that the flowers, expectant. Her dear name repeat; Tell her heaven and earth are waiting For her happy feet! Say that Spring's glad n5miph, this moment — Sweet Persephone — Came with blue-bells for her breast, and Left them here with me. 131 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Minstrels of the morning air, Hasten thro' the dew! Seek her till you find, and, finding Bring her back with you. "MOUNT MISERY AND MOUNT JOY" HAIL, heaven-appointed hills, engirt with snow! Pillar and shaft may pass away, but ye — Till time hath ended in eternity. Erect, immutable, shall stand, I know. Hither my feet have led again, and, lo. Still sweep your lofty winds from tree to tree That farmed and fed the camp-fires of the free Close-kindled on these heights long years ago; And still their voices, undenied, proclaim To all the splendid silence, everywhere Abiding 'round about, his deathless name Who once attained such strength 'mid this pure air, He liveth here unmatched of earthly fame — Her lion at bay in Liberty's own lair! 132 NEW SONGS OF NATURE A FAREWELL FOR ONE PLEDGED TO THE NORTH COUNTRY AMONG the violet winds that blow— ' Fair bride of spring, fair bride of spring, That morning thou dost rise to go Upon thy wedded way, May there be one — one may there be! — AH April-glad and blossoming. To whisper very tenderly This message of the day: — "Whither thou journeyest to dwell Hath sped before, in ardent flight, A company invisible Of wistful thoughts, a-wing, (Loosed, dove-like, from thy native place) To woo the skies to golden light Of welcome for thy shining face, winsome bride of spring!" 133 NEW SONGS OF NATURE TO A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW IN MARCH BRAVE singer of a tranquil song. Though winter smite thee to the face; Thy gentleness hath made me strong With true and heavenly grace! I know that melody! Thou art But palmer and a pilgrim here; Yet treasurest within thine heart A faith that smiles at fear. — A faith that helps thee once again To make thy hardsome journey home A sign to all the sons of men Who, like thyself, must roam. Who, like thyself, are wise to bring Along with them — by night, by day. What glory of approaching spring They gather by the way. Remembering that whence they came — God's better land beyond the snow. Is not a dream, but still the same As that toward which they go. And have, when traveling is past, A joy that nevermore abates; Nor empty-handed stand at last Within the golden gates ! 134 NEW SONGS OF NATURE LOVE'S DEATHLESS VOTARY THOU art far, far away, my love, my own. I cannot go to thee; But, lo, a wind from the Southland blown Hath set thy spirit free! Dark winter days may keep concealed. Within their stern embrace. Thine hallowed form, and to me yield No vision of thy face. But at sound of the robin's song I hear The voice I have ne'er forgot, And then I know that thou art near By a faith that doubteth not. Through every blossoming branch I see A path for thee, my Sweet; While the virgin leaves make melody For the coming of thy feet. The sunbeams that kiss my lips reveal The touch of thy bonnie hair; And with well remembered joy I feel Thy breath on the balmy air. And even a dearer boon I win When up to the vernal skies I lift my face, and there drink in The love-light of thine eyes! 135 NEW SONGS OF NATURE While grassy field and woodland dell, All jubilant and bright. Thy tender presence with me tell To breezes of the night. Nor shall I mourn life's distant goal While springtide comes between The passing years, to bear thy soul On deathless wings, unseen. For thus, though we be kept apart. Yet, joined by her dear hand. We still may journey, heart to heart. Till we reach a fairer land. Her native land! — with beauty crowned. Where love eternal dwells. And we at last shall hear the sound Of heaven's marriage bells. 136 NEW SONGS OF NATURE AT BREAK OF BATTLE ALONE YET NOT ALONE GOD, God almighty, stand aside— But lend thy power divine! Our ears have heard the voice that cried. We know that voice was thine. Too long, inactive, we have looked Like cowards unto thee! Too long, unwilling, we have brooked i Man's shame and infamy! God, God almighty, stand aside — But grant thy flaming sword! We now come forth (whom they deride) Obedient at thy word. The fires now leap in us that slept, We rise at last new-born; Thy shrines have seen our vigil kept. We go to face the morn. Yes, stand aside. Lord God, do thou — But guide us as the day! Our spirits that were naught are now A multitude at bay. We clung as weaklings to thy feet And, pitiful, denied The gage we now advance to meet: Lord God — ^stand thou aside! 