^..■ff ...-*«==*'■ i ^v W' \' wi^y\mwmnmim^^0is»mwMm*%\mii ,-' r-jisr--— w- ,-,■! i,-^^ It A- 27 zyjo ^ 7 /'"7/5 Cornell University Library PR4779.H12L5 Leaves from Elim, 3 1924 013 481 423 Cornell University Library The original of tliis book is in tine Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924013481423 LEAVES FKOM ELIM. Y , , • . . MAEIANNE F AENINGHAM^-ps^aAAii ^rivn ^ And ttey came to Elim, -wliere were twelve wells of water, and three Bcore and ten palm trees; and they encamped there by the waters."^Sa!odw8 xv. 27. " Forgive me, God, and blot each line Out of my book that is not Thine : But if 'moi^Bt all Thon find'st here one Worthy Thy benediction, That one, of aU the rest, shall be The glory of my work and me." EOBEBT HeRBICS. JAMES CLAEKE & CO., 13, FLEET STEEET. PHWIH BBOIHEBS, PK1HTEE8 BT WATBE POWEK. PEEFACE. It is the- writer's pleasant fancy that these little bits of rhymes may he read under many a spreading tree during sunny summer days. The plentiful green grass •will be the reader's couch, and the merry dancing leaves ■will make sweet music overhead. On the open page flecks of light will fall. The soft breeze wUl gently caress the tired face, and bring now the sound of the mtumur of the brook, and now that of the exultant song of the laik or the thrush. Bees and butterflies will come near, and the scent of the hay will float over the hiUs and valleys, while the golden com hangs out its banners, and the scarlet poppy lifts its head in warm greeting. In the distance will be the echo of the waves as they creep to the beach, and nearer the sound of village bells ringing festival music. And then may come the thought of other and more inspiring words than those which this book contains : — " And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God, and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river was there the tree of life, which bore twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month, and the leaves of the tree were for the healirig of the nations." May it be so ! And God grant that under that tree we may all meet who have talked together of the Lamb in the midst of the throne, as we rested in our pilgrim-march by the wells and palm-trees of life's EKms. CONTENTS. PAaa ELIM . 1 PISGAH 4 THAUKS 5 IN THE SEA .. 6 BE BEADY 7 " THET SHALL SEE HIS EAOE " . . 9 A SABBATH IN IHE OOUNTBY 10 KBPHIDIM . . 12 "ASK WHAT I SHALL OITE THBE" 14 NIOHTEALL 15 "IHE STEENOTH OF. MY HEART" 16 THE FIEST COMMUNION 17 AT EYEKSONG 18 LAID TO SLEEP . . 19 A HAPPY WOELD . . 20 "THE JOY OP NIGHT" 22 HEBMON . . 23 A SONG OE PKAISE 25 LEAVES ONLY 26 EOEGBT ME NOT 28 COME nNTO ME . . 29 [ COME TO THEE 30 HE GIVETH STKENGTH . . 32 PENIEL 38 EOBOITEN . . 34 IHE WOBDS OE JESUS 35 HELP COMETH 36 LET OUE PKIENDS BE THINE 37 IN WEABY-LAND .. . ■ , . 38 IHE SOABLET COED 39 *1 VI CONTENTS. MY THOnOHTS ARE NOI TOUR THOUOHTS JEHOVAH-SHAIiOM THE WAT OF PEACE A BLESSIKa AGED EIOHIT-PIVE AETER THE NIGHT HOME RECOGNISED REST IN THE LORD TO THE LIGHT THE GUEST TIRED HOME-GOING FEET GOOD-NIGHT ■. . . "THAT I MAT KNOW HIM' ACROSS THE SEA . . "THOU VISITEST THE- earth' IN A SAFE PLACE . . T WOULD BE THINE ENFOLDED . . "THOU SHALT NOT BE AFRAID' "ON HIGH" ABIDE IN ME FAINT TET PURSUING WHAT CAN I DO ? . . AFTER REST- A SONG or PEACE " TOILING IN ROWING " WHEN THE WIND BLOWS OUR COMFORTER . . ON THE SHORE AN ANSWER A FIGHT FOR LIFE A PRATER . . A SUMMONS ANSWERED . . "BEHOLD HE COMETH" "TOWARD EYENING" THINE . . STRANGERS HERE . . PASS 41 42 43 44 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 55 56 68 59 60 61 62 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 74 75 76 77 79 81 88 84 85 87 88 89 CONTENTS. Vll PAOE AN OLD. STOBT 90 A BIBTHDAY BONO 92 UNDER HIS WINGS 93 WISHING FOK DAY 95 HE SHALL NOT TAIL 96 ONLY A GLIMMEB OP SUNLIGHT ... . 98 SAFE 99 HEAEO . 100 UNCHANGING LOVE . 101 "MANY ABE CALLED" .. . 102 IN COMPANY . 103 "HE HATH EOBNE OUB GEIEES " . 105 SATISFIED . 106 COMFOBT . . V • • . 108 THE PILGBIM SONG . 109 THE BURDEN AND HEAT . 110 A WONDEB . Ill A DAY WITH JESUS . 112 JOY . 113 THE CLOSE OF THE WEEK . 114 MONDAY MOENINO . 116 IN THE CITY . 117 FATHEE, HEAK . 118 THE WOODS . 120 AMONG THEM . 121 STEENGTH PEEFECTED IN WEAKNESS . . 122 IN THE SHADOW . 123 KEEP A CHEEEFUL COUNTENANCE . 124 THE HEIGHT LAND . 125 BEBACHAH . . . 127 A BONG OF THANKSGIVING . 128 THE LOED HEAE THEE . . . 129 WAITING . . . 131 THE LOED SHALL GO BEFOBE YOU . 182 AT SUNSET . 133 SONGS IN THE NIGHT . 134 AT LAST . 135 DAYBEF.AK . . . 136 KEPT . 137 A EEPLY - . . . 138 VUl CONTENTS. PAGE PBAB NOT . 139 FEAC£, BE BTLLL . 140 " THy KINGDOM COME" .. . 141 OTTB LOBD'B WOBDS . 142 god's pbomises kept .. . 143 "HE IS OtTB peace" . 145 "akd we esteemed him not" . 146 CHBIST ALONE . 147 THE JOUBNEY OF LIFE . . . 148 IN THE SHIP . 149 WHAT or THE NIQHT ? . . . 151 " IT IS WNISHED " . 152 I WILL ARISE . 153 NOT ALONE . 154 GOME NOW . 156 PAKTED . 157 ANCHOBED . 158 PEACE . 160 AT NIGHT . . . 161 ENTERING THE CL0T3D .. . 162 "THY WILL, NOT MINE, BE DONE" . 163 THE LOED OP HOSTS IS WITH DS . 165 OUB PATfTEB'S HANDS . 166 PATIENCE . . . 167 "JESUS ONLY" . 168 THE LOBD IS MY SHEPHEBD . 169 THE LOVED ONES AT HOME . 170 "NOT AS I WILL" . 172 COME HOME . 173 THE SENT . 174 CHOOSE FOB MB . . . 176 FOLLOW ME . 177 " FOB THE DEAD " . 178 AN INVITATION . 179 WAITING FOB OBDEBS . 180 BE OP GOOD OHEEB . 182 CHILDBEN OF THE KING . . . 183 THE0T7GH THE PASS . 184 AT THE EVENING SACEIFICE . 186 "his end was peace" . 187 CONTENTS. IX PAOE the mission of ohbist 188 "deawme" .. .. .. .. .. .. 190 WHEN? 191 LEAS ME TO THE BOCE 192 WOBKEKS 193 A WISH , . . . , . .... . . . . 194 WHEBE ? 195 A DAT'S WALK 196 JESUS 197 BELOVED . . , . . . . . . . . . . . 198 THE DIVIDINQ SEA . . . . . . . . . . 200 THBOUOH A QLOOMT DAI . . . . . . . . 201 A BESPONSE , . . . . . . . . . . . 202 "DIED THE LEADEE OF THE CHOIE " .. .. .. 204 FOB CHBIST'S SAKE . . . . 205 WHEN SHALL WE GO? 206 THE LAMB OP GOD . . . . . . . . . . 208 GUESTS 209 MY FATHBB'S HOUSE 210 UNHEEDED . . . . . . . . . . . . 211 FOE US 212 " fathee, foegive them " . . . . . . . . 214 bepoee and now . . . . . . . . . . 215 teust in theloed .. .. .. .. .. 216 waiting fob light . . . . . . . . . . 217 wandeeebs 218 divine gentleness . . . . . . . . . . 219 oub happy home . . . . . . . . . . 221 cue guest . . . . . . . . . . . . 222 losing a bubden . . . . . . . . . . 223 the loss of the " noethfleei " .. .. .. 224 depabt, which is fab betteb . . . . . . 225 a time to sing . . . . ..,,.. , . . . 226 waiting fob jesus 227 westwaed 229 the open gates 230 come as the showebb . . . . . . . . . . 282 bveelasting love 233 at jesus' feet 234 leave mb not , 236 X CONTENTS. PAGE WILL THE SHEPHEED COME ? . . . 237 THE DISCIPLINE OE SOEEOW . 238 THE AGEB PILGEIMS' SONG . 239 THE DAY . 241 HE GITETH POWEE TO THE FAINT . 242 A MESSAGE . 244 A TIME OE JOy . . . 245 A SONG OE TKUST . 246 SLEEPING . 247 A WHISPEE . 248 A COMMON PEATEE . 249 WAITING POE CHEI3T . 250 A SECOND SUM'MEE . 251 AS THOU WELT . 252 "SPEAK, LOED " .. . 253 DELIVEEED . 254 SUNLIGHT ON THE WAIEES . 255 OUE FATHEE . 256 IN THE LOED'S HOUSE, . 258 SUNSHINE . 259 THEY THAT KNOW THY NAME . . . 261 THE WAY . . . 262 EXPECTATIONS . 263 GATHEE THEM IN . 264 COMING . 266 THE UNSEEN . 267 PEEPAEING FOK BATTLE . . . 268 THE SONG OP JOY . 269 GIEDED . 270 "THE LEAST " .. . 271 HOPE IN THE LOED . 273 " LO, I AM WITH YOU ALWAY " . 274 HE CAEETH FOE YOU . 275 IN THE MOENING . 276 WE ALL DO FADE A3 A LEAF . 277 THE EVEELASTING ABJttS . 279 OUT OF THE DEPTHS . 280 IN OUE HOME . 281 "HE HATH DONE ALL THINGS WELL" . 282 WATCHING . 283 CONTENTS. XI PAGE THE ANSWEB . 285 COMFOKTED .... . 286 WAITINa FOB WOEK . "287 THE OTHBB SHOBE . 288 rOBOIVENESS . 290 EUBOOLTDON . 291 CUMBEKED ABOUT MUCH SEETINQ . 292 HOI TOO LATE . 293 LEAH ME . . . 295 TOO LATE . . . 296 IN TEO0BLE . 297 "FAINTETH NOT, NEITHEE IS WEAEY " . 298 A GIFT OF STBBNGTH . 299 SHELTEBED . . . . . . . . 300 " WHOM NO MAN CAN NDMBEB " . . . 301 OBEDIENCE . 302 IN CAPTIVITY . 308 COME — TO WHAT ? . 304 WHITE EOBES . 305 THE SPANISH LABOUEEES' BLESSING . 307 "HE SHALL GATHEE THE LAMBS" . 308 A CHANGE . . . 309 THE NEW LIFE. . . . 310 AT HOME . . . 811 SOBEOW . 312 THE QUEEN'S THANKSGIVING . 314 A HOLIDAY PEAYEE . 315 SEND US PEACE . . ... . 316 AT HOME DUEING THE WAE . 318 HABVEST IN WAE-TIME . . . 319 PITY THE NATIONS . 320 THE LIFE-BOAT MAN . 322 THE WIFE OF THE LIFE-BOAT MAN . 324 A LESSON IN TEUSTING . 325 COME TO US, BEAUTIFUL SUNSHINE . 326 THE GIELS . 327 ONLY A LITTLE PBAllEE . . . 329 A FBIEND . . . 330 DAISY . 831 A MOTHEB'S QUESTION . 332 XU CONTENTS. PAGB OCEAN uirsic .. • . 333 THE OHILDKEN'S VOICES . . . 334 WAIT AWHILE . 335 A mothek's love . 336 DIED AT SEA . 338 SONQS OT LOVE . . . 339 WHAT MAY BE . 340 ON THja CLirFS . 341 POBOIVE HER . 343 WHERE IS HE ? . 344 DBEAMINQ . . . 845 WHO WILL PITT ? . . . 346 NEW teab's-eve . . . 348 A HAPPY HEW YEAR . 349 PASSION WEEK . 361 EASTER . 352 AN EASTER HYMN . 353 LOl THE WINTER IS PAST . 355 APRIL . 356 PENTECOST . 357 WOODS IN MAY . 358 THE LEAVES . 359 JUNE . 360 THE HARVEST . 361 HARVEST TIME . 362 AUTDMNAL THOUGHTS . 363 A DREAM OE HEAVEN . 365 UNTO YOU . 366 CHRISTMAS JOY-BELLS . 367 DIED ON CHRISTMAS DAY . 368 ANOELS . 370 THE DYING YEAR . . . 372 MIDNIQHT, DECEMBER 31ST . 373 LEAVES FKOM ELIM. " And they eame to Elim, where were twelve wells of water and thi-ee score and ten palm treeSj and they encamped there hy the waters." — Sxod. XV. 27. Rest is pleasant. Oh, rest is sweet, To the jaded limbs and the weary feet. Many a league have the pilgrims come, Yet even to-day they are far from home ; With miles to travel o'er desert sand Before they will dwell in the promised land. Rest is pleasant. Oh, fiercely shone The red-hot sun on the burning stone. And the q.uivering heat on the passage lay, As the patient pilgrims pursued their way, With swollen eyes, that ached to see If ever a resting-place might be. But now — how sweetly the waters gush ! And in the shade what a soothing hush Of solemn sleep ! Oh, the weary eyes, That looked so oft to the cloudless skies. Shall open soon to the pleasant shade That God for His pilgrim-band hfi,th made. Oh, gladsome rest by the shadowy palms ! We strike our harps and we sing our psalms, Loosing the sandals, and letting fall The burdens that keep us in anxious thrall, And letting our hearts go up to God, Who has led us the way our feet have trod. We stay awhile in a pleasant place, And lift our eyes to the Father's face ; He who has helped us to come thus far, Lighting our way by His burning star. Has bid us halt for the needed rest, And think of the paths which our feet have pressed. We were exiles once, and were worn with toil. As we wrought all day on the strangers' soil ; Hard were the tasks that we had to do. But God was watching the sad time through. And sent a leader, whose wondrous rod Was a sign to our foes of the power of God. A great thing happened one solemn night ; Death came to Egypt, and slew with might The first-bom sons in the strangers' laud ; But we had a lamb, at the Lord's command. And sprinkled the blood on the lintel posts. And were saved at the word of the Lord of hosts. So He delivered us. And we came Forth on our journey in His great name ; Little we know of the dangers near. But God is so good that we need not fear ; He gives us a pOlar of fire by night. And a cloudy pillar when day is bright. u We have been to the shores of the deep Red Sea ; And our God has triumphed gloriously. He made us a path between water-walls, While the waves were Egypt's funeral palls ; We sang our songs on the other side, But Pharaoh's hosts in the sea have clied. We have been where the bitter waters were. But Marah was changed at our leader's prayer; And God has said that if in His sight We serve Him ever, and do the right. He will help us, and heal us, and bless us still. — So we come to the palm trees by His good wUl. We have leisure through all of the sweet long days. With timbrels and dances to sing His praise j He has loved, and guided, and blessed us long ; He is our strength, and He our song ; He fighteth for us, and He will be Our shield, and bucMer continually. We need not fear for the land that lies Far away from our wistful eyes ; He who has brought us these wanderings o'er WiU lead through the journey that lies before. There are difficult paths, but we fear not them ; Our feet shall stand in Jerusalem ! Sweet to the tired is the hour of rest ; Sweet will it be when the glowing west Shows the open gates of our fatherland, And we reach the portals, a gladsome band ! God ! help us to bear with the coming strife, Tin we rest by the wells of eternal life. 2* I HAD not finished the tasks He gave, when He called me aside vpith Him: But a weary journey my feet had walked, anJ my eyes with tears were dim ; He helped me, with cheering voice and touch, to climb to the mountain height, And the past and the future before me lay, bathed in a wondrous Ught. Very sweet was the past to me, but I longed just now for rest, Yet I saw how pleasant the way had been which the pilgrim's God had blessed. For flowers had grown in the desert lands, and springs from the rocks had gushed ; And not a tempest had ever risen, but the Lord had its fury hushed. But down at my feet, was the strangest scene, for the land that I loved was there ; The land I had seen in my happy dreams, the land that was always fair; I saw a city with strong high walls — but I looked in my Guide's grave face. And I knew, though my heart might love it well, that I never should reach that place. I saw the ground I had meant to tUl, the castles I hoped to build ; I saw the tribes whom 1 loved to lead, and my place by another filled ; I saw the light of a happy home, that never should shine on me ; And the stately cedars and lovely palms of the land where I ne'er should be. And, but that my Guide knew what was beet, the sight would have made me weep ; But as I was turning to look on Him, it seems that I fell asleep. And I saw a city not made with hands — fairer than all my dreams. And the hosts of God, ia their robes of white, stood by the living streams. Oh ! what to me is the land I lose, when I think of the land I gain? And what to me are the witching dreams that beguiled my night in vain? I let them go with a happy heart, for I soon shall awake and stand. Filled with the peace of a glad content, in my own sweet Fatherland. I THANK Thee, Father, for the summer time, The golden days of glory and delight — The days when the glad year was in its prime, Warmed by Thy love, and by Thy smile made bright. And for the peaceful armies of the flowers That hung their banners out above the sod ; Saluting with sweet scents the passing hours. And blessing me, I thank Thee, my God 1 I thank Thee for the melody of rills, And for the glad bird-music in the air ; And for the echoes of the purple hills, And children's voices at their evening prayer. I thank Thee for the rush of mountain streams, And for the beauty of the quiet lake ; And for the generous warmth of dancing beams, And for a world made happy for Thy sake. 6 I thank Thee for the cool, calm summer sea, The playful ripple of the gentle waves, And for huge billows tossing restlessly, And for their music in the moss-lined caves. I thank Thee for the long, sweet days of light. And for the gloaming with its hues suhlime ; I thank Thee for past seasons of delight, That came to me with the glad summer time. I thank Thee for this summer of my life ! And now that winter cometh in its place. With darker days and rougher storms of strife, I meet it with brave heart and steadfast face. Thou who hast blessed me in the brighter days,. WUt bless me still amid thfe frosts and snows ; And I, Thy happy child, will sing Thy praise Till Ufe shall fade in endless, sweet repose. " A]l Thy waves and Thy billows are gone over me." ScABOELT passed are all the bright days of the summer. And I looked for sunny skies ; I expected but the balmy breath of breezes, Tet I hear the tempests rise ; But, God, I lift my startled eyes to Thee From the sea. I look to Thee, Father, through the storm-clouds That have gathered o'er my head ; I expected but the glad joy of the morning, And the night is come instead, And I feel tAe darkueBS gather over me .In the sea. I am out aiaid the tumult of the waters And the thunders of the waves. Quite alone amid the roaring of the surges And the gloom of dark sea-caves ; But amid it aU, God, I cry to Thee From the sea. And I love to think that e'en the leaping billows And the foaming waves are Thine ; They are better than the quiet of the summer If Thy love upon them shine ; And I feel that Thy strong hand is over me On the sea. I win gladly stay amid the troubled waters If Thy love deem it best ; I wUl trust Thee even here among the breakers. And my spirit shall have rest. Only, Father, iu Thy love forsake not me In the sea. " For the Sou of man cometli at an hoar when ye think not.*^ Stand up with loins girded and keen sword in hand, With lamps trimmed and lighted and quick eager eyes. And slumber not ye who belong to the band Who watch for the Lord when He comes from the skies In a rapturous surprise. 8 They ■waited for Him in the far-away years ; Ye wait, and His coming is nearer to-day ; He comes to give pleasure and wipe away tears ; Be glad, for the Saviour is now on His way. And He will not delay. Be ready and listen : perhaps in the hum Of the voices discordant that rise in the street The Lord in His glory and triumph may come, And your hearts he made glad by the melody sweet Of the sound of His feet. He may come any day that dawns faint in the east. And heal your misgivings and sorrow and pain ; He will bid you sit down with Him then at the feast. Tin you sing in the thought of your infinite gain. And your joy shall remain. He may come in the gloaming, and good will it be If He come in the silence and calm of the night. When the shades are on earth and the mists on the sea, For your sighs will be changed to a shout of delight When the Lord is in sight. Be ready ! Expect Him ; He will not be long. There are signs of His coming, and sounds of His feet. Ye soon shall break forth into shouting and song. And, glad at His coming, go into the street. Your Saviour to meet. tg sl^all ^n ^is Jfat^." You have told me about the glory of the land beyond the sea, And I know that the streets are golden of the place where I fain would be ; You have made me dream of the garments of those who are robed in white ; And the fair days long and cloudless that never are lost in night ; You tell me about the harpers who play to the happy throngs, You tell me about the singers filling the air With songs. You tell me of stones most precious that garnish the city's waU ; And I welcome the pleasant tidings, — ^but this is the best of all. I am glad there shall be no sickness, nor the stern cold touch of pain, And that those who are safely gathered never shall part again ; I am glad that my own sweet country is brightened with so much grace, But this is the crowning gladness, that there I shall see His face. Do you know how my soul has wearied for a sight of Him here on earth? I have thought of His face with longing in seasons of joy and mirth, I have prayed for Him in my sadness : — so well will it be for me When the King whom I love and long for my eyes shall with gladness see. Oh ! teU me again about it : the eyes of my faith are dim, But there with no veil between us I ever shall look on Him ! Ah, then I will bear the darkness of earth for a little while. It wUl vanish from me for ever in the light of my Saviour's smile. 10 I scarcely shall see the jasper, or notice the city's gold, Or the glory of aU the nations of which you have often told ; For the rapture that there shall fill me is not for the glorious place, This is enough for Heaven — ^I shall look in my Saviour's face. No sound of crushing wheel was heard ; The morning sun crept up the hills, To twitter of late summer bird. And gargling laughter of the riUs, And whispered welcome of the trees, And harp notes of the gentle breeze. We hid within God's leafy glen, And in His silver-sanded caves ; From the bewildering eyes of men We turned to watch His bright sea waves ; While His soft clouds of grey and white Veiled us away from other sight. The air was full of Sabbath song. And Sabbath beauty robed the earth ; There was no flaunting, fine-dressed throng. No marring and unseemly mirth ; But golden sunlight in the deUs, And music of inviting bells. The house of God was everywhere. We stood in courts where He had been, We walked across His meadows fair. And down His aisles of evergreen ; And stayed beside His river-brim. While all our hearts went out to Him. 11 We liagered where the little bands Knelt down together in His light, With sunburnt faces, toil-stained hands, And simple hearts that loved the right ; And whUe we breathed His holy name, Into our midst the Master came. We looked upon the preacher's face, But back to us looked other eyes ; We heard the spoken words of grace, But 'twas Another made us wise ; For God took all our thoughts away. And kept them to Himself that day. Oh, grand cloud-mountains, snowy white ! Oh, wilderness of tree and fern! That through the windows met our sight, And made our peace-filled spirits burn ; Into our hearts your joy we take. And love you for our Father's sake. And this sweet Sabbath spent among The golden meadows and clear riUs, Shall whisper of the angels' song They sing beyond the heavenly hills ; And make us think of rest, and pray For the eternal Sabbath day. 12 Exodus zvii, 5, 6. 1 WAS one of a host. We had wandered on for many a weary mile ; So tired we were that we could not sing, so sad that we could not smile. But we longed the more for the cooling streams we should find in the shaded glen, For the fever-thirst was upon us all, the children and stalwart men. We saw the trees with their tranches green, and we knew how the shadows played, And we thought of the hush and the sweet repose we should find in the pleasant shade ; And we thought of the watercourses there, and how gladly our lips would drink Of the healing waters that freely poured, as we stood on the river's brink. So we quickened our steps, and the children ran with hope in their eager eyes. And our hearts went up with a grateful thought to our Father beyond the skies ; And we braved the heat of the burning sun, for we thought of the shelter near. When the shining waters should cheer our eyes, and the sign of love appear. But, alas I for hope in the desert-land, and for water-courses dry ! There was not a drop, though our lips were parched, and we felt that we all must die ; 13 We listened and longed, and we murmured, too, but the hard rock seemed to frown, And the brazen, pitiless, burning skies, were looking serenely down. And then, wonderful love of God ! He bore with our faithless- ness. And though we had sinned in our want of trust, He pitied and came to bless. And there fell on our glad and astonished ears the music of waters sweet. And we looked at a laughing and sparkling stream that ran by our weary feet. For the rock was smitten, and we were healed by the Water of Lite which rolled Rapidly down through the sloping path, as over a bed of gold ; And we find, though the journey is long since then, that nothing can make it cease — We are never thirsty or weary now, for the stream is our health and peace. Oh, pilgrims, pacing the strange, dark ways, tiU the journey of life be o'er, Seek the water that freely flows, drink it and thirst no more; Follow the stream, it will lead you on to a, country that has no night. And there ye shall walk by the living streams, and be glad in the Lord's own light. 14 May I, my Father ? I want so much To turn the grey of my life to gold, And Thou canst do it with instant tonch, Mating the brightening way unfold, Giving me all for which I long. And filling my spirit with thankful song. May I, my Father ? Then I will ask That Thou in Thy mercy wilt choose for me The daily pleasure, the daily task. And the sorrow that in each step shall be. Thou alone knowest whate'er is best. Thou shalt choose for me my work or rest. Xet I win ask Thee to give to me A contrite spirit, a tender heart. And the grace of sweet humility, ' And strength and courage to do my part. Keep me, Lord, by Thine own strong hand While I pass along through this dangerous land. And if I may ask what I will of Thee, Father, hear me, that I may take Christ's robe of holiness unto me. And serve Thee only for Jesu's sake ; Yielding my life to Thy wise command. And cUnging still to Thy guiding hand. Father, Thy ohUdTen need have no care Of choosing blessings. Be Thou my friend, And I will hush the beseeching prayer, And trust to Thee tiU I see the end. Only guide me where all shall be Best and bliss and heaven with Thee. 15 'gxQ^iMl " I will botli lay me down in peace and sleep : for Thoa, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety." Akd so it is night that is falling ! I expected it not so soon ; It is the close of the evening, and I thought it was only noon. But the shadows are growing thicker, and a wonderful silence creeps Over my weaiy spirit, till it seems that the whole world sleeps. BeaUy the nightfall, is it ? In the splendour of midday light It was always with shrinking terror that I thought of the ndaring night. And now it is coming upon me ! But I am not so much afraid, For the Master has spoken to me — " Do not thou be dismayed." I can feel it is growing darker, and I think I am getting tired, — Night ? I have not accomplished the work that my soul desired. Can I leave it, though all unfinished, for an abler hand to do ? Well, fold it away for that other — may the Master help t.im through ! How silent the world is growing ! I wiU lay me upon my bed ;■ I am feeling so strangely weary, in heart and hands and head. But I am not perturbed or frightened as I see the sunlight cease — Oh, Father, Thou, Thou art with me, and I close my eyes in peace. I know I cannot be certain where the waking-place will be. But I know I shall dwell in safety, because I shall rest with Thee. And when I wake in the morning, cheered by that wondrous light. I shall not be faint or weary, Thou givest rest in the night. 16 I WILL not be afraid though the hosts eueamp against me, And the green hill-side be covered with malicious, mighty foes ; Though I hear the war-cries sounding And the tnimpet-shouts resounding, lu my heart shall be the quiet of a perfect, safe repose. I win not be afraid though the tempest gather near me. Though the swift bolt of the hghtuing cleave the dark and angry sky ; For I hear a soft voice under The loud booming of the thunder. And it tells me that my Father, strong to save, is standing by. I wOl not be afraid though the subtle tempter try me, And upon my soul should settle the thick gloom of the wild night ; For the Lord, with sweet revealing Of His power of love and healing, Sends the enemy away, and changes darkness into light. I will not be afraid though the shadows creep around me. And I hear the coming footsteps of the mystic angel Death ; For when flesh and heart are failing, God's great mercy still prevailing. Shall enwrap me in its holy calm the while I yield my breath. I will not be afraid ; nought in Hfe or death shall harm me. He is my portion ever and the strength of my weak heart ; And to me shall soon be given This, the sweetest joy of heaven. To be ever with my Father, nor to fear the word — Depatt. 17 Jfirst ^'Ommnman. Welii have ye done, before the day grew dim, To offer your young hearts up to the Lord ; Well have ye done to sing your matin hymn. And listen humbly to the Master's Word. Oh, tender hearts, untouched by stain of years, Oh, hands unwearied by the world's hard strife, Oh, shining eyes as yet undimmed by tears, Well have ye done to live the Christian life. World-weary wanderers sit around ye all. And know not of the wondrous rest of peace, Which holds your spirits in its gladsome thrall, And bids all. noise of care and grief to cease. But as ye take the bread and taste the wine, And holy words are whispered in your ears. Your eyes glow bright a? if with joy divine, And earth, with all its sorrow, disappears. Yet deem not you are wise, and firm, and strong, Oh, child-Uke soldiers in the holy fight ; The battle of the Lord is fierce and long. And ye shall have no respite, day and night. Oh, fragile workers, ye have much to do, And you will find the weakness of your strength Ere wine be poured, and you shall drink it new Within the Father's kingdom safe at length. You must go forth into the world again, And crowds of cares may seize you unawares. When the clear brow is touched by hands of pain. And rapturous praise gives place to passionate prayers. 3 18 Tet fear not ; let no shadow dim your eyes, Only keep strong the trust ye have to-day, Only look upward through the azure skies. And read the Saviour's mighty love alway. Go forth, young disciples, softly glad. With earnest hearts and spirits strong and hrave. Pass down the ranks of stricken suffering, sad, And lift them on hope's ever buoyant wave. Into the din and turmoil of the strife Take the sweet peace that rests upon you now. And hve as Christ would have you through this hfe. Oh ye of serious heart and thoughtful brow. %t ^b&marcQ, Longer the shadows are growing that stretch o'er the restful grass, Refreshing and cool are the night winds that kiss the tall trees as they pass. Soft and low are the whispers that come from the sluggish sea, And tender the songs of the evening that float through the gloaming to me. Come to me now, dear Saviour I I have needed Thee aU the day, When the fight with the world was fiercest, and dangers were in the way. For my fingers were faint and feeble, and my heart was sick and sore, But now in the quiet evening, dear Saviour ! I need Thee more. For the stain of the day is on me, and the sense of a dire defeat ; I tried and struggled a httle, but failure has been complete. I have neither been brave nor faithful, I dare not lift up my brow — pitiful, tender Saviour ! do not I need Thee now ? 19 I long for Thy words of comfort in my season of sad regret, So often I must have grieved Thee, Christ 1 dost Thou love me yet? I want Thee to reassure me that, though I am weak and frail. Thy love wiU endure for ever, Thy pardon will stUl prevail. So come to me. Lord, in the twilight. It is time for the evensong. But my psalm is a cry for comfort ; yet if Thou wilt Thy stay pro- long, I shall almost sing with the angels ; for Thou in Thy mighty love Changest the 'dark night-season to the Heaven they know above. faiir ia Sle*]^. We lay them to sleep where the yellow leaves fall, And the wild winds make music among the dark yews — We lay them to rest till the Master shall call. And His shining-winged heralds shall come with the news Which none may refuse. They were young. They have drooped in the morn of their day. Their sun has gone down in the too early night ; But we weep not : the Master has called them away toil of the noon-day, the thick of the fight. To the City of Light. We shall meet them again when the winter is past. And the new summer sun lights the way to that land ; We shall find that our parting kiss was not the last. With a look fuU of welcome our loved ones will stand On the far shining strand. 3* 20 Why mourn we ? Oh ! we would have kept them, we say, From the cold of the winter, the wind and the rain ! To have looked in their faces each desolate day Would have brought back the sun in its shining again, And chased away pain. But the Father knew best. And since some must be first. In that tender home shelter beyond the blue Mils, We are glad to be chosen to suffer the worst, WhUe they are quite safe by the heavenly rills, Where the greatest joy thrills. And we quicken our footsteps, the sooner to be At home by the side of them, sharing their bHes, Looking into dear faces our welcome to see. And holding loved hands, which it hurts us to miss. God grant us all this. And help us in patience and strength to remain At the work which He gives us, nor weary for rest Till He says (as to them). Come away from the pain, For the heavenly home is the brightest and best. And your hearts shall have rest. % f apg Wiaxh. ®H, golden cups of the sweet June meadows ! Oh, cool, wide rivers that slowly glide 1 Oh, narrow lanes with your clasping shadows ! Oh, glad green woods where the joy-birds hide ! Do you know what has filled you so full of bUss ? You have felt the touch of my Father's kiss. 21 He eame to the earth with the early dawning, And wondrous light o'er the mountain broke. Oh, leaping, laughing, luxurious morning, Tou saw His face when you first awoke ; And that has made you so swift to go With gentle hands over fields below. Oh, ardent noon, with your dazzling splendour Of lighted landscapes and cloudless skies. Gladly your praiseful songs you render, Aiid look to Him with your tearless eyes ; It is He who has made you so grandly cabn, And He waits the meed of your thankful psalm. Oh, happy hours of the tender gloaming, Ye bring Him hearer than all the day ; He comes wherever His children, roaming, Talk of Him in the shaded way. Though they only know by BBs soft caress How closely their Father has come to bless. Ah, wonderful worldful of bright things dreaming, I would not change with you, either one'; He makes my happiness more than seeraing. He is my. Summer, and He my Sun : ■ I am glad He loves you, but earth nor star Is dear to Him as His children are. Sing out, bright world ! We will sing together. We love Him dearly, both you and I ; He cares for us all through the sweet fair weather, And we all are glad, for we feel Him nigh ; But the earth is almost Heaven to me When my eyes are opened the Lord to see. 22 " And He said, Let me go, lor the day breaketh.' Not yet the gol9en stars die out, And but a touch of grey Creeps up among the eastern clouds ; It cannot be the day ! Oh, let the night last long, dear Lord, Nor grieve me -with that parting word. It is so good to be alone With silence and with Thee, With darkness all around, but light Enough Thy face to see, That I would stUl the day forget — It cannot be the morning yet ! Keep back the gaudy glare of day, And hide the staring flowers. And l^t me only see Thyself Through all these peaceful hours. Until my heart has looked her fill. And with excess of joy grows still. Oh, waken not the singers yet ; They crowd about my way. And tire me e'en with sweetest songs. Oh, bid the sUenoe stay. That but Thy whispers soft and clear May fall upon my straining ear. 23 Press down the eyelids of the earth, And steep the world in dreams, So that it be not early roused By these few fitful gleams ; Oh, give me neither Hght nor love. If with then- dawn Thou dost remove. Yet still the day breaks in the east, And Thou art leaving me, As, rising like the morning's mists. Life's busy scenes I see : So I arise, for Thy love's sake, And faithfully its duties take. But when the eventide di-aws nigh. And when the day is dead, Lord, my God, abide with me. And be my Day instead. 1 win not ery for life or light ; Thou art in darkness, blessed night ! Uxman, As for the water-brooks the hart. So pants my soul, God, for Thee : In mountain shades I sit apart And long the Uving God to see. At eventide the himted deer Comes down its bumiag thirst to slake : I thirst for Thee, God, come near And bless me for Thy mercy's sake. 24 The day is dark, -witli many woes ; I cannot feast for hindering tears, My friends have changed to scornful foes, Though once heloved through many years. They taunting say, " Where is thy God ?" But once our Zion's happy ways With thankful multitudes I trod, And kept with them glad holidays. Yet, why art thou cast down, my soul ? And why disquieted with grief. Since God thy troubles can control. Or bless thee with a swift relief ? He cannot slight thee, nor forget. He cares for thee with tender grace ; Hope thou in Him, and praise Him yet For the clear beaming of His face. God, my soul is low oast down, Therefore will I remember Thee ; 1 bend my head for sorrow's crown. Since it is Thou who crownest me. And after all the wasteful pain, That steals the brightness from my days, I will lift up my head again, God of help, and give Thee praise. As yet the sorrows do not sleep. The wild, wild waves go over me, But though " deep caUeth unto deep," 1 am Thy sheltered refugee ; Yea, Thine my Father, ever Thine, Thou canst not keep my soul away ; Thy loving-kindness soon shall shine Upon my night, and make it day. 25 So I will sing my songs to Thee, And hope in Thee whate'er betide ; For Thou hast not forgotten me, Although Thy face Thou seem'st to hide. Thou art my Book on which I stand, Thou art my Comforter and Friend, And Thou wilt bring me to Thy land : — Father, I trust Thee to the end. " They shall praise the Lord that seek Him. ' — David. How best shall I praise Thee, merciful Father ? How speak of the feeling that lieth heart-deep ? Can I sing a sweet song to Thee ? Nay, I would rather Lie low in Thy presence, and, thanking Thee, weep. They sing whose strong hands clasp some newly-found treasure ; They sing who escape from the every-day strife ; They sing whose clear vision looks out upon pleasure ; — But I ? Thou hast given me better than life. Nay, I cannot sing ; but, my Father, Thou knowest All, all I would say to Thee, if I could speak. And the glad love that springs to Thee, aye as Thou showest How tender and good Thou canst be to the weak. None knew — could I tell them ? — ^how blue skies were clouded, How wild winds were sighing across the drear sea. How the sights I loved best in grey shadows were shrouded ; I only could whisper my trouble to Thee. 26 None told me— how could thsy ?— the way o'er the mountain, And lone was the path which no other feet trod ; I was near unto death, but I drank at Thy fountain. And Thou wert my Guide, my compassionate God. The night passed away, and the snares are all broken. The silence is ended, the sorrow is past ; Of Thy love Thou hast given me many a token ; — I thank Thee ; but none is so great as the last. I thank Thee, Lord ! for Thy haste to deliver ; I thank Thee still more for the danger and pain : They have taught me how greatly Thou lovest me ever ; I thank Thee, I bless Thee, my grief waiS my gain. 'gmbtB ^nly. The Master will look' at His trees to-day As He walks by the white road-side. While the music of pleasure is in the air Of the brilliant summer-tide ; And as upward He raises those tender eyes With soUoitous love made sad, What shall be seen on the strong young trees That shall make the Master glad ? He planted them aU in their sunny homes With loving and skilful care. And round about them He caused to breathe The warmth of the scented air ; Shade and sunshine were freely given. And dews and gentle rains ; And what have the trees to show to-day For the Master's loving pains? 27 Tender green of the dancing leaves, And strength of branch and limb : A home for many a singing bird, And a gentle shade for Him ? But the Master is looking for fruit to-day, Hidden by shioing leaves. For the harvest joy is upon the earth, And the fields have golden sheaves. Alas ! for the trees that are straight and tall, And covered with leaves of green, Lifting their faces evermore To be kissed by the silver sheen ; If they only live to be beautiful. And have nothing but leaves to-day For the lips which are parched in the summer's heat, For the weary that pass that way ! Alas ! for the trees that have only leaves For the Master's piercing gaze, Who have lived and flourished and bloomed in vain After these many days ! What if the Master should say to them, " Never shall fruit be seen On the trees that cumber the useful ground. And have nothing to show but green" ? Patient Master, be patient stiU, Smite not the trees to-day. Nor let the blight of Thy stem rebuke Hasten the swift decay. Let them linger a season yet. For perchance there soon may be Not leaves alone for Thy searching glance. But ripened fruit for Thee. 28 U Mot When Sir Jacob Astley, who commanded the Boyal infantry at Edge- hiU, was about to charge, he uttered this prayer, " Lord, it I forget Thee, do not Thou forget me." Beady equipped for life's mystical battle, Helmet fastened and sword in hand, Half afraid of the loud death-rattle. On the edge of a hill of spears I stand, One of the band ; This is my war-cry : — Do not forget me. Lord of the battle, God of might ; Do not forget me, though I forget Thee ; Lord, stand by me, and help the right. Stand by me now ! I halt to listen To beating drum and to clashing sword ; Forest of weapons flash and glisten. And forth I go in the name of the Lord, Strong in His word. Do not forget me, God of power Do not forget me amid the fight ; Though I forget Thee in this dread hour, Stm stand by me and help the right. Closer and closer they press around me, Men who scorn me and foes who hate ; And at times when the fire and the smoke surround me, I am alone and desolate ; But for Thee I wait. Do not forget me, God of heaven ! Do not forget me amid the night ; Let the strength of my foes to-day be riven. Stand by me, God, and help the right. 29 To Thee, Lord, do I look to ever ; Thou art my Captain evermore ; But still as I fight in my mad endeavour My ears are deafened with shriek and roar ; So o'er and o'er I can but ery to Thee : Do not forget me, Do not forget me, God of might 1 Though in the battle I should forget Thee, StiU stand by me and help the right. I will fight on iu the terrible battle. Helmet fastened, and sword in hand ; But in the midst of the loud death-rattle, God have mercy and near me stand. This is my war-cry :— Do not forget me. Lord of the battle, God of might ; Do not forget me, though I forget Thee, Lord, stand by me, and help the right. Com^ nnia gtf. A STILL small voice speaks to me evermore The while I walk life's hills and valleys o'er ; I stay and listen for it wistfully — " Come unto Me." I would not miss it for all sweetest sounds Of music with which happy earth abounds ; The words are fuU of tenderest melody — " Come unto Me." Full well I know who speaks them day by day ; I cannot often see along the way The Friend whose voice 1 love ; but stiU saith He, " Come unto Me." 30 It is a whisper in the hush of night, It is the greeting of the morning light, And all day long I hear it thankfully — " Come unto Me." It is not drowned by all the noise of throngs, And in the peaceful sounds of even-songs I catch the sweet words, spoken tenderly — " Come unto me." I am bewildered often-times by life. And long to steal away from all the strife ; And then how precious these dear words can be- " Come unto Me." Jesus, my Saviour, thus I answer make, Invite me always for Thy great love's sake. For I, in life or death, would ever be Coming to Thee. Cheist, my Saviour, though the way is long, I try to walk its pathways patiently ; For evermore, with prayer and earnest song, I come to Thee. 1 come, Lord, in all weakness and aU want, I have no gifts that Thou shouldst welcome me ; But for the strength and goodness Thou canst grant, I come to Thee. 81 There is no hour in all the changeful day But something makes me long Thy face to see ; And still, though many cares would stop the way, I come to Thee. I dare not venture but for Thy kind word ; But when a whisper says " Come unto Me," I know it is Thy voice that I have heard. And come to Thee. I come because I cannot keep away ; I need Thee, Lord, so much to strengthen me ; For wisdom in the duties of each day I come to Thee. Because I need Thy light my feet to guide. Because the way is rough and dark to me, Because all needful grace Thou wilt provide, I come to Thee. I am so sure of Thy great tenderness, Jesus, my Saviour, that confidingly In loneliness, and weakness, and distress, I come to Thee. I come so often that I shall not fear At last to stand by death's dividing sea ; I gladly o'er the waters. Saviour dear. Will come to Thee. 32 U ^xfa^i^ Stongt^. We have opened our eyes to the hosts that are near With the enemies' badge on each insolent brow ; But the hand of our Captain forbids us to fear, And we utter one word — but one word — as we bow, " Master, give us strength now." " See the danger before you !" Men cry it aloud. We peer through the night, but the stars are all dim. " What is it ?" goes up from the wondering crowd, " A mountain to climb, or a river to swim ?" " Make us strong !" is our hymn. A song of faint music floats up in the air, A dazzle of brightness shines out through the night ; " Oh, let us not yield !" is our passionate prayer. " Though duty is sternness, and pleasure dehght. Make us strong — for the right." " Come, bury your dead." We are faint and we weep, They are jewels and gold, must they sink in the wave ? They are friends, must their beautiful shining eyes sleep ? Here are flowers, must we move them to dig us a grave ? " Make us strong — to be brave." We are tired of our journey, and fainting for rest ; We hunger and thirst, very long is the hill ; We are strangers and pilgrims unowned, dispossessed ; We stretch out hands empty for no one to fill. " Make us strong — to be stiU." S3 Father ! most patient, most loving, and true. Thou heareat all day this our pitiful song ; Oh, teU us that seasons shall only be few. That rest is not far and the way is not long. " Make us strong, make us strong." '§mul Was it, indeed, the time of night ? I was alone in the silent calm. And only the stars poured down their light. And the low brook chanted its even-psalm. There was no music within my soul. Very dark was the night to me ; Sad thoughts rose in my heart, and stole All the Ught that was fair to see. But One came to me. I knew Him not. Only I knew I was not alone ; A strange joy lighted the quiet spot. And my soul was cheered by a tender tone. My heart went out to the Friend unseen I seemed to hold Him with eager hand. Till I lost the want that had lately been. And felt rm/ Father beside me stand. Bolder I grew in the might of love, Craving blessings the rich and rare. For now I had not to soar above On the failing wing of uncertain prayer. 4 34 God stood by me. As friend with friend, I talked to Him in the sacred hour ; And importunity gained its end, And I prevailed, for He gave me power. AH is over, the light has shone. Naught but love is in any eyes ; But I long for that hour with God alone Under the shade of the midnight skies. Now I journey with rapid feet Where pleasant pastures and bright flowers be ; But I weary again my God to meet. Nor let Him go tiU He blesses me. Jfm'jgibin;. " He frankly forgave them botli." Both forgiven, you and I, you for less and I for more ! Both have heard His gracious words as we never heard before ; Both have tasted wondrous grace looking in the Master's face. Long the debt had crushed us down, yours was not so great as mine, But our poverty had need both alike of love divine. And the Saviour's tenderness stooped and hastened both to bless. You rejoice to be forgiven ere your debt had larger grown ; I have joy that love could pardon such offences as my own ; Both have joy in Christ the Lord for His peace-inspiring word. Both forgiven ! Oh, let us sing of His mercy evermore ; Let us leave the things behind for the prize that is before ; Let us ever closer press to the Lord our Eighteousness. 