'ichoes LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. V -^^ flap ©op^rigltfn Shelf _..X.^.? UNITED STATES OP AMERICA. &c^ot& ftom C(X)j)t (^nn. BY MARIA J. DODGE. ECHOES FROM CAPE ANN. A BOOK OF POEMS, RECITATIONS, AND MEMORIAL TOKENS. EY ^ BOSTON CUPPLES AND HURD, Publishers 1889 ^^- ^^-^ Copyright, 1889, By MARIA J. DODGE. A II rights reserved. ^ebiratton. To tlie children who have been my comfort ancl solace through the many years of my widowhood; to my mother, and the brothers and sisters with whom I have sat in the valley of sorrow ; to the many kind fi'iends whose words of sympathy and encouragement have cheered me through many lonely hours ; and to the public at large, do I offer my Echoes from Cape Ann, hoping that from its humble pages they may glean a portion of the comfort and pleasure which I have found in writing it. MARIA J. DODGE. 12 Mount Vernon St., Gloucester, Mass. INTRODUCTION. Like an echo from the ocean, Send I out my thoughts to thee, Hoping that the generous people Will be good and kind to me. If you take the shells of ocean And hold them closely to your ear, There is a gentle undulation, Like an echo, you will hear. So it is, when hearts, vibrating. Speak to hearts in poet strain, Waking there a tender echo. Answering heart to heart again. If I ask for words of comfort From the busy people's brain, — Give to me a sweet compassion. Do not let me ask in vain. CONTENTS Acrostics .... A Fruitless Search All Souls are Mine An Appeal to the Blind An Autumn BouquET And the Voice of Jesus said, "Come" And then cometh the Evening and the Morning of the First Day Anniversary of the Universalist Church Gloucester, Mass. Answer Anthem A Pledge A Prophecy .... A Summer Day's Idyl A Token of Love and Regard Augusta A Wedding Gift to Mr. and Mrs J. Hall . Baby Sleeps Cast Thy Burden Children's Sunday Christmas Bells Christmas Eve Comfort Andrew PAGE 248 69 51 4 119 26 41 25 48 145 20I 85 22 245 243 30 5 2 99 47 Vlll CONTENTS. PAGB Communion 52 Confession 17 Consider the Lilies .... 46 Dedicated to the Memory of Our Late Sister in Faith, Hope, and Charity Mrs. Harriet G. Maddix . 22 Dedicated to Mr. and Mrs. William W Day 244 Dedicated to Our Lost Fishermen . 235 Dedicated to the Memory of Deaco> Theodore Lane 228 Divine Love 192 Doubt .... 19 Easter 37 Essay .... 165 Essex County Lodge 160 Fading Sunlight 32 Fainting and Weary 13 Faith .... 24 Falling Shadows 34 Fleeting Shadows . 6 Flossie 230 1776 — Fourth of July, 1887 . 65 Franklin Lodge, Riverd.\le 148 Gems of Thought . 15 Genevra 212 God's Power .... 36 God Reigns .... 109 Grandpa's Pride 84 Granite Hills .... 80 Heavenly Seed 23 High Street, Newburyport 87 Hope II I Do Believe .... 30 I Know that my Redeem er Livet H 44 CONTEXTS. IX In Memory of Our Dead Soldiers In Memory of My Father ... In Memory of Our Nation's Martyr James A. Garfield .... In Memoriam In Memory of Sister :Mary E. Crockett In Memoriam In Memoriam Martha Smith Watts . In Memoriam Melissa .... In Memory of Mrs. Sarah D. Beckford In Memoriam In Memory of My Sister, Mary S. Hinck LEY In Memory of Mary, Wife of Albert Ober Invocation Jack Frost Jesus' Promise Josephine ... .... Land of Nod Leander "Let not Your Heart be Troubled" Life as a School Lines suggested by the Decorations Independent Christian Church Little Birdie ...••• Meditation Midnight Revels Minnie Miss Cadwallader, 1776 Mother's Old Hymn . . • • Motto Nellie Northern Light Lodge, Pigeon Cove Now Ode to Our Hall PAGK 202 203 205 222 225 226 231 234 236 23S 240 32 112 26 210 121 217 29 181 S 12 49 92 209 150 I 144 83 157 233 138 CONTENTS. Ode to Summer .... Our Nation's Hero. U. S. Grant Passion Poems . Pay the Debts "Peace, be Still" . Prayer Precious Jewels Queries Rape's Chasm . Rapture Reminiscences of Fraternity Lodge Retrospection . Reverie on Niles' Beach Rock of Ages . Sacred to the Memory of Tenie Sacred to the Memory of Emma Gorman Sacred to the Memory of My Friend Betsy A. Parsons Seventeenth of June Sheridan . Song of Jubilee Sooner or Later Sorrow Strike Hard Submission Temper.\nce Bells . Temperance Poem . The Babe of Bethlehem The Building of the Temperance Fleet on Old Cape Ann The Declaration The Drunkard's Plea . The Eagle's Nest . The Empty Nest The Essex County Sg^jadron PAGB 21 206 34 78 62 18 82 25 91 43 124 107 96 III 208 213 219 63 207 45 20 218 146 40 132 139 no 128 37 199 68 93 176 CONTENTS, XI PAGE The Fire 76 The Gipsy Prophetess 187 The Lady and the Knight . . . . 95 The Letter 71 The Little Crucifix 54 The Love of God 53 The Master's Will .... 35 The Mother's Vision .... 242 The Old Homestead, West Gloucester 72 The Pilot 55 The Request 142 The Road to Happiness 15 The Ruins 1x8 The Shower 66 The Sister of Charity .... 10 The Soldier Boys 197 The Soldiers' Home and Battle of Gettys BURG 57 The Song of Nature .... 50 The Star of Prohibition 155 The Temperance Armor 122 The Temperance Banner 154 The Temperance Fight .... 137 The Templars' Welcome 134 The Whistling Buoy .... 81 The Whistling Buoy. JI. . 116 Then 233 Think kindly of Me .... 56 Those whom He Loveth He Chasteneth 28 To Abbie O 76 To Carrie 75 To Governor Long Lodge, Marblehead 159 To My Far-off Home .... 6 To My Friends G. and J. . . . lOI To My Friend 114 Xll COXTENTS. To My Graxd-aunt To THE American Songstress, Emma Abbott Wetherell (Emma Abbott) To THE Memory of Eddie Johnsox To the Memory of Jessie Trailing Arbutus . Transposition . United in Christ Wedding Bells Written for the Ninth Anniversary of the Riverdale Reform Club . PAGE 241 211 61 39 33 114 175 POEMS • MOTHER'S OLD HYMN. Mother's old hymn ! oh what is its name ? Every mother's hymn is not the same. The sound that o'er my senses stole Was, '' Jesus, lover of my soul." Mother's old hymn ! aye, what is its name ? Every dear mother sings not the same. The hymn of some I know to be, " Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee." Mother's old hymn ! how sweet the fame ! " All hail the power of Jesus' Name I " And sweet to all these words must be : " Rock of Ages, cleft for me." Yes, Jesus, lover of my soul, Help when the billows o'er me roll ; Oh let me to Thy bosom fly When life's storms are raging high. 'J POEMS. Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee, The prayer of my heart may this ever be ; And tho' like a wanderer, daylight all gone, Angels shall beckon me nearer my home. All hail the power of Jesus' Name ! Angels take up the glad refrain, Let every nation on this ball Crown Him Jehovah, Lord of all. " Rock of Ages, cleft for me ! " Can sweeter hymn than this e'er be ? Nothing in my hands I bring, Simply to Thy Cross I cling. Thus mother's hymn grows dear to all. Heaven's echo on all ears doth fall. And mother's hymn, whate'er it be, Is sweetest hymn of all to thee. CHRISTMAS BELLS. Ring the bells at Christmas! 'Tis our Saviour's natal morn ! He who, humble, meek and lowly. Was in Judea's Bethlehem born POEMS. He who came this world to brighten, He who came the world to save, Came our heavy cares to lighten, Came to make us true and brave. Ring the bells at Christmas ! Do- the work He left for you : Clothe the naked, feed the hungry, Give them words of kindness too ; For the heart is often broken With its heavy load of fear, And a word in season spoken Will often make a friend sincere. Ring the bells at Christmas ! Teach the children how to pray — Jesus, Saviour, guide and keep us Through this happy Christmas Day ; Let our hearts be glad and merry. Let us do Thy holy Will, Ever trusting in Thy promise. All Thy loving laws fulfil. Ring the bells at Christmas ! 