137 NEW SONGS OF NATURE HE LIVETH HE liveth, aye, He liveth. The lowly One, and meek. Victorious — and giveth Great joy to them that seek! What though His cross still standeth On Calvary's sullen brow; The Crucified commandeth — And morning answers now! Obedient and beautiful. Her chariots ride forth! Sing, ye south- wind, dutiful; Join thou the song, north! And, woman, with His pardon Still trembling in your heart. Behold, in Joseph's garden. Amid the flowers apart. Unharmed of death and still the same, The tender Nazarene; List, even now. He names thy name. Thrice blessed Magdalene! Thy name — and lo, the early breeze Is radiant with His voice; And all the snow-white almond trees Burn incense and rejoice! 138 NEW SONGS OF NATURE He liveth, aye, He liveth, The lowly One, and meek. Victorious — and giveth Great joy to them that seek! AH ME HOW BRIGHT AH me, how bright is this *»• May day ! — and rich with bloom, This sunlit day on which we take Our darling to the tomb. Lord of little boys. Thy heaven must be most fair. That thou should'st call him up to it From this sweet-scented air! — Surpassing fair — Christ, More fair than tongue can tell; Else thou would'st never let him leave These fields he loved so well. And our tear-blinded eyes And hearts that fail us so Do hope — Lord of little boys! — Do hope — yes. Lord, do know Thou hast already found, Who lov'st, as he, each flower. Some place for him beneath the trees This same elysian hour. Some place — close, close by thee. To nestle in, and sleep. And rest, and dream, and smile with peace. This very hour we weep. 139 NEW SONGS OF NATURE And, after while, awake With wonderment to find The trees so like the trees at home. And thee so very kind. And feel no fear with thee, But deep contentment, and The joy he felt with us, at thy Caressing of his hand. And muse, and marvel much That heaven should be so near. With such a little way to come For us he still holds dear. And sometimes lean from thee, Lord, and look afar — Thinking of us — with wistful eyes. Toward Earth's soft-shining star. And yet with tranquil mind, Nor tire. They never tire With waiting! — who have found thy heaven And heard its white-robed choir! Lord of little boys. Help thou our unbelief! And grant to us (as unto him) Good patience in our grief. 140 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE STARRY CLEMATIS The creeping vine known as the Clematis Paniculata, which bears a pure white flower in great profusion and of delicate fragrance, is beautifully tr ns- formed by the first frost in the fall, its petals as they drop off leaving the new seed-pods in the form of perfect stars, each with a long filament radiating like a thin gray beam of light from every point. WHEN Winter came at length to this My sweet, perennial Clematis, And took its garniture of white. So wondrous wrought, so rich bedight With softer pearls and rarer lace Than ever wreathed a lady's face. And trailed and trod it on the ground And cast it, torn in shreds, around: Nor that alone, but — ruthless — e'en Despoiled it of its robe of green. And quenched its fragrance quite, and then Returned to mar its robe again — As Winter only spoils and mars; Then, pausing, mocked its hapless plight: Behold! — ^from out the encircling night, 'Twas given a panoply of stars! Oh, treasure of the destitute. Voice, myriad-spoken, of the mute!— My Clematis, all dauntless yet. Was there renewed with stars, thick-set For every flower, on every stem: Nor queen in jewelled diadem E'er shone more beautiful than this — My brave, transfigured Clematis, Now wrapped, as by some splendid cope. In raiment radiant with hope — 141 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Such hope as heaven makes secure With sense of life, serene and sure; While Winter stood abased — outdone By mine, the meek, transcendent one! l'envoi Spirit within me! — seeing how This sign is wrought — oh mayest thou. Thou too be clad, when night draws nigh (And thou must lay earth's raiment by) With brighter glory from the sky! 142 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE WILLOW AND HER BROOD OH, what is it the Willow hears. To let her tender brood Come forth alone amidst the snow And icy solitude? And with what mystic word are these, Her children, all endued? A vernal beauty blooms beneath Their silken, swaddling clothes. Warm as the pink of apple buds, Or blush of wilding rose. With an ethereal tinge of gold And green — that comes and goes. Oh, hath the Willow's waiting heart. In touch with mother earth. Caught, as an echo from cifar Of deep, elusive mirth. The first faint breath of ecstasy In which the spring finds birth? And, thrilling to that secret sound. Sent these she loveth