35 Both forgiven such debts as ours ! Then let no more hate or strife, Harshness, or intolerance, creep within and spoil our life ; Let us both forgiTing be, as the Lord who made us free. Both forgiven and healed and loved ! Friend, for this almighty love Let us praise Him day by day till we see His face above, And we join the happy song of the great forgiven throng. " And he said xmto me, My grace is sufficient for thee." The din of earth was in my ears. And sword-like words of bitter wrath ; My eyes grew blind with many tears, I stumbled in the onward path ; But through the gloom there beamed a light. And gentle whispers came to me. My Saviour cheered me in the night, " My grace sufficient is for thee." A timid child, distressed, dismayed, I could not help but shrink from pain, But His kind hand was on me laid. And He has made me strong again. I cannot see the way to go, I only ask to do His wiU, But whatsoe'er He makes me know. His grace is all-sufficient stiU. The onward way is dark enough, And difficult the mountain steep, The wilderness is long and rough, But I no longer halt and weep, i* 36 For loving words are mine to hear, And strong, kind hands are claspiag mine. I know I love Thee, Saviour dear. And grace sufficient still is Thine. And now I do not fear the pain, Thy children Bhould not he afraid ; The world is growing bright again. My heart is strong that was afraid. Send to me what Thou seest best, Give to me what I really need. For trust in Thee is sweetest rest. And I, Thy child, am blessed indeed. Pi% Cornet^. " I win lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometli my help." Watchman, what of the night ? Dark are the clouds and wild. The silenoe is deep and profound. Does He forget His child ? Not a star in the wide, wide space its glory and light reveals. And I listen, hushing my breath, for a sound of His chariot wheels. Watchman, what of the night ? Surely it lasts too long 1 When vfiU the sweet day break with music, and mirth, and song ? I am weary to see the dawn steal over the distant East, For then would the strife be o'er, then I might rest and feast. Watchman, what of the night ? I am beaten on every hand. For I fight in the battle alone, and my foes are a mighty band But I earnestly lift my eyes to the hUl-tops so dark and grey. From whither my help must come, and it cannot be far away. 37 Watohman, what of tlie night ? There's a sound of hope in the air, A wonderful joy is given, I gather new strength in prayer. What do the signs all mean? He eometh, my help, my Lord, Cometh and tarrieth not, fulfilling His graeious Word. Gone is the night from me, gone are the coward fears, Now for the joy and song instead of the grief and tears, Now I have help enough, whatever the tasks may be, God is my Help and Shield, a Keeper and Friend to me. Fathee, who to us hast given. Love and friends, as summer flowers. Who hast brought the once sad-hearted To the joys of many hours. Hear us, in Thy love divine. Let the friends we love be Thine. Lo ! they gather at the fireside — Happy hearts, and shining eyes ; And they walk along the valleys, Cheering us with sympathies ; But we ask Thee evermore Let them all Thy name adore. Look upon the merry children. Look upon the happy young ; And by their sweet, ringing voices. Let Thy words of praise be sung. That their gladdened lives may be Given alone, Lord, to Thee. 38 When shall fall the evening shadows, And the sunset dyes are deep, And Thy children, safely sheltered. Calm and happy fall asleep. And hands uncling that held us fast, Let not that parting be the last. Let us meet again in heaven, In undivided families ; Let us never miss our children In the land beyond tlie skies ; In Thy home and near to Thee, Let us ■with our dear ones be. " The Bhadow of a great Rock in a weary land." PiLGEiMS under blazing suns pass through weary-land, Burning sands beneath their feet, and on either hand Barren, dreary, desert miles, scorched and hot and dry. And no spring of water near, so they fain would die. As they creep, with lagging feet, 'mid a sudden hush. Sweetest music comes to them from where waters gush, Ahd a mighty sheltering Book lifts its guarding head In the toilsome wilderness where the pilgrims tread. Oh, how sweet the even-song in that shadow raised ! Oh, how gladly souls refreshed have the Father praised ! Little children laugh and sing, and the way-worn weep Happy tears of grateful joy ere they fall asleep. 39 I, a pilgrim in a path like tlie desert sand, Far from home, and sighing oft for my fatherland, I have found a sheltering Bock, — in its sacred shade I, with low-voiced, happy song, have at evening laid. " Book of Ages, shelter me," in the weary-land ! Thus I cried. Now gently led by an unseen hand. In the Book's great shadow I ever rest and hide Till the storms are overpast, and I in heaven abide. ©I^e ^tnxht Cm'ir. Joshua ii. 18; Heb. xlBl. " Theke are sounds as of timorous feet Without in the dusky street ; There are dismal warnings abroad in the air, And startled men utter a strange new prayer. So come, my people, and we will close The door of our house upon all our foes, And see if the scarlet cord Can safety and peace afford. " I have seen a wondrous sight In the blaze of the morning's light, A mighty army, men strong and brave, Standing beside our Jordan's wave. And the priests, the ark of the Lord who bore. Went into the waters the hosts before ; And they all, at the Lord's command, Came over upon dry land. 40 " And they set twelve stones up there, In the midst where the waters were ; And twelve memorial-stones are set In GUgal's plains, that they ne'er forget The wonders that God has wrought, and His praise Is to be with their children all their days. Oh, the God they serve is great, And His hosts are without the gate. "But terror has eome since then. For thousands of mighty men Have encompassed each day our city's walls. And their solemn silence my heart appals, And aU our warriors are white with dread. But in the window I hang the thread, And my terror is turned away. Though this is the seventh day." With a, heavy and fearful sound Seven times they marched around The walls of the city, and at last The priests blew their trumpets with mighty blast. And the people shouted Uke thunder, till The walls came down at Jehovah's will. But the scarlet thread was seen, And BaJiab was safe within. Oh, in the last great day. When the heavens shall pass away. And Thou shalt come who art Lord of all. And at sound of Thy voice the hiUs shaU fall. 41 - And the earth shall melt in a fiery flood, May the token red of Thy preoions blood Be to ua all, Lord, Like the sign of the scarlet cord. IIb- C^owg^is nxz not ^ant C^owg^^ts. Wk speak hard sentences. " He has no place In the uprearing of the house of God." "^This one knows not the heights and depths of grace ;" And " He must be brought near, but by the rod." Thus harshly judge we ; but the Lord above Is fuU of pity, tenderness, and love. We hesitate before the entrance dim Of paths that lead to pleasure ; and the grave. Low, solemn music of the heavenly hymn Has made us cowards who would fain be brave. We are afraid, within our Father's land. Of things we are not wise to understand. " Now by this token," say we, "time shall fliug Only its bitter blossoms at our feet ; The years have only winters, and shall bring Dead leaves and louring clouds our steps to greet ;" While God has sent His affluence of rain Only to make the summer smile again. We touch the water with our foot, and start Back shivering ; frightened are we, knowing not That it will give us strength for hand and heart — That it is only Christ's forget-me-not ; And should remind us that He passed before. And will return to help us to the shore. 42 Tather, forgive us, that we, impotent, Have dared to think Thy thoughts are like our own ; And said, 'Twas thus, or thus, that Thou hast meant, When Thou canst read the wondrous page alone. Help us to be content till Thou dost show All that we try to see, but cannot know. ^t^aisK^- Slavdom, The glare of life had blinded me, I could not even see The sweet green beauty of the fields, The freshness of the lea. Where'er I turned my aching eyes All was as brass to me. My heart, was parched like summer grass, My life was scorched and bare ; I had not e'en the power to love, Or energy to care. And there settled o'er my aching head The dun cloud of despair. But like Bweet music loved of yore, Or unforgotten lays. There came into my weary heart, That had no thought of praise, A Name that had been dear as love In other, happier days. " Jehovah-Shalom ! " Was it borne Upon the summer breeze ? 43 Or did an angel whisper it To me among the trees 1 Or did the Lord remind His child In holier tones than these ? My lips caught up the joyful sound, " The Lord send peace to-day ! " My heart grew strong with love and hope, My tongue was loosed to pray. And I arose with glad dehght, And passed along my way. No longer glows the noonday sijn Upon my drooping head, N or faint I now in duU despair, For I have joy instead. And God's dear name is in my heart, And I am comforted. \s/ Mag jof "^tmit. " Wliatsoever He saitk unto you, do." Ye need not urge the unready mind to scan the future's hidden maze, Nor seek to climb the mountain-heights to mark the course of devious ways. Ye only need to turn aside as indicated by the Guide. Ye need not come with deafening cries, and stand before the closed gate; Ye need but loot unto the Lord, and with a childlike patience wait Until beneath His clearer light ye see and understand the right. 44 But wlien His will has been revealed, and He has spoken His com- mand. Oh, witli no faltering step go on, but watch the bidding of His hand, And gladly go to hiU or dale with courage that shall never fail. And do not fear though hard and strange the things He bids you do should be. Stretch out the withered hand at once, or walk to Him across the sea; A wondrous power comes with His word, and you shall know He is the Lord. Even the feasts we keep on earth have mirth nor pleasure without Him; But at His bidding have no fear, pour in the water to the brim ; The smile of God may on it shine, and change the water into wine. Oh, pass not dreary days in pain, and grow not old with anxious care. But look into the Master's face with perfect trust and patient prayer. Behold, He sees and cares for you, then whatsoe'er he teUs you, do. %, §I.essmjg[. " Ob this wise ye shall bleas th^ohildi'en ol Israel. The Lord bless thee and keep thee." — Numbers to. 23-26. Summers have faded and winters passed With their meed of smiles and tears, Joy and sorrow have sown their seed In the valleys of the years. Since the man of God in the wilderness Learnt of the Highest the way to bless. 45 And still when the flowing tide of love In the human heart to-day Swells, and snrges, and leaps, and speaks In the might of its sea-like sway. Know we that stronger words are not Than this ancient hlessing unforgot. The mother no holier wish can find For the darling of all her care ; The lover, in rapturous tenderness, • Whispers the same sweet prayer ; And in glad communion of friend with friend This blessing with fondest words will blend. God bless thee, and keep thee, and turn to thee His face with the shining light ; God lift up His countenance over thee In the might of His love's delight, And give thee peace. So the blessing-words Fall on the heart's responding chords. ■ In the days of joy which shall come to thee, In thy nights of peaceful rest. With the loved and the loving ones ever near, Thus may thy Ufe be blest, Till the happy day and the tranquil even End in the blessings of home and heaven. 46 %Qi)i €xQ^i]a-&bL Very late the sun was setting, very long the day had been, And her eyes were dim with watching life's bewildered, dazzling scene ; Tired were hands that since the morn had wrought at many a task around, And the feet were weary pacing countless miles upon the ground. She had been a long time ready, waiting for the sinking sun. But the Lord had kept her busy, and her work was not yet done ; So she lingered, looking westward, till at last the oaU had come, And she smiled her farewells gladly, in contentment speeding home^ She had tpiled, of self forgetful, all the long and weary day. Living mostly for the children God had given to cheer her way ; But some sons had gone before her, she had closed their dying eyes. And her heart was with her treasure, up beyond the placid skies. She has had her meed of sorrow, she has shed her share of tears. Was she not indeed a pilgrim traveUing over fourscore years ? But at last the strife is over, and the battle has been won. And she has her time of resting, after good work nobly done. Very glad to see the mother must the sons in heaven be ; WiU she come to meet the others when they cross the narrow sea ? Heaven must be growing home-like, for the old friends gather there, And the dear familiar faces make the blessed land more fair. Best in peace, oh, happy pilgrim, who hast entered into life, And forget amid the glory aU the sorrow and the strife ; Take the glory Christ shall give thee, wear the crown, enjoy the rest. For though earth has had its pleasures, life is sweet and heaven is best. 47 %mx i^& iijgp. I THANK Thee, my Father, for the darkness, Though it was so dense and deep ; Though the hours were long and tedious while I waited For the coming of sweet sleep. Yet the morning makes amends with its glad light For the night. I thank Thee, my Father, for the midnight : It was most profound and still ; But it brought to me a solemn, sacred whisper, And I learnt Thy blessed will. Now I know how deeply happy night can be Spent with Thee. I thank Thee, my Father, for the sorrow. It was very hard to bear ; But I bless the tribulation, for it brought Thee In swift answer to my prayer ; And Thy tender hands which wrought for my release Gave me peace. I thank Thee, my Father for the tempest. For the rain, and wild wind's roar. Sweet it made to me Thy promise of a country Where the storm shall beat no more ; And Thine own beloved in calm serenity Live with Thee. I thank Thee, my Father, for Thy dealings ; They were always for the best. Thou hast crowned my way with goodness and with blessing. And hast given me love and rest. Now I pray abide with me when day is bright. And at night. 48 Fkom the shores of the summer sea To the home ■where I fain would be, I lift my eyes when the morn is bright : I dream of its glory of golden Ught, Till I long for the call to come, — The call to my own sweet home. I think how the glad hosts sing In the land of the gracious King, And wave their palms in the sunny air, And rest by the rivers that sparkle there. And never shed bitter tears Through the whole of the blessed years. Oh, home of the good and free, There is room in thy walls for me ! I catch a ghmpse of the distant spires. And my soul leaps up into strong desires To be in the land I love, — The beautiful land above. I think of the happy throng ; I think of the sighless song. They sing together in sweet accord. And they strike their harps before the Lord And they gaze in the Saviour's face So fair in its tender grace. But I am a stranger yet. Though the blessed tribes have met In the promised land and beyond the gate I am tired and lonely, but still I wait 49 Till I finisli the work I do, And the Father shall call me too. And glad are the days to me As I stay by the parting sea, For He gives me each morning some lowly task, And all the grace and the strength I ask, And the promise that He will come Shortly to fetch me home. Only I can but pray In the light of the summer day — Let not Thy chariot wheels be slow. But take me forth in the sunset glow From the shores of the changing sea To the home where I fain would be. " Their eyes were opened, and they knew Him." The shadows of evening lie thick on the wold. And dark is the pathway and dreary the night ; But our hearts have grown suddenly fearless and bold, For the Master is standing revealed to our sight, And the world becomes bright. He, walking with us in the difficult way Speaks true words and strong till our courage is high. We hear with hushed breath what He lingers to say. Growing glad with the thought that the Saviour is nigh. As He whispers, 'Tis I. 5 50 We live in a moment the rapture of years, While He stays -with us, talks -with us, making us strong, TiU, forgetting our sorrow, and drying our tears, With steps that are eager, and voices of song, Around Him we throng. We gladly and gratefully pass on the way. Clinging still to His side, looking stiU for His hand, Till we reach the fair temple, the City of Day, And dwell in His presence within the bright land. Where His chosen ones stand. Saviour who lovest us, come in the night 1 Come when we are fainting and longing for Thee ! Come Thou in the darkness, and change it to light ! Come as now, to the captives, and make us all free Thy beauty to see ! §iBt in t^£ f 0i'ir. PiLGKiMS over snow-clad mountains, which are steep and desolate. While the blinding mists hide from thee the far-off celestial gate. There is heard a sweet voice saying, " Even though the way be dim, Best thee in the Lord for ever, and wait patiently for Him." Fret not for the evil-doers ; even in the storm be calm ; Let thy soul amid the tumult sing its trustful, sacred psalm ; There are gathered round about thee unseen hosts of cherubim, " Best thee in the Lord for ever, and wait patiently for Him." Weary pilgrim, beaten soldier, frightened at the gathering foes, Crod will fight the battle for thee, He will give thee sweet repose. 51 Though there lurk amid the shadows cruel faces hard and grim, " Best thee in the Lord for ever, and wait patiently for Him." He will come. He will not tarry, He is listening to thy ory^ Will the tender Lord who loves thee leave thee there alone to die ? He will change the clouds to sunlight, fill thy joy-cup to the brim, " Best thee iu the Lord for ever, and wait patiently for Him.'' Glad the rest that He wiU give thee, when the evening groweth late ! He wiU fold His arms about thee, — happy pilgrim, look and wait ; He will call thee soon, and teach thee anthems sung by seraphim, " Eest thee in the Lord for ever, and wait patiently for Him." C0 t^z WW- The pilgrims of sorrow march ever along Where the pathway is rough and the hill-Bides are steep. And the weary feet strive to keep time with the song. And the brave eyes look upward, forgetting to weep. They march through the shadows and darkness of night. And stumble sometimes in the difficult way. But their course is for ever BtUl on to the light, And their wistful eyes look in the East for the day. What care they for darkness, and silence, and tears ? What reck they though bitter and strong be the blast ? The road is a homeward one — short are the years ; And soon will the time of their sorrow be past. 5* 52 Oh, sweet are the voices that woo them to rest, And many the fingers that beckon them back ; But they will not return o'er the path they have pressed, They will not fall off from the clearly-marked track. So, on march the pilgrims ! Oh, ye who stand stiU And know not the King, and desire not His home. Unite with that band, and press on up the hill, Tin ye see in the distance the temple's fair dome. Ye stay in the shadows, and wait in the night, Though the storm-voice is heard and the winter is cold ; These pilgrims are marching straight on to the light — Oh, hasten with them to the city of gold. And be not content with inglorious ease. Nor halt for the obstacles placed in the way ; But gladly march onward the Captain to please, TiU the night is behind, and ye live in the day. It Smut. " He went in to tarry with them." — Luhe. Fak we had wandered o'er fell and mountain, With sinking hearts and with weary feetj Speaking of One who was absent from us, Wistfully longing the Lord to meet. Darker and deeper became the shadows. Evening faded to early night. We spoke in whispers to one another Of Him who changes the gloom to light. 63 And He came to UB, the Friend, the Saviour, Softly and closely to us He came, Our hearts grew glad with a peaceful rapture, We turned and saw Him, and spoke His name. Then the journey was dark no longer, A few more steps and it aU was o'er, A few sweet words from our kind Companion, And then we stood at our dwelUng-door. But what was home if He did not enter. What were friends if He kept away? We could not conquer our grief at parting, So Christ came with us, and came to stay. Now it never is night around us, He is with us, we are not sad ; Jesus comforts us, helps us, heals us. Makes His sorrowful children glad. Never more do we wish to wander Into the dark and dreary night ; Christ the Saviour has come to tarry,' And now we live in His glorious light. Yet darker grow the skies above us bending, Over the hiUs the heavy shadows creep ; Slow are the steps of all men, homeward tending. And all things long for sleep. 54 The streets are full of tlie sounds of children playing The final games before the day shall close ; And earnest little voices whisper, praying For safe and sweet repose. And dreamily I sit, and see, and listen, With strangely languid pulse and quiet brain, And eyes too weary of the world to glisten. Too sad to smile again. 50 many thousand weary ones are sitting. Folding weak hands beside the dying fire. Thronged by dark thoughts that they would fain, for- getting, See with the day expire. What is there in the world for all the weary But strife and conflict, toil and restlessness ? Are there no angel forms to cheer the dreary With restful blessedness ? 5 1 . 1 J; ill the SaTioui's voice is calling, " Come (to Me, and I will give you rest," And everywhere tired hearts are gladly falling Upon His tender breast. And though the cares and pains of life are pressing, And many souls long for the precious night ; Where Jesus comes is always rest and blessing, — Oh, come into His light. 55 'Tis a long and weary distance To the Father's house on high, But the homeward-bound and longing Press across it patiently : And there comes, amid the stillness Of the weird and silent night. From the windows of the homestead. Now and then a gleam of light. Up the steep and rugged mountain, Through the sloppy, slippery street, March the bands of little children. Patter rapid little feet. And a sound of firmer footsteps Eings where troops of soldiers tread. To the presence of the Captain, From the "city of the dead." They are halting now and weary ; ; , i And anon with buoyant spring. Pass they nearer, ever nearer. To the palace of the King. In the night and in the morning, In the sunshine or the sleet. Comes the echo of the ringing Of the homeward-hastening feet. Many faces growing rigid From the tempest's cutting night. Many eyes so over-weary Of their watching for the light ; S6 Many aching hearts lamenting For the joy that does not come ; Many fears, and mu^ch desponding, Do they carry toward their home. But the feet are going nearer, Very near the shining gate, Soon the angel hands shall open. Though the night be dark and late. Nearer, nearer, ever nearer. To the home where God shall greet ; Nearer, nearer, ever nearer. Press the homeward-hastening feet. #0ob-iiigp. PoiiDS of darkness wrap away From our sight the lingering day ; Close the volume, let it die, And among the buried lie. All is over— joy and pain. Saddening loss and gladdening gain. Never more shall this one clay Lend its radiance to our way. Good-night ! Hosts of fair-haired children he Wrapped in slumber peacefully ; Wrinkled brows of weary men Wear a look of peace again ; 57 Even sorrow stays its tears, Glancing back at brighter years ; And tbe night-dreams make amends For many foes and lack of friends. Good-night ! Let the weary eyelids close ; Let the weary limbs repose ; Let the busy brain grow stiU, And the true heart cease to thrill. Lay aside the robe of care, And, with whispered word of prayer, Pass away from earth's alarms To the " Everlasting Arms." Good-night ! Shrink not from the lonely night, Though tbe friends pass out of sight ; God will only nearer be. Still with kind eyes watching thee. Angel forms with shadowy feet Bound the coueh of slumber meet. And the dead, but unforgot, "Watch vrith eyes that weary not. Good-night ! When another night shall fall. And a sterner voice shaU caU, And a waste of waters dark Surge around thy lonely barq^ue. Do not thou in terror weep — Close thine eyes and fall asleep ; God win wake thee with a kiss To a morn of perfect bUss. Good-night ! 58 " C^^at J mag knrricr pim." Little it matters imto me that faces are but close-sealed books, Tbat life is wrapped in folds of miste, and the earth is not as it loots, That though the world is broad and fair, but puzzUng characters are there. I cannot fix my aching eyes on silent heavens that will not speak. Nor down iuto the depths of earth with eager questions try to seek. I send my longings to be wise beyond the reach of seas or skies. But with full steadfastness of soul, I fain would set myseU to know The knowledge that can make me wise, and safe, and peaceful here below. The knowledge of the Son of God, who for love's sake earth's dark ways trod. I turn away from many books ; they are but fountains that are dried, I turn to Christ, for there alone my heart and soul are satisfied. And I would live for evermore in study of that blessed lore. And so one thought is in my heart the while I pray for greater light. It is, Saviour, whom I love, teach me to learn of Thee aright ; Still at Thy feet I fain would be, and only listen, Christ, to Thee. Help me with dUigenoe and 5;eal this blessed knowledge to attain ; For though but little I can learn, that little is my greatest gain. Until I " know as I am known," and see Thy face before the throne. 59 %txoBB f^t S^a. To the sloping banks where the waves are oreeping,- The waves that me from my home divide, — I come and look in the time of weeping To the Ughted shore on the other side. I wait, for the tide is a message bringing Prom those I love on the heavenly shore, And it seems sometimes I can hear them singing The songs that are sweet to me evermore. And oft when the sea has a sHver shimmer, And the tiny wavelets flash and play, I can fancy it like the distant glimmer Of the crowns they wear who are far away. I look and listen, and so am pressing Close to the edge of the parting sea, For I know that soon from the land of blessing A token of love wUl be sent to me. But the days are dark and the nights have sorrow, I look in vain for a guiding star, And say, "Will he come to-day, to-morrow. That herald swift from the world afar ? " Oh, friends beloved, with your tender voices ! Oh, sweet, safe home that I long to see ! Do you know how the exile's heart rejoices When I think that my Father will send for me ? From the sloping shore where the waves are flowing I strain my eyes o'er the waters wide. And my heart grows quiet and happy, knowing I too shall pass to the other side. eo AzoRE sMes in the far-ofE height, Forest-deeps -with your shady glooms, Golden meadow-lands bathed in light, Hedges heavy with hawthorn blooms, — God is your Guest on these happy days. And ye write on a myriad leaves Hia praise. Billows that thundered in midnight caves With crests uplifted in wrathful wise, Ye all are changed into laughing waves That creep to the shore with happy sighs. Love has touched you ; your Lord has seen. And smoothed your waters to silvery sheen. Mighty mountains that frowned all night Upon valleys sleeping beneath your feet, On your hoary heads there are crowns of light, And the dales are offering odours sweet. God has visited earth to-day, And beauty and fragrance mark His way. Birds upsoaring on eager wing Cleaving your way through the scented air. So happy you are that you needs must sing. For the sun is warm and the earth is fair. And the bright heavens woo ye as up ye fly, And God who cares for you draweth nigh. There is a joy in the world to-day : Happy children with laughing eyes. And way-worn pilgrims turn to pray. Drinking deep pleasure in glad surprise ; 61 A new light rests upon heart and home, And earth is happy, for God has come. And nearer yet to the contrite soul Comes the Father whose name is Love, BlesBuig, and soothing, and making whole. Till earth seems lifted to heaven above. And the full heart whispers its breathing thus : " Visit us not, but abide with us." |it K Safe MntL Thet are away from gathering storms and winter nights of cold and rain; In God's full plenitude of joy they have forgotten all the pain That changed the hair, and touched the heart, ere they and grief had leave to part. They have been brought by rapid wings into the very home of peace ; Have sung the sweet familiar song, the chorus that shall never cease ; Have bathed the heated heart and brow, and are content and happy now. They had grown weary of the road, of all the discord and the strife That gather round this lower world, and spoil the harmony of lite ; Their feet were very tired and sore, but aU their joumeyings are o'er. They knew the pain of hope deferred, but they had faithful hearts that clung StiU to their Father and their God, howe'er their shrinMng frames were wrung, They had much sorrow here below, and they could smile and let life go. 62 But now, indeed, they truly live who have the crown, and joy, and palm; Their lips shall never falter now while joining in the holy psalm ; They were the weary, now they rest in perfect peace upon His breast. Oh, shall we weep, as oiie by one, the dear, the best-belov6d go. And we are left, alone and sad, to miss and mourn them here below ? Nay, they are safe, though we have pain, and we shall meet them soon again. I WOULD be Thine I Oh ! tender Father-heart, I would no longer dwell, Lonely and sad, from Thee, my God, apart, I would be loved so well That Thou shouldst keep me ever by Thy side. And I woiild nevermore be satisfied Unless I feel Thy light upon me shine — I would be Thine ! I would be Thine ! I listen in the night To many gentle calls. I see sweet pictures when the faint starlight In witching beauty falls. I rise to look across a placid sea. And watch fair fingers softly beckon me. Let me not go, oh 1 holy Friend Divine— I would be Thine ! 63 I would be Thine ! Where Thou art I would be, And Thou dost love to come Wherever faithful love doth wait for Thee In high or lowly home. I would but do the tasks that Thou hast set, And never in life's busiest ways forget That to obey Thee perfectly is mine — I would be Thine ! I would be Thine ! Dear Father, Thou hast given A plenteous lot to me, Not rugged is the path I tread to heaven. But smooth and fair to see. Yet even when loved lips are eloquent, And I am glad with joy that Thou hast sent. And even when dear eyes the brightest shine — I would be Thine ! I would be Thine ! I hear the angel-songs From mansions of the blest ; I have faint glimpses of the happy throngs Who in Thy kingdom rest. But even earth can almost heaven be, And toU and sorrow are like rest to me. When I can feel that Thy great love is mine — And I am Thine 64 " The eternal God is thy refuge, and nndemeath are the everlaeting arms." Why art thou so sad and restless ? Is tlie night all dark and wild ? Thou ait safe as in the daylight — thou, the Lord's belovfed child. Look not out upon the waters timidly, with shrinking fear. But look up and see thy Father in His tenderness come near. Why art thou so pale and frightened? Is the time of sorrow long? Art thou weary of thy weakness ? Best thee, for His arms are strong. Thou art safe, for He enfolds thee with His loving, watchful care ; Thou art in the place of refuge, and no arm can touch thee there. Why art thou so wild and eager, burning with intensest thought. Toiling in unrestful labour, spending all thy strength for nought ? Let Him stay the raging fever, yield to His inviting rest. Do not fret thyself for ever, He will do for thee the best. Oh, be quiet, timid, tired one. Know thyself His child. His own Do not dream that thou art wandering in unfriendly ways alone. He wiU never, never leave thee ; thou art safe from all alarms, Safe to-day, and safe for ever, in the everlasting arms. Best thee in them, and be happy ; aU shall work for good to thee, Till He bring thee, hoping, trusting, to the last dividing sea ; Even then those arms shall bear thee safely through the chilling wave, Thou shalt know Him then in heaven, true to love and strong to save. 65 ^^an sl^alt not ht %,ixmii." FSALM xci. Go forth, oh, halting soldier, To the hattle-field of hfe, Let fear nor foe deter you From the thickest of the strife ; Go,- meet the mighty armies. And be not thou dismayed, For the voice of God comes to thee — " Thou shalt not be afraid." The Lord is rook and fortress. And thou may'st trust in Him, He spreads His shadow o'er thee Whene'er the night is dim ; Nor pestilence, nor darkness, Nor famine, nor the sword, Nor noonday heat shall harm thee According to His word. No evil shall befall thee. Nor hurt nor plague shall come Near to thy guarded dwelling, For He shall be thy Home. Into the care of angels The Lord has given thee. And though thou walk 'mid dangers His hand shall set thee free. Thou'rt safe, although ten thousand At thy right hand shall fall ; The Lord will thee deliver. And answer to thy call ; 6 66 Thy love is set upon Him, And He will lift thee high, Will show thee His salvation And with long life satisfy. Oh, child of such a Father, Thou shalt not be afraid ! His love is round about thee. And be not thou dismayed, But in His strength abiding Forget the former strife. And in the trust of gladness Meet the unfolding Ufe. " There's a beaufcifnl Lmd on higli "Wliere we never Bhall Bay Good-bye." Heke the years pass on painfully and slowly. Each one snatching ruthlessly some treasure from our store ; If we would not give ourselves unto sorrow wholly. We must lift our weeping eyes to the land that lies before. Happy dreams we have sometimes, lighting up our sadness. Of the green and flowery fields, and of the sunny hill's, Of merry streams that sparHe on singing songs of gladness. Of angels in their glittering robes doing as God wills. But dearer is the thought that we shall find our friends in Heaven, Chiefly Him whose glorious face we long and faint to see. There He will receive us ransomed and forgiven. And those who were far off, and sad, shall never near Him be. 67 There with parted friends shall be safe and glad reuniou, Greetings of familiar lips as in the dear old time, And all loviiig hearts shall have free and full communion, Which amid those higher scenes shall Jbecome sublune. There true friends once met in love shall be no more pai'ted. Many tender words they say in that home on high, But they have forgotten — they, the happy-hearted. All the pain and sorrow of the last good-bye. Oh, let us be patient, then soon shall come to-morrow. And in that bright and summer land our places we shall take, In perpetual gladness shall forget our sorrow. While we take the bliss God gives for the Saviour's sake. %hx)it in P^. How can I, my Saviour ? I am in a crushing crowd. And the whirl of life is on me, and its noise is long and loud, And the quiet of that dweUing, the hush of that calm hfe. Seems like a dreamful story in the midst of all this strife. How can I be abiding iu Thee, and only Thee ? There are so many voices that daily summon me, So many hands outstretching, so many pleading eyes. Must I not dwell among them with most tender sympathies ? And yet, oh, blessed Saviour, there is a secret known In all its mystic beauty and meaning to Thine own, And Thou alone hast taught me how the spirit can abide Within Thy love's dear shelter, and in Thy shadow hide. 6* 68 Christ, keep close beside me, let nothing crowd Thee out, Not sin, nor care, nor sorrow, not unbeUef nor doubt ; Not fair entrancing pleasure, nor sweetest human love, Master, I would hold Thee all other joys above. Keep me with Thee, dear Saviour, so that my heart may be Even in care or labour a dwelling-place for Thee, And I in faith and gladness may pass the years below Until Thy love shall take me Thy fuller joy to know. Jfaxnt, ^ii '^nxBrnvcQ, Thet are " faint yet pursuing." The warfare is long. And the soldiers of Jesus not always are strong ; But the fight is for right, and with eyes on the King Still forward they press tiU the victory shall ring. They are " faint yet pursuing." Though dark is the day They look for the sun to illumine the way. Or hopefully stay in the shadows of night Till the Master shall lead them forth into the light. They are "faint yet pursuing." The way may be long, But the pilgrims of Zion break forth into song. And gladly pass on over vaUey and hill Until home and its welcomes their spirits shall thrill. They are " faint yet pursuing," but safely they stand Upheld, and directed, and kept by God's hand ; Fresh strength as they need it He ever supplies, And renders them happy, ,and mighty and wise. 69 Oh, blessed are they, for secure in His love They joyfully pass to His kingdom above, And ever are siQging till ransomed and blest. The " faint yet pursuing " shall enter His rest. ran d iro ? '' Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity." — 2 Tim, ii. 19. What can I do for the Saviour ? Can I bring to Him gifts of gold ? Can I find Him myrrh or franMncense, Or jewels of worth untold ? But all the wealth of the nations Is laid at His saered feet ; And I am so poor I have nothing For the Master's acceptance meet. Sometimes when my love is greatest, I sing TTiin a little song, But I cannot sing as the angels Who daily around Him throng ; ' So weak is my noblest anthem, I am almost ashamed to bring A trifle so far unworthy For an offering to such a King. Then what can I do for the Saviour ? I will give TTim myself again ; I will walk at His word most gladly In the paths which He maketh plain ; 70 I -will take np the lowliest service He shall appoint to me. For feehng His yoke upon me Is better than heing free. "What can I do for the Saviour ? I can try for a nobler life ; I can struggle to be a blessing In the midst of the world of strife ; I can bring to the Master's footstool The sins I have loved the best, And then through my life's unfolding, He win give me His blessed rest. This I will do for my Saviour ; I will give Him my deepest love, I will ask Him to make me ready To dwell in His home above ; For perhaps ere the season waneth, My eyes shall with death grow dim, And then in the many mansions ' I shall finish the year with Him. %M '§,mt Veky pleasant are days of rest, and sweet is the thankful psalm That through the shadows ascends to heaven in the hour of the even- ing's calm ; But the call to labour comes after rest, and the dreamers by land and sea Must nerve themselves for the stress of life, and the work that is yet to be. 71 Do ye think of the still imfimshed tasks ? Te must leave the mountain heights For the close, hot room in the city's midst, and the toilsome days and nights ; Te must pass away from the wooded glens and the rushing waterfall. When after the pleasure and play and mirth ye listen to Duty's call. But the Christian brotherhood need not halt ; there is good hrave work to do. And the battle-cry rings out to-day all the mountain passes through ; Eise up for God, and for the right, and take your weapons keen. That your future good be greater far than the goodness that has been. There are little children waiting yet for the words you have to speak. There are spirits blind who plead for light and who tender succour seek; There are souls in bondage crying out for a free and full release ; And the tempest-tossed on the sea of life pray for the dawn of peace. So come away from the lanes and dells and the cool and placid streams, From the rooks and coves where the sea-birds dwell, from the haunts of happy dreams. To the homes where sorrow and sin abound ; for though sweet is the hour of rest. It is better to rise at the call of need, and to labour for God is best. % S0n0 ai "^ma. " Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, saith the Lord." His gifts are not as the world gives — a little pleasure and much pain,- A fever-eagerness, a quest whose ending must be sad and vain,— His gifts are full of gentleness. His blessing-words can only bless. 72 Who pluek the earth-grown roses find that thorns are hidden in the stem, And aching heads have they who wear the pleasure-woven diadem ; But those who turn to Christ are blest with precious peace and sacred rest. To BKs beloved He softly comes, with tender fingers gently laid On weary forms and throbbing brows : He whispers, "Be ye not dis- mayed. For sin and sorrow all shall cease, and I will give my children peace." Oh, better than all else to us, the tempest-tossed, the tempted sore. It is to have that blessed gift, the peace of God for evermore. And 'mid the battle and the strife drink of the river of pure hfe. Peace unto those who live afar, beneath the unfamiliar skies. And peace to us who dwell at home, and hear the songs of Zion rise ; Peace to aH nations, saith the Lord, and lo it comes at His kind word. Ah, Master, give us what Thou wilt— not riches, honour, glory, fame — But give us Thy most precious gift, and while we magnify Thy name. We praise Thee for Thy mighty love, till we have perfect peace above. " Spoiling in ^lofomjgf." TossiNO about on an angry sea Is our little band to-night ; We are trembhng, tired, and constantly Looking for streak of light — Looking across the waters dark For a glimpse of the dear home shore, Wearying aU for the Master's voice To comfort us ever more. 73 - But the waves are moimtams of surge to-night, And we toil and toil in vain With strength of sinew and might of arm, Never a league we gain. Far away from the sheltered town. Where the glimmering home-lights show, Toiling in rowing we work and wait. Knowing not where we go. Once, on the waters dark and drear, To a little band dismayed, Jesus the Saviour came and said, " It is I, be not afraid." Oh, would He but come to us to-night, So that the wind might cease ! Our weary, aching arms would rest. And OUT hearts be filled with peace ! We are toihng in rowing ever more ! Life's voyage cannot but be A fragile boat among angry winds On a dark and treacherous sea. But so that He comes in the eventide. Bidding the storm be stiU, Gladly we sing, and toil, and row. Doing His perfect will. We are toiling in rowing ; but well we know One waiteth ever more, Calling to us through the dark and wind To the green and sunny shore. Home-sick and weary, we strive to guide Our boat to the glowing West, Where the angels beckon to peace and joy, And the weary ones have rest. 74 W^eit % Mina §Iofos. MouBNFULLY sighs the eastern wind Over the bleak, dark moor ; Shrillfully whistles the piercing wind In at the open door. Leaves are falling, and clouds are black, Winter is creeping near, And the music of water and forests dark Is making the world more drear. Mournfully sighs the cruel wind Over the bleak, dark moor ; Yet warmth, and light, and happy eyes Are iuside of the fastened door. But out in the damp, cold air to-night. Pacing the sloppy street. With aching heads and with suffering hearts, There are hundreds of weary feet — Weary feet and aching hearts. Nor a place where they may hide, Only a dank, dark hole or two Into which their forms may glide. Oh ! for a home for the wretched ones. For a shelter warm and bright. God pity the weary, weeping souls Who have not a home to-night ! Ay, gather more closely about the fire. And sing your sweet songs well ; You who have homes, and friends, and love. And more pleasures thaJi verse can tell. 75 But breathe not a cross or repining word If a little oare shall come, When the piercing wind sighs moximfully, What if ye had no home ? — No home, no friends, and the winter near, And the rain and wind so sad. And nothing in all the troublous world To make your spirits glad ! Oh, blessed and happy, think of this. And pity and help the poor, When moumfully sighs the eastern wind Over the bleak, dark moor. Oh, come, Lord Jesus ! We, the worn and weaiy, Can only turn our weeping eyes to Thee. Now in this night-time, desolate and dreary. Our Comforter, our Bock of Ages be. All other comforts fail us ; we are lonely. With mists upon the earth and o'er the skies. Our Light and Confidence is " Jesus only," And up to Thee alone we raise our eyes. Nothing but autumn is about us. Sighing Is heard instead of singing through the land. It is the fading time, and things are dying — Saviour ! now we need Thee ; near us stand. 76 Comforter ! come to us in our weeping. What can we do in moments of despair But to tlie footstool of Thy mercy creeping, Pour out our hearts to Thee in trustful prayer ? Thou wilt not leave us comfortless. Belying Upon Thy words we wait for Thee to-day. Give us the solace of Thy love's replying— Speak but one word, and smile our fears away. Saviour wonderful ! Our hearts grow stronger : Thou hast not left us sad and comfortless. Shall we not trust Thee ? Yet a little longer And naught shall injure us whom Thou wilt bless. All the journey is over : I stand at the river's brink, And the shadows are creeping onward- The shadows of night, I think. All the way I have journeyed, All the days of the years. All I have loved or suffered Is hidden in mists of tears. I hear a murmur of voices I have loved and heeded ong ; But now they are strangely mingled With a sound of angels' song. 77 And I look on the widening prospect With eyes that axe growing dim, And I hear, as I turn to the waters, A soft, mysterious hymn. The air that is thickening round me Is full of my friends' farewells, They are mixed with the sound of music, As of prayer-inviting bells ; And amid the murmur of waters Coming up to me here Is the sound of the harpers harpiug In the land so bright, so near. And so I am lying, waiting To leave for the other shore, . I am glad that the diffioiHt journey Of life is so nearly o'er ; I am glad that soon in His mercy The Master wiU beckon me ; And my eyes that are tired of watching Shall the King in. His beauty see. " Thou knowest not what a day may bring forth. But so long as Thou knowest, Father, Why should I be distressed ? The hours may be dark and hidden, But Thou sendest whate'er is best ; 78 Misty may be the morning, Stormy and rough the night, And yet in the peaceful evening The way may be bathed in light. Thou sendest the message solemn — I Ueten with quiet heart. For I am not alarmed, my Father, Thou takest the children's part ; And though Thou forbiddest boasting, I am not afraid to see Whatever of gloom or sunshine The morrow may bring for me. For why should I shrink from sorrow ? It has but a true friend's face. And pain has an angel's mission. And is not devoid of grace ; Many a noble lesson Is taught by the teacher Care, And after the tempest's lightning Sweet is the morning air. So why should I fear, my Father ? Nothing Thou dost is wrong ; I will welcome to-morrow's dawning With happy and trustful song. And though I have loved ones dearer Than life and its joys to me, I am not afraid to leave them, Father of love, to Thee. Perhaps in the hidden darkness Of the night that is growing late A form that is pale and sombre With a message for me may wait ; 79 But so that it speak of my Father And the heaTen to which I go, — Even of that to-morrow, I am not afraid to know ! % Jfi# fe fife. " All Thy waves and Thy hillows are gone over me." "And He e them toiling; and He cometh unto them." We watched the fighting. We on the laud Stood on the firm, unyielding sand. And saw the danger, and pain, and strife Of one who struggled in death for life. The hillows were mountains that awful day ; Our eyes grew dim with the blinding spray ; But over the water we flung a .word, " Courage, brother, trust in the Lord." The cruel waves shook him with tyrant grasp. We saw him shudder, and writhe, and gasp. And in self-soorn at our helplessness We watched our brother in dire distress. But the wild winds brought us the word he said, " Father, my Father, I am not afraid." And we smiled as we heard that victor cry, Knowing that unseen Help was nigh. The storm but laughed at the man's strong faith. It hunted him stUl to the deeps of death, And flung him into the shifting caves Of the black, and hollow, and hungry waves. 80 He seemed to be vanquislied. We heard no groan, Only the billows' thvmdering tone, But our hearts grew still with solemn fear — We had hoped that a Saviour was coming near. A short suspense, and we saw him fight His way through the waters up to light ; And " God have mercy " we whispered then. For he sank to the awful depths again. And then from the midst of the tempest came The music sweet of a precious Name, " Christ, my Saviour, I come to Thee, Helpless and faint, oh, pity me." Then we strained our eyes for a wondrous sight ; The seething waters were changed to light, For Christ passed o'er them, and on His breast Our brother lay as a child at rest. We marvelled much at his smiling eyes. Peaceful and clear as the summer skies, But dared not question bim — Could he tell The bUss of one whom the Lord loved well ? But thus he sang, " Praise Christ who saves ! He said ' Be still ' to the cruel waves. He brought me out by His own strong hand. And set my feet in a fruitful land." So he passed away from the dangerous place. With the joy of heaven in his happy face ; And already upon his forehead shone The mystic sign of the conqueror's crown. 