'Tis our Savior's natal morn ! Brighter shines the Star of Bethlehem, Brighter glows for us the dawn. POEMS. Ring the bells at Christmas ! Ring, oh ring them merrily, For the coming of His Kingdom, From Satan's bondage makes us free. AN APPEAL TO THE BLIND. Come, all ye afflicted, and listen to me : With the eyes of faith every one can see ; To the voice of your conscience your ear shall attend, And the praise of your heart unto Heaven ascend. Then keep yourselves gentle, pleasant, and neat, With a smile on your faces, both cheerful and sweet ; The seeds of His Kingdom are in your hearts sown ; Your eyes shall be opened before His Throne. Ah, then you shall see His glorious face. When you stand before the throne of grace ; Your lips shall sing praises, sweet and clear, And your ears the music of Heaven shall hear. POEMS. 6 CHILDREN'S SUNDAY. The organ was pealing, the people were still, It was time for the babes to come in. All hearts were beating with tender thrill When the choir began to sing. "Suffer the little ones to come unto Me, And forbid them not," they said. The door was opened, and into the church The dear little children were led. 'Mid the quiet that filled with a blessing the room. The rest of the charge was given. And oh, the pathos of those beautiful words, " Of such is the Kingdom of Heaven." The organ was silent, the Pastor arose, And sent up to Heaven a prayer ; The light of God's countenance plainly was seen. His presence was felt everywhere. Oh may the Lord bless thee, and give thee peace. And guide these dear little feet. Till, at the end of life's journey, their wande- rings shall cease, And they stand at the Mercy Seat. POEMS. FLEETING SHADOWS. From the distant gloaming I see the shadows flee. I take it as an omen Bright for you and me . Bear the little crosses That daily on you fall, With a patient waiting For the Father's call. Day by day they'll lighten, You will happier be. Each hour and moment brighten As the shadows flee. TO MY FAR-OFF HOME. To my far-off home my thoughts will wander As I sit in my pleasant room ; Wistfully I sit and ponder: Shall I meet with my dear ones soon ? To my father, so loving, so gentle, and tender. To my brothers so fond and true. And my one loving sister, my thoughts will wander, — In fancy I am gazing at you. POEMS. i With heart beating softly in tune to the measure, I am sitting just now, in a trance, And blessing my Father for my dearly loved treasures, And distance the pictures enhance. The dear kindly doctor, whose gentle min'- strations And kind, loving words enter into my heart. And his dear little daughter, the sweet little fairy. Doth to my pen picture the sunlight im- part. The many dear friends, whose untiring fin- gers Unbidden wove tokens of tenderest care, — May His dear loving hand on their bowed heads linger. When they send up to Him their evening prayer. And here, where I dwell, kind friends I have gathered, — Dear Lottie, whose heart is so kind. With her sweet patient face turned so lov- ingly to me. Another like her 'twould be hard to find. 8 P0E3IS. Many others there are whose friendship I cherish, And thank them sincerely for kind, tender care ; God bless them, and keep them in happiness ever, Until we shall meet in His mansions so fair. LINES Suggested by the Decorations in the Inde- pendent Christian Church, Dec. 25, 1885. I STOOD within the old church portal. Before its altar fair. And as I stood — weak, sinful mortal — I felt my Saviour's presence there ; "Come unto Me, ye heavy laden," In sweetest tones He cried ; " For you I bore my weary burden. For you I bled and died." The evergreen that decked the altar, Entwined with holly red, Symbolic of the love He bears us. And of the blood He shed. Brought out before my inward vision That uncouth, wooden cross, POEMS. Where ended Jesus' earthly mission, Where gold turned into dross. For one, who once had loved his Master, Betrayed Him to His foe, And he who should have stood beside Him Refused his Lord to know ; Ah, Peter, whom He called the Rock, Where had thy firmness gone. That thou couldst not withstand the shock. But left thy Lord alone ? Shall we, for whom He gave His life, Turn from His gentle voice ? Shall we not conquer in the strife, And with our Lord rejoice ? Shall we not humbly bend the knee, Come at His loving call? From earth's temptations turn and flee, Before His footstool fall ? And learn from Him this lesson well, — To lend a helping hand To young and old, His story tell Throughout this broad, fair land ; To cheer the sad, the sick, the poor. To aid them when they falter. To take a firmer stand before God's fair and holy altar. 10 P0E3IS. THE SISTER OF CHARITY. In the silence of my chamber Peace came to my weary soul Long I sought to find my Saviour When the billows near me rolled ; Suddenly a sweet voice, saying " Come and give thine heart to Me," Fell like balm upon my sorrow, — Where, oh where can Jesus be ? And, in answer to my question. Came His peace into my heart. Taking all my grief and sadness, Joy and gladness to impart. To His voice, I pra}^ you, listen In the silence of the night ; It will peace and comfort give you. Make the darkest way grow light. In the silence of my chamber Peace comes to my weary soul ; And I fear not, He is with me When the billows o'er me roll ; And His loving hand shall guide me Through the darksome vale of death, And I evermore will praise Him, — Praise Him with my latest breath. POEMS. 11 HOPE. Eyes that are closed to the bright sunlight, To the glittering stars and the moon's pale light ; Closed to the beauties of our earthly home, But not to the glories of the Eternal Throne. Eyes that are closed to the beauty of flowers. To the glist'ning drops of refreshing showers ; Closed to the grandeur of the lofty trees. But not to the sweetness of the cooling breeze. Eyes that are closed to the dear mother's face ; Closed to her smile of infinite grace ; But not to the touch of her tender hands, — For these are the things which the heart understands. Oh eyes of earth's favored one, give unto them sight, Thro' the brightness of your eyes give unto them light ; Show unto the afflicted the beauties of earth, Teach them of Jesus, and of the new birth. Give unto them ears to hear of His love. Show them the way to His bright liome above. 12 POEMS. Impress this thought deep into their mind, That Jesus has said, '' I'll be eyes to the blind, " I'll be ears to the deaf, and lips to the dumb, If they'll list to My voice, and unto Me come. In Heaven your eyes shall be opened by Me, Your souls shall be glorified, you shall be free." LITTLE BIRDIE. Little Birdie's safe in Heaven, Safe in Jesus' loving arms. Earth for me has lost its brightness. Home for me has lost its charm. "Send for papa," cried my darling, " For I'm going out from thee ; Send for papa ; I am dying. And his face I want to see." Little, darling, blue-eyed baby. Following grandpa round the farm. Laughing, singing, oh so merry. Father, keep my child from harm. How I listened to the music Of that gleesome baby voice ! POEMS. 