well. To whisper it among their kin From every nut-brown cell? Oh, is it this the Willow hears? — And this, her children tell? 143 NEW SONGS OF NATURE MORNING HYMN 10RD of angels, God almighty, -^ At the rising of the sun. To the glory gates of morning, Swift and jubilant I run; And thy host of heav'n advancing. Meets me in the way. Meets and whelms me with the splendor Of the flooding light of day. Every blade of grass about me. Every shining leaf above. Every blossom, every flower. Is transfigured with thy love. If they will — ah, let men slumber. All my soul beats high At thy thought of me, dear Father, Quickening — crimsoning earth and sky. Here, my longing to behold thee. Finds fruition, far and wide; Here, desire, supremely answered. Lifts my spirit to thy side. Where, with perfect touch and tender. Thou hast gone before. That my feet may follow after, And approach thee more and more. Lord of angels, lead me on, Through the morning to thy throne! 144 NEW SONGS OF NATURE MY MEADOW-BROOK IN WINTER IMPRISONED by an icy hand, My meadow-brook has ceased to flow. And all its merry borderland Is weighted down with snow; Above it now no voices sing; And yet, from out its wintry tomb, Still, still sweet promises of spring Call to me as I come! For once this meadow-brook and I, Led onward by a little boy, Found heaven beneath the open sky; And since that hour my joy Continues here (though he is gone). No matter how distraught the day; And never do I walk alone Along its winding way. i« NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE ANGEL OF THE SHEEPFOLD MYSTIC bloom above the mountains. Brightening the snow; Subtle, shining tenderness; Glad, immortal glow! — Once again the starry gates Wide asunder swing At thy touch, holy Seraph, Fairer than the spring! And the world beneath awakens. Secretly aware Of the old, melodious music Falling thro' the air! Ah, how silently we listen! Time is less than naught, As of ancient thou descendest. And the gloom is fraught With the far delight of Eden From those hours that were; Breath of almond buds and balsam. Frankincense and myrrh! Look, my soul (oh, happy vision!) How the passing throng. Golden-winged, have left the trees Garlanded with song! 146 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Weep — thy tears are but of triumph And with laughter kissed! See — the skies they cross are all Rose and amethyst! Holy Seraph, still returning Thro' the vast of days. Myriads still, as little children. Sing — thy — praise ! 147 NEW SONGS OF NATURE OH COMRADE KEEP THEE OH, comrade, keep thee conscience-clean, heart-pure! No strength of life is like the strength of these, That make it sweet to labor and endure — Whatever earth decrees. With these — high heaven above is always near, And heaven's host, to help thee and to bless. And give thy mind serenity — and clear, Deep sense of happiness. Thy fellows 'round about may be forespent With battle stress and heavy weight of care; But thou — with these — wilt ever find content, And well thine harness wear! The rugged road, which bears thee far and wide From paths of ease, shall gentler faith impart; And poverty itself be angel-guide. To lead to nature's heart. Night after night shall bring its balm of rest To lovingly upon thine eyelids lay; And every morning waken thee refreshed. And thankful for the day! And thou shalt own thy hard couch wondrous good. And blithesome as the cradle of a child. Where sound of singing fills the solitude From fountains undefiled. 148 NEW SONGS OF NATURE And even in defeat — if these remain, A sense of victory shall lift thy soul Betimes to some still height, where thou shalt gain Glimpses of God's great goal, Revealed alone to noble-minded men. Of vision to pierce the mists that lie between This land — and that ! Oh, comrade, keep thee then Heart-pure and conscience-clean! 149 NEW SONGS OF NATURE JAMES MY BOY— MY BOY JAMES, my boy — my boy! — • Tell me, how is It in heaven? Is there sunlight? — is there joy? Is there song of birds at even? Is the Christ as kind and good As on earth he used to be? Did he bid them where you stood "Let that dear one come to me"? Did he take you, as of old. Quickly, warmly to his breast? Tell me, Jeimes, till all is told. Tell me this and all the rest. Jeimes, my boy — my boy. It is dark and silent here. Where I sit with your last toy. Come and tell me, soft and clear. James, my boy — my boy. Kind we were, maybe, but you! Ah, what words can we employ! — James so gentle, brave and true. Jeimes, my boy — my boy, "Now I lay me down to sleep," E'en as thou didst. — Lord destroy All my doubt! Keep, keep blm— keepi 150 NEW SONGS OF NATURE SIGHTING THE GOLDEN DAY