81 % f raga-. ' Be Thou my strong habitation, wheretmto I may continually regort." Psalm Ixxi. 8, I BTABT on a journey to-day, / Whose windings I cannot see ; I know not a step of the way If pleasant or rough it be. But I hasten with staff in hand. And I do not fear to roam. Though I pass through the stranger's land, Yet the wanderer has a home. Thou art my home, Guide ! And the tired heart turns to Thee When the shadows of eventide Darken my liie's rough sea, Shelter, and warmth, and hght. And love are in my abode. So I come to Thee in the night, Thou art my home, God. There are joys that I shrink to miss, The speakings of loving eyes, The clinging arms and the kiss Of friends in the far-off skies ; But I cannot be lone or sad, For, wherever I chance to be. Thy mercy shall make me glad. And I hasten home to Thee. 7 82 So I watcli for tlie break of day To labour among Thy viaea ; I will toil and strive as I may Till the day into night declines. Give me Thy work to do, . Master ! for whom I live, And then, when the task is through, Best and a welcome give. I shall dare to be first in the fight, And first where the dangers Ue, I go forward to scale the height. Though the storm-fires blaze on high. If only, when all is done. To my shelter I may creep. And rest, with the battle won. In happy, reposeful sleep. Whenever my heart shall fail, Whenever the way is wild. Whenever the foes prevail. Father, receive Thy child. Weary, and worn, and weak. After the conflict long. Thy sheltering love I seek — Thou only canst make me strong. So I start on a journey to-day Whose windings I may not see. Having no fear of the way, For my trust is alone in Thee. I need not stay out in the storm, God, be to me as a home, Tender, and strong, and warm. To which I may always come " The MftBter is come, and calleth for thee." Why dost thou linger ? The sunset's glow Crimsons and deepens the Western skies, And thy name is spoken in whispers low, And a'voice thou knowest hast said, "Arise.' indolent spirit ! restless heart ! Dream not that here thou canst happy be. Arise and be doing a nobler part ; For the Master is come, and is calling thee. It is sad to tarry beside the grave. Mourning lost treasures with bitter tears ; Come, for the Master can make thee brave. And gUd with a blessing the coming years. Comfortless weeper. One standeth near With tender pity in holy eyes ; CJieer thee, soul, to the Saviour dear. The Master is calling, with joy arise. Turn not away from the voice divine ; Rather with love that is eager say, " Master, dear Master, I will be Thine, What wilt Thou have me to do to-day ? " If the Master give thee some work for Him, If He bid thee labour, or pray, or wait. Work or pray till the day grows dim. For thy joy is sure though it seemeth late. 7" 84 The MaBter is come, and He calleth thee ; Shall the Toioe of pleasure detain thee now Shall youth or manhood the hindrance be 1 Oh, happy spirit ! before Him bow, And hasten with all that thou hast to bring — A life's devotion, a true heart's love — Cast all thy treasures before the King, And serve Him here as thou wilt above. ■ Soon shall the looked-f or summons be Soft and sweet as the evening breath ; " The Master is come, is calling thee, ' Though the message is brought by His angel Death." Oh, in the joy of that glad daybreak, "When forth thou goest thy Lord to meet. Gladly thou shalt arise and take All that thou hast to the Master's feet. %m'osiXi)3, " Speak the word only," so we prayed, " and. Lord, the stricken shall be healed." And then we waited full of faith until His power should be revealed, And looked to see Him come again and heal the sick and cure the pain. He came as we entreated Hiln ; o\ir eager prayers were not denied ; He saw His loved ones sick and faint. He gently came and stood beside The feverish and the weary bed, and softly raised the drooping head. 85 He spoke the word we longed to hear, the mighty word of healing power, And they who had been full of pain were quite restored ia that same hour; He made them whole, and strong, and glad, who had been weary, sick, and sad. It was not as we wanted it, 'twas even better than our prayer : He raised them from the couch of pain, and carried them with tender care Into His home of perfect peace, and bade the pain and sorrow cease. "We would have kept them with us still ; He loved them better far than we; He took them from our changing hearts into His light and liberty ; And now while they His anthems swell, we meekly whisper, "It is well." They are before the throne of God : no tears are in their loving eyes, No longer weak and frail are they, for God Himself has made them wise. Oh, that to us He soon would come and take us also to His home ! Aqes ago in the Eastern lands Men watched for Him, List'ning oft for His chariot wheels As the day grew dim : They wondered if He would come again From Olivet : — With welcoming words on their lips they looked- And He tarries yet. 86 Every year across matersnowe, With wistful eyes, Eager disciples have watched for Him To come from the skies ; Every year under summer suns They have sung His praise, And cried for Him from their yearning hearts — But He still delays. They died at their watch on the beacon heights, And we take their place ; We long, as ^hey longed in the olden days, For the sight of His face ; The sad earth wants Him in her deep woe To give her rest ; But the years pass on, and He does not come To make us blest. Sometimes we look at the floating clouds, And in fancy trace The shining robes and the feet of brass, And His glorious face ; We hush OUT breath when the gloaming comes. And can almost hear The thrilling sound of His blessing words, — But He is not near. Yet courage, brothers ! We have His word. And He will not fail ; Let us be patient, and watch and wait Till our prayers prevail. He will surely come, as He said He would, In the light sublime ; And we shall forget, as we see His face, This waiting time. 87 Apap. the Western hills are dyed in glory, The opal-tinted skies are fair to see ; And I am listemng for a sweet old story, Which a dear Friend oft comes and tells to me. The golden sunset beauty softly lingers. And tinges mountain, valley, field, and rill ; I wait for music played by unseen fingers, To make the unrestful heart grow gladly still. The street is full of happy children playing The games they love the best at close of day ; And I am wistful, only softly praying, " Christ, my Saviour, keep not Thou away ! " I see the evening shadows slowly creeping Over the landscape and the closed-up flowers, And still her eager watch my heart is keeping. For He will turn to joy the darkening hours. I cannot but be glad that day is over, — The busy, bustUng day, with all its strife ; And now I wait strength, gladness to recover Prom Him who gives the fainting soul new life. And wiU He come ? He will. While I am walking Along the shaded path where creeps the night. He will come near, and, to my spirit talking. Will say, " At evening time it shall be light." 88 gentle Saviour, wonderful in kindness, Thus come to Thy disciples evermore. Hushing their fears, and pitying their bUndnesB, Until they see Thee where life's night is o'er. Little to me it matters Whither my feet are led, — If in the burning desert, Or the pastures green I'm fed, — ■Whether the storm or sunshine Be in the path I take ; For my hand is in Thine, my Father ; Thou canst not Thy child forsake. And it shall not cause me sorrow, Though the path be steep and rough ; I am Thine, Thine own for ever. And that shall be joy enough. Thine is the care, my Father — The work of providing Thine ; Only the trust, and pleasure. And the calm content, are mine. Neither shall I be anxious For the dear ones whom I love ; From Thee they are never absent — Thou reachest them from above ; And, Lord, I know they are dearer To Thee than they are to me, So I only ask Thee to take them. And do as it pleases Thee. 89 But others are only strangers, And know not the perfect peace Of those ■who beneath Thy banner Are finding their sorrows cease. They are away in the darkness, In the gloomy and silent night ; Father, receive them also, And gladden them with Thy hght. So, then, it will not matter, ■Whatever the fatvae be ; Gladly we take our journey. Leaving the rest to Thee ; And in darkness, or gloom, or tempest, StiU shall the best light shine, And joy shall come to our spirits. For, Father, we all are Thine. Strangers "^nt Sometimes the happy, lighted homes aJlure us from God's way, Sometimes we sigh 'mid beauteous soenes because we may not stay ; Sometimes earth's love-tuned voices are so pleasant and so dear, We almost wish it were not true that we are strangers here. The heavenly hiUs are far away, we see the distant blue. But evermore our Father's house is hidden from our view ; We only dream of the home-band so glad and happy there. We cannot hear the songs they sing, nor see the faces fair. And so we try these summer days to rest among the flowers. And love the blithe bird-singing of these lowlier, darker bowers. And, looking into love-bright eyes, grow half content and glad, And haste not to our heavenly home in brighter beauty clad. 90 But Thou, Lord, art merciful ; Thou wilt not let us rest Among earth's meaner things, for Thou wUt have us wholly blest ; And so the skies are overcast, and the fair days grow' drear. Till our faint hearts are glad to feel that we are strangers here. Then, through the tears that bUnd our eyes, we look towards our home, And try to sing the pUgrim's song, nor longer idly roam ; It matters little if this land shall dark or sunny be. Since we are only passing through to our own home with Thee. But give to us the pOgrim-heart that longs to pass away, And only prays to see the goal the nearer with each day ; And let us never be content though brightest scenes appear, But gladly sing, with heart and voice, we are but strangers here. %n #Iij Si0rff. Once again we read the wonderful old story, Old as earth, yet ever new : Every spot that glows afresh with summer glory Bares the sweet truth to our view ; It is written everywhere, beneath, above — God is love. It is traced in silver letters on the mountains Of the dreamy, fleecy clouds ; It is dropping from the plentiful shower-fountains Hid away in soft, grey shrouds ; It has ever power the weary heart to move — God is love. 91 We earn see it in the bountiful sweet heather, And the water-hlied pool ; It is -written on the deUoate fem-feather, In its home-nest still and cool ; And the breezes speak it softly as they move — God is love. It can quiet us amid the sunset's gloaming This old soothing, tender tale. And we see it in the ocean's maddest foaming, And we hear it iu the gale. Softly falhng as the singing of a dove — God is love. Dear to us shall be the same old story ever ; We will read it with glad eyes ; We are children of our God, and naught shall sever From His love, who, good and wise. Sends His messages to cheer us from above — God is love. Let us take with thankful spirits all the gladness Of the happy summer days ; Let us lay aside the robes of fear and sadness. And our eager praises raise, LooKng upward to our Father-Friend above, Who is love. 92 % §ir%s^ ^oxiQ. " Bless the Lord, my soiil, and forget not all His benefits ; who orowneth thee with loving-kindness and tender mercies." They are passing away — the ■wingSd years ; Swiftly, they pass as a rapid dream, With their mingled sweetness of smiles and tears, The dark rain-cloud and the fair sunbeam. They are passing away, but they leave me yet — ■ Better than all that they take away — The joy that my Father does not forget. But His love grows deeper with every day. How can I praise Him ? — Too weak my song To speak the half of His love to me ! Gently He leads my feet along The paths where the living waters be. He cares for me with a Father's care, He loves me with mother-tenderness. Good is the Lord, and I speak my prayer From a heart made solemn by thankfulness. Very fair was my morning hour, Amid Mil, and meadow, and stream, and wood. But as day wore on, and the storms had power, I knew how my Father was strong and good. It is well to have suffered from cold or heat, Well to have struggled with grief and tears. For sorrow has taught me to seek His feet, And God has gilded and blessed the years. 93 What shall I render unto the Lord For all His benefits unto me ? Nothing have I but a praiseful word And a heart to love Him eternally. Nought can I render for all His love, Nothing have I but increasing need ; But soon He will beckon me home above, And then I will serve Him and love indeed. > Longer and darker the shadows grow. And the brightness fades as the day declineB ; Dear are the tokens, they make me know He will have me soon where His glory shines. I will trust my Father, He knoweth best If 'tis better to serve Him there or here ; With my hand in His I can wait for rest, And welcome the bright or the clouded year. itrtirn' pis Wings. ' He shall cover thee Trith His feathers, and under His wings shalt thou tmst." The clouds are thick and heavy overhead ; The wild winds roar ; How shall the timid soul be comforted Till storms are o'er ? The Lord is near ; and, while the angry night Its shadow flings. We find sweet peace and joy and tmdimmed light Under His wings. 94 Swiftly the arrow flieth through the day, Whose name is death : The pestUenee creeps on its direM way With poisoned hreath. But the calm spirit trusting in the Lord Is glad and sings, And rests in perfect faith upon His word. Under His wings. X stand upon the battle-field of Hfe, But do not yield. I find TTiTTi in the thickest of the strife Buckler and shield. He hides me from the swords of pain and woe. He quiet brings, And keeps me safe from every subtle foe Under His wings. The future, with its close-veiled secret face, Is very dim ; But I am happy in my hiding-place. Singing my hymn. From God who loves me with a mighty love My comfort springs ; I am as safe as happy souls above Under His wings. Oh, that the Sorrowful would seek the Lord, And thus be blest ! Oh, that the weary listened to His word Who giveth rest ! It were a happy change to part with all Earth's precious things, And gladly hasten at the Father's call Under His wings. 93 ®is|^mg iox gaw. ' Then teadng lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they cast four anchors out of the stem, and "wished for the day." — Acta xxvii. 29. Whek will it come — th&t streak of light, Creeping over the Eastern sky ? When will the music of birds' dehght Tell that the blessed day is nigh ? Aching eyes of the darkness tired, Look o'er the waters -with longing zest. Our hearts have wearily long desired A glimmer of light, and an hour of rest. So we wait for day, though it may reveal Bocks and quicksands, and dangers near. It is better to know the worst, and feel That we have some clue to the thing we fear : It is better to see how our storm-tossed bark Is sailing on to the rooky shore, — And feel our need of a sheltering ark. That we be not lost for evermore. And so we long for the break of day. For God's kind sun on the waters wild. For a voice to answer us as we pray, And a Father to quiet us with " My child." Oh, while the storm in its raging might Wearies and frights us, and makes us sad, If He would speak to us in the night, How would He cheer us and make us glad ! 96 Let us watch on, for the day shall come ; Help and succour are nigh at hand. Soon shall we see our happy home, Soon shall we be brought safe to land. Let the storm beat, and the waves roU high, And the night be darksome, and wUd, and long ; God will help us, we shall not die, His arm is mighty. His love is strong. P^ sl^all nai Jfail. ' He shall not fail nor be disconraged till He have set judgment in the earth; iLnd the isles shall wait for His law." The years pass on, the weary years. And still through tears we see Men hate the right, and love the wrong. And scorn the liberty With which the Christ, the Saviour King, Has made His people free. To-day, as in the days long past. They join the clamorous cry, And would again with cruel hands The Saviour crucify ; But still our King, the Mighty One, Is lifted up on high. Not yet the universal song Of love to Him is heard ; Not yet the sunny isles of earth Have listened to His word ; Not yet are aU the hearts of men By holy impulse stirred. n And yet " He shall not fail." His uame Shall triumph everywhere ; Where'er His azure skies' are spread, Where'er His earth is fair, The hearts of men shall cry for Him In loving, trustful prayer. For even now the sick and sad Are looking up to Him — To TTim are lifted jJeading thoughts, And eyes with sorrow dim, And white Ups swell, though falteringly, The songs of seraphim. The little children come to Him, And youth with kindling eyes. And manhood's head bows lowly down Before the ever Wise, And hoary age its tribute brings, And hears His kind replies. Not yet, but soon, the distant isles Upon His law shall wait ; Not yet, but soon, the throngs shall crowd Around His temple gate ; Not yet, but soon. His gentle reign Shall make aU people great. Oh, come. Lord Jesus ! quickly come !' King ! do not delay ! Thy children's cries come up to Thee, Speed on Thy glorious day. Send voices through our wildCTuess To cry, " Prepare the way ! " 93 It was only a glimmer of sunlight, But it came with an angel's face ; And it seemed that an angel's noisslou It had in that needy place. For it came with its sudden brightness Into a crowded room, Where the men's and the women's faces Were dark in the gathering gloom. It fell on the head thought-silvered Of the man who struggled there "To awaken in weary spirits An eager delight in prayer. And it fell upon world-worn faces Of the over-troubled and sad. And it brought to them hope and comfort, Making their spirits glad. It was only a glimmer of sunlight, But it told us of better things Than the sordid care and the worry Which life in the dark world brings. And the people thought of their Father, Thought of the heavenly song, And thought of the Saviour's pity, Till their hearts were subdued and strong. It was only a glimmer of sunlight That came through a little rift, But many a grateful spirit Thanked God for His timely gift.. 99 And even the preaoher's message, Given in His great name, To the souls of the waiting people, With a holier sweetness came. Only a glimmer of sunlight, So often pur Father sends. But it cannot be guessed by strangers Wiat pleasure to life it lends. For it comes to our souls in darkness. Thrilling them with delight. As it teUs us that soon, and for ever. We shall live in His perfect light. Safe. As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so is the Lord round about His people from this time fortli even for ever," Why so timorous and doubting ? Nestling safe among the hills, Ye are resting in the pastures, and ye drink life-giving rills ; Happy are ye, peaceful dwellers ! God shall be your light and shade ; He will keep you free from evil ; be not anxious nor dismayed. In the silent, solemn midnight, when ye hear the muffled tread Of the unseen hosts of armies, ye may still be comforted. Bound about your sacred dwellings are the mountains of the Lord ; Ye may rest secure and tranquil on His everlasting word. Fear ye not the threatening tempest ; He can calm the wind and rain, He can sweep away the storm-clouds till ye see the sMes again ; Even when your hope is feeble He can roake your gladness long ; He can send the Indian summer with its opal lights and song. 100 Never mountains have been stronger, never father-love as great ! Te who are the Lord's own people, can ye e'er be desolate ? Lift your eyes from earth to heaven, clear with filial trust and love, God shall be your shelter ever till ye rest with Him above. • God's belov6d, be not fearful, walk securely, sweetly sleep ; Safe are they and very blessed whom the Lord Himself doth keep. He has led and kept your fathers ; ye shall sing glad songs with them. For your feet shall stand for ever ia the New Jerusalem. The thick air is full of the cries Of sufiering, sorrowful men. They rise swift as thought to the skies, But He hears and answers again. The children by thousands kneel down, The weary and perishing pray. And I ? Yes, my need He will own ; I want Him as much as do they. I think of how sweetly they sing. Where the harp and the crown have been given, And they sit at the feet of the King, In the rest and the brightness of Heaven. He listens to them, — but to me ? I am fuU of aU siu and of woe. And His eyes all my bitterness see ; Yet He pities and loves me, I know. 101 And so in the time of distreBS I can but creep close to His feet, And ask Him to lielp and to bless, And comfort, in loss and defeat ; He sends me not empty away. He lays gentle hands on my head. Tin I feel it is blessed to pray, And rise with my heart comforted. Oh, Father, Thy pity and love Are sacred as life to Thy child, I shall see Thee in Heaven above, And be with Thy saints rmdefiled. But till then, oh, whenever I cry. Let me feel that my prayer Thou hast heard, In sorrow and fear be Thou nigh, To comfort my soul with Thy word. And help me in dark days or bright To trust in Thy love evermore. Till morning shall come to my night, And all days of mourning be o'er. Oh, help me, whatever betide. In sickness, or sorrow, or care. To press to Thy sheltering side. And pour aU my wishes in prayer. " Having loved His own which V7ere in the world, He loved them unto the end.'' Not only when the eager heart can recognise the Lord, Or when our love finds utterance in the impassioned word ; Not only when we pour our prayers before the Father's throne. And mount as it on angel's wings, does Jesus love His own. 102 He meets us in our gladsome times upon the mountain height, When all the world in glory clad rejoices in His light ; He meets us in the vaUey when flight's gloom is o'er us thrown. And tells us then how tenderly the SaTiour loves His own. He changes darlmess into day, winter to summer's prime, His love exalts the lowliest heart unto a life sublime ; And be the journey short or long until the very end. In love, and strength, and tenderness, the Christ will be our Fnend. We need not fear to stand beside the Jordan's chilling wave, Christ loves His children to the end, and He is strong to save. Out of the waters we shall come the nearer to His throne. And tell to listening, praiseful hosts, how Jesus loves His own. Oh, Christ our Lord, how wonderful is Thine unchanging love ! And we will love Thee back again here and in Heaven above ; Be patient with our changefulness, and give us, gentle Friend, The comfort that Thou lovest and wilt love us to the end. [ang nn CaII«tr." The Saviour comes when pleasure has departed ; Into men's homes His messages are borne, He speaks of peace to aU the tender-hearted, And rest and strength unto the sorrow-worn ; But even weary eyes with weeping dim Turn from His face, and wiU not look to Him. He stands by lonely beds that are forsaken. Where the pain-stricken, hot, and restless lie ; Opens His arms, and when the dreamers waken, Says, " Come to Me, poor souls, why will ye die?" Moaning they tmn from His great love revealed, And suffer stiU, refusing to be healed. 103 He meets the young in all their spring's fair glory, Bright flowers beneath, and azure skies above, A stUl small voice tells them a wondrous story. Of mighty tenderness and deathless love ; But other music steals their hearts away, They yield when others plead, but say Him Nay. The aged hnger, friendless and repining, Sighing for treasures lost, and pleasures fled. He yearns to have them near, on Him reclining The worn-out frame, and the tired aching head ; But even these who h?,ve no other bliss. Slight His oaressings, shun His tender kiss. 0, Thou long-suffering Saviour, patient ever, Have mercy still, and do not turn away. Though we have slighted Thee, forsake us never ; But, loving and forgiving, near us stay. Many are called ; Savioiir, make many come, For in Thy heart of love there yet is room. Jn €amT^nxt]a. '' We took sweet counsel together, and walked to the house of God in company." Sweet was the sound of the Sabbath bells Filling the perfumed air ; And glad were our spirits with holy joy As we walked to the house of prayer. And we said, as we looked in each other's eyes, " WUl the King come near to day ? " And the glance that we sent to the far-ofl hills Said, " Come, Lord, do not delay." 104 Close, and warm, and long was tte clasp Of hands that were true and kind, And we heard the nmrmurings — soft with joy — Of friends before and behind. But He came nearest — the best of all — Blessing us silently ; And we hid in our hearts what He said to us. Though we walked in company. Never were skies more brightly blue, Nor the birds' songs e'er so sweet ! So tender we grew that we even loved All people who walked the street. " Do they know Him — our gracious Lord?" thought we, And we saw in many a face The look they catch who have found His peace, And tasted His wondrous grace. The house was filled with His glory-light, As we passed through the open door ; And our souls grew guiet with rapturous joy As we knelt on the hallowed floor. Clear was the message that came from God, As His name through the temple rang ; And thrilling the song that rose to heaven When familiar voices sang. Greater still is the company Now than iu bygone years. But the greeting eyes that sparkled then Are becoming dim with tears. For one by one the old, old friends Have passed to their home away. And in the temple not made with hands Are keeping the Sabbath-day. 105 Our hearts go out to the happy young ThrongiBg our Zion's gate, Who love the courts of the house of God, And are eager to pray and wait. But we are a little glad to know We shall leave them ere very long. To do the work we have left undone. While we rest with the ransomed throng. For then we shall have it all agaia — The peace of the Sabbath-days — And the hidden rapture of those whose hearts Are fiUed with the Saviour's praise. We weary sometimes for the dear ones gone. But we know we shall Jesus see. When we walk together in that fair land, In the same sweet company. )e ^^i^ "^axrcz am ^xidn." He came into this world of sin, and bore its heavy weight of grief. That we who call upon His name might have His joy and find relief ; And so we journey to the Ught, because He struggled iu the night. We bear His blessiags in our hands, and pass along the pleasant way With buoyant steps and happy hearts, and glad eyes looking to the day; While He, amid contempt and loss, carried our sorrows on the Cross. We dwell beside a lighted hearth, with household joys and kindly mirth; We find the shelter of our homes the fairest spots of all the earth. He by no friend was comforted — He had not where to lay His head. 106 Love weaves a crown about our brows, and, lest a sorrow should remain, It smooths away the marks of care, and with its kisses steals the pain ; The cruel thorns men plaited there made all the crown He had to wear. The wine of life is poiured for us, and rivers flow and fountains gush ; We close our eyes in happy dreams — He gives us sleep amid the hush. No copious draught, no rest He knew : He thirsted, and was weary too. We shall not meet alone and sad the white-robed messenger of death ; Dear friends will bless us when we go, dim eyes will watch the paxting breath. The people, in His hour of dread, forsook their dying Lord and fled. Oh, base, ungrateful hearts of men that love not Jesus even yet ! Oh, wondrous loving heart of God that even now cannot forget ! Oh, Saviour, love us as before ! Oh, Master, make us love Thee more ! ' They shaJl hunger no more, neither thirst any more." Thet are not haunted by mocking dreams Of grassy meadow-lands, cool and sweet. Of rippling murmurs of grateful streams. While they live on in the burning heat. By the Eirer of Life the pilgrims stand. Forgetting they ever have been distrest ; They are at home in the peaceful land. And they have the guerdon of blessed rest. 107 They do not himger and thirst for loye, No vacant places make grief and pain ; For happy hearts in that home above For ever love and are loved again. One is there whom their glad eyes see — Christ the Bedeemer, the Lord of heaven ; And how can they other than happy be To whom His presence and love are given ? They do not wearily toil all day At tasks that never can be complete ; They are not wasting their strength away, Faint and tired, in the summer heat. Work is over, and rest has come ; Now the reward is given to them. And the sad are glad in the happy home. And the stars are bright in the diadem. / , They do not peer with wistful eyes At sunset time through the golden glow, Up through the far unopening skies. Longing the bright Beyond to know. All is revealed ; they stand at last Before the throne in a flood of light. And, now that the mists of sin are past, They see and understand the right. But we ? Father ! we hunger stUl, The thirst is on us, the toil and heat ; ' Waiting, we listen to learn Thy wiU, And haste to rest at the Master's feet. When shall we come and with Thee abide ? When shall we hunger and thirst no more ? When shall we, too, be satisfied In the home where sorrow and sin are o'er ? 108 " As one whom his mother comforteth, bo -will I comfort you." — Isa, Ixvi. 13. God ! how strangely tender are these good -words of Thine ! Our restless hearts grow quiet before this love Divine ; We hush our wild complainings, for even Thou couldst speak Words of no sweeter meaning unto the bowed and weak. God ! how well Thou knowest the sad heart's greatest need, The mother-love that comforts and the Ups that bless indeed ; And how the sick and lonely have ever one sad cry, " Oh, come to me, my mother, and love me ere I die." How does a mother comfort ? With fond arms clasped around, With tender words soft spoken that through the heart resound ; With gentle, soothing kisses, and eyes that speak of love ; And thus, God of mercy ! Thou lov'st us from above. Oh, come to us and bless us, and we will no more fear The unseen, lowering dangers, whose threatenings come so near ; But, strong in Thy safe keeping, our hearts shall hope again, Until Thine hands shall bring us where the sad forget their pain. Comfort us in our evening with golden hues of light, Comfort us in our dying, and cheer us in that night ; Fulfil to us Thy children the promise of Thy word, And as a mother comforts, so comfort us, Lord. 109 " Our feet shall stand -within thy gates, O Jerusalem.'' Oh, fatherland, we long for thee ! Home where our best beloved be ! Safe haven from all stormy woes ! Calm resting-plaee for sweet repose ! We march along with weary feet The rough and unfamiliar street, And stranger faces pass us by, Or scan us with unfriendly eye. We have companions — Care and Pain, And Tears, and Sorrows here remain ; But we shall leave them all below When to thy fairer hills we go. We dream of thee at evensong, And pray to see thy towers ere long ; We strain our eager ears and eyes For tokens of our paradise. Oh, fatherland, how far away Thou seemest at the opening day ! Yet when with crimson glows the west We are the nearer to our rest. Our Father waiting for us there. And hearing oft our wistful prayer, WOl surely let His children come A shorter journey to their home. 110 And so we pilgrims pass along, Beguiling oft the way with song ; Our feet shall stand within thy gate, Jerusalem, for which we wait. z %nxtsm airir Meal We are bearing the burden and heat of the day In the thick of the battle's dread array ; Foes are around us on every hand, In the midst of a hostile crowd we stand And fight, as we must for the victor's crown, Till the lingering sun in the west goes down. We are bearing the burden and heat of the day. As we pUgrims march through the dusty way ; We climb with tired feet to the mountain's height. Silently sighing for restful night ; And slowly we press to the better land, Seeing no sign of its shining strand. We are bearing the burden and heat of the day. As among the vineyards we toil alway ; From the rapid dawn to the burning noon, The day is long and the rest not soon : But we may not fail until sinks the sun — 'Tis the Master's work, and it must be done. We are bearing the burden and heat of the day, Till the limbs are weary, the hair is grey ; Faint is the heart that has long desired. The feet are heavy, the head is tired, And wistfully turn we the aching eyes That look for the glow in the western skies.. Ill We are bearing the burden and heat of the day, But it is not all sorrow along the way ; For we have the strength of a Father's hand, And a rock's cool shade in the weary land ; And anon the path is through pastures green. Where the li-ving water is heard and seen. We are bearing the burden and heat of the day, But our thoughts and our longings reach far away ; Soon will it be the evening-tide, And over the waters our barks will glide To the haven of rest and the other shore. Where Christ shaU bid us to toil no more. % MaxiHn', " But thon hast not called upon Me, O Jacob ; bnt thou hast been weary of Me, Israel." — Isa. xliii. 22. All along the dangerous places where unwary feet might slide. Walks, with wistful face, and tender, a serene and mighty Guide ; Leads us, when the shadows thicken, and the foes around us stand. Holding our weak, trembling fingers, in His own strong fearless hand. When the sun in noontide glory floods the flower-clad laughing earth. And we add our happy voices to the chorus of glad mirth. And we seek for shining treasures, He is near and makes us see How, when He is walking with us, earth a paradise can be. When the way is long and toilsome, and we wish for ease and rest. Close He folds His arms about us, shelters us within His breast, Hushes aU the world to silence, kisses us lest we should weep. And with care Divine and tender gives to His beloved sleep. 112 When we hunger in the desert He supplies us with good things, When we thirst He gently leads us where the living water springs ; When we mourn He gives us comfort, when we fear He makes us strong, And in aU our siobness heals us, till we sing a thankful song. Yet, strange infatuation ! — ^we are often cold to Him, Turn from TTjtti for love of others, let our joy in Him grow dim ; Even' weary of His presence, — do not give Him love for love, Do not care though He has promised we shall reign with Him above ! Do ye know Him — ^ye who wander by our side through hill and deU? Do ye know how He in mercy ever doeth aJl things well ? Do you know how He to save us, fought the fight, the victory won ? Oh, we pray you, love Him better, serve Him more than we have done! ^ gau- ioii^ <|£Sits. " They said unto Him, Eabbi, where dwellest Thou ? He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where He dwelt, and ahode with Him that day." What did they talk of, these guests of the Saviour, Through the bright hours of that wonderful day ? Happy disciples so raised into favour ! Who would not dwell with the Master as they ? How did He minister lovingly to them, Lookiug upon them with tenderest eyes ! How would He speak to them, move them, and woo them. Meeting their questions with gentle replies ! Would He not smile on them when, love impeUing, Closer they drew to the side of the Lord ? Or, when they spoke to Him, eagerly teUing How, with great joy, they would follow His word? 113 If they were sorrowful, suffering, weary, "Weak and disheartened when to Him they eame. Life must have been to them happy and cheery WhUe they remained with Him, blessing His name. Sweet must the day have been spent with.the Master ! Dark are our days and we need Him as much. Sadly they dawn amid sin and disaster : Bright would they grow at His wonderful touch. May not we go to Him when the day breaketh, Passing its hours in communion with Him ? Yes, every morning His love freshly waketh. He holds us the joy-cup filled up to the brim. So let us seek Him then, fearless, confiding : - Listen, oh, brothers. He says to us, " Come !" Let us make haste to Him, gladly abiding All day and every day with Him at home. " Tonr joy no man taketh from yon." — Jesus. We pass through the world with a hidden joy, Clasped close in our hearts from the mom till night ; No rough, rude hands can its power destroy ; No clouds can render it less than bright ; It smoothes the way as we pass along. And we can but be singing a soft, sweet song. All things are joyous these summer days : The hay is sweet, and the skies are fair ; 9 114 Glad birds aie singing their happy lays As they rise and move in the soft, warm air ; But a deeper joy in our hearts we hide Than ever was born of the summer-tide. We have our sorrows through all the years ; We know the pain of the aching heart ; Our eyes are heavy with weeping tears, And oft from earth's treasures we have to part ; And yet there is joy ia our soiils to-day — A joy that no man can take away. Do you ask the source of this hushed delight, So deep, so changeless, so full of strength, Potent, though ever kept out of sight, TiU it struggles forth in a song at length ? 'Tis the joy of the love of the Lord who died ; Who has it must needs be satisfied. If ye would have it, weary hearts ! Come at once to His blessed feet ; Ye shall know the gladness His love imparts. For He will give you all pleasures sweet ; Nor change, nor life, nor death can move The Saviour's heart in its boundless ove t €laBt d i)ji Wink At last it is over, the busy week. And over are all its hopes and fears ; And now in the quiet of night we seek Comfort and healing after our tears. 115 We have not done as we meant to do With any one of the fair bright days ; Yet God has helped us the whole week through, And we sing Him our closing song of praise. Good is the Lord, and kind and great. How He has hlessed us no tongue can teU ; But we see, now the week is growing late. That He in His mercy did all things well. We have had to work as the days passed on. And the fights were fierce, the toil severe. And though we have not the victory won, We are glad that the Sabbath rest is near. The stain of sin is upon us yet. But we come to the Fountain. Christ the Lord, Do not Thy weary ones forget. But comfort our spirits with Thy word. Bless and forgive us ; and when the light Of Thy sacred day is upon the earth, FiU our hearts with a calm delight, And make us glad with a holy mirth. So give us an earnest of better rest, That soon shall be to Thy children given. And let us think of the free, the blest, In the many mansions at home in heaven. 116 The rest of the Sabbath is over, — All the repose and calm, The hallowed delight and the leisiire For musing and prayer and psalm ; The dear commingling of spirits, And the sweet low evensong. And the thoughts of the Lord and of Heaven That to Sabbath hours belong. Even the night is over, And the angel of peace has fled — Who touched with comforting fingers Man's heart, and eyes, and head ; And now God's beautiful sunlight Is flooding the wakeful earth. And the birds are singing their matins, And the working week has birth. Again the din and the clashings, And the sounds of hurrying feet. As the crowds go forth to their labour, Are heard in the busy street ; And the voices of "men are eager. And the hands of the women swift. And the tasks are waiting already. And the burdens that each must lift. Again the shadows of sorrow, Of labour, and pain, and care, Are stealing about the faces That are used their marks to bear : 117 And the sighs of the patient pilgrims May not be ended yet, They are far from the house of the Father, And they cannot the world forget. Yet glad is the Monday morning To the many who hide in their breast Sweet words that the Lord has spoken In the hours of sacred rest ; For they know in the din and turmoil They are doing the Father's wQl, And though they are often weary. He is beside them stiU. In i^& Citg. In a narrow court his dweUiug. Taller houses shut him in. All around were sights of sadness, in his ears were sounds of sin; Want and hunger, pain and sickness, dwelt around >iim everywhere Stole the gladness from his spirit and compelled the frec[uent prayer. Not a glimpse, for all his longing, had he of the spring-blue skies, Not a strip of grass-green meadow to relieve his aching eyes ; Not a murmur of the plashing of the ocean met his ears, Only sounds of care and sorrow, only sights of pain and tears. Yet his dreams were sweet and pleasant, and he Vrote of what he dreamed, Flowery deUs and laughing vaUeys where the sunlight played and gleamed ; Shadowy depths of song-filled forests wealthy with the oowsUps' gold. Wayside hedges white with hawthorn, and the blossom-coloured wold. 118 And Ms words were read by many witlt glad heart and eager eyes, And they loved the music of them, for they taught their thoughts to rise, Made their darkened lives the brighter, filled their souls with joy again, Whispered hopes of summer blessings after hours of loss and pain. But they never Imew the reason of his bright, glad words and strong ; How a little skylark singing in its cage a constant song Filled the spirit of the weary with the thought of summer sights, Made him write in the close city of the country's dear delights. So it happens often to us — God doth pity all our pain. And He paints for us sweet pictures of fair pleasures that remain. We must toil and weep and labour, yet amidst it all are given Distant echoes of glad music — glimpses of the joys in heaven. Jfa%r, P^ar. ^ " Ast, and ye shaJl receive." 1 In the grey mysterious dawning Of Thy blessed gift, the morning, — Through the day's long toil and sorrow And the fear of dark to-morrow, — In the fading of the light. And the silence of the night ; — As the needs of hfe appear. Father, hear. When I miss the hand that blesses In the time of my distresses, 119 And no voice to mine repljdng, Dries tlie tear and stays the sighing ; Then with none to comfort me, I lift my Yoioe and pray to Thee, Lest I faint ivith pain and fear, Father, hear. When Thy heaven with all its gladness Seems so far from all my sadness, When the way is long and dreary. And my feet are worn and weary, And I ask for just one sight Of the far-ofE land of light ; — Let the shining gate appear, Father, hear. When I pray for Christ's revealing In my heart and life and feeling ; — Pray to be complete and holy, And to live to Jesus solely. Loving, serving with deHght, Strong alone in His great might, Tin in me His life appear ; — Father, hear. When the shades of death are falling. Father hear when I am calling ; Do not in my need forsake me. But in Thy compassion take me, Mighty One, and strong to save From the peril of the wave. If I live, or die, be near, Father, dear. 120 haiis. Come away from the care and the toil of the city, And rest thee awhile in the wild wood's sweet shade. Be solaced in pain by the great Father's pity, And look on the works that His fingers have made. Oh ! how can this world be a wilderness dreary WhUe the sun turns the dewdrops to diamonds bright ? And how can the spirit be way-worn and weary That is bathed and refreshed by God's bless&d sunlight ? Come away from the labour, the loss, and the sorrow. Come away to the hush and the quiet of Love, And look on to the joy of a sunny to-morrow, With a happy face raised to the Father above. Forget the cold world and hard things which it teaches, The forest shall give thee a glad hymn to sing. For even the oaks, and the elms, and the beeches, In dances and whispers are praising the King. Then why dost thou stay in the noise and the riot ? Come out to the place which God's touch has made calm ; Be safe in His shadow, and glad in His quiet. And wake the still woods with the sound of thy psalm. 121 ^moirg t^Ij^nt. " Therefore ai-e they before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple, and Se that sitteth upon the throne shall dwell among them" Is He among them ? They sought TTim here With eager epirits and longing eyes, With many a wistful sigh and tear They looked for Him in the far-off sMes. Only dimly they saw His face, Shilling upon them through mists of doubt, And though they loved Him and knew His grace, He dwelt in heaven and they without. Long was the journey they had to go. And the days were dim with the heavy rain ; Their hearts were saddened with bitter woe, And their faces dark with the shade of pain. But now, how glad in that land of light They all must be who have found Him there, And know no longer the dread of night. The hate of sin, or the need of prayer. They see each other. The happy bands Who lived on earth are together stiU ; Familiar faces and kindly hands Have welcomed friends to the heavenly hill. But what are these to the Lamb of God, Who has borne their sorrows and sins away ? Who led them here through the steps they trod, And leads them there in the brighter way ? 122 He dwells among them. No sun, no moon Is needed there, for there is no night ; Through all the joy of the glorious noon He shines upon them and gives them light. They grieve Him not by their wanderings now, They love Him best for they know Him well ; With rapture near to His throne they bow, And love His worthy praise to swell. He dwells among them. Oh, happy they ! We, toiling still in the vales below. Feeling Him far off when we pray. Are wearying oft for the joy they know. But let us be patient ; we too shall stand, Safely led by His guiding grace. On the blessed plains of our fatherland, And see our Eedeemer face to face. A GENTLE voice comes to my soul in hours of darkest dread and pain, And joy and confidence are mine while listening to the sweet refrain — "My grace sufficient is for thee, and My strength perfected shaU be." I know Thy voice, Bedeemer dear, and hearing it my faith grows strong ; And I, amid the thickest fight, dare to begin the conqueror's song ; For Thy strength is enough for me, and I am sure of victory. Tossing upon the troubled sea, my wistful eyes look out for land, But only seething deeps are seen, and mountain waves oh either hand; And yet Thy promise comforts me — " My grace shall be enough for thee." 123 I watch the glorious light fade out too early from heloved eyes ; I lose dear treasures in the dust, and shrink from dangers that arise ; But still I hear Thee say to me, " My grace sufficient is for thee." I will not fear whate'er can come ; Thy words of peace have made me brave. I trust Thee as a little child ; oh. Good to love and Strong to save ! My hope and faith shall cling to Thee, Thy strength is perfected in Oh, Saviour true, I only ask to love and trust Thee more and more ; And when the shadows longer grow be near me then as heretofore. Nay, then my Friend the nearest be, whose grace has been enoug for me. Wheee should we rest from the burning heat Of the barren desert sands — How could we journey with weary feet Through the strange, unhome-like lands — Had we no shadow in which to hide From the cruel noontide heat. Could we not often with joy abide Where the Lord will the pilgrims meet ? Over the dreary miles we pass, Longing, but all in vain, For the restful touch of the tender grass After the hours of pain — Longing for but a space of cloud To veil the unkindly sun. Or a little nook by the watercourse When the hour of rest is won. 124 Oh, Eock of Ages ! the weary feet Hasten to rest by Thee, And the aching eyelids are glad to close When the eyes can Thy beauty see. Over the mountain-steeps we climb. And into the valleys deep ; But the pilgrims of sorrow labour on Till into Thy shade they creep. Eock! whose shadow the children love, Shelter us evermore, Tin the toil and the pain shall be overpast, And we shall endure no more. Soon shall we rest in the sinless land. And our songs of triumph rise. And the eager pilgrims their Father see In His temple beyond the skies. Keep a cheerful countenance AH the bright day long ; Mom, and noon, and eventide, Fill the air with song. Summer joy is on the eai'th, Bring it to ^our home, Nor within the walls beloved Let complainings come. Keep a cheerful countenance. Laughter doeth good ; Many walk about the world In desponding mood. 125 But be you mirth's harbinger In the darkened place ; Men -will bless you constantly For a cheerful face. Keep a cheerful countenance, God is good to all ; Though sometimes the clouds are dark, And the raindrops fall. Varied flowers and ripened fruit Tell of shining sun. Plenty cometh in the land. For God's will is done. Keep a cjieerful countenance, Banish gloomy care ; Think not that your lot is hard. Pain is everywhere. But the heart that trusts in God Shall have plenteous grace ; — Putting all your hope in Him, Keep a cheerful face. ®^« iiigp f rair. " The sun shall no more go down." We live among shadows that darken our way, And under thick yew-trees that hide from our sight The sun in its splendour, the glory of day ; But never more there is the gloom of the night, For all shall be bright. 