13 And my darling little Birdie Made my mother heart rejoice. But my little treasure sickened, Drooped the little golden head ; And the blue eyes closed in slumber, — She was numbered with the dead. But her soul is safe in Heaven, Safe in Jesus' loving arms. Earth for nie has lost its brightness. Home for me has lost its charm. FAINTING AND WEARY. Fainting and weary, I dropped by the way- side. And sent up to God a passionate cry ; When into my soul a deep calm descended; Lo ! Jesus of Nazareth passeth by ! Was it a dream, or was it a whisper. Telling of God and His merciful care ? That stilled my wild sorrow, and lifted me quickly. And bade me look up, for the world was still fair. 14 POEMS. And soon, in my gladness for comfort so given, I took up my cross of sickness and pain, It had grown far lighter, and I thankfully promised That I would never be discouraged again. Kind friends He has found me, who tenderly nurse me, And cheer me with words of comfort and love. And help me look upward, when sickness comes near me. To seek consolation from my Saviour above ; — Dear Nellie, whose hands are so soft and so tender. Whose heart overflows with love unto all. And all the dear friends, who are waiting so near me. And answer so quickly whene'er I may call. And so, for these riches my Father has given, I gratefully lift my full heart unto Him. Triumphantly singing, I'll march on to Heaven, And lay down the cross, His bright crown to win. POEMS. 15 GEMS OF THOUGHT. From day to day our plans are laid ; From little things our life is made ; 'Tis but a moment, and the veil is riven ; 'Tis but a step from earth to Heaven. There is a love, all other loves commanding, Which gives to us the peace that passeth un- derstanding ; And tho\ to us, the gold of life seems turning into dross, We'll surely find that love, O Christ, by clinging to Thy Cross. THE ROAD TO HAPPINESS. I HAVE lost the road to happiness. Pray help me to find it again. Is it up the rough and rocky steep That leads to the mountain glen ? Or is it found in the winding way That leads through the wilderness. Where Solomon's Seal and Bethlehem's Star Are found in their shady nest ? 16 POEMS. By some it is found in the thorn-strewn path That leads to the Father's feet, Through many sighs and tears and prayers That reach to the Mercy-seat. By others 'tis found in the simple act Of following the Golden Rule. And for some the path of happiness lies In the discipline of sorrow's school. Before me the delicate, intricate path Lies misty and indistinct. I sit me down in deepest thought, — I can only wonder and think. I know that for those who live to themselves 'Tis vain and delusive, tho' fair ; It leadeth their eager, unwary feet Into many a pitfall and snare. Sometimes the road to happiness Goes down through the valley of woe, To appear again, in sunshine and hope, If we do the best that we know. I think that the road to happiness Lies just in this simple fact, — That we walk in the path by Jesus marked out In every word and act. POEMS. ^"^ I know that this is all God requires, As He leads us thro' sorrow's school, And purifies us in affliction's fires, That we follow the Golden Rule. CONFESSION. Confess it, O my soul ! That Jesus is the Lord. Confess it in your sweetest song, To the glory of your God. To God your Father sing. That Jesus is the Lord ; Let it through all the ages ring. And sound it all abroad. He knows our every thought; Then let us live aright. Let childhood of His love be taught, — 'Twill be to them a light. A light unto the little feet. Just treading in life's maze, A comfort to their hearts most sweet. And brighten all their days. 18 roEMS. PRAYER. O Father, give me strength to bear Whate'er Thou sendest me. Oh may I cast oat every fear, And from the tempter flee. Oh give me strength to walk therein — The paths Thou leadest me. Cleanse me from every petty sin, And may I lowly be. For tho' I tread life's darkest maze, Until my race is run, Upward I lift mine eyes, and gaze Upon the glory of Thy Son. Then, Father, give me strength to bear The woes and ills of life, Until the pure white robes I wear, And ended be the strife. POEMS. 19 DOUBT. "Am I dying ? " asked a maiden, With a faint and fluttering sigli, " Am I dying ? Tell me quickly. I am sore afraid to die ! " Yes, fair maiden, thou art dying, But you need not have a fear. Jesus waits within the portals. He to you is very near. In His arms of love He'll take you, In a fond and close embrace, And your fears shall quickly vanish When you see His glorious face. Yes, fair maiden, thou art dying. But the world is bright and fair With the light of Jesus' glory. Pain and death ne'er enter there. 20 POEMS. SOONER OR LATER. Sooner or later we must move on, And leave our place for another throng. Sooner or later we must pass away Into the realms of endless day. Sooner or later the grave shall close Over us, in our silent repose. Sooner or later the storms will break Over our heads, but we will not wake. Sooner or later our tongues shall praise The Father who moves in mysterious ways. Sooner or later the clouds shall disperse. That gather so darkly o'er the Universe. Sooner or later the trials that now Make the heart ache, and the head to bow, Will be forgotten in that glorious Home, Where sorrow and anguish dare not come. Sooner or later ! how simple the words ! Their echo in every clime is heard, In every valley, on every hill. In every river and little rill. POEMS. 2^ Sooner or later the sun shall shine Over the world with rays divine. Sooner or later the Saviour shall call, Not one be forgotten, He remembereth all. Sooner or later the Kingdom of God Shall be ours, if we study with rev'rence His word ; And the way, now dark, shall be winsome and bright. And the crosses we carry be easy and light. Sooner or later ! yet the world moves on, Tho' voices are still, once heard in song ;^ Tho' the great and the good pass swiftly away. Yet we heed them not; we are moving alway. ODE TO SUMMER. Summer is passing, its flowers are fading. And soon they will wither and die. Autumn is coming, for dahlias are blooming, And lifting their proud heads on high. 22 POEMS. A lesson we're learning, while leaves are turning, A lesson of faith in the Lord. We're growing in beauty while doing our duty, And learning to trust in His word. A TOKEN OF LOVE AND REGARD. To my sister and brother, Esther and George, Who lately have left Fraternity Lodge, I give this little token ; Tho' they have left, and we are bereft, 'Tis their own will they are not with us still. And friendship remains unbroken. The pledge they have taken will ne'er be forsaken. And when God in His love shall call us above. To meet in His glorious Temple, We are one family still, and we bend to His will. And follow His bright example. POEMS. 2^ HEAVENLY SEED. From the bed of sickness Heavenly seed is sown, And thro' patient sufe'ring the heavenly crown is won. If we bear earth's crosses meekly, a happiness we find, , And can make all others happy by being true and kind. If God sends us sorrow, we know He sends in love, To lift our hearts from earth unto His heaven Where, in His many mansions, a home He has prepared, ^ For all who in His love believe, who m His Name have dared. For all who spread the tidings of great joys to come. For all who help to lead the weary wan- derers home. Then on thy bed of sickness take comfort, rich and sweet. Until He calls you home, and makes your lite complete. 24 POEMS. FAITH. " Am I dying ? " asked a pilgrim In a feeble, trembling tone ; "Am I dying? Tell me quickly. Am I really going home ? " Are the clouds that darkly lower Round my white and aged head, Are the clouds about to scatter, And the stars shine overhead ? " Is my Saviour really ready For my final coming home ? And within His land of beauty, Will my tired feet soon roam ? " Aged pilgrim, thou art surely Going home to dwell for aye I Fold thine hands and rest thee sweetly. Thou art not afraid to die. POEMS. 