I HAVE not filled my soul in vain With funded treasure of the past, But find it an eternal gain With many a joy forecast; To which I turn from all without And, visioning the future, see Its glory time shall bring about — The things that ought to be! And I am prophet then, in truth. Amidst a heavenly estate; And heir of an immortal youth The years shall not abate; But, lifting me above my doubt, Lead ever toward earth's destiny. Its glory time shall bring about — The things that ought to be! 151 NEW SONGS OF NATURE DAYBREAK A NEW YEAR CAROL BEHOLD — the morning! Wake, arise! Bright heralds on the hills appear, The forces of another year Unfurl their standard to the skies. Come forth from out the dark array That struggles in the gloom of night; And join the glorious hosts of light That line the battlements of day. Turn! — linger not where still abound The silent shades of blind despair. Fly! — on the radiant morning air. The bugle-calls of hope resound. Gird on thy strength!— brave heart and free, That fought undaunted to the last. The buried beauty of the past Shall some day live again for thee! The way before thee, yet untrod, May quickly reach a blessed goal; And ere the evening, lo, thy soul May pass the gates that lead to God! Behold — the morning! Wake, arise. Bright heralds on the hills appear, The forces of another year Unfurl their standard to the skies! 152 NEW SONGS OF NATURE BOY OF BYGONE DAYS BOY of bygone days, I knew You would come! — and when you came I would find you still the same! . . . Tell me — is it really you? Ah, what foolishness of fear, I should doubt you when so near! — Standing with me face to face In this old, familiar place! . . . Boy of bygone days, 'twas I, Out beneath the open sky. Kept you as the years went by; Kept you faithful, true, unspoiled, At your play, or when you toiled. In your sorrow, in your joy — It was I, brave little boy! It was I who dreamed the dream. Following this woodland streeun. That surrounded you with love, Pure as heav'n above! What although we never met Since we waded it together In the early April weather, I was sure you'd not forget! . . . But, what need have we for words! — We, so safely home again! Hark, they call! — our happy birds! Quick, your hand! — our brook is singing; Let us seek it, just as then. All our gladness bringing! 153 MEW SONGS OF NATURE THINK NOT GOD'S HAND IS HOLDEN 1914 ' I 'rilNK not God's hand is holden from this war A To which the centuries have come at last! Somewhere His chariots gather as before; Somewhere His die of destiny is cast Within the heavens above, while these below — Some, some of them (what age. hath ever known Whom God doth choose!) are verily His own — His kings and captains, in their bitter woe! Among these ranks (ah, who of us may tell !) Some, some are fighting here the powers of Hell. And somewhere — everlasting Death is ranged. And Fraud and Ignorance, on one dark side! And somewhere — Righteousness, that hath not changed, And Truth, whom Hell hath once again defied — (Great Truth, immortal, with her flaming sword!) These also stand, in answer to the Lord! Oh, little children, bow your heads and pray! And, praying, lean ye close, that ye may hear! This midnight may but mean God's judgment-day, His time of final reckoning may be near. 154 NEW SONGS OF NATURE O THE NASTURTIUM BRIGHT Nasturtium, frailest of the frail, Yet most uncareful, too— dost thou not fear To lift thy colors still, when through the vale The winter frosts have come, and even here- in this sweet garden spot, that stands apart. Seek stealthily to pierce thy tender heart? Or is thy life so perfect and complete That fear is utter alien unto thee? — Who hast no thought in thy serene retreat How close its end earth's little year may be: But to the last continuest blithe and fair, And pourest perfume on the darkening air. For some good while thy radiant face alone Hath looked to me, of all the happy brood Of them that once luxuriantly shone About this place, to cheer my solitude. All — all are gone; but thou dost still remain. And with each lessening day new lustre gain. What faith is thine!— how quiet, yet how glad! Its deep, warm joyance, richly aureoled With courage for the fainting soul and sad In all thy wondrous hues of red and gold! Ah, may some flame of it in me be bom. Ere I behold thee stricken and forlorn! 