126 We know not eaola other, for doubts interfere Between spirit and spirit that creep evermore In vain to each other ; there doubts disappear, And aching of heart shall be known never more, For all sinning is o'er. We are puzzled to read what our Teacher would tell, And the lines appear difficult, dark, and unreal ; But there where the anthems triumphantly swell The Master will make us His goodness to feel, And HimseK wiU reveal. We can but toil on o'er the tempest-stirred deep. Looking up to that Home on the far-shining strand. And, though for a season we suffer and weep, Our love is at home in our fair Fatherland, Where we shortly shall stand. Oh, mighty Director, we fail in our song. We fail in our duties, yet let us not fall In the pathway before us. Oh, make us all strong To press on ever more, till Thine angels shall call, And Thou welcome us all. 127 "^nnt^iK^, " Neither know we what to do : but our eyes are upon Thee.' 2 Chron. sx. 12. They are coming, the hosts afar ! By the light of the evening star We can see them dravring near, And our hearts grow cold -with fear ; We can hear the tread of a thousand feet. And we tremble the dreaded foe to meet. For the feeble with us abide, And we cannot tarry to hide The beloT'd of our hearts away To the shelter where they may stay ; For the hosts draw near from beyond the sea To the beautiful vale where our treasures be. Shall we gird ourselves for the fight ? Alas ! but we have no might ! We shall fall by the ruthless hands Of the pitiless stranger-bands ; And, if we should waver or faint or flee, The scornful foemen would victors be. So we lift our tear-dimmed eyes Up to the tranquil skies. And a hope springs into life In the midst of the fear and strife ; For our faith looks further, beyond the height Where the God of the battle reigns in might. 128 And strangely our feeble throng Takes up a praiseful song ; We have had a cheery word Sent from the loving Lord, And we gather together to sing and wait For the suoeour which shall not come too late. We shall over our foes rejoice, And shout with a thankful voice ; We shaU wave the conqueror's palms, Praising with harps and psalms ; For, though we were fi'ightened and sore distrest, The God of Jehoshaphat giveth rest. % Song 0f Ci^atvksgibittjg;. " The lines have fallen unto me in pleaeant places." Not always in winter, o'er frost-crusted snows. Not always o'er mountain-sides thorny and high, But oft where the summer sun gladdens and glows, And oft where joy's river flows peacefully by, And always where pathways lead ever above, There, there, dost Thou lead me, oh. Father of Love. There is joy in my heart, there is light in my eyes, For Thy beauty is resting on forest and field ; Thou hast touched with Thy finger the earth and the skies. And lo ! all the sickness of winter is healed ; And the world Thou hast visited breaks into song, While Thy. children the loving thanksgiving prolong. 129 Oh, Father, I thank Thee ! Not lonely or sad, Not darkened by terror or clouded by fears, Are the places to me whom Thy love has made glad. Where I thankfully wander, forgetting my tears. Oh, fair is the pathway, and flower-decked, and free, Where voices of kindness make music for me. More tender than even a mother can be, More faithful to love and more patient to bear. Is the God whose compassion is mighty and free, And who cares for His children as loving hearts care. None ever may know, on the earth or above. All the simple words mean, " God our Father is love." Oh, fair is the pathway and bright is the day ! Yet let me not Hnger in joy and content. But press onward and upward until I shaU stay. And perfectly thank Thee for all Thou hast sent. Oh, Father most merciful, weak is my song. More worthily stiU wiQ I praise Thee ere long. " The Lord fulfil aJl thy petitions." Whene'eb- thou bendest silently in fervent thought and wordless prayer. And dare not even breathe aloud the impassioned wish which none may share — Lest they should see the secret fire — God grant to thee thy heart's desire. 10 130 Wlieue'er from thy blanolied lips shall come the startled cry of human pain, For grief that cannot be controlled, for tears and labour spent in vain, The Lord come very near to thee, and hear, and bless, and answer thee. When thou art weary and alone amid the dark and silent night, And no loved voice shall bid thee hope, no kind hands lead thee to the light , God listen to thy whispered prayer, and make thee happy in His care. When a dear name is on thy lips, and thy great love has made thee bold To ask God's richest, rarest gifts. His hidden wealth of gems and gold ; Oh, not in vain thy prayer shall be, for God, t?ie Friend, will answer thee. When, knowing best the highest joys, thou dost not ask for wealth or fame. But, with strong heart and earnest voice, pray, " Father, glorify Thy Name ; " God hear thee when thou thus shalt call, and grant thee this best boon of all. And, though the answer come in fire, in storm, and darkness, and unrest. In strife of hfe, and pain of soul, child of God ! thou shalt be blest. No matter what may else betide, if God by thee is glorified. So in His wondrous power of love, God thy petitions all fulfil, And make thee happy, useful, good, in ways according to His will ; And give to thee thy heart's request, until in Him thy soul shall rest. 131 "What I do thou knowest not now, but thou Bhalt tuow hereafter." — Jesus, Wk are waiting, Master, until Thou shalt show The wherefore of dealings now hidden in night ; We patiently wait till our spirits can know Thy whole will revealed as in letters of light. The strong Hand unseen leads us often away To dim, hidden valleys, intricate and wUd ; We know not the end, but in confidence say, "Dear Father, do still as Thou wilt with Thy ehUd." Sometimes in surprise at His marvellous love. We, Peter-like, cry, " Thou shalt wash not my feet ;" But Thy word makes us silent. Saviour above, Give us wonderful joy if Thou seest it meet. We see not the blessing still hidden behind The pall of great sorrow that falls o'er our way ; But the God whom we trust in is tender and kind, And we wait till the cause He shaE please to display. And though tears should blind us, or sun be too bright, We will pray to be patient, and trustful, and calm ; Hereafter, as now, we shall know all is right. And our doubtings shall end in a jubilant psalm. We wait the hereafter : and if it be long 'Twill reward all our patience of labour or woe, And the lingering time shaU be cheerful with song ; We shall see Thee in glory, and then we shall know. 10* 132 Mt journey lies not o'er the beaten track ; I cannot see the print of many feet ; Sometimes it seems the safer to turn back Among the throng that pace the crowded street. Only I know that One is leading me Whose eyes the devious pathway well can see. It is a strange new road o'er which I pass ; And though the river gurgles at my side, And flowers spring up among the waving grass, I cannot tell what next may me betide. The path has many windings : He can see. And He alone, what lies in wait for me. The unfamOiar mountain lifts its head. The valleys lie in darkness underneath ; It ever is new ground o'er which I tread — The verdant meadow or the sandy heath. How shall I find the way ? My Father knows : I will not fear while He before me goes. I hear His voice amid the silent night, I trace His footsteps in the roughest way ; He lifts before me still His guiding light. He blesses with His love the longest day. I would but follow where my God has led. And still by Him alone be comforted. Little it matters though the way be long Or hard to find ; I do not care to see What dangers or what joys about it throng ; Only I say, God, yet guide Thou me ; Let me but see Thee stiU before me go. And I will sing Thy love in joy or woe. 133 %t BnuBd. What sliaU we do while the sunset lingers, And faces are fanned by the cool, soft air, And brows are touched as with angel fingers ? This is the time for the evening prayer. So let us pray to our God above us, Asking great blessings as dews that fall, Not for ourselves, but the friends who love us. That He may strengthen and comfort all. Perhaps they fainting, or sick, or weary, And longing that Jesus to them would come ; Comforter great of the sad and dreary, Lighten their sorrow and cheer their home. Perhaps they are lonely, and sadly sighing' For love that shineth through faithful feyes ; Jesus, now, while the day is dying. Fill their hearts with a glad surprise. Art Thou near to them ? Go stUl nearer ; Touch'them, speak to them, give them rest. Art Thou dear to them ? Grow still dearer. Until they feel that Thy love is best. Grandly is spreading the sunset glory On purple mountain and rippHng sea, Speak to them through it, and teU the story Of what Thy wonderful love can be. 134 Shelter them, guide them. To them he given A SaviouT's peace and a Father's care, Until they rest in Thy blessed heaven. Listen, God, to our sunset prayer. Snngs in i^z '$xQ^t Sing out, singers, sweet and loud, sing up your songs to-night ! They may not wake the sleeping crowd, or make the midnight Kght ) But there shall be a sun for you, uprising strong and bright. What though the sheets of darkness He about your quiet bed ? The light that never sets beams forth above the weary head. And the glad hearts sing out their songs, and know nor fear nor dread. What shaU we sing ? That God is good, and blessed be His name ; Let grateful lips not silent be while they may spread His fame ; Sing out, singers, through the night, let others praise or blame. He makes th^ night not night to you, but glad and fair as day ; He moves the clouds that lay in folds of massive black and grey. And Ufts His golden sunrise up to break upon your way. Sing out, singers ! men may hear, and in their pleasant dreams May wonder with their softened hearts what the sweet music means, And learn that this still night of life is gladder than it seems. For though it be the night to them, ye go where night is o'er — Where darkness, silence, weariness, shaU break the peace no more : And you shall sing far sweeter songs than you have known before. Sing out, singers, through the night ! sing out, O voices strong ! And let it be the anthem sung by the seraphic throng. And they shall echo praise of God in answer to your song. 13a %i fast. "Jesus Boia unto her, Mary. She ttmied hersell, and saith tmto Him, Eahtoni I They told me 'twas a gasden, with the sweet, bright flowers in bloom ; To me 'twas but a sepulchre hidden in blackest gloom ; No resurrection anthems fiUed the odour-laden air ; Only one sound crept heavenward — a heavy, hopeless prayer. I knew that there were angels in the dark and mystic cave ; But I looked for One — their Master, the good, the strong to save, — I eared not for the shining ones — He only unto me A Refuge, and a Saviour, and a Comforter could be. But I could not find the Saviour, and the morning was like night — The garden held not Jesus, who only is the Light : I wandered, vaiuly looking for the Friend whose weU-loved face Could change the darkened tomb into a glad, well-lighted place. And then I heard a whisper. He only spoke my name, And swift into my spirit a flood of rapture came ; I knew Him when He called me, and " Master" I replied, Oh, having found Thee, Saviour, I can part with all beside. Now earth is all a garden, and there is no dismal tomb ; I do not walk in darkness, for He scatters all the gloom; And gladly I am passing to the land where death shall be As a forgotten angel, and Christ shall speak to me. 136 gagteak. I HAVE teen dreaming surely, sadly dreaming ; Long was the night, hut day hegins to hreak ; Though the dreams were vivid they were only seeming^ I have been dreaming, now I am awake. I was oppressed with many a weight of sorrow. Steep were the hills which I travelled in the dark, And the swell of waters rising with each morrow Seemed to bear me ever farther from the ark. I have had losses, even friends have failed me ; I have loved many, loving them in vain, I have poured out riches which have not availed me, I have stretched out eager arms to draw them back in pain. I have been sinning, still my Father grieving, Even when I longed to serve and please TTim best ; I T^as a wanderer, home and safety leaving, Weeping aU the lonely night, longing for His rest. Life was a struggle, days and nights were dreary With griefs not a few, and pleasures hard to take ; — Only now I find, when heaven's joys are near me, These were but dreamings — now I am awake. Glad in Heaven's morning, I forget my sadness. No sins have I, for they are all forgiven ; I am clad in glory, rapt in perfect gladness — This is the daybreak, and I am safe in heaven ! 137 One and the Highest beckons me before Him, Walkirtg by faith I followed Him alway ; Now evermore I shaJl serve Him and adore Him, Spending my life in His bright, iinshadowed day. I have been dreaming surely, sadly dreaming ; Long was the night, but day begins to break ; Though the dreams were vivid they were only seeming- Then I was but dreaming, now I am awake. " Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whoBe mind is stayed on Thee, because he trasteth in Thee." I WAS afraid of the morning, afraid of the difficult day, And with trembling, shrinking spirit, I thought of the dangerous way ; The soimd of the coming struggles came up to me where I stood, And I waited wondering -miether any could show me good. I was alone and feeble, but I knew that I had a Friend So strong and so strangely tender to keep and to defend ; And I only waited a moment until He should speak to me. And forth I went to the battle, knowing not what should be. All the day it was raging, and the war cries filled the land, I stood in the thick of the turmoil, danger on every hand. The storm beat heavily round me, but my spirit knew no fear. For ever a whisper cheered me, " Child, faint not, for I am near." And the difficult day passed safely, and the calm, sweet eventide Found me in peace reposing with the Saviour close by my side ; And I could but say unto Him, as gladly I fell asleep. Oh, well are they kept. Redeemer, whom Thou in Thy love dost keep. 138 % 3¥U' * Take My yoke upon you, ... for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light." — Jesus, Thine is a yoke that is better far Than the greatest liberty ; Thy servants have the deepest joy, For Thou dost set them free ; Dear Master, at Thy feet I bow. Oh, put Thy yoke on me. I have had other masters, Lord, And found them hard and stern, I yield Thee glad obedience now, And would Thy wiU discern ; I find it blessed to sit down Beside Thy feet and learn. I would not have Thee set me free From Thy dear yoke of love ; If Thy commands are laid on me Do not one law remove, For I would serve Thee evermore, On eaxth and then above. I love the bondage Thou dost make, And the burdens Thou dost bring ; I am Thy loyal subject, Thou My generous, gracious King, And while I serve and wait for Thee, I must in gladness sing. 139 Thy yoke is easy, my Lord, Thy burdenB all are light ; I feel that they are laid on me With a strange and sweet dehght, I would be Hke those happy ones Who serve Thee day and night. i^ar 'got " Feoi' not, for I have redeemed thee ; I have called thee by thy name : thon art Mine." Be not afraid, but hope in God ; strong, tender words He speaks to thee; Thy trusted, best beloved ones are not so true and kind as He, — And all He says thou mayst receive, and with undoubting faith believe. Oh, lift thine eyes and look at Him. What hides TTTm from thy gladdened sight ? He calls thee into noontide joy. Why shrink away in dusky night ? Stretch out the hands of faith to Him, whose mighty love no cloud can dim. Fear not ! nor let thy sins rise up and shut His tender pity out ; He loves thee, sinner, as thou art, oh, grieve Him not by shade of doubt ; But nestle to His side in rest who in thy weakness loves thee best. The Lord is careful of His own. Oh, happy one, redeemed and free ! The white-robed angels round the throne who, wistful, wait and watch for thee. Have not so near and dear a part within that loving Father-heart. 140 Since thou art His, fear not beside, -wliate'er these lowlands may become ; His messenger is on the wing, and He will take thee to thy home, Where all thy care shall pass away, and thou shalt dwell in cloudless day. Therefore be brave, and do not fear thp threatening foes that round thee throng. But, strong and happy in His love, through darkening valleys pass along, And, conscious of His patient care, beguile the way with trustful prayer. '^ma, b Still. It was but a little word. Whispered at close of day. But I knew it was Christ the Lord Who stood in the dangerous way ; Oh, the stormy winds were wild, And my strength was well-nigh gone. But He came to His timid child. And I was not left alone. My heart was like the storm, And it could not be at rest ; I had not a shelter warm. Though weary and sore distrest ; I cried aloud in my fear, Frightened by noise and strife. But I listened and found Him near — My Saviour, my Lord, my Life. 141 Eough were the waves and lugh, And they tossed me to and fro, Till it seemed that I must die In the midst of wrath and woe ; But the Master said, "Be still," And the waters then were calm ; For they staye^ at the Master's will, And the noise became a psalm. Jesus, who evermore Commandest the wind and wave. Teach me, as heretofore, How mighty Thou art to save ; Let me not faint nor fear, ■Whatever the day may be, 'Tis enough that Thou art near, I will leave all else to Thee. iingbom €mm." Thy kingdom come ! Saviour King ! speed on Thy glorious way ; Light up our cold, grey Eastern skies with shining of Thy day ; Fill the dull earth with melody from concerts of the skies. And with Thy gentleness make Thou the people great and wise. Eeign now, Christ ! In human hearts set up Thy mystic throne, And let the world of feeling there Thy wise dominion own ; Eeign over thought, that all its power and influence may be As consecrated offerings brought, holy One, to Thee. 142 Thy kingdom come in lighted homes made happy by Thy love, Until they grow more bright and fair, and like Thy home above. And let the momLag .prayer be breathed and raised the evensong, And fireside circles talk of Thee, and still the theme prolong. Let little children Sing to Thee, upliftitig hearts and hands ; Toimg men and maidens press to Thee in glad, devoted bands ; Let power and genius bring their gifts and lay them at Thy feet. And all earth's great and noblest ones Thy wondrous praise repeat. Thy kingdom come 1 Saviour King ! how bright the world will be When young and old with one accord are loyal unto Thee ! Hasten the good, glad time, Lord I Soon let the earth be blest, And know Thee as their tender Friend, and seek Thy promised rest. " We cannot tell what He saitt." He tells us of " A little while," and in our hearts we hide His words; We say them o'er at eventide with gladness, lor they are the Lord's. We cannot choose but love them well, though all they mean we cannot tell. His words had hidden meanings when He spoke them to His chosen few; With wondering hearts they listened then, for they were earnest, leal, and true ; With wondering hearts we listen still who fain would read our Master's will.- 143 We cannot tell. His " little while " seems strangely long to us who wait; The days pass very slowly by, the time is surely growing late, And we are tired of toil and pain, — -when shall we see His face again ? He speaks to us in many words, in voices that we do not know. And into dim, uncertain paths He bids our weary feet to go ; And what He says we cannot tell, we only know it must be well. But, as we foUow where He leads, our hearts grow glad with blessed- ness; "We know at least our Saviour's heart, and it is full of tenderness, And we shall learn in better light the way to read His words aright. And still we cry, " Be patient yet, and, though we cannot understand, Still speak to us, Lord our God, as we pass through the stranger's land; For words of Thine must make us strong, and fill our hearts with gladsome song." " I WILL have mercy," saith the Lord. We sin against Him day by day, We grieve Him by our faithlessness. But still His wondrous love hath sway, And by His tenderness we find He is the ever true and kind. " Ye shall want no good thing," said He. And stUl His hands are over all ; 144 His mercies come to us in showers, His Uessiags like the manna fal , And every day, at mom and night. They are as fair and free as light. " As thy days so Thy strength shall be." Lite's burdens have been great, and yet A strength not ours has made us strong. And God does not His word forget ; We come to Him in childlike prayer. And aU is well, for Christ doth care. " Come to Me, I will give you rest." We came, the weary and the worn, But joy has given our spirits wings, For He has all our sorrows borne. And His sweet peace has made us calm. And now we sing the Conqueror's psalm. " When Thou shalt through the waters pass, I wOl be with Thee," saith the Lord. We boldly wait beside the brink. And only hsten for His word. His children can have nought to fear When He, their Hope and Life, is near. Oh, not one word shall ever fail Of all His many promises ; And since our Father loves us so That He will have us where He is, We gladly wait and know ere long We all shall sing His children's song. 145 $& XB OttX ^tntL The world is overfull of din and riot, Till Jesus comes to bid the turmoil cease ; 'Tis only Christ can fill the soul with quiet ; He is our sure defence, He is our peace. We were before the storm and whirlwind driven, And vainly in the tumult sought for rest ;. But now His gentleness with us has striven, And we have turned for shelter to His breast. We had grown tired of all the eager rushing Hither and thither after happiness ; But He has come, our sighs of sorrow hushing. And satisfied us with His tenderness. We could not sleep, though night was dark and dreary ; We heard disturbing sounds of many foes, But Jesus came and cheered the faint and weary. And soothed our spirits into sweet repose. Often we wept as those who were forsaken. And scarce had hope or light the whole day long ; But Christ our Lord such rapture can awaken That now we fill the hours with thankful song. " He is our peace." Oh, ye whose heads droop sadly. Will ye not come to Him and test His love ? For life will brighten, and the years pass gladly. And He wiU bless you from His throne above. 11 146 " He is our peace." This is tlie happy story We tell the troubled world until we come Out of the war and strife into His glory — Out of the stranger's land into His home. Oh, cruel crowd, with clamorous cries, And awful faces dark with hate 1 Oh, wicked hands and flashing eyes, And eager wrath that could not wait ! How base was the return you gave To Him who only came to save ! We weep for all His love in vain, His gentleness with fury met, The scoffing words, the crown of pain, The hearts that could His grace forget, The eyes that saw the Saviour die. And watched and waited tearlessly 1 But sadder still the consciousness That we our faces from TTim turned ; We waited not that He might bless, Even His tender words we spurned, And, adding sorrow to His lot. We, even we, esteemed Him not. Christ, our Lord most merciful ! What shall we render unto Thee, That gracious, tender, pitiful Thou art and evermore will be ? 147 Our hearts are bowed witli grief and shame, But Love is still Thy sweetest name. Saviour ! let us nevermore Hold Thy great love in light esteem ; Pardon us, Lord, that heretofore We loved not Thee who could redeem. Oh, sanctify us, King divine, And let us now be wholly Thine. We do esteem Thee dearer far Than friend, or kindred e'er can be. The best, in all their beauty, are But weak, faijut images of Thee ; Be patient with us, Friend above. Until we give Thee love for love. C^-rist %lam. " And when He hod sent the mnltitndes away, He went up into a monntain apart to pray: and when the evening was eome He was there aloaeJ'^Matthew. There arose a cooler freshness in the pleasant moimtain air, And He blessed the men and children and the women gathered there ; Hushed their wondering words of praises at the miracle of bread. And dismissed them from His presence whom His tender hands had fed. But His brethren. His disciples, would He send them too away ? He whom Jesus loved was with them — might not James or Peter stay ? They were yearning for their Master, for the riches of His heart. But He spoke to the disciples and constrained them to depart. 11* 148 Could He see amid the sjiadows that were creeping up the hill How Another waited for Him, more beloved and loving still ? Did the patient Saviour weary for the closing of the day That He might be with His Father, left alone with Him to pray ? Who can tell the unseen rapture of that lonely hour at night, When the self-forgetful Saviour had His guerdon of delight ? Who may guess how strong it left Him for the labours yet to be, When He passed across the desert to the Galilean sea ? He has left us an example. Shall not we who day by day Sink with labour and exhaustion send the multitude away. And in secret, dear communion with our Father in the night. Gain refreshment, rest, and comfort for His work and its delight ? t j0«rmg oi W^ft, Is it far to go ? Is the journey long ? We asked as we started with mirth and song ; And httle we oared — so happy we — How long a^d winding the way might be. There were many of us, and eager feet Stepped out to the strains of the music sweet, And our hearts were hght as among the flowers We passed the first of the pilgrim hours. Through the valleys and up the hills. And close by the side of the sparkling rUls, And over the moorlands our steps we bent, And joy was with us where'er we went. 149 But the western skies are with sunset fired, And our feet are growing a little tired, And we ask, with an under-sound of woe, If yet there be many miles to go ? We have lost our friends as we came along. We are now too few for a cheerful song. And many a sorrow, many a oaie. Lie in the journey that looked so fair. But though we are weary we may not know How many miles we have yet to go. We can only tell that one faithful Friend Win walk with us to the journey's end. And this we know, that the end wfll seem Better than even oui- sweetest dream ; So gladly and bravely we march along, And at home we wiU finish the broken song. Jit tp ^^ip. " And they came to Him and awoke Him, saying. Master, Master, we perish." The fearful battle rages on, the battle of the winds and waves. And tossed on high, we look in awe at terrible and yawning caves. And see no hope in oirr distress, no glimmer of faint blessedness. Our ship is covered with the waves, fiUed with the water, and we cry, " Oh, for a succour in distress, a safe and blessed haven nigh " — And yet within our boat we bear the Saviour who is everywhere. 150 • Oh, Master, Master, pity us upon the rough and angry sea ; Dost Thou not care for us, Christ, who have no hope except in Thee? Stretch out a hand to our relief, and quiet us in our wild grief. Oh, Master, Master, we are weak, hut Thou art strong the storm to quell. If Thou wilt speak one mighty word, the storm shall cease and all be well; If Thou, Lord, save us not, we die, although we have the Saviour nigh. There is a hush upon the waves, the mighty winds sweep back and sigh, The billows are like glass, the sun shines out in glory from the sky. The danger and the woe are gone, and safely we are sailing on. Oii, why are we so fearful, Lord ? Forgive us, we of little faith Forget the comfortable words our tender Master often saith ; Oh, pardon us and still be near, when we are overwhelmed with fear. And teach us, by Thy care of us, to be more trustful and more brave, Content to wait when danger comes till Thou shalt interpose and save. And in the tempest to be calm, and sing our sweet reposeful psalm. 151 "Watchhas, wliat of the night ?" " The sable clouds hang low, No sign of the faint starlight, No streak of the eastern glow. No song of the nightingale, In the masses of sombre trees, No glimmer adowa the vale. No music upon the trees." "Watchman, what of the night?" " A sound as of cries of psiin, A shuddering wail of fright Over the surging main ; But the Lethe-driokers sleep. And the pleasure-dream is long, And the slumber is too deep To break at the cry of wrong." " Watchman, what of the night ? " " The sound of a whispered prayer. Crying for strength and light. Cleaves through the midnight air ; Then, as the hours go by, Clearing away the doubt. The joy of a victory Is the burden of song and shout.' " Watchman, what of the night ? " "Behold the Bridegroom comes. Bringing His lamp of light To the doors of the silent homes. 152 Will the sleepers awaken now At the sound of the many feet ? With a welcome on lip and brow, Oh, let them the bridegroom greet !" " Watchman, what of the night ? " " The shadows glide away. In the east is a tinge of light — The herald of coming day. Bouse ye, sleepers all ! Wake from your dreams and rise ; Listen, for angels call To the daybreak of the skies. "|t m i'mxB^iis." Oh, wondrous words from lips that had grown white In death's dread agony ! These words could turn the darkness into light On solemn Calvary. Then hosts redeemed took up the mighty strain. And sang, " Worthy the Lamb that has been slain, For evermore in majesty to reign ! " The words come echoing down through aU the years, Even to us to-day. And, hearing them, our sin-embittered tears Are gently wiped away ; And all the weary toil and helplessness, The unavailing efforts and distress. Are changed to peaceful rest and blessedness. 153 No longer wearing out our lives in vain A righteousnesB to weave. We look to Jesus and forget our pain, And in His death beUeve. His finished work is ours. Oh, mighty love Whiohj-'mid our shadows, doth its brightness prove ; We shall but comprehend its power above. Saviour I we are weary of our sin And our faint-hearted faith ; And we are children who but now begin To understand Thy death. Have mercy on us stni, living Lord ! And teach us by Thy power-inspiring Word Until we be Thine own with one accord. Help us, dear Saviour, John-like on Thy breast To lean the weary head, To lose our care, and find Thy precious rest, And thus be comforted. Until, made perfect, we shall safely stand, A happy, thankful, and completed band, Close to Thy side within our Fatherland. I foill %mL All the day I have wandered farther and farther away, Stopping to gather the wild flowers, watching the children play ; Singing a song that was pleasant, ohmbing a mountain side. Until faint and far in the distance sounded the voice of my Guide. 154 But now I sit in the gloaming, sorry and very tired, I have not found in my wanderings aught that my soul desired ; My heart is sad and unquiet, feeling how much I have erred, And I know the pain of the homeless and the fever of hope deferred. I can see, as I look around me, the dusky feet of the night ; I am afraid of the darkness, and there's long to wait for the hght. If I dared go back to my Father ! but I drew my hand away From His grasp in the sunny morning, and have left Him all the day . Should I rise and go to my Father, what would He say to me ? If He sent me back from His presence what would His anger be ? At least I should see my Father ; I wiU arise and go ; Perhaps He will have compassion, and forgive me in my woe. I arose and came to my Father, and the distance was not great ; I was nearer Him than I thought of, and He stood at the open gate, And held out His arms in welcome. Oh, ye who have wandered away. Only come back to our Father, as I have done to-day. Itxjt %lam. Not alone would we sit Close to the Master's feet. Beading His looks of love, Hearing His whispers sweet ; Not alone woidd we feel Sorrow and suffering cease, And stealing into our heai'ts God's wonderful words of peace. At the brink of tlie Eiver of Life How can we take our fill While the friends that we love the hest Thirst for its waters still 7 How can we nestle close In the shelter of love and light While they are abroad in the storm, In the dark and the pitiless night ? Not alone would we stand Soon at the beautiful gate. Looking and longing in vain For those who shall come too late. Not alone would we sing, Waving the conqueror's pahn, While the voices we love the best Learn not the holy psalm. Close to us when we kneel Here at the Father's feet. Close to us when we stand There where the happy meet ; Nearer to God than we, Happier in His love. Thus may our dear ones be Dear to our Friend above. Weak when we would be strong, Dumb when we long to speak, Never from us can come The joy which for them we seek. Holiest, make us wise. That the love of our hearts may be As the hand of an angel guide, Drawing our loved to Thee. 156 Yet, Father divine, Pardon the bold request ; Bather our cry shall be Father, Thou Imowest best. Gather them how Thou wilt, Even by others' prayer, So that our darlings come In the bliss of Thy love to share. " I will not leave yon orphans, I will come to you." — Jesus, Come now, Saviour, come and stay 1 The evening shadows longer grow, The opal fades from sky and sea, and vanishes the sunset's glow ; The day is spent and night is near — abide vfith us, Saviour dear ! Come now, Jesus, come and stay ! The hearts are faint that turn to Thee ; What timid, weary hearts they are only Love's searching glance may see. But, Lord, Thy presence is our rest — oh, come and make Thy ohUdren blest ! Come now, Saviom; ! for we watch the dimness creep o'er dying eyes, And wait with aching eagerness for what may be the parting sighs, — Saviour ! in the painful strife, be Thou our Eefuge and our Life ! Come now, Jesus, come and stay ; for others leave us, one by one ; We close our eyes and fear to find that all we love the best are gpne. Come, Thou ! Thy presence makes amends for dying hopes and fail- ing friends. 157 Come now, SaTiour ! leave us not ; brigliten dark places with Thy love ; Let Thy dear whisper through the storm reach us, and all our fears remove. ' Master ! turn our night to day ; come now, dear Saviour 1 come, and stay. They have each passed in at the open door, While we are kept on the threshold stOl ; We saw them cross o'er the shining floor, We heard the welcome songs swell and thrill. They have passed in to the world of light, To the greeting friends, and to peace and rest ; While we turn back to the land of night, To the gloomy toU, ajid the weary quest. But we loved them weU, and we miss them sore, Voices tender, and lips that blessed : Our hearts cry out for them evermore. The hands that strengthened, the arms that pressed. Weary enough was the up-hill way. Darkling enough was the lingering night, — But this hour of sorrow has not a ray. It has carried our loved ones out of sight. Do they forget us, these friends of old. Filled with the happiness newly given ? Walking in light through the streets of gold, Are the cords that bound us whoUy riven ? 158 Have we parted from them and love ? Have the angels taken oar places there ? Nay, they are ours in that home above, As they were when together we knelt in prayer. They have gained what we seek for yet. They are at rest while we labour still ; Sorrow and sighing they forget, WMle we march on up the weary hill. We are parted, but not for long. The shadows fall,, it is growing late ; Soon shall we falter the even-song, Soon shall we enter the open gate. Parted, but only a little while ! He who led them our feet shall bring ; Jesus will welcome us with His smile Into the presence of the King. They are safe in the land of bliss, We are safe where the cross is given ; Christ will waken us with a kiss, And we shall haste to our loved in heaven. %nc\iax&l3. Theee is not a breath to move us out on the sunlit sea, But the white clouds float above us, and the birds sing merrily ; We hear the sounds of the children as they laugh in their careless play; And the smooth waves gently rock us, while we rest in the little bay. Life is a cloudless summer, — a pleasant and bright July ; Scarcely the land-grown roses are gayer than you and I. 159 The scents from the perfumed gardens come in the evening air, And we float on the placid waters dreaming of all things fair. We know we are safely anchored, we know we have nought to fear ; Our vessel would ride securely, even if storms were near : So we sing from the morn till evening, and dream through the quiet night; And why should we vex our spirits longing for fairer light ? And yet — and yet — we are waiting far from the home we love. Par from our nohle kindred, far from the King above ; They are only the songs of strangers that fall on the listening ear. It is only the land of strangers whose flowers and light are near. # It were better to have less safety, better that storms should come. If we and our ship were driven the nearer toward our home ; Better the rougher waters that flow to the other shore, Than the smooth calm bay which is foreign to the land where they sin no more. How can we rest in quiet ? How can we be content. When far from our Father's country, idly our lives are spent ? Let us pray for the storm's strong breezes, that swiftly our barque may move Away from the land of strangers, and sail to the land we love. 160 " The Lord BhaU give His people the hlessing of peace." Not empires, nor thrones, and no green laurel boughs. To wave over the heads of His victors gives He ; Other crowns has our King to encircle the brows Of those who shall fight in His battles, nor flee Till they aU shall be free. God gives to His people no riches to heap, No jewels or gems in strong caskets to hold ; He lifts them not up beyond others who weep. And only as stewards He gives to them gold For the poor, sick, and old. He giveth to others the riches of earth. The children He loves must have blessing instead ; The strangers may revel in sunshine and mirth. But He lays His own hand on each well-beloved head — So are aU comforted. His most blessed gift is too precious to show, In hearts deeply glad it is hidden away ; And always in weariness, hunger, or woe. It changes the sadness, and oft as they pray Turns the night into day. God has given the white stone with the Name written in ; None other may read — ^it is love that reveals ; God's soldiers, who war against darkness and sin. Can alone read that secret ; — the blessed peace steals Where His lowliest kneels. 161 Christ, the peaoe-giver ! what love is like Thine ! What wonderful might in Thy blessing there is ! To he blessed with Thy peace, and to see Thy light shine, Is the rapture we crave for, the f uluess of bliss. Oh, grant us all This ! ^t ii#. '' Every m&u went unto his own honGe. Jesas went unto the Mount of Olives." — John. The shadows leU ; for the day was spent, And God recalled th^ hours He had lent, And every man to his own house went. For dark-eyed children waited there After the day that had been so fair, And the time had come for the evening prayer. The sound of the swift home-going feet Was heard in the slowly darkening street. And the women came their friends to meet. Grave were the faces and thought-perplexed. The men were anxious and even vexed. Wondering what should happen next. A cautious hazard, a scoffing shout, A parting word of distress or doubt, — And the doors were closed and shut Him out. O city touched by the sunset fair ! O happy homes where the children were ! Had ye no place for the Saviour there ? 12 162 With pitying heart that loved thorn yet, And a tender face that sad tears wet, He took His way to Olivet. In the homes below there were beaming eyes. And precious household sympathies — For Him there were lonely midnight skies. Christ ! what wonderful love was Thine, But now — ^be ever the Guest divine In homes where the sweetest love-lights sjiiue. And when life's sunset hour draws near. And the fairest earth-scenes disappear, Oh, think of us. Thou Saviour dear. And open the door of Thy home above. That we may Thy wonderful mercy prove. And enter in and taste Thy love. " Aud they feared as they entered into the cloud." — Luke, There came a cloud o'ershadowing them upon that holy, mystic hill. And tremblingly they stood and watched, tUl God had wrought His mighty will ; They feared the unfamiliar air, although the Lord was with them there. He would have kept His chosen few from any harm that might befal, The brightness in His face hid not the love that kept their hearts in thrall ; > His greatness there had been displayed, yet the disciples were afraid. 163 And so in lowly confidence I think upon His tenderness. Thougli timid, trembling, fearful they, I think He did not love them less. They were but ehildreu in His eyes. He was the strong and kind and wise. There comes a cloud o'ershadowing me — I fear it as I enter in ; I know not what the brightness means, I tremble for my own deep sin. And what the cloud may hold for me of good or in, I cannot see. I enter in the cloud alone, my friends with me I cannot take, Tet One there is, whose Toice I hear, "I will not leave Thee nor forsake," And very safe the cloud will be if Christ will enter in with me. I lift my eyes amid the mists and look into His wondrous face ; Jesus ! Thou shalt make my home, and so I care not for the place, Aild when the cloud is dense and cold, I wait Thy glory to behold. I, mcst mint, h& ^am." I GO on an xmknown journey; And misty, the path appears, That lies in the deepening shadows Of the winding vale of the years ; But I picture a pleasant country, Sweet spots where the waters meet. Gorgeous, and flower-clad meadows, And grasses for pilgrim-feet. 12* 164 I think of the dear companions Meeting me in the way, And how gladly my heart will listen To the cheering words they say. I think of the resting-places And the burdens laid aside, And groups of children singing Their songs in the eventide. I think of the joy of the morning With the happy birds awake, Pouring their anthem-music Over the way I take. I think of the purple mountains. And the wave-washed silver sand. And the cherishing, golden sunlight Kissing the peaceful land. Shall I find these things, my Father, In the happy days to be. As ever with fleetest footsteps I pass to my home and Thee ? Or, instead of the joy, will sorrow Hold my unwilling hand. And guide where the tear-mists darken The paths of the stranger-land. Whatever it be, my Father, I know that it will be well, I leave Thee to choose my journey, And the places where I shall dweU. This is the prayer I offer. From dawn to the set of sun ; Thou, who art wise and tender. Ever Thy will be done. 165 C&« yorir flf P0sfs is foitj^ its. Storms have beaten, tempests rung, And the requiem has been sung ; Troubles have been multiplied, Pleasures drooped their heads and died. Darkness spread its funeral pall — God has been with us through aU, One has laid his joy to rest Sadly in the grave's cold breast ; One has dropped, his cup of wealth, Brimmed with love and peace and health ; But the sad ones sing this song, God His presence will prolong. One has felt his visage blanch At the fearful avalanche ; One has shed his burning tears. Through the dimly lighted years ; But the words come bravely, thus — God the Lord is still with us. Let us listen ! oh, not yet Will the God of Hosts forget ; Let us listen ! ah, the strain Is not marred by wail or pain ; Softly, but half understood, Floats the anthem, " God is good." Flowers shall burst where weeds have grown. Sorrow's reigu be overthrown ; 166 Light is springing for the sad, Love Divine shall make ns glad ; God, the Lord of Hosts shall be Sun and shield eternally. Bravely then the hillside press. It shall bring us blessedness ; Gladly then march on and eing To the presence of the King ; — Loss, nor woe, nor death shall come To God's children's happy home. #m' ^Kili&x'B pimttrs. Into Thy hands, oh. Father, their all Thy children give ; We would not for a single day without Thy presence live. In times of joy, in darkest hours, still glad and safe are we, If we can feel in weal or woe that we are joined to Thee. Into Thy hands, oh. Father, we meekly yield our will. To work when Thou shalt bid us, and at Thy word be still ; Thou only shalt choose for us until this darkened way Shall end in dawn of wondrous light — ^in the eternal day. Into Thy hands, oh, Father, we give the joys we love ; No tenderness can equal Thine, oh, mighty Friend above. And when our timid, shrinking hearts most for our loved ones care, We can but pour our wishes forth to Thee in earnest prayer. Into Thy hands, oh. Father, our lot may well be cast ; Thou who hast ever loved us will love us to the last. And all that here shall happen, of sorrow or of rest. To any of Thy children — it must be for the best. 167 Into Thy hands, oh, Father, in the last mortal strife, We, at Thy gentle bidding, will yield the breath of life. Content to wait the morning when at our Father's side Thy children shall be gathered, for ever to abide. ^atwita. We are scholars in a school, and the Lord doth ever teach us Tender lessons, wise and lofty, we could never learn in books ; And He utters mystic counsels which enthrall us as they reach us. Lingering ever in our memories beside our Master's looks. But the hardest of all lessons that we evermore are learning. And which He doth teach us always, is the proper way to wait ; We are weary as we con it, for our restless hearts are yearning To possess the blessings shortly which are tarrying so late. But the Master says, " Be patient," and we have to wait still longer. Wait and watch from early morning till the silence of the night ; Tin, if hope should droop and die, calm submission shall grow stronger. And the waiting end at last for us in glad and pure delight. We are better for the training ; He doth hide our dearest treasures Where we cannot even see them, out of sight and out of reach, But He gives us peace and joy far more precious than mere pleasures. And we sit in quiet at His feet, to learn what He will teach. Yet we can but recoUeot, with a feeling, of great gladness. That school days shall soon be o'er, we shall reach our Father's gate. And within that home of love shall forget all shade of sadness, Having no more need of learning the hard lesson how to wait. 168 *' Sui-ely I come qnickly." " Even so, eomej Lord Jesus." Thy word was to our fathers given ; they waited for Thee long ago, And still the years are lingering on, and still Thy chariot wheels are slow; Oh, come, Lord Jesus, quickly come, and take Thy wistful children home. Come, with the holy angel-erowds ; come in Thy majesty and might. Come in the clouds that softly veil the brightness of Thy glory-Ught, And let the trump and song proclaim the glorious triumph of Thy name; Or, if not thus, then gently come, an unseen Presence, sweet and With cords invisible to draw our glad, submissive souls along. Near, and still nearer, evermore unto the golden, gleaming shore. Come to us in each glad new day, come, Jesus, and with us abide. Come to us with the morning light, and walk with us at eventide. And every hour of every day, oh, Christ, our Saviour, come and stay. We cannot see our future way, — what lights shall shine, what sha- dows fall, — But be it glad or be it sad, oh, Jesus, we can bear it all. If thou wilt come, our Saviour dear, and leave us not the whole long year. Come to us in society, come to us in o\ir loneliness. Come when our hearts are thrilled and glad for all our Father's tenderness, iAnd oh, our Teacher, near us be, when Thy disciples speak for Thee. 169 Oh, come, Lord Jesus, quickly come ! The merry bells ring in the year. But neither light nor joy is ours until the Master's step is near. Dear Saviour, make our bearts Thy home : so come, Lord Jesus, quickly come. ^^6 ^orb is mg S§^«p§^a'ir. Up the steep hiU-side Many a weary mile, Or where waters glide And where sweet flowers smile ; In the pleasant land "Where green pastures be, With His own right hand He is leading me. When the mom is bright And the sun is high. And when falls the night. Is the Shepherd nigh. Never more alone Will He let me go. But in gentle tone Speak the words I know. Dark and rough the way. Hidden from my .sight ; I have but to pray, " Guide my feet aright." 