25 QUERIES. Do the sorrows of a lifetime Flit before our fading eyes When our weary, drooping spirit Wings its way to yonder skies ? Will the actions of a lifetime Fill us with a vain regret When, beyond the fleeting shadows. With our loved ones we have met ? Will the heart-sighs and the anguish Give to us a sad unrest, When we've passed beyond the portals Of the glorious land of rest? ANSWER. Nay, my soul, there is no sorrow In that land beyond the grave. In that sweet, that bright to-morrow In life's river we shall lave. There, with sorrow all forgotten. We shall sit at Jesus' feet ; All our sins shall be forgiven. In Him to find a rest complete. 26 POEMS. AND THE VOICE OF JESUS SAID, " COME." Listen ! 'tis the voice of Jesus, Sounding loud and clear : " Place your hand in Mine, confiding. There is naught for you to fear. " Earth is fair, but Heaven is fairer. Rich the treasures there ! Sapphire walls and emerald carpets : Heaven is bright, and pure, and fair. " Come unto your Father's mansions, Evermore to dwell. Drink the never-failing waters From the everlasting well." JESUS' PROMISE. Weary mother, lay your burden Quickly down at Jesus' feet ; He will take away your sorrow. And be to you a sure retreat. POEMS. 27 " Come unto Me, ye heavy laden, And I will give you peace. Come, trust in Me, My word is given, Then let your murmurings cease." " Blessed Saviour, loved Redeemer, At Thy feet I'll lay me down. Take, O take my weary burden, Let me win the precious crown. " Let me take Thy yoke upon me. Make it easy for my soul. Let me ever keep beside Thee, When the billows o'er me roll." " I will never leave thee, daughter, Thee I never will forsake. Come, and of the peace of Heaven, In the arms of love, partake." 28 POEMS. THOSE WHOM HE LOVETH HE CHASTENETH. To the shorn lamb God tempers the wind, And we ever shall find Him just, gentle, and kind. For those whom He loveth He chasteneth. And in kindness He sendeth the angel of Death. The mother thou lovest has passed away From the sorrows of earth unto endless day. Then grieve not for her, for the end is peace. And her prisoned soul has found release. And unto her loved one who sorrows alone, A comforter unto his sad heart shall come ; Even Jesus, the dearly beloved of God, Shall help him to bear the chast'ning rod. Then sorrow thou not, as one without friend, But comforting messages unto him send ; And bid him to trust in the Father of love. Until he shall meet her in Heaven above. POEMS. 29 <'LET NOT YOUR HEART BE TROUBLED." Let not your heart be troubled, Neither let it be afraid. For unto you the Saviour A loving promise made. « Come, all ye who are weary. And I will give you rest ; Come, lay your weary, aching head Upon My loving breast ! Come, all ye heavy laden, Come quickly unto Me, For in My mansions fair I have A home prepared for thee. Come, take My yoke upon you, It easy is, and light. Come, learn of Me, ye children. And life shall be more bright. And when for you the night comes on, Lean heavily on Me ; My arm is ever round thee thrown. Sweet peace shall dwell with thee. 30 POEMS. I DO BELIEVE. I DO believe, I do believe. Mj errors, Lord, I would retrieve ; Thy blood, dear Lord, was shed for me : Thy faithful follower I would be. Thou bendest down from Pisgah's Mount; The pain and trouble do not count ; Thy love is given full and free : Thy faithful follower I will be. I do believe, I do believe. Thy spirit, Lord, I would not grieve ; My soul mounts up in love to Thee, Thy faithful follower I will be. CAST THY BURDEN. Cast thy burden on the Lord, And He shall sustain thee And comfort thee. No matter what thine earthly cares. Or what thy cross may be. His loving hand, all-powerful. Is stretched forth unto all, POEMS. 31 Oh clasp it close, believe on Him, Obey His loving call. Cast thy burden on the Lord, And He will comfort thee ; When heavy sorrows press the heart, Unto His presence flee ; When one by one our dearest friends Are fading from our sight, — When darksome shadows falling. And all seems gloom and night, — If we but lift our hearts to Him His glory we shall see. Then cast thy burden on the Lord And He will comfort thee. Then cast thy burden on the Lord, And neither faint nor fall ; His ear is to our voice inclined, He heareth when we call. He will sustain thee ! never fear ! Obey His mandates well. He knoweth all our wants and woes, Our every thought can tell. Then cast thy burden on the Lord, And He will comfort thee ; He will sustain the fainting heart, His arm o'ershadows thee. 32 POEMS. INVOCATION. O Lord ! my wandering footsteps guide, And keep me ever by Thy side ; Blest with the wealth of Thy great love, May I look up to Heaven above. When o'er my head fierce storms shall break, And passions dark my soul shall shake. Send down to me Thy precious gift, And from my soul the burden lift. And when, my life-work all complete, I stand before the mercy-seat. Ope wide for me the golden door. And make me blest forever-more. FADING SUNLIGHT. Softly now the sunlight's fading. Fading from our sight away ; And its golden light is turning. Turning into silver-gray. Soon the bright stars will be shining. Shining out into the night ; And pale Luna will be shedding. Shedding pure and ambient light. POEMS. ^^ So 'twill be when earth is fading, Fading from our sight away ; Heaven's light for us is shining, Shining forth in endless day. UNITED IN CHRIST. United all in Christ are we, Undivided we shall stand ; And every foot shall eager press The border of fair Canaan's land. The rich and poor, the bond and free, Alike shall see His face. Not one shall there unbidden be. And all shall profit by His grace. Oh glorious faith ! that cheers the heart, When we are bowed in grief ; That takes the sting from Satan's dart. And brings us sweet relief. Oh weary, heavy-laden soul. Look upward to your God ; Come, lay your burden at His feet. Heaven is your sure reward. 34 POEMS. FALLING SHADOWS. When the shadow on me falls, And my name my Saviour calls, I shall hear His gentle voice Bid my weary heart rejoice ; He my loving guide shall be, Ever and eternally. Weary pilgrim ! come to Him, Cast away your load of sin ; He will cheer you on your way, Hold you up from day to day ; And your name He'll surely call. When the shadows on you fall. PASSION POEMS. Theee is many a poem of passion unsung ; There is many a delicate harp unstrung, Whose strings are broken and give no sound, But lie quiet and still, in a silence profound. There is only One who hath the key, He alone can fathom the mystery. POEMS. ^^ There is many a heart that has quietly broken, There is many a poem of passion unspoken, There is many a life that is cold and drear, And many a soul that is filled with fear. There is only One who hath the key. He alone can fathom the mystery. THE MASTER'S WILL. If we follow the will of the Master, Good seed in His ground we shall sow, Which shall blossom into new beauty. And the fruit of the Vine shall grow. If we follow the will of the Master When the way seems dark and drear, The light of His presence shall guide us. And there will be nothing to fear. If we follow the will of the Master, Tho' the friends that we love pass away. We shall know that the Father has called them, In His mansions forever to stay. 36 POEMS. If we follow the will of the Master, When we stand in the presence of death, His justice we never shall question, But praise Him with every breath. Yes, in following the will of the Master, Good seed in His garden we sow ; Which shall blossom into new beauty. And the fruit of the Vine shall grow. GOD'S POWER. In every waving blade of grass, In every little flower. That daily in my walks I pass, I see God's wondrous power. And every tiny drop of rain Which falls in gentle shower, And then in mist ascends again. Tells of His wondrous power. The little birds that gaily trill Their songs in morning hour, And all the air with music fill. Sing of His wondrous power. POEMS. 