155 NEW SONGS OF NATURE I BREATHE THY NAME I BREATHE thy name, and, lo, it seems To bear fulfilment of my dreams! At sound of it the shades of night Stir with a sweet, celestial light — A bloom of asphodel and rose, Increasing till the darkness glows Transcendently, and in the midst Thou standest — as of old thou didst, A pure, embodied flame! — Pink as Persephone at dawn In golden- walled Illyria; White as the doves that woke the mom In Eden beyond Syria! My joy, my life — returned to me. Who did but dare, and tremblingly. To breathe again thy name. Oh, Love, so quick to meet with fire The still, small voice of my desire. How nigh thou art ! — how warmly near. How eager to dispel my fear! The veil between — it hideth not Thy gentle figure unforgot. But circleth thee, before my gaze. Bride-like — as in the former days. With gladness from the stars! And still I find thee kin to earth, As some entrancing fountain-sprite; And merry with a noble mirth. As music on a mountain-height; 156 NEW SONGS OF NATURE And, in communion — deep, divine, I share the glory that is thine, From these imprisoning bars. DAFFODILS DAFFODILS, daffodils! Oh, the golden joy of God That from out the winter sod. Touched by love divine, Bright and beautiful can bring For the gonfalon of Spring Victory like thine! 157 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE DAWNING CENTURY (Written January 1, 1900) THE eyes of countless millions turn to thee — Great scion of the ages, on whose brow. Uplifted o'er the everlasting hills. Encircling clouds of destiny repose: Aye, touched with awe, they turn and fain would pierce The deep, unfathomed mysteries of God That hide thy face. Hath heaven's tocsin struck Amidst thy bells? — Is thine the giant arm 'Neath which, inspired by power omnipotent. The gods of greed shall meet their final doom? Shall Freedom, shackled by her very sons. Totter, unseen, to thee — to thee at last. And at thine altars find herself avenged? Thy shield and buckler and thy mighty front. The tried and tempered falchion at thy side. Thy towering strength, thy majesty of mien. Seem quick with answer; while, athwart the skies. Thy gonfalon, inscribed with Equity, Is like the hand of Him who holds aloft The dreadful balances that test and weigh Each empire in its turn. Prince of Time! — Portentous century, in splendor clad. Behold, Earth's multitudes, with bated breath. Uplift, afar, one universal prayer: — That ere thou goest Justice may attain In every land her bright, millennial reign! 158 NEW SONGS OF NATURE FAITH nnO journey on in peace from day to day, A Not fretful over distance or delay. Nor vainly anxious for the untried way — Its perils or its length: But seeing secretly each course I win That God hath gone before — and breathing in The very atmosphere where He hath been, And something of His strength: And finding joy at morn and rest at night; And deeper, sweeter hope, with every sight Of love divine revealed in such clear light As 'luminates the soul: All this, faith maketh possible for me: Aye, more than this!— to know that I shall be Still led securely when I cannot see Nor falter at the goal! 159 NEW SONCS OF NATURE THE STAR OF THE MAGI STAR in the East — dread guide of ancient sages. Led on by love divine, Across the gloom of sin-beclouded ages Thy tender rays still shine! Afar from royal tents, 'mid drought and danger. Through Araby the Blest, The wondering Magi hasten toward a manger That broods beneath thy breast. Grown old in years with ever-deepening sadness. But hopeful to the end. Scarce now they yield their hearts the solemn gladness The evening shades portend. And when, above the dim horizon glowing. Their eager, watchful eyes, That waited through the day, still find thee throwing Thy torch against the skies, They are uplifted by the lucent splendor. More beautiful than day; And, hastening on in joy, glad homage render To Him who points the way. Night after night the desert dark and lonely Hath naught of pain or fear For them, unmindful of its gloom, if only Thy glorious light appear. 160 NEW SONGS OF NATURE What though the pilgrimage be long and dreary, They fly from morn to mom! What though their bodies are grown faint and weary. The Christ— the Christ is born! And when, still steadfast to its holy mission. Thy clear, resplendent blaze Flames high on Juda's hills, and full fruition Of longing meets their gaze, They own the lowly One and bow before Him, And worship at His feet, 'Lumined of thee! — and there in love adore Him, And count their joy complete. Star in the East— thy luster never waning Still floods the earth with light Each holy Christmastide; to us remaining A radiance in the night. A shining radiance, that ever goeth. Before us till it bring Them that are wise to Bethlehem and showeth Their everlasting King. 161 11 NEW SONGS OF NATURE SONNET MY heart says — thank you, dear, a thousand times ! And never stops to think "for what"; ah, no! Because all heaven above cuid earth below, The music of the sky — the merry rhymes That stir in bird and brook, the golden chimes Of leaf and flower, the violet winds that blow With melodies of love where'er I go, Are mixed with thee! and thy sweet soul sublimes The simplest of them, so they seem, somehow. Thine own — thy gracious gift, each one, to me; To me, unquestioning ever but that thou Hast come from God and made mine eyes to see, And ears to hear, and set upon my brow A living garland of divinity! 