170 Snares and death may hide In the path I take, He is by my side For His mercy's sake. " Shall I creep along, Tremblingly, in fear ? Never sing a song ? Never know good cheer ? Nay, but joyfully Where He leads I go ; Nought can frighten me When His smile I know. Though the night be near. And the hill be steep. Still I do not fear ; Close to TTim I keep, Saying but this prayer, — " Tender Shepherd, come, Take me in Thy care. Lead me to Thy home." ^t f0&^ir @ms at §om&. They are at home in our Father's land. Safe from the burning heat ; By the gushing waters of life they stand, Eefreshing the weary heart and hand. Besting the wayworn feet. 171 Early they finished the Christian fight. Soon was the battle won. Eapidly glided the hours of night, And dressed in the conqueror's robes of light. They live in the day begun. Steep and long is the road to heaven : They were led by a shorter way ; For a little while had they prayed and striven, When the Father's welcome and call were given, And they hastened and did not stay. They are gone home for the holidays — Children at school are we : They are singing the sweet home lays, Happy songs of our Father's praise ; They can the Saviour see. Lonely are we in the stranger's place, And we miss our dear ones sore, With only a dream of the tender face. Only a thought of the loving grace Which shall move us nevermore. Yet an epho comes from the distant hills, And we know that if they are home. Besting beside the heavenly rills, Having enough of the joy that thrills, We shall not always roam. Soon shall we stand at the golden gate. Eager to share the bliss. And, now that the season is growing late, I ween that we shall not have long to wait For our darlings' greeting kiss. 172 lai as J ia'tlL" Father, I have prayed for strength, For summer-tide of joy. That longest hours and sunny days I might for Thee employ ; And, lo, I was but weak and faint. And early winter came. It is Thy wUl, Thy will be done. And blessed be Thy name. 1 thought to rear a temple dome Where men might worship Thee ; I looked upon Thy captives, Lord, And hoped to set them free. Thy temple waUs are fair and high, Without a touch of mine ; Thy children walk at liberty. And the victor's hand was Thine. I would have spoken mighty words, I would have done great deeds. And bravely 'neath Thy banner fought For aU Thy people's needs. But Thou hast given me feeble lips. And hands that must be stUl ; Thou bidd'st me rest while others serve,- Master ! do Thy will. I turn me from the sacred cup With sorrow's leaves made strong. And in the starless night of gloom 1 cry, Lord ! how long ? 173 But firmer still this cry shall be, Father ! heed not me, — Not as I will, but as Thou wilt, ' Choose Thou all things for me. Thy will be done. God of light ! We are in darkness still, 'Tis" well that we, the weak, the sad, Should wait upon Thy wUl. Yet let Thy kingdom come, God ! That all Thy love may see, And those who weep in pain and loss Be comforted by Thee. Under the shelter of laden vines, Among the branches of sombre pines. Upon the hills where the breezes blow, Down in the vales where the waters flow. From morning till evening, where'er we roam, We hear a whisper, " Come home, come home." The world's glad music is ringing out. The air is full of the song and shout ; We laugh as we look at the flashing waves, And sing as we sail by the fern-lined caves. But our hearts are stilled by the undertone Of the tender words we hear alone. m For only the hearts that are true to us Over miles of distance could reach us thus, And our hearts go out to them evermore, Wishing the time of our absence o'er, When gladly we hasten, no more to roam, To the sheltering warmth of our own sweet home. 'Tis so with us ever. We linger here. And the gleams of sunlight are sweet and dear ; But now and then from the waiting band, Happy and safe in the fatherland. There comes a whisper to us who roam. And it says to us gently, " Come home, come home.' Glad shall we he when the days are past. The lingering days — ^till we see the last ; And we cross the sea on the flowing tide. And safely sail to the other side ; For then our feet will no longer roam, And the God who loves us will say, " Come home." " As My Father hatli sent Me, even so send I you." — Jesus. FoKWABD they go at the Lord's command. Over the wide and dividing sea, Or stay in the vales of their own loved land. Preaching to captives of Uberty. In the crowded street, or the busy mart. In the quiet homes at the evening-tide, Gladly they speak to the weary heart Of a peaceful rest at the Saviour's side. 175 They are not a weak and a scattered few, But a mighty host that is strong in love, And they all have noble work to do For Christ the ascended One above. Some are the aged with snowy hair, Some are the young in their morning prime, And little children the bright and fair Come in their merry and hopeful time. What are they doing, the mighty baud ? They are speaking the tender words of Heaven, They are leading others with gentle hand To the cross where eternal life is given. They are doing the work which the Master did, TeUiug glad tidings of joy and peace. Of the blessed life that in Christ is hid. Of the home where sorrow and strife shall cease. Oh, happy servants of such a King, Forth may they go in the great employ. And ever new souls to the Saviour briug. And finish their honoured course with joy. 176 aaut for ^i. I HAVE asked Tliee to choose my blessings, and many a happy day I have walked through the scented pastures, and found them a pleasant way. Very fair is the dawning of light on the eastern hills. Very fair is the gloaming as it tinges the running rills. I have asked Thee to choose my hlessings, and have seen Thy hand in all ; I know Thou hast lingered near me, hearing me when I call. I never have been forsaken, I have marched through a fruitful land To the sound of the song and the music, in the midst of a gladsome band. I have asked Thee to chcJose my sorrows. Father, shall I complain Though the touch of Thy hand upon me has brought me the keenest pain? Heavy have been the burdens, and thy fighters have pressed me sore, Yet I cry from my inmost spirit, " Choose for me evermore." All is weU that Thou doest : even the grief is light. And Thy love is shining the clearest oft in the darkest night. In the thickest part of the battle the shield of the Lord is spread, And stm when the sun is hottest Thy shadow is o'er my head. Choose for me stiU, my Father ; lead me and care for me ; Whatever Thy wiU provides me still will I quiet be ; Only speak to my spirit, and the whispers of Thy great love Shall render me calm and patient tOl I stand in Thy home above. 177 Jf0ll0to Ml Listen, listen ! Through the wild wind Bushing up the crowded street Comes the voice of One who epeaketh As in accents summer-sweet ; Weary men, oh, stay and hear Him, He a faithful Friend will be ; He in patience waits and beckons. Saying gently. Follow Me. You have followed other leaders Oft in weariness and pain. Falling for them in fierce struggle, But to rise and fight again ; Follow TTim and He will bring you Where the strife and discord cease. He win lead you out of conflict Into ever-blessed peace. Do not fear to love and follow Wheresoever He shall call, Te shall not be lost in darkness, Shall not stumble, shall not fall. Oh, they turn their brightening faces To a land no fog shall dim. To a home of song and sunshine, Who arise and follow Him. Mournful people sadly walking 'Neath a weight of sin and care, Why not isten to His pleading ? For your burdens He will bear. 13 178 Those who follow where He leadeth Pass with singing and content Tlirough the world that does not know Him Where the darkest days are spent. Listen ! listen ! Oh, the winter Has its voices rude and loud, But His voice is raild and tender. Speaking to you through the crowd. Weary pilgrims, heavy laden, Leave the paths of sin and woe, Turn and follow Christ the Saviour, Wlio will bless the way you go. 'Jf0ir % §.eair." Eke the battle was completed, ere the victory was won, Ere the stars shone out in glory, ere the setting of the sun, Lo ! our brothers, and our fathers, have all fallen in the fight. And have dropped the glorious banner of the Truth and of the Eight. Shall we meet in glorious clusters, raining tears upon their grave ? Shall we spend our time in chanting solemn requiems o'er the brave ? Shall we droop our heads in sorrow and forget to work and pray ? Nay, the shouts of many voices, fling us back the answer Nay. But fill up the vacant places, stop the breach the foe has made, Baise the triumph song of courage, that the rest be not dismayed ; Gather up the unused weapons, and with vigour march along. Till the right alone shall con(iuer, and the good shall be the stron'g. 179 Ye are living for your fathers ; do the work they have not done, Eear the temples they were building, grasp the crowns they have not won; Say what they have left unspoken, end their sweet unfinished strain, They were sowers for the Master, — go and reap the living grain. Spend no time ia bitter weeping, be not idle for an hour. Let their garments fall upon you, labour on in love and power ; Aild when life and strength are passing, you shall meet your friends once more, And shall sing their song of triumph on the fair eternal shore. " Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together." GouE, for the Lord is there, His holy house is with His glory filled. And there the storms of life again are stilled — Come to the house of prayer. You shall the Saviour meet, And, while His words of love steal on the ear. You shall grow strong, and lose the weight of fear. Sitting beside His feet. The Comforter is there. And sweetly, with the words of love and truth. Cheers He the aged and instructs the youth — Come to the house of prayer. 13* 180 Oh, heavy-laden, eome, Prevailing prayer shall rise to heaven for thee. And Christ, the Friend of sinners, set thee free, And lead thee to His home. Come, douhting and distressed. The Sun of Righteousness shall bring thee day. And mists, and doubt, and dread shall fade away, For He wiU. give thee rest. Come, sorrowful and sad, For One will meet thee there who knows thy smart. And loves to soothe and bless the broken heart — Come, He wUl make thee glad. Come inthe hour of mirth, For in God's temple greater joys abound. And peace, and plenty, and repose are found, And pleasures not of earth. Come to the house of prayer. Gather in happy numbers near the Lord, For He shall fiU your hearts with His kind word. And teach and bless you there. WaitiiTjg for #rtes. " Lord, wliat wilt Thon have me to do ? " The sound of the war-cry rings out on the air, And I fain would start up and rush into the fight ; But one moment I linger in passionate prayer, " Oh, Master, I know not the good and the right. So give me Thy light." 181 I wait for a whisper. There is not a dearth Of good work to he done, for the birthright of pain Has clouded the heavens, and saddened the earth. And workers are needed for good and for gain. To hring joy back again. But stOl I am waiting. I dare not go forth Unless Thou hast sent me. I know not the way, If 'twere better to go to the south or the north. Back into the night, or on into the day, And therefore I pray. Lord, teU me what Thou wouldest have me to do ; If the work should be great, in Thy strength I am strong ; If the mazes are thick I will bravely go through, It is nothing to me though the road should be long, If it be not the wrong. Oh, Master, direct me, I wait for Thy will ; I fain would be patient whatever it be, To toil in Thy vineyard, or bear and be stOl, To be bound in Thy service, or active and free. If it be but for Thee. I wait for Thy voice, and I wait for Thy light, I wait for Thy call to worlds fairer than this. On whose cities there faUeth no shadow of night. Where the angels are ready with welcoming Mss, And the life is all bliss. ■ Shall I hasten or hnger, press onward or wait ? As Thou wilt, Father, not my will, but Thine ; I am waiting outside of the beautiful gate, TiU in letters of light Thy commandments shall shine. And to serve Thee is mine. 182 Saviotje, wlieii upon life's sea, Tempest tossed, we cry to Tliee, Wheii we struggle with the wind, When we seek but cannot find, 'Mid the tempegt of the year, Say to us, "Be of good cheer." When we cannot choose but weep, When we sow but may not reap. When our lips can speak no word, When we speak but are not heard, In the failures of the year. Say to us, " Be of good cheer." Jesus, iu the longest night, When we weary for the light, When Thy stars shine not above. When we cannot read Thy love. In the darkness of the year. Say to us, " Be of good cheer." When OUT spirits sink and tire. When burns low the holy fire, When our listless hands hang down, And we cannot see our erolvn. In our weakness through the year. Say to ue, " Be of good cheer." When we strive but cannot bring Loved ones nearer to the King, 183 When we lose them in the graves, When our hopes are drowned in wayes, 'Mid the sorrows of the year, Say to us, " Be of good cheer." Master, Lord, we look to Thee, Weak and timid we shall be ; Yet in confidence we go. More of Thy great love to know ; Whatsoe'er is in the year. Say to us, " Be of good cheer." " God sefctetli tlie solitary in families." — Da/vid, Out in the thick November fog where the cold and darkness be, I wandered many a weary mile, alone and cheerlessly. Seeing a glimmer here and there from a glad, well-lighted home, .And hearing the songs of love and joy as I turned o'er the waste to roam. It was cold and dark, and the way was lone, I was very sad and tired, And I had not one of the many things that my heart so much desired ; And, oh, I thought it were good to be a babe in its helplessness, And better to be worn out and sleep though in death's deep blessed- ness. But when I was over sorrowful the King came near to me, I almost shrank from His touch at first, but He soothed me tenderly, His wonderful eyes looked kindly down, and He touched me — me defiled! And He said, in a voice I shall ne'er forget, "I love thee; be My child." 184 When I gladly laid my hand in His 'twas a very different scene ! The loneliness and the sorrow too were as things that once had been ; And doors were opened and eyes smiled out, and I heard the bright hosts sing ; For love and welcome and joy await the children of the King. And now I know of another home, and see its glimmering light Shine down -through the fogs of this lower earth on every dreary night, And I pass along with a happy band of brothers and sisters dear, And soon shaU we reach our Father's house, for the end is drawing near. What can I do but love the King who has given such joy to me ? What can I bring Him but all my heart, though small the offering be ? Oh, Father, how much I love Thee now ! I am never lost or lone ; Thou lovest. Thou comfortest even me, and hast me for Thine own. ^xans^ i^e f ass. I HAVE been through a mountain-pass alone On a dark and dreary night. And fear and terror walked with me. As I looked in vain for light, And the frowning rooks all hedged me in On the left hand and the right. " I would rather climb to the tops," I said, " There are space and freedom there, And the starlight shines on the sloping plains. And a fragrance fills the air." But my way lay on through the mountain-pass. Nor changed at my futile prayer. 185 I wept at tlie gloomy entranoe-rooks, And feared at the first rough way, But then I listened, and dared to hope As I heard the Master say, " Fear not, lo, I am with thee stiU, And I wUl send the day." So I passed along, and the silent path Grew pleasant for His dear love ; The valley widened, and stars came out In the strip of sky above. And I sang a song of thankfukiess, A song of the Father's love. The sunrise flooded the eastern skies As I came to the other side. And I saw how the rocks had sheltered me. And the Lord had bid me hide From a mighty host of deadly foes That had gathered far and wide. So I see that the mountain-pass for me Was the safest path to tread, And though it was dark, and lone, and still, I followed where God's hand led ; And now, as I think of the onward way. My heart is comforted. 186 It is time for the evening saorifioe, For the sun is dyeing the west ; God is drawing His curtains across the earth That His children may sink to rest. Sweet is the sound of the evensong, When the din and the discord cease, And happy are they who when shadows fall Have only to sleep in peace. But sins and sorrows have marred my day, And I think with unquiet heart Of the Master's words in the morning hours, And how ill I have done my part ; I think of the thoughts that unbidden came, Of the hasty words I have said. And, although it is evening and time for rest, I have trouble and strife instead. What shall I do with my burdened soul, I who so oft transgress ? I need that the Father should feed me still. And pity, and guide, and bless. But how, with iniquities unforgiven, Can I look at my Father's face ? And how can I hope, who so often fail. For a share in His tender grace ? But a whisper comes to me through the gloom-. " Behold ye the Larrib of God, For He taketh away the sins of the world ;" And I think of the feet that trod 187 The Judean hills in the long ago, Hearing the same glad word, Who are resting now in the peace of Heaven, For they trusted and loved the Lord. wonderful, mighty Lamb of God ! I am lifting my eyes to Thee, And the cry goes up from my soul to-night — " Mercy, Christ ! for me." And I think of Thy death and atoning blood Till my spirit grows strangely cahn ; Thou, Lord ! art my sacrifice. And I bring Thee my evening psalm. pis €ntr foas |p£a«." It was but noon : and yet the sunset came ! He had not wearied of the working day 5 But One, whom weU he knew, whispered his name. And at the call he rose and passed away. 'Twas good to live where God had placed him here, 'Twas better far to go and serve Him there, Where sin, and care, and sorrow disappear. And songs of rapture fill the heavenly air. His was the active frame, the busy brain ; He loved to work, nor did his labours cease Until God stUled him with the touch of pain. And made him ready for His perfect peace. 188 There is a vacant place upon the earth, And saddened hearts are left to moimi for him ; But he will weep no more amid the mirth And glorious sunlight, which no clouds shall dim. " His end was peace." He was not driven by stress Of raging tempest to the heavenly shore ; The hand of death was like a friend's caress, And he awoke to find all troubles o'er. And now he rests in full and deep content ; And each whom he has left looks on to see How hlissfuUy the hours in heaven are spent, And waits tiU word shall come, " Christ oaHeth thee.' '' He hath sent me to bind np the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives," — jBffl. M. 1. The darkness is growing deeper Outside in the misty street, The cruel and pitiless winter la sending the snow and sleet ; And sad is the sound of the tramping Of hundreds of weary feet. The work of the day is finished. But the burden of grief and care Is heavy upon the shoulders Of the many who have to hear ; And often a sigh of sorrow Is heard in the evening air. 189 'Tis the land of the hroken-hearted, The land where the captives dwell, We can hear them with faltering voices The story of sorrow tell ; But we smile, for we know there is coming A Saviour who loves them well. He comes through the streets this evening, Should not the joy-bells ring? And oh 1 how the people triumph As soon as they see their King — They hasten with faces lighted The gifts of their love to bring. Wherever the Master pauses Some desolate heart grows light. Some mourning one sings for gladness, Some spirit has deep deKght, And even the night of darkness Has something to make it bright. He stays with the sad and lonely. Who sigh for the love they miss. They are cheered by His gentle presence, They feel the Beloved's kiss. For He maketh the grieved ones happy And stiU with a strange new bliss. Oh ! ye who are tired and sinful, Hear ye the Advent hymn ? He is waiting with tender patience Outside while the day grows dim. Oh, hasten to greet the Saviour, And open your hearts to Him. 190 grato B^'" When tlie glitter and tlie music of the winning world around Woo me farther from Thy presence unto where their joys abound, And my foolish heart, grown weaker, would forget its fealty, Then, Father, draw me closer, till I only cling to Thee. When the spring is in my spirit, with its many scented flowers, With its sunshine and its singing, and its pleaainre-wingSd hours. And no clouds flit o'er the azure of the skies above my head. Draw me then, God my Father, lest I turn to earth instead. When the fruits of golden autumn in my lap are pouring down, And my life has reached its haxvest-time of pleasure or renown, Stronger be Thine arms about me — draw me firmly nearer yet. Lest in all the sunset's glory I should Thy great love forget. Wien the barrenness of winter lays its heavy hand and cold On the heart that has been beating to the pleasure of life's gold — When the summer shall forget me, and I close the year alone — my Father, draw me to Thee, in Thy pity for Thine own. Draw me. Saviour, ever nearer for the sorrow and the strife. For the thickly-pressing changes of the ever-chequered life; 1 am but a child that wanders in the danger and the cold ; Take me up into the safety of Thy love-proteoting fold. 191 "Oh, irlien wilt Thon eome tinto me ? "—David. When wilt Thou oome whom I long to see ? Pleasant and fair is the summer day, But the earth is lonely and dark to me If Thou, my Father, dost keep away : There is no music of fiee and bird That can soothe the soul in its earnest quest. But as soon as Thy gentle Toice is heard. Peace comes to me and blessed rest, When wUt Thou oome to me ? Evermore I look for Thee at the sweet daybreak. When the darkness and sUenoe of night are o'er. And all glad creatures to praise awake ; I look for Thee in the noontide's height. In the harsh day's busiest din and crush. And I sigh for Thee in the calm twilight. And wait in the midnight's solemn hush. When wilt Thou oome ? Must I journey far Nor feel the hand of the needed guide ? Venture where thickest dangers are Without a refuge wherein to hide ? Must I wait in patience through -weary years. Longing in vara for the Father's love. Only hoping, 'mid many tears. To be near Thee at last in the home above ? " When wilt Thou come to me ?" Lord, forgive The doubting thought : Thou art always here ; There is not a difficult day I Uve But Thou, my Lord and my strength, art near ,- 192 Clouds are about Thee, my eyes are dim, I cannot see Thee, but Thou dost come, Hearing Thy pilgrim's pensive hymn, And bringing me light from the distant home. Stay with me. Father, for evermore ; Be strength iu weakness, and joy iu woe, My Guide till the journey of life is o'er, And I reach the haven to which I go ; Stay with me, Father, the way is long. How long I care not if Thou art near, 'TwiU be bright with pleasure, and sweet with song, Till the pearly gates of my home appear. 'gzua mz ia i^& '§,otk Oh ! lead me to the rock when the dark clouds overhead Hang like a heavy pall where my brightest hopes were spread ; When the tempest gathers near, and my spirit is afraid, Oh ! lead me to the rock, that I be not quite dismayed. Oh ! lead me to the rock, when I hesitate and fail. And the tempter's words are strong, and the evil would prevail ; Let me hide myself away where the Father only speaks. And my heart may find the strength which it now in sorrow seeks. Oh ! lead me to the rook when my head and heart are faint. And I kneel alone and sad, pouring out my wild complaint ; Let me have a shelter, then, where the weariness will cease. And my spirit in its need shall drink holy draughts of peace. 193 Oh ! lead me to the rook that is higher than am I, When my treasures droop and fade, and my loved ones fail and die ; When in aU the dreary world there is none to help or love, Oh ! lead me to the rook, that my thoughts may tui'n above. Oh ! lead me to the rook when upon the sea of life Death's tempest shall arise, with its might of noise and strife ; Let me find a shelter there till the joyous word is given, And I am safe away with my weU-beloved in heaven. maxkm. " Where hast thou gleaned to-day ? and where wroughtest thou ? The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust." — Ruth ii. Every night when the shadows creep Over the hills to the glowing west. And the weary eyelids long for sleep, And the weary spirits faint for rest, A little whisper is felt and heard As the servants of God go up to pray ; And this is the softly-spoken word — Where hast thou wrought for the Lord to-day ? Some have wrought among fruitful vines Where the clusters are ripe for the Master's hand ; Some are at work when the day declines. Preparing the hard and unbroken land : Some have been only sowing the seed, And some were reaping the ready grains ; ' And some are where bairren fig-trees need Patient labour and loving pains. 14 194 With work-wrung fingers and weary feet They pass to their homes at the close of day ; But their hearts are glad as their Lord they meet And hear His voice in the shadowed way. Sweetly He speaks to them, tenderly He throws around them His arm of might ; And, dark though the evening shadows he, His servants live in the blessed light. Oh, happy workers of Christ the Lord, To you shall a f uU reward be given ; So labour on at the Master's word, Until He call you to rest in heaven. Blessed are ye, and ye shall be blest ; He calls you friends, and His love is strong ; And soon in that land of eternal rest His workers shall sing the Conqueror's song. % mis^. Not to shine amid the great, Not to be admired on earth, Not with those who daily wait In the halls of song and mirth. Would I that my life be spent ; These alone could ne'er content. Greater far than these could make, I, Lord, aspire to be : I would labour for Thy sake, I would live alone for Thee, Tfll myself and life be given All to Thee on earth, in heaven. 195 Many prayers are weak and vain, Asking that whioli is not bread, Sorrow's ceasing, ease from pain. Now, God 1 I ask instead Only this — make use of me. Let me do some work for Thee. Love can make the fingers strong. Love can quicken loitering feet. Love can nerve the sad to song, Love shall make the task complete, Love shall set the slow tongue free — Saviour, let me wort for Thee. Pass the days on rapid wing. Let me then lose no more time. Glad to accomplish anything That for Thy sake is sublime ; Only thus, Lord, would I shine. Doing here some work of Thine. m^m? We shall meet each other when God's great day has come And we stand before the Judge waiting for our home. Old and young in families all shall gather there — Hear their sentences from Him and take their places^ Where ? There will be a mighty host who with Christ shall reign, While the crowd of self-oondemned look on Him with pain; Some with triumph songs of love meet Him in the air, Some with faces turned away take their places — Where ? 14* 196 Now the Gospel message comes sweetly to us all ; Now we hear a Saviour's voice softly to us call ; Now He loots on us in love, listens for our prayer ; Then the day of grace is past, we must linger — Where ? Now we may proclaim His love till the weeping hear ; We may seek the far-off ones, and may bring them near ; We may woo the sorrowful with a loving care ; We must see them all again when they gather — Where ? Oh ! may no accusing eyes meet us on that day. Oh ! that Jesus may not then banish us away. Oh ! that we may each abide in His presence where Sin and sorrow are no more, and praise succeeds to prayer. % gEg's mdk The light came over the eastern hflls as we started, my Guide and I ; He spoke to me tender and greeting words, and I listened fitfully. I wondered most at the novel things I should see as I went along ; He led me on through a world of flowers, and He taught me a pleasant song. At first we went through the meadow-lauds, lovely with gold and green. And rested awhUe on the daisied baiiks while the river flowed between ; And I listened to sweetest harmonies fllling the gay, glad earth, And it seemed to me that the world was full of wonderful joy and mirth. 197 But soon we came to a rugged hill ; it was long and hard to climb, Yet we sang together, my Guide and I, and cheerily passed the time ; And when I was weak He strengthened me — weary. He gave me rest ; And once, in a storm of wind and rain. He sheltered me on His breast. And yet I have often left my Friend, wandering far from Him, At the sound of voices that tempted me, but always the sky grew dim, And my heart was lonely and very sad till I came again to His side. And met the wistful, forgiving eyes of my faithful Saviour-Guide. And so we have journeyed on all day, and 'tis time for the even-song, For the western skies are opal-hued and the shadows are growing long; I am glad that the walk is so nearly o'er, and I know my Guide so weU, For at night I am going home with Him amid heavenly joys to dwell. woHDEons name so strangely sweet ! we say it over in our grief ; Its very utterance is enough to give the wounded heart relief ; It has a tender, healing sound in times when deepest woes abound. thrilliiiig name, so dear to us ! We sing it when the day is bright. We whisper it in secret joy while last the solemn ho\u:s of night ; There is no day in all the year but Jesus is a sound most dear ! We love Thy name for love of Thee, Christ ! who hast our souls redeemed ; For what Thy love has done for us no seraph knows or man has dreamed, It is Thy love, so vast, so free, that draws our thankful hearts to Thefi. 198 Thou art our Leader ; by our side Thou walkest through the wilder- ness. Thou art our Healer ; evermore Thy touch has power to soothe and bless. Thou art our Comforter and Friend ; shall we not love Thee without end? We turn from all the dearest names by which our best-beloved are known ; None is so precious, none so sweet, tender Saviour ! as Thine own. And, wheresoe'er our lives may be, our yearning spirits turn to Thee. We think with wistful longing of the joy of aU Thy white-robed throng, And strain our ears to catch the notes of their ecstatic triumph-song ; But when our gladness is the same, the sweetest sound shall be Thy name. Solomon's Song ii. 14. Safely hid in the rock's deep cleft, I sing as the hours pass by ; Sweet is the shelter, and cool and strong, and I look at a cloudless sky. Fair is the world in its opal hues, and smooth is the sparkling sea. And every leaf on the forest trees has a message of love to me. I hear a whisper. The songs are loud which the singers sing all day. But I hush my breath, for I long the most to hear what the whispers say; Sweet are the voices of those who sing, but it is the " still small voice " That thrills me through with its lightest word, making my soul rejoice. 199 " Let Me see thee." Oh, strange it seems that He says such words to me ! Scarcely are angels fair enough for the Holiest'B eyes to see ; How can He care for a sin-soiled face, for eyes that are dimmed with tears. For a world-worn brow that is farrowed o'er with the ploughings of the years ? " Let Me hear thee." I have no words fitting His ears to reach, No lofty thoughts are in my mind, I am very slow of speech ; What can I say to the Lord of light ? How shall I speak to the King ? For day by day in the heavenly land He heareth the seraphs sing. Ah, well He knows me ; but, laiowing all, BtUl great are His love and grace. And a tender pleading is in His voice when He asks to see my face. Love covers a multitude of faults. Does it matter how small I be. Since He loves me so well that long ago He gave His life for me ? So I answer back from the rook's recess, "I wiH hide me away no more, I will dare to look in Thine eyes of love, I will let myself adore, I will venture to open my heart to Thee. Oh ! Thou who my soul hast moved ; Happy indeed in this world are they whom Thou ownest as Thy beloved. 200 I siAND alone on the sloping shore, And the water-musio comforts me ; I think that the voyage ■will soon be o'er, The short svrift voyage across the sea. I soon shall be on the other side. In the golden land of my sweetest dreams : I can almost see it at eventide, When the cliffs are tinged •with the sun's red beams. And yet I tremble and turn away When the clear cold waters touch my feet ; And even shudder and long to stay Here in the world of the incomplete. Is it far to go to the other land ? Will the biUows rise and the tempests come Ere I am safe with the brother band Who wait for me in my Father's home ? Why do I dream of the parting sea. Of its awfal hollows and rocks of might, Since it has such power to frighten me. And shroud my soul in the gloom of night ? What have I heard of the passage home, That I fear to start on the shining way. And rather linger, and sigh, and roam. Mourning that heaven is far away ? Little I know of the waves that rise, Less of the storms that sometimes blow On the ships that saU to the far-off skies. Out of the reach of the world's wild woe ; 201 But I know, for my Father has whispered me, That the way if dangerous is not long, And that when I sail He will be with me. And bring me home to the land of song. So I wait alone on the sloping shore. And the water-musio comforts me ; Very soon He will take me o'er To the other side of the parting sea. I love the cliffs of my fatherland. And the angel-songs of the holy place. And am glad I shall soon with my loved ones stand. Seeing my Father face to face. Cl^rougl^ a ^laam^ gag. In the morning the fog was heavy, the gloom was filling the street ; There was not a ray of sunshine in the squares where the people meet. The faces were worn and anxious that turned to life's work that day. And only the little children were cheerful and glad at play. But the heavens had a Ughted message for those who had eyes to see — It was, "Best in the Lord for ever, and for Him wait patiently." Ai noontide the rain was falling with a sound that was like distress, The woods and the fields were sodden, and the earth seemed comfortless. Only the most glad-hearted smiled at the pelting rain. While those who were sad and weary sighed for the sun again ; But the earth received a message, spoken in cheery voice — " Rejoice in the Lord for ever, and again I say, rejoice." 202 It was not a golden sunset tliat came at the eventide, Only the gloom grew thicker and the darkness spread far and wide. The hills and the fields were hidden, and no moon or stars shone out. And there came from the host of children no sound of a merry shout, But the hearts of the Lord's heloved were thrilled with the word of their Friend — " Lo, I am with you always, e'en to the very end." So the day was gone with its shadows, and we looked for the peaceful night. And found in our happy dwellings that the Lord could give us hght ; And we said, as we talked together, that we welcomed the gloomy days Which the King whom we loved made brighter, as we sang of His glorious praise ; And we thought as, in glad confiding, we asked Him to give us rest, That of days which our Father sends us, the darkest are often hest. " I will come to you." — Jems. Savioue, saU with me Over life's rough sea : Thou canst make the raging billow Quiet as a restful pillow. Till the shore I gain, Lord, with me remain. Saviour, come with me Where steep mountains be. 203 Nought I fear with Thee beside me, In Thy tenderness, oh, guide me. Answer when I call ; Hold me lest I fall. Saviour, with me go Where green pastures grow ; Where sweet flowers are ever springing. And the hirds glad songs are singing. Nought is bright or fair If Thou art not there. Saviour, when I wake, In the stilL daybreak. Be the first who comes to meet me, Bead the love with which I greet Thee. Glad the morn shall be Thus begun with Thee. Saviour, with me stay All the busy day. Common things shall take new beauty. Sweet shall be the voice of duty ; For my work shall be Done alone for Thee. Saviour, in the night Cheer me with Thy light ; Come when all the world is sleeping. And my heart her watch is keeping — Night is fair as day, If Thou near me stay. Saviour, come to me Since I long for Thee, 204 Never let me live ■without Thee. Let Thy presence be about me, Till in Heaven I be Evermore with Thee. " giza—i^z Pate d i^t €^aix." " As well the Bingers as the players npon instTmuents shall he there." — Psahn Ixxxvii. 7. He has passed away to the sunlight golden, Out of the reach of the fog and mist ; His eyes have the face of the King beholden, His lips the welcoming Son have kissed. As soon as the farewell words were spoken. The heart of the singer grew strangely calm ; For, instead of earth's harmonies, strained and broken, He heard the swell of a perfect psalm. Did he hush his breath as he stayed to listen While the melting melodies nearer came ? Or did he break forth where the first lights glisten, As he heard the sound of the Saviour's name ? And what did he think of the harpers' playing ? In his dreams he had heard them a thousand times ; For they came to him in his weary Graying, And mingled oft with the Sabbath chimes. But now he has passed from the land of dreaming Into the gladness of rest and peace ; On his forehead the conqueror's crown is gleaming. And the music entrancing him will not cease. 205 Oh, now lie is happy beyond our guessing As gladly he joins in the sweet new song Of glory and honour, and praise and blessing, Unto the Christ he has loved so long. And we know that soon, when the strife is over. And all the discord of sin and pain. In the chorus of heaven we shall discover The sound of our singer's voice again. JfflX' €^mi'n Sake. FoK Christ's saie, Christian, pass adown the vista of the year, — • Pass joyously, although not yet the hidden scenes appear ; Though thickly dark the gathering clouds, and black the sky above ; For He shall lead thee tenderly whose sacred name is Love. For Christ's sake. Christian, pray amid the changes of the year ; Thou needest every day alike in the holy Master's fear To consecrate the hours to Him in the blessed deed of prayer. That every day His hand may be thy portion and thy care. For Christ's sake. Christian, work for Him as the labours of the year Come one by one before thee and the old ones reappear. Oh ! shrink not thou from duty's call ; go boldly forth to win Xoung hearts and old to Jesu's love, from the dark, broad way of sin. For Christ's sake. Christian, live and love each day of the glad year : Oh ! make it bright with affection's light for thy loving ones and dear ; Kindle a fairer joy within the precincts of thy home, And spare a spark or two of love for the needy ones who roam. 206 For Christ's sake, Christian, hope and trust through all the sunny year; Though the clouds are Maok and the lightnings flash, thou hast thy Saviour near. Oh, hide not thou thy shrinking head in the very midst of storm ! His arms of love shall fold thee olose in a refuge sure and warm. For Christ's sake. His who loved thee, His who gave Himself for thee, ■Who through the pleasant paths of life has led thee tenderly. For His sake. His, thou canst not have a holier motive here, To gladden thy heart as thou walkest along through the vistas of this year. When shall we go to the heavenly home And our tender Father King ? And hear the voices we long have loved, And the happy hymns they sing ? Wearily tred-ding the onward way In sorrow and sin are we,— When shall we lay our burdens down In the home beyond the sea ? Echoes of music so sweetly glad, Come to us sometimes here. But we long for the time when the free, full song Shall welcome our drawing near. Brothers and sisters have safely reached The home where is no more woe, And our yearning spirits that long for rest, Sigh, When shall we also go ? 207 Fancy pictures the Home we love — Pictures our Father's face — And we long to look as the angels do, And witness the Saviour's grace. But the way is weary, and we are weak ; When shall we safely stand Within the gates that shall no more close — The gates of the Fatherland ? Clouds of darkness are round about, And we seem so far away From the rest and gladness, the light and love Of the everlasting day. When will the summons come to us ? The Master is calling. Come, And we, redeemed from the life of sin, Eejoice in our holy home 1 When shall we go 1 Oh, watch and wait. Be not impatient yet ; Slowly the years are rolling on. But the Lprd will not forget. Only a little whole, and then, Oh, happy, and freed, and blest, We all shall gather at home in heaven. And enter the perfect rest. 208 t f amb 0f @0ir. I LOOK at the golden guuset flooding the western skies, But I cannot see all its glory for the tears that dim my eyes ; For I think of the black sin shadows that over the day have crept, And the tempests of strife and discord that over my soul have swept. I know I have grieved the Father by many a deed of mine. But I long for His gentle pardon and His face on me to shine ; I wish I had aught to offer that could for my wrongs atone, But I never can win His favour ; I have nothing but sin to own. He would not accept my fastings, nor care for my bitter tears, I have gained Him no costly treasure in all of my wasted years ; I have nothing to bring before Him ; — what shall I do to-night, When the whole of my past transgressions are seen in His searching Ught? But there comes to my fearful spirit the thought of a tender face. That even in dying moments lost none of its pleading grace ; I think of the Lamb, the Saviour, and know that He died for me. So why should I be in bondage when the Lord has set me free ? I look at the golden sunset flooding the western skies. Then gladly, with heart-thanksgiving, I turn toward heaven my eyes I shall say when the world is waiting at last for the Judge's nod, I know that I am not worthy, but I trust in the Lamb of God. 209 " Gabnish and sweep the room, For a guest comes in to-day." I arose from out my gloom, And laid my work away, And with eager eyes and cheeks aflame Waited and watched the way he came. His facile fingers drew Pictures of light for me, Hanging them up to ¥iew Till I cried in ecstasy, "Oh, stay, sweet Hope, for a long, long day;' But he smiled and kissed me and went away. Another came in his place. And held me a cup to drink : So grave and dark was his face That I could not choose but shrink. I knew not then, as I after knew, That Pain was a blessed angel too. I waited ; another came Whose face had a light di-raie ; He tenderly spoke my name. He gave me to drink Life's wine. I clasped him closely and bade him rest. For Love was the fairest and fondest guest. " Garnish and sweep the room." No welcome words I said, My heart grew dark with gloom^. And it sank with pain and dread, 15 210 For Sorrow's grasp was stem and cold, Although he brought to me only gold. But when the day grew dim, And I was sick and sad, One came, and I welcomed Him, For my Saviour made me glad. Oh, Jesu, Friend, let others go. Stay Thou with me in joy or woe. m MW^ If otts^. Little I know of my Father's house. Away iu the better land. But I know that its mansions are very fair. And fiUed with the dear home band. I know that the skies are never dark. And the day is ne'er too long. And the happy singers grow never tired Of singing the praiseful song. Often I think of my Father's house. And I long for a glimpse of light ; I yearn for an echo of songs they sing, And a picture of their delight. Who dwell in peace by the throne of God, Out of the reach of sin, In the land that knows not a fading time. Where no sorrow can enter in. 211 When shall I come to my Father's house, When is the time of grace ? When may I lay my burdens down And look in my Father's face 1 I must be patient and wait awhile, He will not forget His child, Soon will His angel carry me To the land of the undefiled. Friends I love in my Father's house Are waiting with welcomes there, And happy spirits in perfect joy Eest in the mansions fair, But I weary alone for my Father, God ; Soon as His face I see I shall awake and be satisfied, For that wiU. be heaven to me. " Ye wi31 not come to Me timt ye might have life." — Jesus, Sounds of sobbing arise to heaven, Sorrow, and sighing, and cries of pain. Sons and daughters alike are grieving, Living their lives of toil in vain. " Come unto Me, and I will heal you," One says, waiting with wistful eyes ; Scorning His whisper they will not listen Turning from Him they are not wise. 15* 212 Lights go out in the cheerless dwelling, Faces fade into -winter's grey, Death steals in, and want, and sorrow, And faint hearts long for the break of day. " Open to Me." A Friend stands knooMng; Peace He bringeth, and love, and light ; They bar the door, they will not open. They are alone through the darksome night. Weaip they wander o'er elifi and mountain. In darksome dell, or on ragged steep, Footsore and fainting, with burdens heavy. Onward they wander, and mourn and weep. " Come unto Me, oh, heavy laden. Empty and dark is the world indeed ; Come and find rest." But they will not listen. Gently He calls, but they wiU not heed. With open arms, and with eyes beseeching, Still He waits' amid sin and strife, And men still die in their pain and sorrow And will not come that they might have life. gax Is. ' Snrely He hath home our griefs and carried onr sorrows,'' We have the summer in our souls. The quiet calm at evening-time. The life that love has made sublime, And to our feet the joy-wave rolls. 213 We walk to music through our life In shady deU or flowery mead, — , Saviour ! Thou didst bear instead Our weight of sorrow and our strife. Our path is fair with floods of light, We journey through a pleasant land. And look toward a shining strajid, — Lamb of God ! Thine was the night. The years pass on with joy of gain, And added wealth of household ties, And dear love speaking through true eyes,- Tbine were the loneliness and pain. We always have " our Father " nigh. Our hearts are quiet with His peace, His rich love-blessings do not cease, — Thine, Christ ! was the forsaken cry. We are redeemed, for Thou hast died. O Jesus, Saviour ! can we be So dear, so precious unto Thee That Thou, with us, art satisfied ? What can we render for Thy love .? We hide our faces in our shame, And yet, Lord ! we love Thy name, And long to be with Thee above. Come to us still ; for Thou canst make Us, even us, dear friends of Thine ; Master ! still upon us shine. And take us for Thy great love's sake. 214 "Jfa%r, faxQtist i^m." Blessed prayer from dying lips, in amazing Hndness spoken By the holy Lamb of God, yielding up His breath ! As we listen to the words, seem they but the precious token Of His wondrous, mighty love, stronger e'en than death. Looking from the painful cross into dark and angry faces, Reading there the bitter hate requiting all His love. He in patient tenderness in His heart His foes embraces, Bears them on the wings of prayer to the throne above. StiU the crowds are full of hate, full of scornful, mad behaviour, To the Friend who gave His Ufe all for love of them ; Still with eyes of pitying love looks the Uving, patient Saviour, Only Baying, " Come to Me, I will not condemn." Still, although they heed Him not, and His foes are stem and many. And His grateful, faithful friends, are but very few. He is waiting patiently, willing still to welcome any ; Says, " Forgive them. Father, for they know not what they do." Oh, for better, happier times, when the world in Him believing. Shall, in wistful, humble crowds, gather at His side, And the glorious King shall see, while He waits, the world receiving, " Of the travail of His soul, and be satisfied." 215 Matt anir ^crto. "Before I was afElicfced I went astray, but now have I kept Thy word. Thou art good and doeet good." It is a glad, contented song. Father, Thy children sing. As while the tempest passeth by They nestle 'neath Thy -wing. That " Thou art good, and doest good," Hearts thriUed with love can say, For Thou with tender voice hast stayed Those who had gone astray. They wandered far with wayward feet Up many a mountain height. And trembled when the darkness came — Lost children in the night. The mists uprose before their eyes. And hid the Father's face. While they, with sad, bewildered hearts, Forgot their resting-place^ There came an angel in the night — The angel's name was Pain — He touched the children with his staff. And brought them back again. He brought them to their Father's arms. And, happy to be stiU, They listen to His comforting, And gladly learn His wiU. 216 God, Thy ways are wonderful ! 'Tis good to seek our rest, And read our pardon in Thine eyes While lying on Thy breast. 