37 THE DECLARATION. " I AM the Resurrection and the Life," Thus saith our Saviour dear ; And from the wide world's busy strife The people all drew near. They listened (scarce was heard a breath) Unto His promise sweet. He takes the terror from grim death, Gives His beloved sleep. From weeping eyes He wipes all tears, Leads us to God above ; He bids us cast away our fears, And give Him perfect love. EASTER. Uprose the mighty throng Through all this broad domain ; They sang their sweetest Easter song, And this the glad refrain : Christ the Lord is risen, Is risen, is risen again. Christ the Lord is risen, He hath not died in vain. 88 POEMS, The music rolled along, Beneath the cloudless sky, And angels round the Throne Re-echoed back the cry : Christ the Lord is risen, Is risen, is risen again. Christ the Lord is risen. He hath not died in vain. And on this Easter day, Your joyous hearts upraise ; For Jesus is the Way ; Give Him your sweetest praise. Christ the Lord is risen. Is risen, is risen again. Christ the Lord is risen, He hath not died in vain. Throughout this broad domain Uprose the mighty throng ; And angels caught the sweet refrain Of this, their Easter song : Christ the Lord is risen. Is risen, is risen again. Christ the Lord is risen, He hath not died in vain. P0EM8. 39 TRANSPOSITION. Jesus, lover of my soul, Gentle, tender, Thy caress, Let me to Thy bosom fly When I am in sore distress ; While the billows near me roll. Lift my head above the flood ; While the tempest still is high. Save me by Thy precious blood. Hide me, O my Saviour hide. Hide me from earth's rude alarms ; Till the storm of life is past. Hold me in Thy shelf ring arms ; Safe into the haven guide. Where sv^^eet peace is ever found ; Oh receive my soul at last, Where Thy saints are ever crowned. Other refuge have I none. Only Thee to whom I fly. Hangs my helpless soul on Thee, Up to Thee ascends my cry ; Leave, ah, leave me not alone In this weary vale of tears ; Still support and comfort me. Soothe my woes and calm my fears. 40 POEMS. All my trust on Thee is stayed, Brother, friend, and comforter, All my help from Thee I bring. Thou to me art ever dear ; Cover my defenceless head. Which I bow before Thy face. With the shadow of Thy wing. Send to me redeeming grace. SUBMISSION. O God ! Thou living God, Thou art with us to-day ; Within our flutt'ring, trembling hearts Do Thou forever stay. The sun shall shine by day, The moon give light by night ; Send Thou to us the precious gift Which sheds an inner light. Oh let us labor true ! Whatever it may be Our hands shall find to do. We do it unto Thee. POEMS. 41 The Spirit of our God Is ours, by right divine : Help us, O Lord, to seek it now, For we must then be Thine. Oh may our helpfuhiess Be known and felt by all ; And never, never let us cause A weaker brother's fall. Oh may we find the truth, And keep it all our days ; And may we find the living God, And walk within His ways. ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNIVERSAL- IST CHURCH, GLOUCESTER, MASS. More than a hundred years ago John Murray came, to prove Salvation free to all the world. And Christ's redeeming love. He proved it by the faith he brought To old Atlantic's shore ; Of universal love he taught. And thousands asked no more. 42 POEMS. The weary sinner bowed his head While at Christ's feet he prayed ; And God, in His o'er whelming love, The tide of anguish stayed. Just as He, in those days of old. The tribes of Israel led From out the darksome wilderness, And gave them heavenly bread ; So, just a hundred years ago, He led a little band. Who raised themselves from narrow creeds. And clasped His loving hand. He sent to them this holy man. To teach them of His love ; To show them how to find the way That leads to Heaven above. To teach them how to gentle be. Each other's burdens bear ; And thus, thro' all the coming years. The Saviour's armor wear. Methinks he heard his Saviour's voice. Which bade th' Apostles hear, While spake He thus these words of hope. Of comfort, and of cheer : POEMS. 43 " And I, if I be lifted up, Will draw all men to Me ; And he who does my will on earth, In Heaven My face shall see." To every one this promise given. Let all the world proclaim The wonders of His matchless love, And bless His holy Name. This promise blest which He has given. Brings us nearer God and Heaven ; And thus our faith is brought to prove The glory of Redeeming Love. RAPTURE. It bursts on my glorified vision at last : The light from my Father's throne I The arms of my Saviour are holding me fast, The angels are bidding me come. What tho' like the leaves we are fading away, No sorrow can come to us there ; There's naught on the earth that bids us to stay, Or to doubt the dear Father's care. 44 POEMS. Our life flows on with its various tints. The freshness of childhood we knew ; And then came youth, with bright rosy glints, Mingled with sunshine and dew. And when the autumn of life we shall reach, Followed by old Winter's snow ; The fading leaf a lesson shall teach, A lesson that all should know. A lesson of faith in the Father on high, Of faith and trust in His love ; Of faith in the trials that our strength shall try, Ere we enter that Haven above. I KNOW THAT MY REDEEMER LIVETH. I KNOW that my Redeemer liveth, I know He cares for me ; His tender love to all He giveth. What need of more have we ? What tho' my life be full of care. He sees and knows it all ; But pure and white the robe I'll wear, When I answer to His call. POEMS. 45 'Tis for my good He sends the pain ; And if I make my choice To follow Him, 'twill be my gain : Rejoice, my soul, rejoice. SONG OF JUBILEE. Hark! the songs of jubilee, Sounding loud o'er land and sea ; 'Tis the wide world's glad refrain : Christ has died, and risen again. Christ the Lord died not in vain : Freedom from sin did all men gain ; For, following Him, they found the way From darkness into glorious day. Thus all the world must follow Him, To find redemption from its sin ; He saith to all, " I am the Way ; Come, follow Me, go not astray. '' I'll lead you to your Father's throne, Beside Him find your rightful home ; And there with Him, your sins confessed. You'll find for aye eternal rest." 46 POEMS. CONSIDER THE LILIES. Consider the lilies of the field : They toil not, neither spin ; With every passing breeze they yield Their fragrance unto Him. Consider the lilies, how they grow : How sweet, how passing fair. Their garments white and glist'ning, show A lustre rich and rare. Ah, Solomon, thou Eastern king. Living in glorious ease ; The garments that thy servants bring Are far surpassed by these. • Their robes are pure and white like snow, Their hearts are finest gold ; Day after day they fairer grow, And beauties new unfold. Oh may the lily to us be An emblem pure and true ; And may our hearts with purity Be filled, like heavenly dew. May we from them a lesson learn, Of faith, of trust, and love ; May we like them our faces turn To God, who reigns above. POEMS. 