162 NEW SONGS OF NATURE VIOLET AND THE WEST WIND Y ESTER-EVEN from the west Zephyr came upon a quest, Calling — ^faintly calling; Over pallid copse and plain, Into a dell and out again, Calling still — but still in vain, "Violet, oh, Violet, Where art thou? — I love thee yet. Hear'st thou not the voice thou knewest Once so well, ah, sweetest, truest Maiden mine — of gentle face, Why is it I find no trace Of thy presence — ^far or nigh? Answer, dear one, lest I die. Violet, hath Winter slain thee? Shall I nevermore regain thee? Look, the yellow Sun hath set, Violet— oh, Violet, And above the purple verge. See, his slumber-star emerge! I have come as I was bidden, Tell, ah tell where thou art hidden I Speak, for now the meadow-lark, That was glad Groweth sad, And is silent in the dark! — For that thou hast given no sign To this weary heart of mine — To thy wanderer, who for rest All unanswered and unblest, 163 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Now must seek the empty wood With its cheerless solitude: Violet, oh, Violet, Fare-thee-well, I love thee yet!" So cried Zephyr till he slept, And his grief Found relief, Tho' the earth its secret kept. But, behold, at break of day, 'Neath the very birchen tree By a brook, where Zephyr lay — Bright and beautiful — adreaming. Flora, with a golden key. Came and knelt awhile, agleaming. And unlocked a mossy prison; Then beside Zephyr cried "Wake, oh, wake, thy Love is risen! Zephyr, wake, thy Love is near! Drowsy dreamer, dost thou hear?" Thus — till from a nestling glen Came a dove's first call, and then — All the earth was young again! For, with this, sweet Zephyr stirred, And awakening smiled and heard, And ahearing rose and saw Violet, his own once more. Then, as they twain kept their tryst, Pearl and pink and amethyst Flamed on high Thro' the sky Where the hills of April lie! 164 NEW SONGS OF NATURE THE GOING FORTH OF SUMMER STARK hills and barren heather, And precious paths untrod; And signs of solemn weather — But earth at peace with God ! Sweet summer overtaken And wounded unto death, But lovelier (though forsaken) With each expiring breath. Her face lit with desire Of splendid sacrifice; Her garments like a flaming fire From altars in the skies. Vanquished, and yet victorious; Proceeding to her tomb With stately head — all glorious Above the gathering gloom! I see night's gates eternal Enfold her with the years; But floods of joy supernal Well up amidst my tears. Stark hills and barren heather And precious paths untrod. And signs of solemn weather — But earth at peace with God! 165 NEW SONGS OF NATURE MY MAN OF ARCADY O COMRADE of the goodly land. With milk and honey flowing, I saw not till I took thy hand, But dwelt a-near, unknowing; By every high and holy place Thou helped'st me discover Since then, I thank thee to thy face, My heaven-sent field-lover! spirit of the open air And meadow-brooks and mountains. That findest beauty everywhere. From never-failing fountains; 1 count thee this — a man of men, Who, dauntless, didst recover My faith, my hope, my joy again. Thou heaven-sent field-lover. With thee to walk beside, behold, The sprites of song and story Throng forth to me from gates of gold And fill the earth with glory: Pale Dian, and Persephone, And nymphs of old Illyria, And e'en an angel company From Eden beyond Syria! A bright, immortal multitude. Afar and wide upspringing, 166 NEW SONGS OF NATURE They come, until the solitude Stirs wondrously with singing. 'Round many a shrine thy heart hath made, At dawn, by night, they hover. And answer to me unafraid. My heaven-sent field-lover. And thus the waning years have brought A thousand sweets elysian To eyes so sad they never thought To gain such happy vision; And traveling onward toward the west I know, till life is over, Each added day shall prove the best. My heaven-sent field-lover. 