'Tis good to feel Thy chastening, Lord, For still in our distress Thou dost surprise us with the joy Of Thy deep tenderness. Yea, " Thou art good, and doest good ;" We did not always know What mighty love our Father hath, Till Thou didst teaoh us so. Now in our hearts Thy words are kept As precious, strengthening food. And now we sing our love to Thee Who always doeth good. Crast in i^t ITarb-. We are but little children, half frightened in the night, And in our childish terror crying aloud for light ; We have but Thee to trust in for aU our restlessness. But we lift our eyes unto Thee, sure of Thy tenderness. Lord, our Friend and Saviour, Thy children need not fear ; Though other friends and helpers should fail and disappear, Thou in Thyself art better than a mighty multitude. Lord our God, we trust Thee to do Thy ohildreu good. We will not mourn our weakness— 'tis pleasant to be strong ; But it is even sweeter to walk life's paths along, 217 Leaning upon Thy bosom, and letting Thee lead BtUl Through every quiet vaUey, and up the rugged hill. Oh, precious Friend, choose for us — we know not which is best : But Thou shalt guide us ever, and Thou shalt give us rest. With all that Thou shalt send us, give us Thy strength to bear. And in our pain and sorrow hear Thou our pleading prayer. 'Tis sweet to trust Thee, Master — we need not be afraid ; Those for whom Thou providest shall, never be dismayed. So in Thy love confiding, we bid our care to cease. And even in Ufe's tumult possess Thy perfect peace. MaitmiOf for H^ig^. " That -vrhich I see not teach Thou me." I HAVE wandered long in the mazes, trying to find the light. And the more I have toiled and struggled the denser has been the night ; I have eagerly sought for wisdom, but, ending the hopeless quest, I will come to Thy feet, Jesus ! weary and glad of rest. I have listened to many voices loud in their own proud praise, A host of bewildering teachers have urged me to many ways ; But I turn from the deafening claomour, and listen with aU my heart. Till the tender voice of my Master shall show me the better part. Why should I labour weeping after a fancied gain ? Why should a sense of darkness fill me with keenest pain ? I am Thy child for ever, and children but little know ; Help me to be contented with whatever Thou will'st to show. 218 There are wondrouB depths for the delver, there are dizzy heights to reach ; But I turn from the restless seekers waiting till Thou shalt teach. If Thou wilt tell Thy secrets, they are precious beyond a doubt ; But why should I puzzle Tainly trying to find them out ? I eome to Thy feet, Master. All that I cannot see, AU that I should be learning, graciously teach Thou me. I am content to be sittiug here through the longest night, Happy till morning breaketh and Thou leadest me into light. " They have forgotten their resfcing-plaiiee." What are they doing, the weary men, Eoamiug about in the summer's day, With faces darkened and seamed by pain. And sad eyes dreaming of far away ? Why are they toiling with wayworn feet From bill to mountain, from mount to hill. While the sun is pouring its burning heat. And there is not a glimmer of stream or rill ? They are engaged in a weary c[uest, Seeking for gold where there is but dross. Wandering farther away from rest. And spending their all in a gain of loss. Homeless and hopeless they wander on. Aimless, dejected, with dust besprent, Bootlessly toiling, till, tired and wan. They fall by the wayside faint and spent. 219 Have they forgotten the years gone by ? Tender sweetness and rest had they, While a loving Father watohing by Blessed and comforted them alway. StiE does He watch them with yearning eyes, With arms still open He whispers " Come !" Oh, that the wanderers were but wise ! Oh, that the children would seek their home ! Life's waters flow on at the Father's feet ; He gives to the weary tranquil rest ! Oh, that they aU would return and meet Close at His side, and be ever blest ! gifcrim ^trdhmss. " He Btayetb His rough wind in tlie day of the east wind." — Isa. xxvil. 8. The Lord our God is fuU of gentleness ; His thoughtful care Is prompt to help His children and to bless Them everywhere. But in the sorrows of their darkest days He chiefly loves to fiU them with His praise. He chooses for them aU things, dim or glad, But makes them know How dear they are to Him when Ufe is sad And full of woe ; He comforts them in sorrow till it seems A sacred thing, better than fairest dreams. 220 He cares for them. The foes whom they must fight Are in His power ; They dare not come in armies full of might At any hour ; He will not have His warriors smitten down, He keeps for them, unstained, the victor's crown. Above their heads the sty is overcast, And raindrops fall ; But wiutry weather does not always last ; For at His call The glorious sun shines out, and all things sing Sweet praiseful anthems to their heavenly King. There is,, in many homes, a guest called Pain, Whose face is stern : But God win call that servant back again, While glad hearts learn How sMltuUy their Father's hand can heal The sicknesses He lets His children feel. The Lord is very good. Take up the song The whole church sings ; Glory and honour unto Him belong — Our King of Kings ; We need not fear, for He our way will bless. The Lord our God is fuU of gentleness. 221 (Dm' pappg Pome. Fae, far away by death's dark ocean bounded, Our home lies in an island of repose, There where the angel-lyres have sweetly sounded, The golden gates upon its inmates close. To-day is but a shadow of to-morrow. To-day an exile ; then the Father's own Shall oast away the remnants of his sorrow. And swell the song in an ecstatic tone. There the delight of love through ages lingers. And not a shadow dwells in dear ones' eyes ; The harp is strung by never-wearied fingers, While the praise-anthems through the cities rise. There none have wept in anguish o'er the dying. And never more is seen the fever-flush ; Broad years of joy divide from sorrow's sighing. Tears are forgotten in that peaceful hush. Oh ! happy home, of unforgotten faces, Our feet grow rapid as of thee we think ; Soon shall we help to fill the vacant places,^ We who are hurrying nearer to the brink. We sigh for thee, land of joy unbounded ! And peer amid the darkness for thy shore ; Soon vrill the Father's call for us be sounded, And we shaU be at home for evermore. 222 Saviodk ! come into our dwellings to-day, For widely we open our doors unto Thee ; The joy-bells ring out, and we linger to pray, Holiest, meet us wherever we be. That Thy light we may see. We cannot be happy without Thee. Oh, come. Dear Jesus of Bethlehem, Saviour and King,. Come into the heart, and come into the home. While our love and devotion as offerings we bring. And Thy praises we sing. Come in. Prince of Peace, for we need Thee to-day. Thy bountiful joy is abroad on the earth ; But we cannot be happy while Thou art away. For discord and strife have too often their birth Among feasting and mirth. We cannot have rest unless Thou wilt be near To chasten our joy and to soften our pain ; For vainly the friends of our hearts shall be here. Unless Thou who art dearest will meet us again. And with us remain. We have room in our homes for Thee. Hear thou the cries That come up to Thy throne from the depths of the night ; For sad are our hearts and beseeching our eyes — 0, be Thou our Guest ; fill our hearts with Thy light. And the day shall be bright. 223 ^0sm0 a §m'b«n:. " Cast thy burden on the Lord.? " CaBting all yonr care npon Him, for He careth for you." I HAD a burden to carry, a burden of love and care, And it seemed as it lay upon me, too heavy almost to bear. It darkened the skies above me, it robbed me of joy and Ught, But the burden I needs must carry, nor lose it by day or night. 'Twas a burden of grief for others, who, trifling -with more than life. Turned from the love of Jesus unto the path of strife, Slighted the highest treasure, cared not to be forgiven. Turned from the life eternal, and the joy and rest of heaven, Some were my best-beloved, dearer for many cares, So I sought the Master for them, pouring passionate prayers. Eager with earnest longings that the Lord would not forget, I have waited long for the answer — but the answer tarries yet. Only a voice came to me, a voice from the skies above, " Child, dost thou only love them ? Do not I also love ? Are they not in My keeping ? Shall they not happy be ? Child, to their Father leave them, casting the care on Me ! " Now I have lost the burden, the burden of love and care, I gave it up to the Saviour in a holy hour of prayer, He has taken it from me, and my pleasure none can tell. My friends are in Jesus' keeping, and He doeth all things well. 224 Ii was over the stormy waters that the Bridegroom came that night, And no one knew of His coming, for He came as m. silent might. Some of the crowd were sleeping, some were to pleasure given. And no one thought of the angel that so swiftly came from heaven. There was but a sudden shudder, a shock that was almost death. And the women with fear-paled faces whispered imder their breath ; And some of the men grew quiet, speaking their words of prayer ; And some of them, white with anguish, groaned in their wild despair. It was only the Bridegroom coming ; had they but known their Friend They would have gone to meet Him, glad of the sure, swift end ; But many had only slighted the wonderful love He gave. And saw not His arms outstretching under the cold dark wave. Oh, how did the strangers meet Him, seeing Him face to face ? Perhaps, though they were not ready, He showed them His tender grace; Perhaps, in the awful tumult of the waters' fall and rise, He said, " Ye shall all be with me to-day in Paradise." But we, who have not yet listened to the sound of the midnight cry, Have time to prepare for His coming, who certainly draweth nigh. Oh, let us be always ready for the Bridegroom who cometh thus, Since we know that at any midnight He may come and call for us. 225 g^part, tol^kl^ m far '§&itsx. Not live to grow old ? Ib it so that you feel, In spite of the spring and the birth of new flowers, There is that in your frame which no science can heal, A fever that stealthily steals and devours While you fade with the hours ? Nay, keep the eyes bright, let them fill not with tears. They have great sights to look at, grand wonders to see, The marvellous pictures of perfected years, And brilliant forecastiugs of what is to be In the land of the free. You are sorry to leave the glad earth in its spring. With its growing green leaves and its blossoms of white ? Oh, favourite, dear to the heart of the King, A spring-time far brighter shall gladden your sight In Crod's kingdom of light. You fain with the friends of your youth would remain ? You wiU scarcely have missed them before they shall stand, With bright eyes undimmed, and no shadow of pain. Close, close by your side in the beautiful land, In an unbroken band. You have not completed the work of your life ? Nay, that you may finish more perfectly there. Coming back, though unseen and untouched by the strife. To steal from your loved ones the weight of their care, And to make the world fair. 16 226 God's darling, so fair in the great Father's eyes, That He wishes to have you beside Him to dwell, Pass on to His beautiful home in the sties, Where already the sweet songs of welcoming swell. And be sure it is well. *'He hath put a new song in my mouth." All things are singing sweet songs unto Thee, Kow that the summer glory gilds the earth ; When I would praise, all nature helping me Swells out its harmonies of love and mirth ; The cool, green aisles of the vast woodlands ring With the joy-songs Thy happy chUdien sing. The lark sings as it soars up in the light Above its meadow home of green and gold. And the sweet, love-enraptured bird of night Sings wondroualy when darkness makes it Ijold ; From all Thy temples in the vales and hiUs The same thanksgiving for Thy goodness thrills. And I can bring to Thee no better song, God, my Father ! yet my deeper heart, Which has been learning of Thy mercy long. Has tales to tell in which these have no part ; For Thou, whose sun lights up the land and sea, Hast given a gladder summer unto me. 227 The winter looked me in a narrow tomb, And the unbroken silence kept me down ; I could not sing for aU the pain and gloom, And the sharp pressure of the thorn-girt crown ; I did not even dream of liberty, Or hope that joy would ever come to me. But Thou didst send an angel to unbar The prison doors and let the dear light in ; And I, who looked at most for lamp or star, Stood bathed in glory Christ had died to win, And saw His face moved with strange love to me. And felt — I cannot teU what ecstasy. Shall I not sing a new song unto Thee, Through all these golden hours of summer days ? The birds and flowers and rivers call to me, And I may well surpass them in my praise. Thou hast redeemed me ; help my soul to sing The new song Thou hast taught me, my King ! laitmig; fox Jijsus. " And It came to pass that when Jesus was returned, the people gladly received Him: for they were all waiting for Him." — Luke. Waiting for Jesus ! The years have grown hoary. Since multitudes stood on the shore of the lake. And watched for His coming in meekness or glory. Who made their lives glad for His wondrous love's sake. 16* 228 Then after the time of dread Bhrinlting and sorrow, While -wild waves dashed high through the terrible night, How peacefully glad was that sunny to-morrow. Which brought Him again to their love and delight. And we wait for Jesus. The years passing slowly, Have given us place where those multitudes stood, We hear the storms raging. He only and whoUy Can comfort our hearts, and refresh us with good. All night we have waited ; and cared not for scorning Of men who, not knowing Him, loved not His name. We long for Him more than we long for the morning, And think how to those who were waiting He came. We are waiting for Jesus, 'mid strife and commotion. While wild storms of passion are raging unstayed. He only can quiet the fevered emotion. He only can calm us with. Be not afraid. Come quickly. Lord Jesus ! Oh, thus we are thronging The steps of the meroy-seat, where He will come. And the hearts of His servants are wistfully longing To welcome Him here, or to meet Him at home. So wait we for Jesus, in fear and in sadness. Yet knowing that, soon as His face we shall see. Our grief will be changed to contentment and gladness. Jesus, come soon to hearts waiting for Thee ! 229 »stfoai'ir. I TUBH my face to the Western skiee. "Very fair was the East to see, As we watched the royal sun arise, Lighting the journey for mine and me ; But fairer still is the glowing West, Where the red fire burns, and the skies are warm ; For I ween that the end is always best. Tranquil and shaded and free from storm. I turn my face to the Western skies. Far away is the Bast from me. And I watch the dusky clouds arise, Glooming the journey for mine and me ; But I have grown tired of the heat and glare. Tired with labour and lack of rest ; I am glad 'tis time for the evening prayer, And glad to travel toward the West. There are joys beyond the Western skies, Strains of music and sweetest songs. I had forgotten — I was not wise When I strayed in the South with the ghttering throngs ; But now I turn to the crimson glow With yearning spirit and panting heart, Longing that secret home to know — Longing to enter and ne'er depart. I turn my face to the Western skies — Peace steals o'er me and hopes awake. And I earnestly look for the coming prize As soon as another morn shalL break : 230 I have not done well in the passing day, But I shall be glad of the restful night, And I ask for pardon and humbly pray, " At evening-tide let there be light." C^^ #p^m #at^s. " And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day ; for there shall be no night there." Pass unto the golden street. Little one ■with rapid feet ; Pass unto the land of rest, Weaory man with aching breast ; Pass to where are no more tears, Mourner bent with grief and years. Go to Uve the lite complete, Where the immortal spirits meet ; Go, Truth's hidden depths to know, ■Which ye have but guessed below ; Go to shine in God's free light Who have groped in earth's dark night. Pass ye from the noon away To the world of deathless day ; Pass ye from the shades of night To the land of glorious light ; Pass, when night and morning meet. To the heavenly golden street. 231 Go and rest the aching brain From its problems solved in pain ; Go and rest the weaiy hands From earth's ceaseless, vain demands ; Go and rest the heart worn-out By life's cruel scorn and doubt. Pass to where the leal and brave Stand beside the silver wave ; Pass where never cries of wrong Mingle with the holy song ; Pass where wrath, nor tears, nor pain, ShaU disturb the soul again. Lo ! the open gates all day Woo the pilgrims on their way ; Never shall the travellers come To the portals of their home. Finding bars and bolts at last When the voyages are past. Ever at the Father's word Welcome-BongB are plainly heard ; And the children for their claim Speak the Elder Brother's name ; So they pass into their home, — So let all the weary come ! 232 "He sliall come down lite rain upon tlie mown grass, as showers that water the earth." The smniner comes, Master ! mtli wealtli of beauteous flowers, And on the grateful meadows fall the cool, refreshing showers ; The whole earth wakes to music ; but sighing still is heard, To us can come no spring-tide without Thy quickening word. Come down, mighty Saviour 1 Thy children thirst for Thee ; Where should be summer greenness there arid deserts be ; And, though Thy sun is shiEung, and the cloud-hills rise above. This world is dead and barren without Thy touch of love. Come down, come down Uke showers, come with refreshing might, And move upon our darkness and say, " Let there be light." Come, and the glorious morning shall rise upon our earth. And lips now cold and silent break into songs of mirth. Come down, blessed Jesus ! New life shall come with Thee, And hope and love shall blossom, and joy and Eberty ; And wondrous flowers of healing shall grow around Thy feet. And souls, new bom, in rapture arise the Lord to greet. Come down, and bring the summer ; open the prison gate. Lift up the weary captives who faint, and pray, and wait. Come down, gentle Saviour ! for heaven shall come with Thee,' And what is now a desert shall a smiling garden be. 233 " I have loved thee with an everlasting love." Back to the time of long ago, When first my wonder-opened eyes Looked on Thy hills and vales below,' And upward to Thy sMes I look, with earnest questioning, And still for all my answering, There breathes a stiU small voice above, " I love thee with an everlasting love." And forward, down the vista dim Of future's silent mystery, I listen for the solemn hymn Of life as it shall be. I listen, but can only hear One revelation sweet and clear ; This is enough my joy to move, " I love thee with an everlasting love." What lies between ? Oh ! hours of pain, Of trouble, and heart-suffering; Te spread your sombre pall in vain, I cannot choose but sing ! Little we care how wild the storm. If dear arms hold us safe and warm. One tells me He wiU ne'er remove, " I love thee with an everlasting love." What lies between ? The desert track Has blighting winds, and burning breath, And I perforce must journey back, 'Mid strife, and woe, and death. 234 But I am strong to bear or fight, And brave in loneliness and night, Hearing that 'whisper from above, " I love thee with an everlasting love." God ! in all my wavering. Of changeful heart and wandering eyes, 'Tis sweet to have the comforting Of Thy great love's replies 1 No worthiness have I to tell, 1 do not even love Thee weU, But only thus dost Thou reprove, " I love thee with an everlasting love." God ! look o'er the world to-day. To where Thy sufferers be; And in Thy gentle accents say What Thou hast said to me. They will forget the fear and pain. While love, and trust, and peace remain Since this will every care remove, " I love thee with an everlasting love." %i l^stts' gnt LoKD Jesds, life is hard, as Thou dost know. And hours of peace and rest are very rare ; But it is sweet, after the toil and woe, To nestle close to Thee with thoughts of prayer. If Thou wilt lay Thy hand upon my head, I shall arise refreshed and comforted. 235 Dear Master, I am sitting at Thy feet ; I would not imss a look or lose a word ; The hour is very holy when we meet ; I fain would see and hear none but the Lord ; I long to lay aside joy, grief, and fear. And only know and feel that Thou art near. The world's discordant noises ever more Clang round about my ears and weary me ; There were rough hands, ungentle hearts before. That troubled me ; but now I come to Thee -. Jesus ! quiet me with tender speech. While up to Thee my wistful arms I reach. In life's bewildering strife and eager rush I lose so much of Thy sweet gentleness ; But in the peace and solace of this hush Strengthen and soothe me with Thy blessedness ; Give to me what Thou wilt ; here at Thy side, Whate'er it be, I shall be satisfied. Lord, it is very good to linger here ! Why should I move, though many voices call ? But when Thou bidst me rise, Master dear ! I will go forth to do or suffer aU ; Only whene'er I may, it will be sweet All things to leave, and sit at Jesus' feet. 236 '§mbi mi nai. Oh, leave me not, my Saviour, for dreary is the way, And long, and dark, and diffioult, when Thou dost from me stay ; Nor light, nor day, nor sun, nor joy, nor multitudes of friends, For Thy departure. Light of Ufe, can ever make amends. Oh, leave me not, my Saviour, hut close beside me stand ; . I care not though the way be rough, it Thou wUt hold my hand ; The hidden music in my heart wQl drown the storm's loud voice, And in the rain of dropping tears my spirit shaU rejoice. Oh, leave me not, my Saviour ; life's battle presses hard. But fainting hearts grow strong to dare i£ Thou, the King, regard ; And failing hands and weary eyes are quickened into Ufe When Thou dost to Thy soldiers come and nerve them for the strife. Oh, leave me not, my Saviour ; but most of all remain When Thou hast lifted from my heart all sorrow, care, and pain. Then steady me amid my joy, and let the rapture be The grander, the sublimer bUss, that finds its all in Thee. Oh, leave me not, my Saviour ; the shadows longer grow, The evening mist creeps ijp the hills, and darkens all below. Oh, Sun of Eighteousness, shine Thou ! and then I vrill not fear, But bravely through the midnight pass till home and day appear. 237 Will t^£, Si^^p^^'ir tomt ? A dying girl had tlie 23rd Fealm read to her, alter which Bhe several times asked her friende, " Is the Shepherd coming for me ? ■Will the Shepherd soon letoh me ? " I SHALL Imow the gentle Shepherd When He stands beside the bed ; When I hear Him in the darkness I shall soon be comforted. He has led me many a joiimey, He has brightened every place ; Now I hope that He will hasten, For I long to see His face. And I care not for the shadows That may in the valley be. If the Shepherd come to fetch me. Is He coming soon for me ? Is it near the twilight, mother ? Are the children at their play In the street, beneath the window, While the daylight fades away ? Oh, I wish it would grow later. And the world would go to sleep ! Then perhaps the tender Shepherd Would come seeking weary sheep. When the silenoed land is silvered By the soft light of the mcon. Will the Shepherd come to fetch me ? Is He coming for me soon ? 238 But I have so often wandered From His side and from the fold ; And I would not Hsten to Him, Gave Him not my hand to hold. Yet the Shepherd is so patient, And His love must be so great, Tor He gave His Ufe to save us : He will come, though He is late. And if He should come to-morrow, What a happy day 'twould be ! And the Shepherd knows I'm waiting, So He soon will come for me. He is coming ; mother, listen, — Can you hear the Shepherd's voice ? I have heard it, and I love it. For it makes my heart rejoice. . He is leading me through waters, But the waves are very stiU, And He points me through the shadows To the light upon the hill. Surely goodness, love, and mercy Follow me till I am home ; I am going with the Shepherd, See, the Shepherd, Christ, has come. CIj^ ^mx^lxm of SoiTofaj. Wb would not always have the joy that lies along the path of life. We would hold out our hands to clasp the colder touch of pain and strife, If, taught by woe and misery, our spirits might the wiser be. 239 We would not have all azure skies, and no dim clouds above our head, We would not have all pleasure strewn upon the path our feet shall tread, For on the rough and steep hill-side full oft the purer airs abide. We would not have our love all strong, and every friend prove good and true. We would not stand apart in joy, while all our brothers need go through The seas of trouble and despair, which roll not to our borders fair. Eyes that have wept become more keen to understand another's pain. And lips that tremble grow more wise to bid a brother hope again. And hearts that nearly break with grief can give to other hearts relief. So let us take the crown of pain, and meekly wear it evermore. And let us gather lessons now, if we have missed them heretofore, For nearer to the Lord we are, if we too bear a cross of oare. " Not one thing hath failed of all the good tubings which the Lord yonr God spake concerning you." To the opal hues of the western skies. Brothers, we turn our fading eyes, And feel as we walk to the sliding shore That the long Hfe-joumey is nearly o'er. A few more steps to our weary feet. An instant's halt where the waters meet, A cheery word from the faithful Guide, And we shall pass to the other side. 240 But ere we enter the long sweet rest, We look on the way our feet have prest, And our feeble voices one glad song sweU, " The Lord our God hath done aU things well." We came to Him in our childhood's days, He led our feet into pleasant ways ; His Hnd smile lighted the happy hours, And the path was covered with wealth of flowers. When morning passed and the midday came, The love of the Father was still the same : Through the burning heat and the rough fierce blast, His strength has kept us tOl all are past. The years that gave us our snowy hair, Have told their tale of His tender care ; His loving-kindness has still prevailed, His faithful promise has never failed. Sing out, dear brothers, that all may hear, The Lord's beloved need never fear ; From happy youth unto peaceful age, God is the Guide of our pilgrimage. So we turn our eyes to the setting sun. Glad that the journey of life is done ; Glad that the Master will bid us rise From the river's brink to the opening skies. 241 " Ye see the day approaching." STEADiLy, sternly it marches on ; At each sun's setting a step is won ; At each sun's rising 'tis nearer yet ; We cannot its sure approach forget, For the long procession is fiUng past, And soon will it come, the great, the last. We see it coming ; our shrinking eyes Are drawn to its splendour across the skies. If we fain would hide from its blinding glare, Or hinder it hy a wild sad prayer, — Still ever relentlessly on it comes To our shadowed hearts and our darkened homes. What though we banish with mirth and song The sound of its coming? It sweeps along. It will not stay for our many fears ; It wiU not halt for our flowing tears ; And every season of blessedness Is making the distance ever less. But why should we tremble and fear the day ? Christ is in it, He comes this way. Little of all the pompous show, The gloom, the splendour, our eyes shall know ; For we shall see in the heaven above The Friend we long for, the Lord we love, 17 242 Then let us sing, as we pass along, A cheery measure, a hopeful song ; Better than aU the times shall be That glorious time when the King we see. So let us watch and wait and pray For the swift approaching of that day. 1^ Qxbd^i '^aixttx to t§-« Jfaint. On the side of a lofty mountain I lingered one summer's day, Watching the weary toilers Pass on their tedious way. And I saw, both with awe and wonder, How tender the Lord could be, While He showed by His love to others How good He would be to me. I noticed an aged pilgrim Bearing a weary load — He was passed by his careless fellows As he struggled up to God. But I saw that the Lord came near him. And o'er him His banner hung. Till the old man leaped for gladness, As if he again were young. And then, on a fragile woman • The rays of the sun beat down, Till her brows were wildly throbbing . With the weight of the fiery crown. 243 And she almost died. At that moment Did the Master beside her stand, And He seemed like the cooling shadow Of a rock in a weary laud. There were numbers of little children Climbing the hill that day, And I saw that their feet were growing Tired of the long, long way. One minute the Master held them Close in His restful arms, And they rose and resumed their journey. Cheered by His gentle charms. I saw Him among His workers Whenever their lives were sad ; He spoke to the tired vinedressers, His smile made the sowers glad. And even the hard-worked reapers Rested awhile to sing As they tasted the joy of harvest In the presence of the King. My heart had been very weary, And I thought that I could not do The tasks that were waiting for me In the paths that I hastened through. But I gathered new hope and courage, And silenced my soul's complaint With the thought that He ever giveth Fresh power to the worn and faint. n* 244 " The Master is come, and callefch for thee." Thou who sittest drinking deeply of the gladness of the hours, — Thou who in the forest arches hast sweet dreams among the flowers, — Dost thou hear a thrilling whisper coming through the scented air, That compels thy listening spirit into solemn mood of prayer ? Dost thou comprehend the message that is brought thee secretly ? Does thy heart go out to meet it? "Christ is come, and calleth thee." Thou who sittest in the darkness, full of sorrow, full of dread, — Thou who weariest and weepest, and will not he comforted, — Dost thou know how One is coming with deep pity in His eyes, — One all patient and all tender, and with mighty sympathies ? Listen, listen, hush thy weeping, learn how sweet His voice can be : In the solemn hours of midnight He is come, and caUeth thee. Thou who climbest the steep mountains, rising but to higher rise. Scanning all the signs about thee, looking into mysteries, — Dost thou hear the message sent thee in thy struggles after fame ? Do thy pulses beat the quicker at the sound of His dear Name ? Better far than wealth or honour wiU His tender friendship be. Rise to meet Him — rise up quickly : He is come, and calleth thee. He is calling. Oh ! will any let the Master call in vain When His hands are full of blessing for this life of toil and pain ? If He call to joy or sorrow, life or death, it still is best : Those who rise and go to meet Him, finding Him are truly blest. Let thy heart be light and happy wheresoe'er thy life may be. If the tender Saviour coming speak thy name and call for thee. 245 % Cim^ oi |0g. " Can ye make tlie children of the bride-chamher fast while the Bridegroom is with them ? " The Master has eome to ua to-day, We heard His step at the door, And opened it -wide and welcomed Him, As we longed to do before : He looked upon us with smiling eyes. He tenderly spoke to us all, And the words He uttered are keeping us In a holy, rapturous thrall. The Master has come to us to-day. And we cannot choose but sing, With our very best we welcome Him, And the rooms with music ring ; There is wonderful light and joy in our home. It is fuUer of praise than prayer. For the laugh is sweet where the heart is light. And we have not a grief or a care. But you bid us be silent, and mourn and weep In this world of so much sin ; We cannot fast, for the world is hid When the Saviour dwells within ; We know there are burdens and pain and tears, But He taies them all away. And clouds are lifted and sunlight falls When Jesus has come to stay. 246 We cannot mourn and we must rejoice, For the Lord in His miglity love Gives us an earnest here to-day Of the joy -we shall have ahove. We cannot fast : but oh, weary hearts. And oh, lives which are sad and dim. How caji ye feast, and sing, and laugh. If ye have not, and know not Him ? §, BarcQ ai Crust. Fatheb, the way is hidden, and I see not where to go ; No lights are along the roadside, but fuUy Thy children know That Thou art at hand to guide them, and nothing shall harm them here. So they pass through the silent valley and know not a pang of fear. Father, we are Thy children, and we lift up our eyes to Thee ; We have not a fear or a sorrow, for Thou at our side wilt be ; Gladly we hasten forward and wait for the guiding light Which shall show us the homeward pathway and help us to choose the right. Father, Thy children trust Thee ; look from Thy throne above. Bid us go forth and conquer, strong ia Thy mighty love ; StUl 'mid the mists and shadows be to us all a guide. Till we pass the Jordan river and are safe on the other side. All shall be right Thou sendest, — we would not choose our way ; We cannot be wise, Father, but only can wait and pray; So for Thy voice we listen ; and when Thou dost speak the word. Forward we go together at the bidding of Christ the Lord. 247 Father, we fear not darkness, fear not the shades of night ; Only let morning follow, bringing the blessed light Whenever our Master pleaseth. This is our song to Thee, Father, Thy children trust Thee, Thou shalt our Leader be. " Until tlie day break, and tlie shadows flee away." — Cant. ii. 17. They lie beneath the greening sward with resting hearts and folded hands. Who walked the weary darkened earth iu sad and sorrow-stricken bands. And fought amid the thickest strife, and raised the battle-cry of life. No longer toil the wayworn feet o'er thorny path and rugged hiU ; The hands that worked, the heart that throbbed, the brain that ached, have all grown still : The Father folds them to His breast, and gives the weary children rest. To them it is the quiet night, with hush of sound, and darkness deep, God bids the whole earth silent be the while His children are asleep. For only He must wake them now with kiss upon the lip and brow. Yet not for ever is that sleep, so calm,, so tranquil, and profound. The ears that listen not to us are waiting for the first faint sound TJiat bids the resting ones awake, that bids the nightless day to break. Soon shall the shadows flee away, and eyes now dim grow clear and. bright. And aU refreshed by holy sleep, awaken to the day of light ; And aU grown happy, young, and strong, shall haste to sing the morning song. 248 Oh, when the shadows deeper grow, and He who needs must be obeyed Shall bid us sleep the long, stiU night, let us not shrink nor be afraid, For soon to rested heart and eyes shall come that morning in the sides. % l&isj^n'. Blbe deepens into purple : pillowy clouds. Sweep over the horizon silently ; The mists creep up and wrap in shadowy shrouds The valleys that in peaceful patience lie ; And one by one the stars come out to see How calmly restful eventide can be. And then there steals upon man's weary soul A wondrous peace that hushes him to rest. And touched by healing hands that make him whole, And gently folded to an unseen breast, He recognises in the silent hour The love of ^od, and its consoUng power. " Thou makest the outgoings of the eve Still to rejoice," he cries. And moved by love The burden of his many cares to leave In the strong hands of Christ, the Friend above, He takes the peace, and yields himself to live In the full joy His Father loves to give. And then there comes a whisper from the skies, A whisper of another evening time, When angel-songs shall call him to arise. And forward go, the heavenly hills to climb. 249 " When those last twilight shadows shall appear, Even then, as now, fear not ; be of good cheer ; " For as the evening only brings sweet calm To the tired spirits, so that solemn hour Shall sacred grow with peace and holy psalm ; And by its tranquil and rest-giving power, Which spreads its deep contentment over thee. Thou shalt be taught how beauteous heaven must be.' % Common ^ragn'. God ! she is dear to me, dear to me As the light of day, as the morning sun, And 'tis hard, as the ominous marks I see. To say from my heart. Thy wiU be done. Have I not cherished and loved Thy gift ? She has brought me comfort and joy always ; Her hands were skilful the mists to hft That hung and darkened, and damped my days. But I watch the quick and the shortened breath, And the shadow of pain o'er the dear face creep ; And I shudder to think of the power of death As I turn away and in secret weep. 1 yearn with my own weak hands to ward Off from my darling disease and pain, And I stretch out my arms to protect and guard, Yet feel that my uttermost love is vain. 250 Thou art able, Lord of might, To heal the siek or to raise the dead, And Thou oouldst banish my dreaded night. And speak, till we both are comforted. Lord, Thy mercy is very great, WUt Thou not pity my sad distress ? Leave me not lonely and desolate ; Touch her, dear Saviour, and heal and bless. But if I am asking what may not be. Help me to say. Thy wiU be done ; And if Thou wilt take her to dwell with Thee, Some day I wiU praise Thee for victory won. hitxriQ fax Cljrist. LoKD, the day is dark to me, although the summer skies are blue ; My sky is black with paUs of clouds, and no sweet sunlight glinteth through ; But in my sorrow, Lord, I wait, for Thou wilt come when night is late. And I am not alone, Lord, but many others are with me, And many voices echo mine, and weary spirits long for Thee ; We hear of wonders Thou canst do, and therefore pray to see Thee too. We are the deaf, and cannot hear the low sweet music of the world ; We are the blind, and cannot see where aU Thy beauties are unfurled ; But Thou canst make the blind to see, and the deaf listen unto Thee. 251 We are the sick, for sin has laid its heavy hand on heart and brow ; And even death is not far off : Healer, come and heal us now ; And let us aU Thy goodness see, and gladly live alone to Thee. We wait for Thee. If Thou wouldst come, our hearts would have their summer-time, And all the world would brighter grow, and sweet would be the earth's glad chime ; And we, from all our sadness free, would rise and sing our songs to Thee. We wait for Thee, Master 1 come; the time is long with Thee away; But never yet did stricken souls cry out to Thee and Thou delay ; And thus we calmly wait for Thee : soon shall our eyes Thy beauty see. Beautiful summer-time ! still does it linger. Bathing in sunKght the heather and wood, Brightening each spot which the touch of God's finger, Passing, has rendered all beauteous and good. Autumn has come, but the summer is staying As a friend who has blessed us is loth to depart, We look out with glad eyes where the sunbeams are playing. And pleasure and happiness steal to the heart. The days glide away, but they cannot bereave us Of greenness, and beauty of landscape and flowers ; The summer must love us, it cannot yet leave us To winter, and darkness, and pleasureless hours. 252 Not yet are we hearing the mourning and sighing • Of sad autumn winds through the verdureless trees ; For what can be pensively fading and dying With sun on the meadows and song in the breeze ? beautiful summer-time ! thou art but telling God's goodness again in unwearying story, And what can we do but His goodness be swelling, And pouring our song to His honour and glory ? For e'en as His hand is the summer repeating. So joy that we thought was swift gliding away Shall come yet again, tUl, with hearts gladly beating, We shall love Him and trust while we scarcely could pray. %B ^m ixrilt. Long, in the cloudy night, I have battled with the storm. Casting away my Friend, leaving the shelter warm. Strong in the pride of self, trusting to my own wUl, I listened not to the voice whispering, " Peace, be still." Then as a wayward child turning from peace and rest. Going where'er I chose, boasting I knew the best. Sighing ia vain for joy, living amid the strife. Nothing knew I of peace that lies in the path of Hfe. Now in my heart has sprung a love that has made me wise, And, as in grateful joy, upward I lift my eyes. This is the song for me, " Never my will, but Thine ; E'en as Thou wilt, God, give to me cloud or shine. 253 " Lead me amid the mist, into the hidden way, Let the dark night last long, hinder the dawn of day — Do with me as Thou wilt, only in love's great might. Teach me to trust and wait, knowing Thy way is right. " Never the heart is pained looking alone to Thee, Never the hands are tired that swift in Thy service be ; Never can trouble come to those who, in steadfast faith, Cry, Father, Thy will be done, both in my life and death." Take me away from the noise and din Of the weary world and its scenes of sin ; Take me away to some secret place. Where I may look for my Father's face. Lord, I am weary, and fain would see. Not faces of strangers, but only Thee ; And amidst this pain of bewildering noise I long for Thy children's peaceful joys. Speak to me, Father; I yearn and wait To hear Thy voice, but the time is late. Oh, give me patience, or let me hear The step of my Father drawing near. Only a word let me hear to-night. For the way is dark and I need a light ; Only whisper to me, " My child, I am with thee amid the wild." 254 Then, Lord, shall I stronger grow, And patient to wait till Thy wiU I know ; Then, glad, and grateful, and satisfied, I will love to walk by my Father's side. I have hut a little while to wait Till I stand at last at the golden gate ; Then, Father ! the joy will be That evermore I shall be with Thee. Only till then the way is long. And I yearn to join in the angels' song ; So let me know that my God is near, Speak, Lord, for I long to hear. " But not with thy Bword, nor with thy bow."— Josft. xxiy. 12. I KNOW it was so, my Father, I must have been vanquished quite By the hosts that were thronging near me, on the left hand and on the right ; But for the safe' protection which Thy love threw over me. And but for the strength and mercy which are ever found in Thee. I had prayed in the bright, glad morning, "Let me not live too long; I would rather die in my vigour, with a sudden hush of song, Than live to be old and useless, like a dead leaf on the tree. Dropping at last unnoticed, with the world well rid of me." 255 But I slirank from ilie gathering armies, each man was a Special foe, I knew I might die in the battle, and timidly said, " Not so ;" And I cried unto Thee, " Forgive me, for my words that were wild and Tain, And come to my help, Father, in this hour of my need and pain." I should not have feared and doubted after Thy mighty deeds, And yet I became a coward, so great were my pressing needs ; My weapons were almost useless held in my trembling hands, And nearer, and ever nearer, oame the sounds of the hostile bauds. And then while I watched and waited, swiftly deliverance oame ; I knew not the unseen armies who fought for me in Thy name ; Only I saw my foemen vanish in hasty flight. And knew that the God of battles had conquered them by His might. Now, glad with a sense of safety, Father, fuU well I know Thou hast made me to be the victor, but not with my sword or bow ; It is Thou who hast gained the battle, I thank Thee and only pray. Fight for me always, always, aa Thou hast done to-day. Sralig^t on % Maters. The royal sun shines out on high. And lo ! upon the river The sheets of silver gleam and flash Where the summer glances quiver. And out upon the ocean dark There breaks the golden glimmer, 256 And the white crests of the foaming waves Have changed to sheen and shimmer. And even on the streams and pools The increasing light is glancing, Where merry drops and tiny waves Are on the surface dancing. And where were black and silent deeps Are heauty, mirth, and singing ; — Such miracles the sun can work, Its robes of beauty flinging. And thou on whom the waves have rolled Amid thy deeps of sorrow, Take courage ; for the night is short. And the sun wiU shine to-morrow. Across the waters of thy life, Although with tempest dashing. The peaceful morning breaks at last, With glorious sunbeams flashing. §nx Jfatj^^r. Lowly, beseeching, we come to Thee, Father, Hiding our faces, yet longing to see If Thou hast a smile for us ; softly we gather, With trembling, yet hopefully, near unto Thee. 2S7 Sadly we think of the many transgressions, And coldness of heart that have given Thee pain, Yet in the might of Thy wondrous compassions, Love us, forgive us, and bless us again. Father, Thy children so often are sinning, FraU and unworthy we are in Thy sight ; Pity us, teach us ; we are but beginning To walk in Thy statutes with love and delight. Turn not away from us,, bear with us. Father, ' Though we have grieved Thee, our Friend yet remain ; Do not •■ word to say, their tongues were stiU, their Ups hate-cold ; But now their eyes have seen the King their tongues are loosed, they can but sing. How can the happy silent be ? They must declare His tenderness. His sympathy, His boundless love, how wondrously the Lord can bless. " Hear what the Lord has done," they tell; " our Saviour hath done all things well." Jesus, wondrous conqueror, go on in all Thy healing might. Till deaf shaU hear and dumb shall speak, and all the world be filled with light, And all the sad ones happy be, and all the weary rest in Thee. Wattling. " More than they that watch for the morning." Come to us. Lord of love and light. Come to the souls that watch and wait ; WeaiUy long has been the night, And we see no dawn though the hour is late. 284 Eagerly lift we our straining eyes, Vainly trying to pierce the gloom, Looldng toward tlie Eastern skies, If haply at last we may see Thee come. The sorrowful nations are needing Thee ; The people in tumult are tossed ahout, And like the waves of the restless sea, Are moved by passion and hate and doubt. Men are groping amid the night. And the hour is heavy with many a sigh. Come to us, Master, with love and light, Lest we faint in the darkness, and droop and die. But there comes a voice in the silence deep — " Wait, be patient : it is not long ; " So we rise from our sorrow and no more weep. But cheer the darkness with love and song. Coming ! Coming 1 Oh, is it so ? Do we hear the sound of Thy chariot wheels ? Saviour, aU else that we long to know We will leave till Thy wiser love reveals. The hours pass slowly ; the morning chime Is long in sounding. But let us wait. Soon we shall come to the end of time. And see the Lord at the golden gate. Saviour, while passes our cheerless night. And our souls oft weary and hopeless be. We dream of that wonderful morning light. When our eyes shall open and look on Thee. 285 m ^ttsfa^r. " In the day of my trouble I will call npon Thee : for I'hou wilt answer me." — David. Yea, Thou wilt anawer me. It may not be That Thou repliest so that strangers hear ; In softest ■whispers Thou dost speak to me, When with my weight of trouble I draw near, Weeping hot tears of sorrow at Thy feet ; And then, Lord ! Thy words are very sweet. Time was when joy and gladness were not mine, For I was desolate and qvjie alone ; But now Thou makest summer suns to shine, And love to cheer me with its music tone. And prov'st to me how fair this world may be. When the glad heart can hearken unto Thee. I ask Thee not to take away the pain That ceases not ; nor cry I as of yore, " Let me not look on sorrow's face again ; " Lord, Thou hast made me wiser than before ; I only ask that I may speak to Thee, And Thou, in words of love, wilt answer me. What shall the answer be ? Lord, I leave Thee to comply — refuse, my heart is glad, While I my frail word-garlands stay to weave. And I can never more be sick or sad While Thy voice comes to me amid the night, And in the darkness Thy love shineth bright. 