47 COMFORT. To the city of Jesus go carry your woe : To the New Jerusalem ; He'll lighten your burdens if to Him you go, Your weakness He will not condemn. He will lift up your head when 'tis sunk in despair, Your troubles He'll carry for you ; Your lover, your helper, your Saviour, and friend, To you He will ever be true. Then trust in His love, it will comfort your heart. Though troubled your pathway may be ; If you from His counsel will never depart, His promise will make you free. To the city of Jesus then carry your woe, To the New Jerusalem ; He'll guide you, and help you to conquer the foe, Your failings He will not condemn. 48 POEMS. ANTHEM. Hark ! I hear the children singing, Hear them singing loud and clear ; And their voices, sweetly ringing, Fall upon my list'ning ear. Singing " Glory be to Jesus, He was born on Christmas Day ; He for us His life has given, He will wash our sins away. " And His love for little children, While He on this earth did live, Was the theme of many mothers ; It to them did comfort give. " For His nature it was childlike ; And He taught them all to know. If they wished to enter Heaven, That they too must childlike grow. " For the Father, on whose mission He did visit our fair earth. Asks of us a guileless nature, Ere we reach the second birth. " That shall take us into glory. That shall place us at His side. POEMS. 49 And altho' we struggle wildly, We no thought from Him can hide." Yes, I hear the children singing ; And their voices loud and clear, Like an echo from the angels. Fall upon my list'ning ear. MEDITATION. O WHY do I pine in sorrow ? O wh}^ do I weep and moan? There cometh a bright to-morrow, Which I can call my own. For the Saviour our Father sent us, Has this loving promise given : That He will never forsake us, We shall come to Him in Heaven. Then cast away all your sadness : For the waves on the golden shore Are singing, in joy and gladness, "Praise the Lord our God evermore." 50 POEMS. THE SONG OF NATURE. The Forces of Nature spake together one day, And unto each other did joyfully saj^ : '' Let us sing in harmony a song of such length, That as ages roll on we shall gather new strength." The bass of old Ocean came rolling along ; The alto to the musical Pines did belong; The soprano of Birds rose high above all ; With the tenor which rings thro' the woods in the Fall. Thus the choir of Nature in harmony sang, And the anthem in glorious symphony rang ; While the human heart, with its delicate strings, Tuned in unison with Nature, its tribute brings. Thus the song rose, full, triumphant, and clear ; No discord was heard by the Omnipotent Ear ; And on through the ages the music still rings. Giving thanks to the Giver of all beautiful things. FOEMS. 61 ALL SOULS ARE MINE. " All souls are Mine," thus saith the Lord. All souls are mine for aye, All who in saintly ways have trod, All w^ho have gone astray. I'll seek them, — hark ! the Saviour's voice Is sounding sweet and clear ; I'll make their heavy hearts rejoice, And they shall know no fear. I'll find them, wheresoe'er they flee, I'll bring them back again ; I'll bid them come and follow me. And wash away the stain. I'll lead them to the narrow way Wherein their feet may tread ; To Him who lovingly did say, " I'll give the hungry bread." I'll lead the thirsty where the stream Of living waters flow ; Where they may drink, and see the gleam That falls on us below ; 52 POEMS. The radiance from our Father's home, Which abideth thro' all time ; And there He tenderly bade us come, When He said, " All souls are Mine. COMMUNION. At the table of the Lord, Soul with soul communing ; Music from the choir above, All our hearts attuning. In remembrance sweet of Him, Of the bread partaking ; Greater love to God and man In our hearts awaking. Drinking of the wine of life From the cup o'erflowing ; Holier, happier thoughts are now In our nature growing. Giving praise to Him in song. Tuneful voices ringing. Incense to the Lord of Hosts, Each and all are bringing. POEMS. 53 THE LOVE OF GOD. Thro' all our days the love of God A light divine shall shed ; And thro' life's stormy, tortuous paths Our footsteps shall be led In safety to the throne of God, In safety to life's end. Then let us read His sacred word. The knee in reverence bend. Whate'er of grief or sorrow ours, With deathless faith we wait Thro' all the lonely, weary hours, And watch the Golden Gate. We soon shall see that gate ajar, Bidding us enter in ; The light of Heaven shines forth afar, To show the way therein. Then come to Him, whose presence is A light unto our feet ; The children of the earth are His. With Him life is complete. 54 POEMS. THE LITTLE CRUCIFIX. A CRUCIFIX upon my table stood, A little thing, not made of wood. But base of jet with milk-white cross, — A symbol of the world's great loss. And yet, to me that simple thing Speaks of our risen Lord and King ; And, while it stood before my eyes, Visions of ancient days did rise. What scene is this that now I see ? 'Tis midnight in Gethsemane ; And while the world in slumber lay. The Man of sorrows came to pray ; And, while He knelt, and prayed, and wept. His careless friends about Him slept. Rising, to where they lay He came, And called His dearest friend by name. Saying, " While clouds above me lower Could ye not watch-with Me one hour ? '* They answered not, but, sleeping still. Regarded not their Master's will. Again He passed beyond their sight, And thus He prayed that bitter night : " If it be possible, O God, I pray That from my lips this cup shall pass away ; But if this death to Me must come, Thy will, God, not mine, be done." POEMS. 55 Sweet peace upon His brow now shone, The terror of the grave was gone ; He bade His sleeping friends arise, Ere morning broadened in the skies. While yet He spake the rabble came With traitor Judas, — ah ! what shame. Within his palm the thirty pieces lay, That tempted him that woful day. Tears dim my eyes ; no more I see The garden of Gethsemane. But this the lesson that I learn — To teach the people how to turn Unto the way wherein their feet Must walk, to make their life complete. And thus the Cross becomes to me A landmark to eternity. THE PILOT. Gently rocking on the billow. Aught of fear we do not feel ; As we ride upon the ocean. There's a pilot at the wheel. Thus it is, upon life's billows, Rest doth o'er our senses steal. Pleasant dreams doth haunt our pillow, There's a Pilot at the wheel. 56 POEMS. Pilgrim on life's troubled journey, Meekly bow thine head and kneel, Sending j^rayer and praises upward To the Pilot at the wheel. When the storm-clouds round us threaten, And our slender bark doth reel, Keep your faith still firm, unshaken, In the Pilot at the wheel. THINK KINDLY OF ME. Think kindly of me when I am dead ; Speak no harsh words above my head ; Forget my failings, forgive my sins, 'Tis those who forgive, the victory win. Let my pale face a pardon bespeak. For the spirit was willing tho' the flesh was weak; A loving heart was beneath the crust In this frail body, now turning to dust. Then fold my hands on my quiet breast. For at last has come the welcome rest ; In answer to His tender " Come," I have sought and found my heavenly home. POEMS. 