167 NEW SONGS OF NATURE AT NORRITON CHURCH- YARD DEAUTIFUL at every turn, indeed, upon auspicious days, is the old Germantown road in southeastern Pennsylvania, after it leaves Philadelphia and stretches northward over hill and dale to the open country beyond. But when, having passed its twentieth milestone, it surmounts the last knoll below the little Norriton Meeting House, then especially does this historic highway, drawn like a broad white ribbon through the rich verdure of field and forest, become absolutely inspiring. Those who have grown weary and turned back before reaching this point in its winding course have fallen short of a rare experience; for, with Valley Forge and its twin summits in the distance and a thousand other visual delights lying between, the view is one never to be forgotten. But, beside these rewards, the full journey Is worth far more than any fatigue it may occasion, simply for the opportunity of spending a few quiet moments at the quaint, one-story church so illustrious In the annals of the Revolution, whose floors, the blacksmith just across the way will tell you (pausing for a moment at his fire) still show blood-stains where wounded patriots lay, who were crowded into the building for such hospital shelter as it afforded, following the battle of Germantown. While even the scattering graveyard, which closely 168 NEW SONGS OF NATURE encircles the church itself, abounds with solemn interest for every heart athrob with love of God and native land. Some of the bravest and best of earlier days— a few of them buried even prior to 1 776— are represented upon these white marble memorials; and no one of thoughtful mind can linger here even in a casual way without going forth the better for it. One Spring morning an inscription that had escaped the writer's notice during previous visits fixed itself more deeply upon him than any he had yet deciphered. Carved upon a broad, smooth stone, laid flat, and without ornamentation, it was all quite legible in the clear sunlight, notwithstanding nearly a century of exposure, and it is here given exactly as it reads: Christopher Stuart Patterson, Obiit 12 December 1826 Anno Aetatis 24 Cito moriuntur amati Deorum. No display of words can add to the charms of the elegant mind and amiable disposition thus early lost to the world; and the worth which adorned them will long be remembered without the aid of praise and eulogy. The best and brightest earth can show Are ever first to pass away, And death still deals his fatal blow Among the lovely and the gay. But though we shed the bitter tear, We will not yield to vain regret; Tis but the casket that lies here; The gem that filled it shineth yet. What an unusual tribute this to a mere boy!— even though, perchance, he was the offspring of some fine. 169 NEW SONGS OF NATURE Colonial sire who, it may be, came in personal contact with Washington himself — that noblest of American gentlemen of the old school. The lines are so full of fresh, genuine affection they might have been penned but yesterday; and as we turn from them the goodly spirit of the lad long dead, seems to move out with us toward the road, to say bon voyage for the journey home again. And thus, as we go, we dream a bit; and wistfully, despite a cloudless sky above and the regal landscape 'round about. And, so doing, some of the dream runs this wise: "whom the gods love" Fair stripling, he who wrote thine epitaph Is, like thyself, quite unbeknown to me; Yet, as I read, my quickening soul leaps half To him — and half to thee! To thee, because a vision rare and fine Of thy sweet face, for all succeeding days, Glows gently here above the graven line That faithful speaks thy praise. And then to him who, thoughtless of his tears, So wreathed that vision in a mist of pain, That even after four-score sunlit years Its shadows still remain. I see him linger at thy new-made tomb. When all the silent multitude is gone; And then, reluctant, leave it in the gloom To take thy path, alone. 170 NEW SONGS OF NATURE The meadow path that led thee to his door!— He winds it now with unuplifted head, Until it brings him in where nevermore Thy blithesome feet shall tread. Then, later, at his evening lamp bent low. Again I see him setting down thy worth For this broad stone, that they who pass may know Its jewel hid in earth. His wound still fresh and quivering, he writes With grief so all-absorbed and unconcealed, That thou and he, as well, in tenderest lights Of kinship stand revealed. His — were the scholar's silver locks, perchance; Thine — golden curls, turned brown beneath the sun; He, slow of step; thou, quick to seek the dance — And yet ye twain were one! And he hath joined thee since, in dreamless sleep! I know not where; haply he had no friend To mark the spot; and yet thy stars shall keep Watch o'er it to the end! Oh, native hearts, that mother earth takes home. Dust unto dust, till God at length shall call; Though centuries wane, love's everlasting dome Still shines above them all! 171 liiiiS' 015 7997°^!