286 Still will I caU upon Thee, God of life ; I needs must weary grow, and fail and weep ; But I shall welcome pain, or fear, or strife. If Thou, God of love 1 wilt near me keep. And though so dai'k, the way I cannot see. Lord I I will pall, and Thou wilt answer me. €amhxhti. " As rivers of water in a dry place, as tlie shadow of a great rock in a weary land." With blistered feet and throbhing eyes, with lagging steps and list- less hands, I crept along the toilsome way, and slowly paced the burning sands. The while the skies looked pitiless upon my sorrow and distress. No cloud hung up its curtain folds, to veil from me the mighty heat j No pools of water glistened near, that I might lave my aching feet ; No friendly tree its shadow threw betwixt me and the arc of blue. So toiled I on from day to day, no nearer to my journey's close. While days brought only weariness, and e'en the nights no sweet repose ; Until, amid my pain and shame, I called, Lord ! upon Thy name. I told Thee of the burning thirst, the weary sands, the blighting heat ; I looked into Thy loving face, and sank in bliss beside Thy feet ; And knew that all of my distress would pass before Thy tenderness. The desert to a garden changed, where cooling waters sweetly played ; The Eock of Ages sheltered me within its hushed and sacred shade ; And I grew comforted and strong, and sang to Thee my even-song. 287 Oil ! ye wlio try to tread alone the barren burning wilderness, Look upward to the Saviour King, and take His wondrous tenderness ; For waters gush and shadows faU, where'er His weary children call. mmns fax maxk God, who gives us work to do. Gives us also time to wait ; Though we daily tasks pursue, Sometimes, when the hour is late, He desires us to sit still And await His holy will. After sowing we must rest, Harvest does not quickly come. But the Master's time is best. He will tell us to bring home Eipened grain in plenteous sheaves. With the fading time of leaves. We are waiting ever more For the opening of that door That shall never close again. Into which nor sin nor pain Steals with all its baleful might. For in heaven is no more night. With much longing we must wait Unto. Christ our Lord draws near ; It is eventide, and late. Surely He will soon be here ! 288 So we watch and wait and long, Till He come with shout and song. Make us patient, Heavenly King, Lfet us wait, nor weary grow, Nor with curious questioning Seek Thy secret will to know ; Bid us work, or wait, or pray, And we gladly will obey. t at^n B^fon. What is it like — that other shore ? Straining my eyes, I can hut see Skies and ocean that evermore Embrace and hide the Beyond from me. Vainly I wish that an echoed note Of the song they sing on the other side Over the waters to me may float As I wistfully listen and turn aside. My Father's house that I have not seen ! Little I care what its beauties are— Whether the fields are always green, Or the hills are golden that gleam afar ; — Only I know One waiteth there Whom my eyes have wearied long to see. And the country must needs he wondrous fair Where Christ the Saviour shall welcome me. 289 What can I do, but watch all day Bipples that lazily lap the shore, The unconsbiouB children at their play, While I sit waiting for evermore ? I am waiting still at the waterside — When will the boatman oome for me, And bear me off on the flowing tide To the land were my best-belovSd be ? Nay, but my Father for me will send When I have finished the tasks He gave. When I have proved me His ohUd and friend. By the Christ-like spirit, meek, yet brave. Why should I list to the waves' sad sighs, Dreamily waiting for what delays ? Let me rather with strength arise, And work for Him the remaining days. Home of peace on the other shore ! Holy land where the ransomed be ! Pilgrims that wander these VaJleys o'er Are turning their eager eyes to Thee. And I? I am waiting, and ready stand TiU the white-winged herald for me shall come, And the boat shall touch the silver sand. And I, even I, am safe at home. 20 290 " Their Bins and iniquitieB will I remember no more." FoEOiVB US thus, Lord ! for we are often sinning ; Our good resolves are chased away like early morning dew. Years do not make us good ; for now as at our life's beginning The stains upon our hearts and hands are open to Thy view. Forgive us thus, O Lord ! Thy generous relenting Will waken hope, and raise our heads now hanging down with shame. We dare not trust ourselves, nor e'en our fitful, late repenting ; We have no hope but in Thy love, no trust but in Thy name. Forgive us thus, Lord ! our many sins forgetting ; We brood upon them ever more, they darken all our days. We fill the silence of the nights with sorrowful regretting; — If Thou wilt not remember them, our grief shall turn to praise. Forgive us thus, Lord ! If thou hadst not thus spoken. We had not dared to hope so much even of Thy great love. Thy words have wondrous power to heal the heart, though worn and broken, And make this sad, dim earth to know the joy of heaven above. Forgive us thus, Lord ! and may we be forgiving ; No anger nor revenge should dwell in souls so greatly blessed ; Oh, give us of Thy spirit now, and help us in our living To pardon the offending, and to pity the distressed. Forgive us, our Lord ! 'tis sweet' to be forgiven ; Forgive us so that life itseU shall brighten at Thy word ; Forgive us so that in Thy love we shall have hope of heaven ; Until we stand with the redeemed, forgive us thus, Lord ! 291 @ttiTOlgir0n:. Gentle and mild was the soft south wind As we sailed away in the pleasant sun, We waved farewells to the shore behind, And sang of the voyage so well begun. Hope was the pilot, and laughing eyes Looked merrily out to the dancing waves, And up to the cloudless azure skies, And away to the promising treasure-caves. Blue were the waters, and smooth, and calm, - Ill the happy hours when we sailed away. And the ocean-music was one sweet psahu Of love and pleasure and holiday. Sweet and low were the songs we sang, For lips were smiling and hearts were warm, And we heard not the wilder sounds which rang In the deep refrain of the coming storm. But the sun went down in the glowing west. And there crept above us the gloomy night ; The gladsome spirits became opprest. And in the shadows we, wished for light. Deeper and blacker the wild night grew. And the mad tempestuous wind arose. While we shrank away like a coward crew From a crushing army of unseen foes. Giant, invisible arms of might Lifted us, shook us, and flung us far. And unreturnable blows of spite Battered and hurt us in dreadful war. 20* 292 Many days did the battle last, And the unseen fighters pressed ns sore, Till we cried, ". God I that the night were past. And we were safe on the other shore ! " Then did the enemy strike again, Till the ship was wrecked and the waters .yawned ; And we staggered and struggled, and cried in pain,— And lo ! on our sorrow the fair day dawned. Over the waves spread the precious Ught, And then we were held by a Father's hand. And Love and Forgiveness dispelled the night. And so we were safely brought to land. I ooDiD not do half that I wished, so dear was the Lord to me ; I rose with the rising sun, hoping fresh work to see ; All day, 'mid the thickening crowd, I busied myself to do The tasks I had sought and found till the Master should help me through. I was glad of the lowly work, and glad of the lofty things ; I served Him upon my knees, and longed for an angel's wings ; If I might but have washed His feet I had tasted the joy of Heaven, And bright was the day to me when the difficult tasks were given. I looked with reproachful eyes at the others who stayed to rest ; They listened to Him with joy, but to serve Him I thought was best ; I will work in the field, I said, or labour among the vines, Nor stay from the blessed toil even when day declines. 293 But my head and my heart were tired, and I saw not the Master's face, It seemed that I had no time to wait in His holy place ; He came to our h9me one day, I was busy, and saw Him not ; And I wept in my bitter grief, thinldng the Lord forgot. But now I have been to Him and told Him my sad complaint ; He looked with His eyes of love and saw I was tired and faint ; And, Blessed are they. He said, who sit at My feet andrest — Oh, cumbered and weary soul, in loving thou servest best ! So now I have greater joy than I ever could have before, I work for Him all the day, but at night, when the tasks are o'er, I creep to the Master's feet, and tell Him my deep, deep love ; I serve Him a little now ; I «hall perfectly serve above. lai taa '^kU. " Behold, I stand at the door and knock." — Jesus. Dbak Lord, come in, we cry. And set the door wide open ; for to-night We need Thee as we gather silently, And softly pray for light. Lonely, and sick, and sad, We are not worthy Thou shouldst be our guest, Yet Thou canst make the sorrowful grow glad, And give the weary rest. 2U Lord, we have slighted Thee : Voices not Thine made music heretofore, Friends not like Thee came to us eagerly Through the \ride-opened door. But now we lift our eyes To see if Thou art waiting patiently. Lord, come in, in answer to our cries, For we have need of Thee. And wilt Thou turn away, Leaving us to the summer friends we chose, To share the night, who shared with us the day ? Lord, ere evening close. Come in. — Come in to-night, Come with a word of pardon, though we fall Li self-reproach before Thy holy sight ; Yet, Lord, come to us aU. And has it grown too late ? Shall not Thy pardoning love again have sway ? Though we have opened wide the long-dosed gate. Wilt Thou now turn away ? Not yet, loving Lord I Go not away, though we have sinned so long ; Come in and dwell with us, and speak the word To fill our hearts with song. Thou hast come in to-night. Oh, Saviour merciful, let none, heart-sad. Doubt Thee again, who in Thy love's great might Hast even made us glad I 295 f ^air It*. Lead me, Father. Down the darkening year My steps I take : Hold Thou my hand when danger presseth near, For Jesus' sake. Lead me along the unseen days that lie Between this life and God's eternity. Lead me, Shepherd, Where the sheltering rook Its shadow throws : Hide me away from the world's startling shook In-deep repose. And where the pastures of Thy love are green, There with Thy chosen ones may I he seen. Lead me, Master. Hearing Thy command I gladly go ; And, clasping evermore Thy mighty handj Care not to know What lies beyond the vision of my eyes. But press on cheerily toward Thy skies. Lead me, Saviour. Loving hands are Thine ! I would be led To where Thy stars of gladness brightly shine Above my head. Lead where the golden streets are gUstening, And the redeemed their anthems sweetly sing. Lead me, Holiest, a step each day Nearer to Heaven ; let Thy promise shine upon my way, And grace be given To turn all other hands than Thine aside. And love and trust Thee only as my Guide. 296 ^00 fat^f So much of the year lias passed away ! It has flown from our eager hold, For time has a swift and unwearied wing, though we value it more than gold ; We have not done as we meant to do with its golden hours and days. We have not brought, as we meant to bring, our meed of the Saviour's praise. Is it yet too late to weave a song ? Some transient days remain ; A Httle space must be traversed yet ere the new year comes again. Is it all too late to remember Christ, and the heavy debt we owe ? Too late to work for the Master in His vineyard rankg below ? Some days remain : are they long enough to work as they do above ? To win the ear of the httle ones as we speak of the Saviour's love ? To bring a smile to the pallid lips, or to take the robe of care Away from a face or a weary heart, with a voice of love and care ? Is it all too late, by the Master's help, to conquer some deadly sin ? To trample a habit down to dust that has caused a wrong within ? To take a step in a better path, though it be by thorns beset ? To be more earnest, devoted more, than we ever have been yet ? Too late ! too late for all of good ? It is not for us to say. Perchance the loving, forgiving Lord, may tenderly answer Naj-. Let us humbly try what our hands can do as the last short hours appear, Lest we send to the light of eternity an utterly wasted year. 297 " Though I waJi in the midst of tronhle Thou wilt revive me." BLiNDroLDED and footsore, Over the shadowed valley in the night, Or 'mid the surging ocean's sullen roar, I walk as in Thy sight. Thorns, pitfalls, crags, and hills, These have I, and the tempest's ominous frown ; No sparkling sunbeams and no singing riUs, Yet am I not cast down. With weary, puzzled train. And aching heart that trembles at its woe ; And eyes grown weary weeping o'er their pain, Thy storm-swept waves I know. Unrest and no sweet peace, Wounded by well-belov6d hands; and yet I know that Thou wilt make the trouble cease ; Thou never wilt forget. And when I faint with fear. Thou wilt revive me, giving to my eyes A sunny glimpse of the far happier sphere, Where troubles never rise. > So, Lord, my God, my song Is ever of Thy love ; and on I go. Clad in Thy beauty, in Thy strength made strong. Even amid my woe. 298 "f\miht^ noi, mit\iix is Wimx^." "Let tlxe -wicked forsake his way, and the uurighteouB man his thoughts ; and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him ; and to our God, for He wiil abundantly pardon." — Isaiah, I DAEBD not return to my Father, I could not, for very shame : I crept away in the darkness, sad in my own self-blame : For I knew I had deeply grieved Him, breaking His wise command, Choosing my way, complaining, and loving the stranger's land. Had it been but my first offending, I should have felt more strong, And thought I had power and wisdom to cease from the ways of wrong; But, alas ! I am always sinning ; always repenting, too, With tears of regret and sorrow, over the ill I do. I have often gone to my Father, looked in His grievSd face, Prayed for His generous pardon, begging His pitying grace ; I have tasted His sweet forgiveness often, and yet again — But that day, in my wicked folly, afresh I had given Him pain. So I sat aside from the others, who pleased Him when I did not, And longed for His gracious presence, and thought of their happier lot; But said, " He at last is weary, He cannot again forgive, In the night of His stern displeasure henceforth I must move and Uve." But then to my saddened spirit a message there came from Him, So loving and tender was it, that reading, my eyes grew dim ; At first I could scarce believe it, and yet as I thought it o'er, I knew it was like my Father, and wished that I loved Him more. 299 At last with a timid courage I came to my Father's side, And softly I said, " Forgive me," seeking my faoe to hide ; In a moment His arms embraced me, " Child, didst thou doubt My love ? I will forgive thee always, till thou art with Me above !" So gladly along life's journey I will prepare to go. Nothing can really harm me while my Father loves me so ; Never will He forget me, always His guiding hand Will keep me from death and danger as I pass through the stranger's land. % (Sift jxf Stenst^. " To them that have no might He mcreoieth strength.^* " I AM faint and weary, I am young and weak, And I am not able to do the good I seek ; Evermore, but vainly, I have striven to rise — Father, canst Thou pity, even from the skies ?" " Child, though thou art feeble, I, thef Lord, am strong. And it cannot matter though thy path be long ; I am gently leading, and the faint and weak Shall find joy and courage in the words I speak." " I would cease from sinning, yet I every day Grieve my loving Father by the words I say, By the ungentle spirit, and my lack of love — Is there yet forgiveness in my Friend above ?" " Child, I have redeemed thee, I have set thee free. For My love I saved thee, not for good in thee. 300 Thougli thou oft dost wander, yet return again, Par too well I love thee to increase thy pain." Oh, what cup can strengthen like the cup of love ! Now I hasten forward to my home above. I am nerved to labour, though the way be long, I shall sing in gladness — " Christ has made me strong.' S|^j;Itoir, ' As the motmtams are ronud about Jerusalem, so is the Lord round about them that fear Him." Let the wind blow, and the tempest beat, And the wild waves rise on the troubled sea, And the wrathful opposing currents meet, It is cahn where the Lord's protected be. Let the foes gather on every side, Intent the battle to fight and win : They shaU safely and surely hide, Tor the Lord has with mountains shut them in. He is stronger than hosts at war. Stronger than hate, and rage, and death, Happy indeed His children are. And all whom the Father comforteth. Nothing can hurt them, for He is there, Their cries come up from the sheltered vales. He listens and hears His people's prayer. It reaches and touches Him, and prevails. 301 Need they fear in the darkest night ? Murmiirs come to them from afar, But in their dwellings there still is light, For His heart is where His children are. Merciful Father, be sound about Us who fear Thee, and know Thy love, And pardon us all for the fear and doubt, And guard us until we are safe above. "M^am no ^m tm 'gnmhn." They gather there in thickening crowds, the old and young, the fair and brave,; They learnt the lesson of Christ's love, and knew that He would ever save ; They sought Him, found Him, served Him here, and live with Him, no sorrow near. From far away, from lands of snow, from scattered islands of the sea, , They gather silently in heaven, the saved, the happy, and the free ; They take the harps and sing the song, among the glad, triumphant throng. They pass away from scenes of woe, from lands of sorrow and despair, Where oft the trembling, fevered lips have uttered words of anguished prayer, To where there oometh no more pain, to rend the shrinking heart again. 302 They all are young, and glad, and bright, and know the love they only guessed ■While fears, and doubts, and dread of sin, their oft unhappy hearts And there they see the Father's face, and know how mighty was His grace. Oh, ye who tread the narrow way toward that glorious world of light, Let not the friends about your way go down into the shades of night, But take them with you earnestly, that they the King in beauty see. And pray that many more may stand withiu that always open door, And worship at the Saviour's feet, and sing His praises evermore ; With eager hand and loving prayer, labour that ye may meet them there. ^h&iiuna. " And He called them. And they immediately left the ship, and their father, and followed Him." They were mending their nets in the ship that day. And the Master called them, " Come after Me ;" They left the ship and their work straightway, And turning their backs on the siumy sea. Eager and glad at the loving word. With steadfast spirits they followed the Lord. There comes to us in our busy life The same sweet voice the disciples heard, 'Tis like sweet music amid the strife. We cannot hear it and not be stirred ; We say to each other wonderingly, " Arise, and come, for He caUeth thee." 303 Let us not linger to mend the net, The Master has higher work than this, Let us not tarry in vain regret, We give up pleasure, He gives us bliss ; Let us arise, and leaving all, Answer with joy to the Saviour's call. Take us, Jesus, we are not strong. To honour and serve Thee — ^we may deny ; But whether the journey be short or long, Thiue let us be if we live or die ; Thine to follow, though falteringly, Wharever our Master's steps we see; " By the rivers of Babylon there we sat down." Sadly we gather hy Babylon's waters, Our hands hanging down and our heads drooping low ; And the eyes of brave eons, and of fair, gentle daughters, Are dark with the shadows of weeping and woe. Silently, mournfully gathered together, What oan we think of but home and its light ? Oft we are pensively pondering whether We soon shall be glad in our Zion's delight. AH the dark days we fill full of sweet dreaming Of strong purple mountains, and calm smiling seas, While towers of our home in the golden light gleaming Shine in our dreams through the dense cedar-trees. 304 Voices that mock us are sternly demanding The Lord's sweetest songs in the unfriendly land ; How can we answer the strangers' commanding ? No pity have they for the sad exiled band. Our harps are all silent, and hang on the willows, WhUe Babylon's rivers roll restlessly by, And we creep away to our desolate pUlows,. Wayworn, and weary, and ready to die. When will the captives' long sorrow be over ? When will Jerusalem welcome us there ? Let us be patient, the Lord wiU discover An answer of good to our passionate prayer. Hebrews xii. 22-24, I WAS tired and heavy-laden when the Saviour called to me. And I hatened, hesitating, wondering what His love might be ; Till at last I ventured near Him, half in faith and half in doubt. And I found that " him that eometh He in no wise casteth out." Very sweet the peace that followed, and my heart grew strangely light, Though I had not yet discovered all the wonderful delight Comprehended in the coming ; I but felt that earth seemed heaven, And my soul was fiUed with rapture as He whispered me, Forgiven, 305 As the happy days are passing He is teaching' me how great Are the pleasures He prepareth for the souls that on Him wait ; And I find that, coming to Him, I have come to greater things Thau the pride and wealth of nations, or the pomp and crowns of kings. I have come to the assembly of the Church of aU the good, To the souls that are made perfect by the Saviour's cleansing blood ; I have come unto the angels, and shall ever dwell with them, I have come unto God's city, the beloved Jerusalem, 'Tis enough to come to Jesus ; in His presence there is life ; For He fills the waiting spirit, and He hushes all the strife ; Oh, ye weepers in the darkness, do not linger in the night, Come to Jesus ; He will gladden all your life with blessed light. " And white robes were giTen unto every one of them." — John* SiGHiNO disciples, by lone firesides dreaming. Sick and forsaken — the last of a band — Looking in vain for a joy-star's faint beaming. Think of the hosts in your fair fatherland. Muse upon them tm your hope shall grow stronger. And faith's sight shall pierce through the dull winter skies ; Think of them ; they are unhappy no longer, Jesus has wiped all the tears from their eyes, 21 306 They are away in the sunny, bright heaven, Kissed by the angels and welcomed by saints ; Unto them all have the white robes been given, And they have forgotten their sighs and complaints. Here they were travel-stained, sorrowful, weary. Weeping and moaning though trying to sing ; Now they have ended the pilgrimage dreary, They are all fair in the house of the King. White as the snow are the garments around them ; They are all spotless without and within ; Free from the chains that oppressed them and bound them, They have no trace of defilement or sin. They have been washed and made clean in the fountain Opened for sinners by Christ when He died ; Now they are safe upon Zion's glad mountain. And aye at the feet of the Lord shall abide. Sighing disciples, think often of heaven ; Learn the sweet songs they are singing to-day ; Soon unto you shall the white robes be given, And pain, sin, and sorrow have vanished away. 307 "A large party ol field labourers, attired in scarlet jackets and sashes, were returning home after the toils of the day, and were sing- ing in unison a lively song in token of the happiness within theii- hearts. As we reached this hody of peasanti-y they immediately separated to each side of the road, and as we passed between them, they saluted uB with the beautiful expression, " Vaga V. con Dios 1 " (" Go you with GodI ") — Wwnen. " Go you ■with God," for the light is dim. As we march to the sound of our evening hymn ; The sun is sinking behind the hills, And the air is full of the joy that thrills ; If God be with you, how passing sweet Is the sound of the day's departing feet. We who have toiled since the break of day Have felt His presence abouf our way. His sun has shone, and His heavens have spread In their cloudless glory above each head. Do you know Him, strangers ? Oh ! blest are aU Who have known His love and upon TTim call ! " Go you with God," for the path is steep, And often the pilgrims must stay to weep. There are darkened valleys and places rough. But the Father can give to you strength enough. Go where He leadeth, for He will make The whole way pleasant for His love's sake. " Go you with God." We who bless you thus. Are happy and safe in His love for us ; 21* 308 Do yon walk through shadows ? There is no night For those who live in the Lord's clear light ; Oh ! through the calm of this eventide Press close to the merciful Father's side. " Go you with God," for, a few steps more, And the journey of life will be safely o'er ; He will lead you into the land of peace, Bidding all sorrow for aye to cease ; There rest and healing and joy are given, "Go you with God," to His home in heaven. Thet wander through a trackless path, the little lamhs from out the fold, And stumble on the cutting cliff, and oft are hungry, faint, and cold ; And hesitate, and do not know the way that He would have them go. Are they alone, amid the wilds, these timid lambs who cry for light ? And shall they wander weary stfll, although the skies are black with night, While no faint gleam of twinkling star shall show them where the dangers are ? The gentle Shepherd climbs the hills, and searches in the hidden dales. And though the night be dark indeed, the glorious light He holds prevails. He finds the lambs where'er they be, and then He cheers them tenderly. 809 And warmly folded in His armB — those wondrous arms, so kind and strong ! How rapidly He takes them home that the dark roadway seems not long; And softly, ere the break of day, He hides them from the storm away. Oh, what can hurt the little lambs, and what can grieve them any more? The Shepherd wiU not let them go. His fold is on the golden shore ; And they are safe, and glad, and warm, far from the night-wind and the storm. " My sin is ever before me." — Psalm li. S. " 1 have Bet the Lord always before me." — Psalm zvi. 8. Whebeyeb I walked in the sweet warm light nothing was fair to me, For the sins I had done were a mountain mist, sullen and dark to see ; And the bright flowers bloomed and the glad birds sang, but I dwelt in the realms of night, And the blotted page of my wasted Ufe was ever before my sight. Oh I strange it seemed that the river smiled, and the sunbeam kissed the wave. That the children danced in their lightsome glee and the hearts of men were brave ; That the world's joy music rose to heaven in thrilling notes and deep. While I was timid and still and lone, with only the power to weep. But One came to me amid the gloom, and I saw with a glad surprise, How gently kind were His lips of love, how pitiful were His eyes ; 310 " I am the world's sin-tearer, child, and I take thy sine a-way," He said, and behold the sun shone out on a fair and cloudless day ! The mists had vanished, the sin was gone, for the Master had set me free. And I learnt in that wonderful hour of love how happy this life can be; For wherever I looked, in "my growing joy, I saw but His lighted face, Who had loved me, pitied me, died for me, and was blessing me with His grace. Now, very bright is the world to me, and sweet are the songs of birds ; And I ? I tell Him my tale of love in happy and grateful words ; And He smiles upon me, and lets me know that the rapture He now has given Is only a shadow of what shall be when I stand by His side in heaven. t Ifto ». " The life whicli I now live in the fleBh I live by the faith of the Son of God, ■who loved me, and gave Himself for me," — Paul. Thoij art my life, Saviour ! by faith I live on Thee ; I was a suffering captive, but Thou hast made me free ; I passed my life in sighing, but Thou hast made me sing ; I was alone and lonely. Thou art my Friend and King. A burden lay upon me that Thou hast borne away, I sat and mourned in darkness which Thou hast turned to day ; My life was parched with sorrow, and Thou hast made me glad ; And I before so sinful in Thy righteousness am clad. 311 Thou art my life, SaYiour 1 I trust Thee day by day ; I fear nor care nor duty Thou plantest in my way ; Thou art my strength, Master, and forward in Thy might, I go to meet the foemen, for Thou — not I — must fight.' How shall I walk to please Thee ? how live the Christian life ? How keep the white robe spotless ? how conquer in the strife ? My trust is in Thee only, whatever I would be ; Jesus Christ, my Saviour, I live alone in Thee. 1 would not fear the dangers that lie along the way, I would not doubt or question, but only trust and pray ; The old hfe left behind me, the new Kfe I would live. In faith on Thee, Jesus, who canst Thy Spirit give. Thev are going home in still increasing numbers — They, the dearest and the best ; They are welcomed by the throngs of white-winged angels, And enjoy God's gift of rest ; They, forgetting aU the burden of their care, Gather there. They have safely passed the cold, dividing river ; They have gained the other side, Where the wondrous peace of God remains for ever, And all happy things abide ; And no cruel blasts of blighting, wintry air Beach them there. 312 Little children who have left a dreary silence, And a dearth of sunny eyes, And gentle mother-hps that uttered counsels That were ever true and wise. And fathers with their crowns of silver hair, All are there. We are finding that the earth is very lonely, And our hearts are faint and sad. And we long to be with them and with our Father, And among the ever glad ; And, laying down the burden of our care. Join them there. But a while we wait and listen for the summons, With the trusty staff in hand ; Soon the Messenger will come across the waters From our sunny fatherland, And we shall haste our loved ones' joy to share With them there. There is an angel visiting the earth. Whose name is Sorrow. At her coming mirth Dies into silence. None are glad to see Her grave, dark face. Few dream that she can be Gentle and tender as the breath of spring — Now wakening into joy each growing thing. At her approach men stretch forth hindering hands. And fain would banish her to other lands ; None greet her entrance with a note of song. And sad are they with whom she Kngers long. 313 For tlie best wine she holds is sharp with woes, And all the joy she gives is when she goes. Tet Sorrow, though her touch be hard and stern, Gives lessons it is well for all to learn : Oft makes her scholars noble, strong, and wise — Weans them from earth, attracts them to the skies : She makes them gentle, too, and quick to feel Deep pity for the wounds they cannot heal ; Binds hearts together in close brotherhood. And makes them earnest for each other's good. Sorrow has come to linger with our friend. Ye who have known her power be quick to spend Tour sympathy and care. Be like the Lord, Who loved the best to come with soothing word, Into the darkest homes, and make them glad, Who, till His coming, had been sick and sad. Come with your messages of cheer, and say, The love of God can light the gloomiest day ; Life's greyest hours glitter with shining gold, If Christ to us His tender heart enfold. And soon we trust that Sorrow may give place To a far fairer guest of gentler grace. Whose name is Joy, — and who shall softly come With healing touches to our brother's home, To make him happy. And may he and you Find pleasant places as you wander through This world of change, and never cease to feel Delight in working for another's weal ; And know, though pleasure oft eludes the quest, Those who bless others shall themselves be blest. 314 Bins out the joy-bells ; let the praise-songs he sung, For the life given back at a nation's deep cry ; Let the thanksgiving words come from every glad tongue, For God in our trouble was tenderly nigh, And the angel passed by. Let the anthems be sung by the lips that onoe prayed In low, sobbing voice for the Healer's kind hand ; He heard us. He came, and the fever was stayed. And a thiiU of deep gladness was felt through the land At the Highest' s conxmand. The thankful Queen-Mother received back her son,; The sorrowful heart has grown joyous again. The compassionate wiU of the Lord has been done, And she will remember how rest followed pain In this year of her reign. Let the nation be glad, be the land filled with praise, WhUe a prayer still goes up to the Great King of heaven, That the Prince may give back to his God all his days. And that wrong from the land God has helped may be driven, And His blessing be given. So sing the sweet anthems, and ring out the bells, While thousands of hearts their deep loyalty prove ; And all lands unite in the glad song that swells For the Prince who is saved and the Queen whom we love, To our Father above. 815 " Give peace in ourtime, Lord 1 we Ueeeech Thee." Happy orowds ia ■wild woods keeping Glad holidays, Hear a prophecy of weeping In darksome ways ; And the mirth awhile ignoriug, Lift their eyes to Heaven, imploring Christ to still the storm, restoring Peace to our days. Summer calm is on the waters ; Lord, give us peace. Joy is with our sons and daughters ; Let it increase. Let not sin and strife prevailing Fill the earth with cries and wailing. Let no brother-love be failing ; Lord, give uj peace. Come to Thee from vale and mountain Thy people's cries ; Lord, Thy love is like a fountain — Let it -arise. Let its wondrous drops of healing Fall upon men's hearts, revealing Purer thought and holier feeling : Lord, make them wise. * ■Written on the declaration of -war between France and Germany, the news of which reached the English when thousands of them ■were keeping holiday. 316 Sayiour, unto nobler living Teach tliem to climb ; Make them gentle and forgiTing, In love sublime. Aid ua, Prince of Peace, repressing Angry passion, strife distressing ; Give us -with Thy gracious blessing Peace in our time. Else from many a haunt of gladness, Through summer air, Earnest pleadings, soft with sadness ; Lord, hear the prayer. And in all Thy great compassion Grant to every troubled nation Wisdom, succour, and salvation ; Lord, hear our prayer. Smir X^B '^iVCCi. We can hear the pensive crying of the nations That have fought in deadly strife, Hear the pleading of the young men yet remaining For the precious boon of life. God of mercy, bid the battle horrors cease, Send us peace. Weary warriors siugled out for brief salvation From the storm of iron death. Who have laid aside their guns in transient respite. Whisper, though with bated breath. Make, O.God, our rulers' cruel hate to cease. Send us peace. 317 Men and fathers wait and think upon their homesteads And dear faces pining there, Wait and wonder if the fire has spared their children, And they cry in passionate prayer. Lord, have mercy, make the cruel time to cease, Send us peace. Weeping women, pale and gaunt from pangs of hunger, Baise to heaven beseeching cries — Mighty God, shall men go on to slay and murder? Oh, do Thou in strength arise. Scatter all who love the war, and make it cease, Send us peace. Lo, the widows and the orphans lift their voices — Wilt Thou not redress their wrongs ? AH the joy of all their lives is stolen from them, And they meet in hopeless throngs, Father, pity them and bid the strife to cease, Send us peace. Let the sweet spring sunshine fall on corn-fields And on vineyards and on homes ; Let the happy songs of peace arise to heaven While Thy pardoning blessing comes. And the people's joy and plenty shall increase ; Oh, send peace. 318 \i '§)amz bnriitg i^t WiRX. 'Tis only a woman left beMnd wMle the men go forth to fight ! She hushed the cry as she let them go, and her eyes were strangely bright ; Husband and brother and son went out, and she bade them each good-bye. And turned with a stifled cry to heaven, " God, if but one should diel" Only a woman left behind, and the ripened corn to reap. And the children's wants to be heard and met, so she has scant time to weep ; " The winter months will be coming on when they're home from the war again," And the woman's hands are deftly used while her heart is sad with pain. Some must be lost, she gravely thinks. But hers ! Not hers, indeed. The terrible guns will surely spare her dear ones to her need ; But her thoughts are prayers through the anxious days, and her eyes with tears are dim. And she hits them up to the God of love, for her hope is fixed on Him. There is none to tell how in one fell fight, after brief and direful pain. Her bravest ones were trampled down, never to rise again ; But soon, too soon, she will know the worst in her lonely widowed home. After waiting long and wearily for the feet that never come. 319 God ! have mercy, we can but cry, as the dreary days go on. And scatter the men who delight in war, till the wicked strife be done ; And go to the homes made desolate, tUl the women, alone and sad, Have learnt how great is Thy mighty love, that can make e'en sorrow glad. Parfa^st in Wax-4im«. Thebe is a glad song carried by the breeze, Through England's vales and up her shining hills ; The leaves dance to its music on the trees, And the gay chorus rises from the rills ; While men's and children's voices bear along The melody of the glad harvest song. For thankful eyes look on the waving wheat, The rich, the ripening com, our winter food. Which, while His children gratefully shall eat Their hearts shall say, " Our Father-God is good." He sends the harvest joy, and His shall be The praiseful songs we sing continually. And so we see the reapers going forth With stalwart arms to lay the strong plants low, And soon from west to east, from south to north, The happy land shall sheaves of plenty know, And sweet doxologies shall rise and ring Their way through summer air up to the King. But while the song is merriest there comes The echo of a spirit-burdened sigh. Borne to our land from the more distant homes Whence men go forth to suffer and to die ; 320 " Oh, stay that harvest, Lord," let England pray From every sunny field each happy day. And while we gather in the golden grain, And merry children play among the sheaves, Let not our mirth grow loud for others' pain. But let us weep for those who fall as leaves, And cry with one accord, God, send peace. And force this wicked strife of men to cease ! ipitg i\t fatbits 1 Theeb's a cry through the whole earth ringing, A cry as from sad hearts riven. From morning till solemn midnight It rises in grief to heaven ; God of the nations, pity The living and dying men. And after the strife and anguish Give peace in our time again. Alas ! for the fair homes blighted, Alas ! for the widowed wives, Alas ! for the orphaned children, For the young but desolate lives ; God ! it Thou dost not pity. In the depths of this after-woe. How shall the weeping victims Pardon or solace know ? 321 How shall the fires be lighted On the hearths left sad and lone ? How shall the voice of singing Come from the cry and groan ? God of "the peoples, pity All for whom joy is dead, Who sit in their desolation, And cannot be comforted. Father, we dare not ask Thee If right can come out of wrong. If love of the man and brother Can live 'mid the wrathful throng ; But we ask for Thy mighty pity For the sorrows that sin has brought. We pray for Thy deep compassion O'er the horrors that hate has wrought. When the murdered men are dying In the depths of dark despair. Oh ! Usteu in Thy great mercy To the scarcely uttered prayer. And, Father, ij it tnay be, Bring out of evil good, And bind the parted nations In the bond of brotherhood. 22 822 ^t f i£e-kat 3m. I AM old but strong, and I love it ; nothing is hard to me That I do in the dear, brave life-boat, out on a stormy sea ; There are plenty of gallant fellows would step in my place to-day, But I'll do it while I am able, and nothing shall make me stay. How long have I known the lite-boat ? For upwards of twenty years, And I have been out in tempests that wakened e'en brave men's fears ; I have had my escapes from drowning, I have looked in the face of death, But I know tUl my work is finished our Father will give me breath. Do I know Him, and trust, and fear Him? Ah, yes, or I should not dare The dangerous, pitiless ocean, with the storm-might in the air ; For there's little time in the life-boat to pray to the God above. But there is wonderful strength and comfort in the knowledge that He is love. He gave me a priceless blessing one day in the old life-boat, I will wait to tell you about it now the fishers are all afloat : I had a son, one^only, dear as my lite to me. And the lad was wild and wilful, and of course he would go to sea. I used to long for his letters, as the sick man longs for health. For the love of a cluld is precious, and richer than any wealth ; But my son became offended at something his father said. And I looked in vain for a letter, and wept lest the boy was dead. For the whole of two weary twelvemonths he waited and made no sign, And I thought that of all earth's sorrow there was none so great as mine ; 323 The world was a sore, sad burden, and nothing cotild comfort me But risking my life for others out on the ajigry sea. Once, in a dark, drear midnight, the sound of a gun was heard. It came to me through the tempest with the power of a captain's word ; I rose at its warning summons ; there was not a ray of light As I called the crew of the Ufe-boat out in the storm that night. You have never dreamed of the water as we saw it and heard it then, For the passionate, maddened breakers made cowards of fine brave men ; I think I can see their faces as they shouted they would not go. Even for sake of others, to a certain death below. You may do as you please, I answered, but if I should go alone I will go, that I be not haunted at last by the dying moan Of a man, or perhaps a woman, whom we might have saved to-night. If our men had been brave and steadfast, and struggled to do the right. Only a few went with me ; three times we were dashed ashore. But I cried to the stalwart heroes, We wiU make one effort more ; And at length when we gained the vessel, flung by a mighty wave. We were only in time to rescue a few from the ocean-grave. But the foremost to gain the life-boat was my living and long-lost son ! For a moment I sobbed with rapture, and felt that my task was done; But then with a cry of gladness I clung to his young, strong hand, Then worked away with the others till safely we came to land. So you see that the Lord has paid me in full for what I have done. And I love the old life-boat better for the sake of my own dear son. Now if you have liked my story, then give of your full supply To the life-boat cause, which is saving hundreds who else would die. 22* 324 t^& Wife 0f i^& f i&-t0at Itan. The life-boat goes o'er tlie stormy sea, for a ship is iu distress ; The gun booms out on the waters wild, and the brave men closer press ; And John has gone with the other men away from our fireside warm, Out where the maddened breakers rage, to the midst of the fearful storm. I let him go, though he came to me to see if I bade him stay, For the sea has an angry and dangerous look, and this is our wedding- day; But I only kissed him, and cheered him on — my lad who is always brave, — And I strained my eyes as I saw the boat leap over the mountain- wave. I stay at home and the house is still — save for the sea's wild roar, And my heart will question me now and then, " What if he come no more ?" But I know that "Our Father" rules the sea, and in humble and earnest prayer I have given my husband, my best beloved, into His tender care. It is little we women can ever do ; we are neither brave nor strong ; We cannot fight in a noble cause, nor conquer the powers of wrong ; We cannot work with the life-boat crew; — but I think we do our part. When we send our brothers and husbands forth, though it nearly breaks our heart. 325 So I hush my taby and try to sing while the hours creep slowly by, TiU I hear the hearty and joyous shout, that tells of the life-boat nigh. I shall see him again, my dearest one, and to-night he will kneel with me, And thank our God for the lives He saves from the perils of the sea. My friend went over the sea one day ; My thoughts were full of the saddest tales Of sudden storms in the little bay, Of roaring tempests and rushing gales. I could not look at the smiling sea, But I thought of an enemy's fair false face. And all the summer it seemed to me A cruel thing, and devoid of grace. But I prayed to the God of the sea and land To keep my friend from its hurtful might. To care for the Kttle sailor-band. Nor once forget it by day or night. Xet I feared to trust.Him ; I thought my love Was more than His, and I strove and prayed With strong wild words to the God above, And aJl the time I was sore afraid. He was not angry. He bore with me, So patient is He in His tenderness ; He kept my friend on the far-off sea, He showed us both how the Lord could bless. 326 I walk along on the merry shore Glad, for my dear one walks with me ; But I wish I had trusted the Father more Who cared for him on the changing sea. And I think when I see the faces sad Of those who are anxious and full of care, If they trusted the Lord He would make them glad, For He loves to answer His ohildren's prayer. Come to us, come to us, beautiful sunshine, "Waken the flowers in the fields and the dells ; Over us stealing With touches of healing, Come with the musie of birds and of bells : Hearts have grown heavy, and eyes become weary In the dark days we have waited for thee ; Sunshine, come near us. And lighten and cheer us, Telling how happy the summer shall be. Come to us, come to us, beautiful sunshine, Hope nearly died in the days of the snow ; Bid it revive again, Picturing joy agaiii. Whispering ever of bliss we shall know ; Fill the wide world with thy comforting presence. Lay thy soft hand on each feverish brow, Steal away sadness. For sorrow give gladness. Bid the bright earth sing its joy chorus now. 327 Come to us, come to us, beautiful sunsHne, Come with the green leaves and blossoms of white, Fountains unsealing, And beauty revealing — Flood the glad earth with thy shadowless light ; Come, for our hearts have grown weary of waiting, Weary of sorrow and days that are dim, Come, pleasure bringing While we are singing Gladly to God a sweet festival hymn. Come to us, come to us, beautiful sunshine. Come as the gift of our Father in heaven ; Fondly caressing us As He is blessing us. Come, and His love with thy Hght shall be given. More of His mercy, sunshine, still teach us. Coming from Him a glad mission is thine ; Teach us to love Him more, Teach us to trust Him more. Then we will bless thee, welcome sunshine. FAIK-HAIEED girls of England ! Meeting in school and street, Into the greener meadows God lead your feeble feet. There are rough paths before you, And you are never strong, God send His strengthening angels To teach you holy song. 328 merry girla of England ! Your life is but a play Of that which lies before you In the untrodden way. Sing on amid youi pleasure ; But, ere the night is here. Gird on the Gospel armour For the war-day drawing near. meek-eyed household angels ! mothers yet to be 1 Now, in your life's fair morning, Learn ye to bend the knee. Take on you others' burdens, A life-work for you all. And be you always ready For sorrow's plaintive call. fair, free girls of England ! Our hope as years go by, The tender and the faithful, God lift your hopes on high. Go forth to your glad mission — The right of doing well. The right to comfort others, Wherever you may dwell. 329 #nlg a 3Mz f rager. They were only a few short words she said, ■ Our child with the golden hair ; She knelt by her mother's knee at night, And whispered her little prayer ; But I ween that it sounded in heaven above. Sweeter than angel-lays. And woke the harps of the ransomed ones To a happier strain of praise. 'Twas only a little prayer that she prayed, For her mother's sake and mine. And that God would bless her in childhood's days, And give her a life divine ; But the Saviour heard it, and made her rich With His tenderness and grace, And a brighter joyousness made her glad. And shone in her fair young face. It was but a little prayer that she prayed ; But, oh, may her coming life Be ever softened with prayers like that In the midst of her greatest strife 1 For flowers shall blossom and waters flow Ever around her feet. While she spends her sweetest and calmest hours, So near to the mercy-seat. 'Twas only a little prayer that she said, My darling with golden hair ; 'Twas her very first, but it heralds a train Of holy words of prayer. 