57 THE SOLDIER'S HOME AND BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG. High up in air, perched on a hill, Surrounded by a city fair, and sparkling rill, There stands the Soldiers' Home. Within its walls, so fresh and sweet, I viewed the rooms so clean and neat. All furnished with a tender care. By loving hands of ladies fair. At morn I saw the battle-ground, With death and carnage scattered round ; First came the troops, then prancing steed. Of danger then they took no heed ; With hearts that thrilled with glowing fire, With love of country, and of sire. They met the foe with glittering steel. Destruction here and there they deal. The rising smoke, the cannon's roar. The battle-ground all covered o'er With dead and dying, friend and foe. Blue sky above, green grass below, The distant hills, the lofty trees. The wheat-fields waving in the breeze. All made a picture grand to see. Yet all this was unreal to me. 68 POEMS. From there I wend my way once more, From city street to ocean's shore ; With car and ferry's aid I come To Chelsea, where I found the Home. How different is the scene I meet ! No sound of war my ears doth greet ; But rural peace and quietness Delight my eyes, my senses rest. Slowly I climb that flight of steps, Survey the scene, and think perhaps Tho' I am here, I may not be This lovely place allowed to see. A soldier in his suit of blue, A soldier to his country true. Was slowly pacing up and down, With bloom and beauty scattered round. To him I came. I said to him, "Are visitors allowed within? " " Yes, ma'am," the soldier boy replied, " All days but one, please step this side, Go up those stairs, and walk around Until the front door you have found." We walked around, my friends and I, Until the way we did espy ; In answer to my call, a soldier came And bade us enter in their Home. With courtly grace, our soldier brother Showed us the rooms, one after another, POEMS. 59 Explained to us the different corps, — 'Twas all like Greek to us before. But now I saw, with pleasure great. That our helpless soldiers live in state. God bless those ladies I one and all, Who answered to their brothers' call. And found for them this lovely Home, Where want and sorrow cannot come. The battle-field, that was the cause, — Men must obey their country's laws ; But oh, my heart it doth exult, This beauteous Home is the result ! God bless our soldier boys I I pray ; Their courage won for us the day. Then let us not forget their need, But to their call for help take heed ; Tho' gold and silver have we none. With cheerful words and smiles we'll come, And cheer the lonely hearts of those Who, in their country's peril, rose And fought with valor bold and free, To keep our homes for you and me. God bless you, brothers ! let my words (Tho' you my voice have never heard) Come to your hearts with cheering light. And make for you one moment bright. That you may feel you're not forgot, And that far worse might be your lot. 60 POEMS. God watches o'er you every day, And sees and cares for you alway ; He keej^s for you a place on high, His love will cheer you when you die. Then know that there's no walls of stone, Between the world and Soldiers' Home. O Soldiers' Home ! O blessed name ! O quiet resting place Of those who honest, brave, and true. Aspired not to fame ; • But, rising at their country's call. Left all that life holds dear, Left wife, and home, and children small. And faced grim death without a fear ; To battle for the right, For freedom, and for light, To cleanse the souls of men From slavery's fearful stain ; God gave to them a heart and soul To love and fear His Name, A right to dwell in happiness, To freedom and to fame. God bless the soldiers of the North, Who raised our glorious flag, And forward marched to right the wrong. Thro' vale, o'er mount, and crag. They never quailed, our brothers brave. JP0E3IS. 61 But battled fierce and strong ; But many fill a soldier's grave, And we shall miss them long. Ah, yes ! their memory e'er shall be Enshrined within our hearts, With holy love and tenderness, Till we too shall depart. But those who, helpless, maimed, and weak, Now fill the Soldiers' Home, To them we words of comfort speak. To them with smiles we come. To them we owe a nation's thanks. God bless them evermore, The faded blue, the thinned ranks. The heart so sad and sore. Yes, bless them all, O God, I pray. And give unmeasured love To one and all, until that day When they shall meet with Thee above. TRAILING ARBUTUS. Sweet little harbinger of spring ! To many homes you pleasure bring ; Your blushing face, and perfumed breath, Whisper to us of Winter's death. 62 POEMS. Your rosy tints, Aurora-born, Remind us of the gladsome morn ; O tender flower ! just sprung from earth. Ye tell us of the glad Spring's birth. Ye hide your heads under the snow. In shady woods where brooklets flow; And ope your eye on sunny hill. And all the air with fragrance fill. Sweet little harbinger of Spring ! Your dainty flowers a welcome bring ; We search the Winter's snow beneath, And cull you for a fairy wreath. "PEACE, BE STILL." " Be still and know that I am God ; " Bow down thine head and kiss the rod ; 'Tis sent in love to bring thee home. Come, kneel before thy Father's Throne. Come, in His ear pour all your woes. And wrestle with your unseen foes ; Passions without and wrath within, And all the dread, dark fiends of sin. POEMS. 63 Come, bare your soul before His eyes, Let incense from your heart arise ; If you to Him in meekness come, You'll find a Just and Holy One. Come, walk with Him the narrow way. Where forms of darkness cannot stay ; To all who walk in love with Him He gives a holy peace within. With the invisible cords of love He'll draw your hearts to Him above ; Then bow your heads, and kiss the rod Of Him who says, " I am your God." SEVENTEENTH OF JUNE. Day that tells of deeds of glory Wrought by patriots of old ! Tell it oft, in song and story, How they fought with courage bold. How they fought for home and country, For their children and their wives ; Fought with valor all undaunted. Bravely yielded up their lives, 64 P0E3IS. That the future generations Might be free to dare and do, Grow into a mighty nation, Honest, upright, fearless, true. Have we yet fulfilled those wishes, Kept our honor clear and bright? Turned away from fame and riches. To do battle for the right ? Has not love of gold and silver Made us greedy after gain ? Learned us how to thieve and pilfer. Been our terror and our bane ? Has not seeking after office Made us crafty and untrue ? All unworthy of affection ? These the questions I ask you. Turn while yet the sun is shining, Turn to honor and to truth ; Turn before the day's declining ; Seek the soul's more perfect growth. Turn unto the paths of duty, Left for you by those of old ; Ye shall find a world of beauty, Better far than paltry gold. f POEMS. 65 1776 — FOURTH OF JULY, 1887. The spirit of independence awakes, The people rise up in a mass ; The earth with the noise and the tumult doth shake As the mighty procession doth pass. The patriotic spirit of seventy-six Shines out from the children's eyes ; As with the crowd of their elders they mix, And the heavens resound with their cries. God bless our hero, grand Washington ! Now rises cheer upon cheer ; He who our country's freedom hath won, The hero who never knew fear. Old men, bowed down with the weight of years. And babes in their mother's arms, Young men and maidens, now quickly ap- pear. And little ones fearing no harm. All hearts are happy this glorious day, For our nation is proud and free ; And the flag of our country, in bright array, Floats out from house-top and tree. QQ POEMS. Grand union of colors so deftly entwined, — First, emblem of martyr blood shed ; Thy color this day shall bring to our mind Sweet thoughts of our heroes now dead. Second, emblem of purity ever found In the hearts of the matrons of old ; With triumph their prayer and their labors were crowned, Their honor was brighter than gold. Third, emblem of Heaven's own color so blue, Speaks unto the hearts of us all ; 'Twas worn by the dear ones, tried and true, Who answered their country's call. For the red, white, and blue, of our own dear flag We will send up cheer upon cheer ; Let the echo resound from valley and crag : Hurrah for the flao^ to our hearts so dear ! THE SHOWER. A LITTLE cloud got tired one day Of naught but merry, careless play ; And to its friend electricity Said, " The earth is dry, do you not see ? POEMS. 