330 May she still pray on till the golden harps Drown it in notes of praise, And she changes the words of her mild req^uest To unfaltering songs of praise. % Jfrwnir. So you find the pathways thorny, youthful feet that just begin Life's important onward journey, chequered everywhere by sin ? We who know can only tell you that the farther on you go The sorrows are more frequent, and the deeper is the woe. And your hands are growing weary of the hard, unthankful task ? And your hearts grow sad and heavy, having not the good they ask ? And your eyes are tired of seeing things that can but make you sad ? While your young and restless spirits wish to be for ever glad ? Life is teaching you one lesson ; oh, my children, learn it well, — All that earth can ever give you will not serve your grief to quell ; Cannot make you truly happy, but will leave you still unblest, Sighing after something better, full of sorrow and unrest. But there is a fount of pleasure, whose pm:e waters never fail ; And there is a Friend to love you whose kind counsels shall prevail ; Oh, in every time of sorrow, come to Jesus, He will be Strength and wisdom, help and comfort, and a joy continually. Do not linger, scarcely knowing if your hearts have need of Him, — Come at once in life's fair morning, come when evening shades are dim ; He wUl make your whole life brighter than you now can even dream ; Come to Jesus, come, drink ever of His love's unfailing stream. 331 gaisff. Daisy is a chatterbox, Talks the whole day long, Fills the house from morn till night With her v.oioe and song. Daisy is a busy-body. Never still a minute ; Neat and calm is Daisy's home When she is not in it. Daisy is a merry dancer, Skipping all the day. Thinks of little in the world But her doll and play. Daisy is the greatest tease. Climbing everywhere, Stroking, patting mother's face. Pulling down her hair. Daisy searches for her toy In papa's great pocket, Frowns, and shakes her little head When he has not got it. Daisy is the merry-maker Of her happy home. Darkest shadows fall upon it When she does not come. 332 Daisy is not like her namesake In the meadows green ; But she is the dearest Daisy Byes have ever seen. Daisy fills our hearts with laughter, Never causes tears, — God in mercy spare our Daisy Many, many years. % ITut^n-'s ^mBtian. It is well to see your faces every happy sunny day. It is well to see your heads bowed down, and listen while we pray ; It is well to hear your voices in the blessed hymns we sing. Of love to God our Father, and praises to the King : — 'Tis sweet to read affection in the brightly shining eyes, And to answer eager questions that in wakening minds arise ; 'Tis pleasant to be sure that no changing tones will tell Of coldness and indifference, in those we love so well. But, oh, my children, tell me, when the parting time has come. And the white-winged angel summons us to pass into our home. And we shall take our places on the left hand or the right Of the Judge who in His splendour shall shine as glorious Ught — Where will you be, my children ? Will the Saviour be your Friend, And call you from the sleep of death to heaven to ascend ? Or must we part on that dread day, nor e'er each other see ? Oh, children, come to Jesus now, before you answer me 1 333 ^arni gttrsir. Watees of many Toicee, Peal out the songs ye love, Send the undying chorus High unto God above ; Lift up your mighty billows, Utter your wondrpus lays. Waters of many voices, Sing the Creator's praise. Men who are worn and weary Gather upon your shore, Teach them to love the anthems Te sing for evermore ; Soothe them with gentle murmurs. Like mothers' even-songs, Boll out youi sweetest music For the world-weary throngs. Waters of many voices. Only one song ye sing. Ever in calm or tempest. Praising the heavenly King ; StiU in your ebbing, flowing. Telling of His great might. Who on your heaving billows Spreadeth His gentle light. Tet do the little children Playing upon your shore Sing Him far higher anthems. Praise the Eternal more. 334 They who have hearts to love Him With sweeter voices sing, He will accept the praises Which contrite spirits bring. As I sit above in my lonely room, Glad sounds come in to me, The merry shouts of the little ones Playing their games with glee ; They stir my heart with a strange, sweet joy. As I listen wistfully. For I think of a time that is long gone by, Of lips that are silent now, Of fingers weaving a daisy-chain For a bright untroubled brow ; And of fair young heads that now lie low. Which were used with me to bow. I miss the voices of long ago. And the children at their play, I sigh for faces dear to me And forms that might not stay ; But I wait for another and better time, A new and a cloudless day. The children's voices are singing stUl, Though the sounds reach not to me. 335 They sing a song that I do not Imow In their home by the glassy sea ; And they are not weary, or sick, or sad, In that country of the free. I shall hear them soon when the angels call, And I pass beyond the sMes, I shaU see them then with the holy joy Lighting their happy eyes ; I shall know them aU again, I ween. Though the children have grown vdse. hxi i^fobik. Teouqe the clouds should hide the sun. Wait awhile ; Soon the shadows shall be gone, And the smile Of the long, bright summer day Throw a gladness o'er thy way : Wait awhile. If the blessing tarry long, Only wait. Sweet shall be the sound of song. Though so late ; And the good for which thou'st striven Shall be fully, freely given : ' Only wait. 336 Patience brings its fellow, strength, Wait awhile ; Even sorrow leaves at length With a smile ; And the heart that has been sad Is the readiest to be glad ; Wait awhile. Do not pant, and fume, and fret. Only wait ; Pray and trust, and ne'er forget God is great ; God is tender, true, and kind. He will show His gracious mind : Only wait. Ask for patience every day, Wait awhile. For the Father soon wiU say. With a smUe, " All thou askest shall be given With the perfect joy of heaven." Wait awhile. % moi^n'B Waht. Heavily rain had fallen many a dreary day, Swelling the streams and rivers as they wandered on their way ; Dark were the nights and cheerless, no stars shone out in the sky. And the terrible gale had risen, and new storms were drawing nigh. 837 No thought had the happy dwellers in a hundred cottage homes, Away in the humble lowlands, of how swiftly a torrent comes ; But the violent, rushing river, gathered in fearful might. And swept liie another deluge over the land that night. Higl^er and higher the waters rose round a house that stood Lower than ail the others at the edge of a little wood. Till the people that waited watching, sighed as they saw "the sight. And talked of the threatening danger, and dreaded the coming night. Then silently, swiftly walking, a woman came to their side — " How high has the water risen ? It looks like the sea's high tide !" And the people were strangely quiet. " You cannot pass over," one said; But the woman replied, " I am going," and lifted her resolute head. " My child is at home in the cottage ; he will shortly wake from his sleep : I shall go, though the flood be a river, though the water be cold and A chorus of friendly voices clamoured against her will, But she quietly went through the water, and the neighbours watched her stUl. Drowned ! Was she drowned ? Did her courage fail as she waded on ? The woman was strong and fearless, and she struggled till home was won; And she felt, as she clasped her baby, thanking the Lord above. That the coldness of many waters can quench not a mother's love. 23 338 gifir ui ^m. FoKTH from lier home she went at Duty's call ; They longed for her to come who heard her story, And knew that for Christ's sake, forsaking all, She turned away from love, and wealth, and glory. Hers was the strong desire to dare to do Some noble work of good, some skilful winning Of alien souls unto the Shepherd true, That they might trust in Him and cease their sinning. She drew bright pictures of the unknown land To whom each day's swift saiUng brought her nearer ; She loved, before she saw, the little band To whom she went, and each prayer ma^e them dearer. But sickness found her on the open sea. And wrapt her ui its cold and close embraces, And bade her learn how sweet and kind can be The look of love on even stranger-faces. They asked that God would spare her, and they thought Of the good mission waiting her fulfilling ; But she was passive, asking, wishing nought, Only to live or die, as God was willing. And so she died. And strangers buried her In the stUl depths of the great sea's blue water, And screaming gulls and sighing billows were The requiem-singers o'er God's restful daughter. 339 Her work is yet unfinished. None may tell Why the young life should have so swift an ending ; Who love the work they do will do it well, But she with God her working day is spending. But what of aU the bright young lives on land? They dream of pleasant seasons yet to he : Is there not one of all the happy hand Beady to do her work who died at sea ? Soitgs ai '§abL Sweet the music of the wild woods, and the leaves^ soft whispering, Sweet the songs, and very tender, which the crowds of glad birds sing. Sweet the tiny notes of wild flowers as they raise their eyes above. And the one song all are singing is our song, " The Lord is love." If we listen to the river winding on its pleasant way, The sweet murmur of the waters has but one glad thing to say ; — "Loving is the Great All-Father ^ He has stooped the world to bless," And its sounds are songs of raptare at His generous caress. Louder notes the swelling ocean sends along the answering shore, Yet a softer voice is mingling with its most tumultuous roar : Though the wild wind rages madly, and the roughest storms may beat, God the Lord is full of mercy, and the sea rolls at His feet. Let us join the common chorus ; it is meet that we .should sing. For He is our tender Father who is all creation's King ; He wiU guide and bless us ever, till we see His face above. And can sing to sweeter music the old song, " The Lord is love." 23* 340 mag k. " I HAVE the shadows before me, the light and the gladness behind, I have lived all my life, and the future is dim and unreal to my mind; But the song that I sing is the saddest of any the world can hear, — For my life has been vainly wasted, and I feel that the end is near." Listened a, young man gravely to this song while the old man sang, " My lite and my strength are before me," gladly the young voice rang; " Little I know about shadows, I know that the earth is fair. And that life can be grand and useful, and holy with faith and prayer. " The old man sang in his sorrow of the goodness that might have been; But / sing of the good that may be, and I think of each coming scene With a light as from heaven upon it, — I shall see as I take my way How the right over wrong shall conquer, and the darkness give place to day. " It may be that I am destined to accomplish a noble task. That God may give me the blessings which daily in prayer I ask. That I shall have power with the people, that I shall redress their wrong. Turning life's lamentation to the sound of a gentle song. " I will waste no time in dreaming of the great things I may be, I will do the work of this morning as God shall enable me, I will patiently toU in the present. He will take care of the rest ; I am not afraid of the future, He wiU bless me— I shall be blessed." 341 Sweet was the young man's singing ; if ever, his jonrney through, True to his God and his honour, he is keeping the right in view, He will have no pensive mourning over what might have been. When the shadows of life are creeping over the earthly scene. #n t^t CMs. Fkbshltt the zephyrs came up from the ocean, Grandly the billows rolled in at my feet ; And I stood looking down, moved with gentle emotion. And watching the place where the bright waters meet. The day was as fair as the blue skies could make it ; No tears hid the face of the sun as he shone ; There was pleasure in plenty for all who could take it. And sweet was earth's music, but I was alone. And I said, Is it needful or right that I only Should miss the delight that gives healing and rest ? There is love ia the world, and I need not be lonely ; So I summoned the friends I had ever loved best. There came to me one of whom death had bereft me ; He looked at me once with his clear shining eyes : I hoped he would stay, but he suddenly left me. Quickly hidden away by the deep azure skies. " Oh, linger beloved ! '* But he passed on unheeding ; I think that the angels called louder than I ; And I sighed as he went from me, painfully reading The truth that friends stay not for tear or for sigh. 342 Then there came yet another, with gentle caressing, Who lifted her eyes to my world-weary face, And whispered the words of a grave, tender blessing. And lingered about me, and brightened the place. I thought of the time when we both (young together) Looked out on the world through the eyes of our dreams And wandered about in the clear shining weather. Nor deemed that the earth is more sad than it seems. I said to my friend, This is like the days golden That came to our hearts in the bright long ago ; I looked, and her face had grown grief-worn and olden. As one who has bowed 'neath the pressure of woe. And soon, while we talked, at a summons from Duty, She bade me faxeweU, and then vanished away. And a shadow came over the world's summer beauty. And I wept that I had not a friend who would stay. But at last, in the midst of the sunset's deep glory, One came to my side whose sweet presence brought rest ; He told me the meaning of Calvary's story. And I felt that this Friend was the dearest and best. But I said, Wilt thou leave me again in my sadness ? " I never will leave thee, will never forsake," He said, and my spirit grew quiet with gladness. For He wiU remain in the ways that I take. And now when the breezes blow up from the ocean, I think of His love and am no more alone ; I give Him my trust and my heart's beet devotion. And soon I shall be where He sits on the throne. 343 faxQibt pi^r. Take lier back into your love ! She has erred ; and this beginning Grieves your heart with fears of sinning ; But she is so young and frail, And your counsel may preva'l. She may walk in good ways ever If you comfort and forgive her. Take her back into your love. Cherish not her hasty words ; Let them go, she did not mean them. Saw you not the love between them. How it flashed in her deep eyes, And rang out in her replies ? Oh, accept the tender token. And forget that she has spoken WUd, unmeaning, angry words. Let her see that you forgive. Clasp her hands and gently kiss her ; It would grieve your heart to miss her. Be not cold, but heal and bless. Melt her with your tenderness ; Have some pity on her yearning. And make easy her returning ; Let her see that you forgive. Take her hack into your love ; Life without it is so dreary. And she must be growing weary ; 344 Xet not this estrangement last, Throw a mantle o'er the past ; And as you would he forgiven Who have grieved your Friend in heaven, Take her back into your love. m^m is f«? " Shall I ever see the Saviour, mother ? WOl He not come here, And walk about among our streets through all the happy year ? I often look about for Him, and think how good 'twould be To see Him bless the children, and to feel Him touching me. " I see the funerals go by, but Jesus never comes, And teUs the mourners all to stop, and sends them to their homes ; I see the lame, and bUnd, and sick, and think, as they pass by, How soon the Lord would make them well if only He were nigh. " The people have white faces, and their eyes are dark with tears, They seem to grow the sadder for the slowly passing years ; And the children who are playing have many griefs to bear. And I know that Christ could help us if He would but hear our prayer. " It was easy, when the people were so hungry and so tired. For the loaves and little fishes to be all that He desired. If He fed the great five thousand He could feed the people yet ; Mother, let us ask the Saviour not to tarry or forget." 345 " Ah, my boy, He does come often, feeding, healing, making glad, But because there is such sorrow, and so many must be sad. He has gone away to heaven, to prepare the places there ; We shall quite forget our sorrow when we reach those mansions fair. " And be sure that it is better than to question and to pry, To be stiU with perfect trust, knowing well that by-and-by He will come once more to visit even this sad earth again. And that where the Saviour liveth there is no more grief or pain." ^xmrnircQ. How passing beautiful can be our dreams ! An instant changes us, and we are great, The whole grand world around us glows and gleams, And we are no more sad or desolate. The old familiar room fades from its place, And where it was are shining waterfalls, And wooded glens, and creatures full of grace. And purple mountains where the echo calls. Fair faces smile upon us, and bright eyes Tell us a story that is strangely sweet ; While o'er us stretch, in perfect calm, blue skies. And marvellous flowers spring up about our feet. There is no sighing but of balmy airs, There are no tears, but those whose source is joy ; There is no grief to call forth anguish prayers, And songs of mirth for aye glad lips employ. 346 And we ourselves are fall of nobleness ! Crowds watch us with deep love in grateful eyes ; We have a wondrous power to soothe and bless, And move, e'en as we will, men's sympathies. Yea, passing beautiful may be our dreams. But after they have faded, what remains ? The world grows cold, rior longer glows and gleams, And life is left with all its woes and pains. Then waste not one bright hour in aimless thought, Look for, and then console, thy brother's needs, Let every day with useful tasks be fraught ; For life is only grand through noMe deeds. t^0foillfitff? SoAKOELY had the new year entered with its hosts of hopes and fears. When there fell upon a household bitter cause for many tears ; Sickness came, and dread, and sorrow, for the angel Death drew near, Held his sword with threatening gesture o'er the mother kind and dear. All the little children shivered, half with cold and half with fright, No one came to them with comfort all the long and fearful night ; And the snow feU in the morning, made the village white and stiU, And half-froze the poor sad children, smitten too with sorrow's chill. So they huddled close together, filled the ajr with mournful cries. Gathered round their prostrate mother, saw her dim, unconscious eyes ; Prayed to God in baby accents, " Give to us our daily bread," Prayed and cried until the day passed, and they were not comforted. 347 When the next night's shadows vanished, came a shade of anxious care On the faces of the neighhours who had quickly gathered there ; All true hearts were moved with pity, tears came into tender eyes, And the women blessed the children with their true warm sympathies. Eager feet ran for the doctor ; eager questionings were heard, " Does she live ? Can she recover ? " But he answered not a word, Only, " Who will stay and nurse her ? " But they thought of work and home, And a murmur rose among them, as, " I would, but cannot come." " I am lonely," said a woman ; " husband, children I have none. If I stay with her, no sacred task have I to leave undone. If it may be, I will bring her back to life and health again ; If that may not be, will tend her in her hours of woe and pain," Then the doctor's second question fell upon the women's ears, " Who win take the children for her, feed them, cheer them, dry their tears ? " But they looked at one another : " They are six and they are small, And for children's noise and trouble, hearts and homes must be in thrall." So the women who had leisure, who had wealth and space to spare, Uttered no response of pity, heeded not the children's prayer ; But the women with small houses fuU of prattling little things, Felt their hearts grow warm and tender with the love that pity brings. Said these women with kind faces, "We vrill find the children room. We wiU feed, and clothe, and love them, we will banish all their gloom ; We will love them for their mother, let the Uttle sad ones come ; " And the children ceased their weeping, glad within some happy home. 348 So the woman soon recovered, true friends had she in her need ; Good Samaritans her neighbours ; and she prayed that Christ would heed And reward them with His Messing ; they had heard her children's cry, And they would not let them suffer, would not leave her there to die. We may learn, and this may teach us, all may help who have the wUl, None so poor, or tired, or busy, but Christ's law they may fulfil ; We may bless a brother, sister, some sad soul may joyful make. If we only do our utmost kindly for the Saviour's sake. ijifo §mx'B-€bL Feom sounds of merry bells Breaking the midnight sUenoe with their ringing. From hymns borne upward which glad Ups are singing, From where the New Tear's song in beauty swells, I turn and whisper a soft prayer for thee. And for thy sake ask what the year shall be. The midnight sky is dim. Save that the stars like angel eyes are shining, And earth is cold but for love's warm entwining, And I am weak, therefore I turn to Him Who holds the misty months till they appear. And ask for thee, my friend, a happy year. For time shall speed away, And the year's buds open in flowers of pleasure. And earth grow warm with summer's untold treasure. If God shall Hft His face upon each day. Therefore in these first hours of mystery I scarce can wish but only pray for thee. 849 WHat shall the New Tear bring ? Oh, I wotild crave for thee a glad to-morrow, And sunny days without a shade of sorrow. And" troops of friends their wealth of love to fling, And health's glad buoyancy, and peace and rest. And perfect joy — ^but one Friend knoweth best. I will not choose for thee, 'Twere better far, my love, in Him confiding, To leave thy future to His wise providing, And only ask that this New Tear may be Such as He makes it for His dear ones, bright As only those may know who see His light. And for the rest, oh, thou Shalt dwell in safety where His sunbeams quiver, And walk with Him beside life's crystal river, And lave in it thy weary heart and brow. So till the earth shall fade and heaven appear, God make thee glad with many a happy year. % f ap^ Itifa §mt. What dost thou bring us, glad New Year, Tripping so merrily over the snow ? We hasten to greet thee ; but cannot tell If thy hands are laden with blessing or woe. We look in thy face with our eager eyes. But 'tis hard to read what is written there ; We only know, as thy scenes arise, We have need to be strengthened by faith and prayer. 350 What dost thou bring us, quiet year ? Moods of sunshine ? or mists of tears ? Glad songs arising by night and day ? Or solemn sUenoe of brooding fears ? What -will thy months, as they pass away. Leave behind them of good or ill ? Keep thy secrets, oh, silent year ! Thou art but a slave of our Father's will. What He commands thou wilt do for us, We are not afraid of thy stern still face ; For He will send us, and thou shalt bring, Many proofs of His tender grace. Flowers shall blossom, and birds shall sing, And our hearts be glad with a frequent bUss ; For our Father watches His children well. With a careful love that they shall not miss. So come, New Tear ; thou shalt be a friend ; We open our houses, and make thee room ; We give thee a right to smile or frown, To cheer us with praise, or rebuke with gloom. Thou canst not trouble the deep well-spring Of quiet joy that the Lord has given ; Thou shalt make us happy, and do us good. And bring us nearer to Him and heaven. 351 jassbn WEnh " "Why weepesfc thou ? " " Wby seek ye the living among the dead ? " Can the smiling spring-flowers blossom? Can the skies be blue and fair? Can tbe sunbeams kiss the waters, and bird-music fill the air ? Can young faces be joy-lighted, and men's hearts be comforted When that Man was crushed with angmsh, and that face was still and dead? Thus I cried in grief's impatience, for before my thoughts there came Pictured scenes, all sorrow-tinted, of my Saviour's crown of shame ; Of the cruel throng that mocked Him, with unpitying, clamorous cries ; Of the sin-distorted faces Ufted to His pleading eyes ; Of His cry, " I am forsaken," and His death upon the cross. As I thought of all His sorrow, and His agony and loss. Strange it seemed that hope and gladness, joyous hours and scenes of mirth. Ere could have their dweUing-places on this sinful, saddened earth. But there came a shining angel where I sat in pain and gloom, And he said, " Why seek the living in the cold and silent tomb ? Why art thou so sadly weeping for a sorrow long since o'er ? Christ the Crucified is risen, He is King for evermore ! " Then my tear-dimmed eyes I lifted, and I saw the Master's face Grandly calm and sweetly smiling, full of power and kingly grace ; And I quite forgot my weeping, for His presence made me glad. If the Lord for ever liveth, should His children e'er be sad ? 852 Take the harps down from the willows. Let a joyful shout arise From the hills and from the valleys upward to the sunny skies ; Let the flowers bloom forth in beauty, let all men and angels sing, " Glory unto Christ the Victor ! glory to our living Kiag ! " It is the Easter-tide 1 The dead earth wakes to resurrection gladness, And leaves the sombre grave-olothes of its sadness ; While floods of light pour down the mountain-side, And hosts of flowers open their brightening eyes, To the deep beauty of the azure skies. The earth is fuU of song ; The greening forest echoes with the ringing. And merry larks pour down whole showers of singing. And lips unclose that have been silent long ; While hearts erst shrouded in the winter's night Waken to spring's melodious mom of light. We sing our Easter hymn. While angel harps make music to its story. " The Lord the King is risen, and His glory Death and the grave itself shall never dim." Oh ! smile-wreathed lips, oh ! full hearts glad and free, Why are ye silent in the harmony 1 It is the Easter-tide, And skies are bright, and hopes like flowers are growing ; But many stand apart, no gladness knowing Because the holy Saviour lived and died ; 353 They bring no offering, heart, or Bong, or gem, — What can the blessed Easter be to them ? Oh ! sad amid the mirth. Who stand beside Ufe's river, yet are thirsting ; Who see no spring, though myriad buds are bursting. Why do ye linger, 'mid the things of earth. And turn your hearts in sorrow yet away From the full brightness of this Easter-day ? One calls you evermore, " Come unto Me, ye laden ones and weary. Come, tha* your hearts be no more sad and dreary ; Come, and be gladder than ye dreamed before." Oh ! would ye Hsten to these love-words true. How joyous should the Easter be to you. %n €>mhx PgmjT. Pbaise to Thee ! praise to Thee, Saviour triumphant ! Let all the earth in its joy sing to Thee — Sing in the dawning Of glad Easter morning. How Thou hast made us aU happy and free. Thou hast redeemed us, Saviour of sinners, Dying and rising, and Uving again. What shall we bring to Thee? Shall we not sing to Thee While the whole world shouts aloud the refrain ? 24 354 Praise to Thee ! praise to Thee, wonderM Saviour ! Sweetly the harpers are sounding Thy praise. Cherubim, Seraphim, Chanting their Easter hymn, Join with the hosts loud hosannahs to raise. Gladly they sing to Thee, Saviour, in heaven ; Gladly we venture our lowlier songs. Bowing before Thee, We love and adore Thee, Merciful Christ, to whom honour belongs. Praise to Thee ! praise to Thee, merciful Saviour ! Even the children are glad in Thy love. Near to Thee pressing. They look for Thy blessing ; Thou dost bend o'er them. Thy goodness to prove. Old men and feeble, whose hearts have grovm weaiy Bearing the burden and heat of the day. In sorrow and blindness, Are sure of Thy kindness. As slowly they come to Thy love-lighted way. Praise to Thee ! praise to Thee, glorious Saviour ! So we all sing in the fair Easter-tide. Grateful hearts bringing, And evermore clinging, Saviour of sinners, to Thy blessed side. All through the future, oh, strengthen and bless us, Till we shall come to the end of the strife. Then be Thou near us. To c[uiet and cheer us. And bring ub through death into undying Ufe. 855 1^0 1 i^& Wimhx is past. There are sovmds of joy 'mid the tender green, Where the thickening leaves of the forest rise, There are sights of beauty amid the sheen Of flower-clad meadows aud aznre skies. There are bursts of rapture from light-winged things. Glad in the warmth of the summer sun, And even God's tiniest creature sings In the happy chorus we have begun. Out from the smoke, and the din, and dust. And dun grey clouds of the winter night. We pass to the summer of joy and trust, To the scented valleys and mountains bright. So shall it be, in a little while, When the dark-browed angel shaU flutter near. And point our way to the Father's smile. And bid us list to His welcome dear : All the winter shaU flee away. All the fading shall then be done. And we shall live in the perfect day, With the crown of life immortal won. Ye who mourn that the night is long. And the days are dark, and your hearts are sad. Soon shall you sing that summer song 'Mid the ever green and the ever glad. 24* 356 l^pril. She comeB, the month of passing smUes and tears, The lady of the spring ; And at her greeting earth forgets its fears, And birds begin to sing. There is a joy beneath fair April skies, A new-born, hearty mirth ; And songs of thankfulness to heaven arise From hopeful sons of earth. Grand musie through the wood-cathedrals swells ; Voices of joy and love. Sweeter than organ note, or peal of beUs, Ascend to God above. The old, old trees seem to grow young again, In delicate leaves arrayed. While through their branches comes the sweet refrain, " Trust, and be not afraid : " For He who warms and waters day by day , The valley and the lea, And scatters flowers by thousands on the way. Will send a spring to thee. " So we who live in April light and shade. Pelted by frequent showers, Grow strong again, and cannot be dismayed, For God is sending flowers. And while from hill and dell, and field and wood. Arise glad hymns of praise, We bless the Lord, for He is very good. Who crowns with love our days. 357 LoBD, we gather silently, and hush our breath, and look and wait, — A longing, eager multitude, within and round about Thy gate, — And one low cry goes up to Thee, " Let even us Thy blessing see." Art Thou with us, Saviour, Christ ? We cannot see Thee for the crowd ; We cannot hear Thee for the sounds of stiife and hate and woe are loud; Oh, may the Comforter come down and touch us with the fiery crown. Move with the impulse of Thy love the hearts that have grown cold, Lord, And bid us meet for earnest prayer, continuing with one accord In faith, expecting while we pray another Pentecostal day. O Holy Spirit, give us power to " speak with other tongues " the name Of the one Saviour of the world, till all shall hear, while we proclaim The tale of His unbounded grace, and turn to seek His hidden face. The strangers gather round us yet ; but why are Thine apostles still ? Oh, for some strong and loving words to move the people to Thy wUl, tfntil Thy truth they have received, and gladly worshipped and believed. Thy light and joy are in the world, and sweetly swells the summer song; But let another blessing come and rest upon the eager throng ; For, Lord, the people are not free until they yield themselves to Thee. 358 Lord, we wait the sound from heaven which shall revive our drooping love, And make us strong and make us wise, and fit us for the life above. Spirit, come with power divine, and make these waiting people Thine. Oh, beautiful old forests, dad In new and vivid green ! On multitudes of dancing leaves Is spread the silver sheen ; Amid such beauty we forget The winter that has been. The May has crowned the lofty heads Of mighty giant trees, And gracefully they bend to catch The kiss of passing breeze ; The while the flowers look up and smile, The wayfarer to please. The air is full of melody. That upward, heavenward, floats. The feathered choristers pour down Their thriUing music-notes. And mom and evening hymns are sung By majiy happy throats. The leafy aisles on every side With wondrous joy are rife, 359 And all the green and growing plants Are bursting Into life ; And in the ■woods our hearts forget Earth's labour and its strife. And so we lift our song to Thee, Oh, Father of us aU ; Thou blessest everything of Thine, The mighty and the small. And Thou wilt guide our feeble feet. And answer when we caU. m^i f eafa^s. Beautietil growing leaves. Shining in spring's array, Near us ye bend as the face of a friend, Lighted with love alway. Away from the strain of toil. Away from the crush of care. We lift our eyes to the soft blue sMes, And meet you everywhere. Under your shade of green We rested from childhood's play ; Dear to us then, ye are dear again As we feel your touch to-day. Te are every one a word Written for us to read. What do ye say on this summer's day That all our hearts should heed ? 360 A message of love ye bring Fresh from our Father's heart, To let us Imow who remain below That His mercy will not depart. He careth for you, Leaves ! And for us. No tongue can tell How His tenderness can our spirits bless, And make the stricken weU. Tou have His sun and shower. We have His smile of peace ; He soorneth none, but to His own His goodness will not cease. Bud, and grow, and die, Leaves from our Father's hand ! But we know that we shall immortal be. And live in the fadeless land. SpEiNa is melting into summer, warmer airs come o'er the hills. And a bright and flashing sunhght dances on the running rills ; All the land is bathed in glory, flooded with excess of light. And made musical with singing, even in the short, sweet night. All created things are keeping universal holiday ; Birds and insects and the flowers are clothed in garments new and gay; Glad new songs from happy spirits rise as incense unto heaven. To the God who has the summer unto us His children given. 361 Let us ramWe through the woodlanda, singing thankful aongs to Him ; Let us drink the joy of summer till the long bright day be dim, Mourning not that purple violets to the roses must give place — Taking joyfully all sweetness, finding everywhere new grace. Oh, the happy, happy summer ! — ^time of flowers and sunny days ! Let our hearts grow light with gladness as we walk the pleasant ways ; For the sumnier may be bringing life and health and plenteous rest, And the Father's saored blessing, which shall make us truly blest. ^'^t Parkst. Gatheb it in and store it up carefully, Sweet, precious grain that has grown from the sod ; Heap up the treasure, and thankfully, prayerfully. Lift up your hearts and your voices to God. Take it away in the fuU waggons merrily. Bear it away with a shout and a song ; Faces are smiling and feet moving cheerily. Glad are men's hearts as the wains move along. Sing out the praise-song with triumph imoeasingly, God has been good, and His love is for aye ; Surely His children should trust TTim moreasingly, Who from their prayers tumeth never away. Sing and be happy, and evermore cherishing Glad, grateful thoughts of the Father's vast love. Constantly look from the transient and perishing On to the land of the fadeless above. 362 Gather it in then, and store it up carefully, Sweet, precious grain that has grown from the sod ; Heap up the treasure, but praisefuUy, prayerfully, Lift up your hearts and your voices to God. The Master is looking for sheaves to-day Under the summer sun ; Swiftly the seasons have passed away, And the harvest has weU begun. What have I done with the fair long months Which His kindness lent to me ? As He looks abroad at my fields to-day, What will the Master see ? I was to tend them, He told me once. And left them to my best care ; Snow and sunshine and wind and raiu I knew I could have by prayer. Thankful I felt, and a little proud, That the Lord should trust me so, And I sang a song of exultant joy As I watched the seasons go. But, alas ! for me and my slighted fields. Now in the harvest time ! There is nought to see but a few lean ears. Though the year is in its prime I 363 Alas for me when the Master comes ! How shall I meet His gaze ? What will He say when He sees my shame At thought of the wasted days ? There are golden sheaves upon others' fields, There is plenty of rich, ripe grain : I can hear their songs who for long, long months, - Were toiling in care and pain. They have no fear of the Master's frown. But /, when He comes this way. Shall almost tremble to hear His voice, Or silently creep away. Yet no, — I will stay ; for His love is great, And patient His tenderness ; He will see I am sorry, and oh, perhaps. He will pity, forgive, and bless. If He take not the fields away from me, I will thankfuUy toil and wait ; It may be that I shall have sheaves one day, Though my harvest tarry late. " We all do fade as a leaf." — Isa. Ixvi. 6. "The gift of God ie eternal life through Jesas Christ our Lord." — Bom. vi. 23. You tell me the leaves of Autumn Are falling in golden showers ; That the earth is stUl with a pathos That touches no summer hours ; 864 Tou say ttat the forest pathways Are filled with the dead brown leaves, And that everywhere through the freshening air Comes a sigh, as of one who grieves. Tou say that the time of fading Cannot be gay and glad. That the burnished leaves of the woodlands Are making your spirit sad : For you think of your own swift fading That is nearer with each short day. And that you must lie with the leaves that die, And pass from the world away. I bring you a better message, A message of right good cheer. You will see that it is no sorrow That you fade with the fading year : Tou may walk through the silent forest. Where the leaves sink down to their graves. With a spirit strong, and a voice of song, As you think of the love that saves. For now in the Autumn glory The voice of the Lord is heard ; Let all who have grown sad-hearted Listen to His sweet word. Why should the time of fading Be also a time of pain. Since the gift of God is eternal life, And we fade but to bloom again ? Oh ! fair is the golden sunset That comes at the close of day. And fair is the tinted Autumn, With its beauty of decay ; 365 But soon in the deeper glory Of a bright, nnending Spring, Where no moan is made, and the leaves ne'er fade, Oh, friends, you shall see the King. % ^xmm. ai ''§mbm. To-DAT it is dark November, and I sit in my room alone. While the rain is drearily falling, and the wind has a mournful tone ; And I know IJiat the thick fog-curtains are hiding no pleasant scene, For the valleys and fields are barren, and death is where life has been. But I think how the sweet flowers blossom away in my fatherland. And how sweetly the shining river rolls to the silver strand ; And I think how the birds are singing, in the branches ever green. While the grand Sun shines in splendour, and the fog is never seen. Ah ! happy are they who gather in my Father's house to-night ; Their spirits are stilled with rapture, they live in His cloudless light ; And I look at their dear home faces, but see not a shade of pain. And the eyes that I love are shining, and will never shed tears again. Oh ! strangely glad are the voices, unbroken by sobs or sighs ; I have learnt a part of the anthem and the sweet, soft symphonies. Oh, how I long to join them ! I would sing of my Father's love. With as happy a heart as the others, if I were at home above. For they gather about the Saviour, as near as they wiU to Him ; There is not a doubt or a shadow the smile of His face to dim ; They can sit at His feet like Mary, they may lean on His loving breast, And nothing can ever happen to ruffle their perfect rest. 366 But I am away from my country, and I live in tlie winter time ; I can only dream of the summer that shines in that perfect clime ; And yet I will try to be patient, working until there be No longer the bleak November', but the glory of Heaven for me. Winia g0w. "For unto you is bom this day in the city of David a Saviour, Tvliich is Chaist tliB Lord." " Unto you is born a Saviour. " Glad the news the angels bring ! Christ, the hope of all the nations, comes to bless the world as King ; Comes to chfeer the broken-hearted, and to bring the slaves release Comes to change our grief to gladness, and to give us blessed peace. " Unto you is bom a Saviour." Oh, ye weary ones, rejoice 1 When ye hear the cheerful tidings, answer them with praiseful voice. 'Tis to you the Saviour cometh ; 'tis to you His love is given ; It is you whom He will gather in His arms and lead to heaven. " Unto you is born a Saviour." He will bear your sins away- All their load is laid upon Him ; you may sing this Christmas Day Of His free and fuU salvation, of His matchless tenderness • Christ the King is your Eedeemer— He your life will ever bless. •' Unto you is born a Saviour." Join the angels' thrilling songs ; Join the great uncounted number of the Saviour's ransomed throngs ; Tell the world how much you love Him — can you ever silent be When Hjs blood was shed to save you, and He makes you glad and free? " Unto you is bom a Saviour." Death has no more power to sting Do not fear the dark-browed angel— he will lead you to your King. If you love and trust the Saviour, He will bring you, in His love To a happier, brighter Christmas, in our Father's house above. 367 EiNO the Christmas joy-hells, Biug them far and wide, Wheresoe'er is known and loved Happy Ohristmastide ; Let the music, floating Over land and sea. Tell the story of Christ's love, And a heaven to he. Bing the Christmas joy-beUg, Let them be so loud That they shall be heard and loved By the busy crowd ; Till the heart in leisure Lays its work aside, And the hands and head have rest For this Chrisimastide. King the Christmas joy-beUs, Let them be so sweet. That soft thoughts steal over us, Even in the street ; And our eyes look upward To the throne on high. Where He reigns in triumph, Who once came to die. Eing the Christmas joy-bells, Let them be so stroug. That all catch the harmony, And unite in song ; 368 Till our homes are happy, And our hearts are glad With the love of Christ who came To the poor and sad. Eing the Christmas joy-bells ! Christ the Lord came down To the lowly manger, And the thorny crown ; But to-day in Heaven Praiseful music swells. Let us join their anthem, Eing the Christmas bells. gwir an Cl^rislmas ga^. Yon were busy merry-making : Madly rang the joy-bells out ; In your homes were sounds of laughter. And of children's play and shout ; We were very sad and silent, And our hearts grew cold with doubt. When the sweet sounds of your singing Stole to our half-shrinMng ears, We, with aching hearts, were watching. Through pained eyes made dim by tears. How the hope and joy were dying From our desolate new years. 369 When you said, " A merry ChriBtmas !" To. eacli other in the light, Suddenly upon our spirits Fell the shadow of the night ; For our beat-beloTed and fairest At that moment took her flight. In our grief we sat and trembled, Looking at her dear closed eyes ; Lifting up our hearts to heaven With a woe-begone surprise. It is strange whene'er the dearest 'Mid the mirth of Christmas dies ! But a thotfght came to us after. From the Holy Comforter ; We had wished to bring the Saviour Gold and frankincense and myrrh, — But we gave Him something better When the Lord of love took her. And since He desired our treasure, Meek and gentle as a dove. We submitted, glad, though tearful, To His will, whose will is love ; And our darling keepeth Christmas In the Father's house above. 25 370 %VCQdB, The bells rang out upon the niglit, the merry belle of ChrlBtmas bliss ; The silver moonbeams clasped the earth, and bent the frosted snow to MsB ; And singers' music filled the air, and happy households bowed in prayer. Glad dreams the children had that night of merry games and fairy trees, And youths and maidens visions saw of sweeter, fairer things than these, And English homes were glad and bright, each waiting for the Christ- mas light. But never is the earth aU fair ; and in a cold and darkened room Two little children shivering lay, dismayed and frightened at the gloom ; For death had come that Christmas Eve and forced the mother-soul to leave. ' ' I wonder who will care for us ? Father and mother gone away, And no one left to kiss us now, although it ig the Christmas Day ; And why should we alone be sad when other boys and girls are glad? " I think God knows how cold we are, and Jesus is the children's Friend, So, when to-morrow comes, perhaps one of His angels He will send ; We've asked the Lord our souls to keep, so let us wait and go to 371 A steru-faoed and world-weary man sat muttering through the night so late, " Dead ! she is dead 1 It is alone her fault that I am desolate, That aU the long and weary years have left me but the boon of tears. " Could I forgive her while she lived? Can I forgive her now, and take These orphan chUdreu to my heart, and love them for their mother's sake? She blighted all my hfe for me, and why should I their angel be ? " The bells rang out upon the night, the Christmas bells that Baid, "Forgive, And love and pity for Christ's sake all creatures that on earth do live." And he who sat alone and heard, knelt down and wept, and spoke no word. The Christmas Day broke o'er the earth, and touched it with a glad caress, The orphan children roused themselves to all the pain of their distress. " I hope the Lord will not forget — He has not sent His angel yet." But ere the service-bells had chimed a wistful face looked into theirs, And they with puzzled eyes gazed up on furrowed brow and whitened hairs. " Come and keep Christmas-time with me." "You are God's angel, we can see." The ready tears come to his eyes, he hfts the ohUd to his embrace ; And Uttle fingers stroke his hair, and loving kisses touch his face ; And Christinas peace comes to his heart, and makes him glad, and heals the smart. 372 " Tou are God's angel sent from heaven," the children whisper at their play ; He says, "God's angels came to me upon this blessed Christmas Day." The bells ring out and sing in mirth, " Such angels crowd God's happy earth." We wait to see the old year die ! It has not brought so much of good That we would hold it constantly In grateful, or in loving mood. The wEd winds wail for it outside ; So let them carry it away ; The snow is falling ; let it hide The old year from the sight of day. Why should we mourn it as a friend ? It wore the stern face of a foe ; The weary hearts that watch its end, Its hands have overwhelmed with woe. The year is dying. Let it die ! Great evil aaid small good it gave, And hosts who met it trustingly Have gone before it to the grave. And yet the year is not to blame For evil that bad men have wrought ; Theirs was the sin, be theirs the shame, For fair scenes into ruin brought. 873 The year was but a servant given For guidance and for sacred use, For love of God, and hope of heaven. And they have clothed it with abuse ! So let it die, the sad old year, And let the new one take its place ; We yield to it the parting tear. And ask for it God's pardoning grace. And take the young year by its hand, God make it better than the last, A glad new-comer to each land. An old friend when its days are past. The old year dies out, and the plentiful skies Weep their tear-drops in showers, while the passionate wind Wails out its lamentings in sad symphonies, As it hurries away with its long-buried kind, And leaves us behind. It fades as the Sabbath. How many watch on. Turning night into day while the slow minutes creep. And sigh for the past, for the friends that are gone. While regret at the piUow sits banishing sleep, And compels them to weep. 374 Old memories cluster about us to-night, Whispering ever of scenes that were all blessing-crowned, Leading out of the darlmess and into the light ; But we think of the sins that so thickly abound. With a sorrow profound. We wonderingly ask, Shall the New Year that comes Be as bright as the Old ? Will the blessings remain ? Shall the sun at our hearths, and the light in our homes. And the dear hands aU sMIful to soothe away pain, Be given again ? Hark ! how the bells ring ! Ah 1 the Old Year is past, And the New Tear has entered with hope on its brow. It is bright as the olden ones, fair as the last, Let us grasp its young hands with a warm greeting now, As we, blessing it, bow. It is fresh from the hands of the Father above ; His gifts are all blessings, so let us not fear ; Every day shall come winged from the Infinite Love ; So we heartily, tenderly, welcome thee here, 0, gladsome New Year ! XntWIN BBOTHEBS, THE QBESHAU PRESS, CHTLWORTH AND LONDON.