67 " Let's get together and send to earth A shower, to give the grass new birth, To freshen up the little flowers, And sparkle in the leafy bowers." The friends agreed ; and soon the cloud Grew into fair proportions, proud To do what he could find to do. To make the earth look fresh and new. The lightning playing in and out, Now here, now there, now all about ; The noise through space doth quick rebound, And greets our ears with thund'rous sound. The sky was covered with a frown, And very soon came tumbling down A tiny little drop of rain. Ah me ! 'twas very, very vain. But soon 'twas followed by another. The tiny little drop's twin brother ; They cooled the lips of one sweet flower, And soon there fell a copious shower. The earth received the rain with glee. It cooled the grass, each flower and tree ; And sent a sweet refreshing smell Thro' mount and vale, thro' hill and dell. 68 POEMS. The air was sweet and redolent With breath of clover, flag, and mint ; While hyacinth and heliotrope With fragrant pinks and rose did cope. The work of little cloud complete, The earth and flowers refreshed and sweet, The sun came out, and, smiling bright, Made all things round us warm and light. THE EAGLE'S NEST. On a wild crag o'erhanging the sea A bald-eagle's nest you can plainly see ; And hovering restlessly over her brood, The mother-bird bids no stranger intrude. But look! the fierce eyes, how they glitter and gleam ! In the valley below a lambkin is seen ; Now poising her wing away she flies, And the lambkin in terrible agony cries. But in vain; with her talons she has him fast. His playful gambols forever are past ; In vain the struggles of the poor little thing. She has caught her prey, and is now on the wing ; FOEMS. 69 Now here, now there, thro' tlie deep blue sky. She is ploughing her way to her home so high; And down before the ravenous brood Is placed the dainty morsel of food. It is thus forever where'er we may seek, The strong will be found to prey on the weak; And the lesser must ever give way to the great. For the eagle and dove can never be mates. And this lesson we learn from the eagle's nest — To keep out of their way is ever the best. A FRUITLESS SEARCH. Four roguish maids, one morning, went To seek the woodland bowers. Their minds upon this thought intent, — To gather sweet Spring flowers ; In merry glee they rode along. Rejoicing on their way ; Ne'er heeding that the sun had gone, And chilly grew the day. 70 POEMS. Throiigh winding paths and village street They journey, full of glee ; With merry words their friends they greet, And laugh when dark'ning clouds they see. But now, alas, the flowers they found — The snow flake pure and fair — Grew not upon the lowly ground, But filled the chilly air. Undaunted, yet they start for home Without the precious freight For which they had so early gone ; The hour was growing late. Young ladies, when you seek for pleasure Within the leafy glade. Just wait till May shall bring her treasure Into the woodland shade. Trailing arbutus, and Solomon's seal, And Bethlehem's pure white star, Their beauties from the sun shall steal. And fragrance send afar ; To herald forth their coming. To tempt your eager feet. While in the woods you're roaming. To seek their cool retreat. POEMS. 71 THE LETTER. A LITTLE messenger in white Came from the Eastern shore, To tell us of the happiness That had entered at your door. That you had taken for your own A briery vine so sweet, Whose tendrils, clinging round your heart, Would make your life complete. And if around your happy home Little sweet-briers cling and twine. May they prove thornless when they grow To be lads and lasses fine. May your joys be many, sorrows few, Earth's brightest treasures thine ; These are the wishes I send you From out this heart of mine. 72 POEMS. THE OLD HOMESTEAD, WEST GLOUCESTER. Before me lies a buncli of faded flowers, Gathered in an idle hour : The honej^suckle's fragrant bloom. The heath, suggestive flower of gloom ; The little gill-run-over-the-ground Li lavish wastefulness I found. These apple-blossoms, pink and white, Were once so dainty, fresh, and bright ; Reminding me of youthful days. Before I wandered in life's maze. Where do you think my flowers grew? Fond memories would waken if you knew. Through pastures green my feet were led, I paused before an old homestead ; The grass grew rank, the flowers ran wild. But an idle hour the place beguiled ; My heart grew sad as I gazed around Where little feet had pressed the ground, And laughter sweet, among the trees. Had gaily echoed on the breeze. O those grand old trees ! so gnarled and bent. Their shade to the lads and lasses have lent ; The rich, mellow fruit, now bitter has grown, POEMS. 73 For the old trees blossom and fade alone ; And the dear old home, with its moss-grown wall, Is crooked and bent, and soon must fall. The floor-boards, all sodden, creaked under my feet. As I entered the door of that once-loved retreat ; And as I climbed up the rickety stair. The ghosts of departed ones seemed to be there ; The dear little babes who had nestled to sleep Under those eaves when the summer rains beat, And whose music lulled them to slumber at night, For the sunshine to wake them in morning light. No chimney was there, and the doors swung at will. And the desolate sight caused my heart to thrill With sadness, as I looked through the empty rooms Which once with youth and beauty did bloom ; 74 POEMS. But it grew light again, as I remembered that God Has promised us all in His glorious word, That, tho' our tenements of dust must decay, The souls He has given shall live alway. So I left the old house, with its rust and its gloom. Passed out of the door and gazed on the earth's bloom, With a feeling of joy that its loved ones could meet In His heavenly home, each other to greet. When the cares and the trials of life are o'er. And they stand in His presence on the ever- green shore. Thus the old Haskell homestead faded from view. And, as I walked homeward, in my heart I knew. That as years rolled on it must moulder away. And that dear little children no more would play In its echoing rooms, or wander at will 'Neath the aged trees where the wild birds trill ; But deep in their hearts fond memory must dwell. POEMS. 75 To gladden and cheer, as the stories they tell Of their childhood's days, in that happy home. Before the time came when their footsteps must roam So far from the place where they learned to know That life must be earnest, and that they must go On its mission, with loving hearts strong and true, And that to succeed they must dare and do ; With hearts lifted upward, bend down to God's will. And thus the conditions of life to fulfil. TO CARRIE. My wish for thee, be jewels rare ; A heart and mind divinely fair ; Seeking companionship above, Walking with Him whose name is Love. Looking to Him who bade thee come And lay thy heavy burdens down ; Who bade thee seek thy Father's face, And ask of Him redeeming grace. 76 FOEMS. TO ABBIE O. Dear Abbie O. ! though far away, To thee our loving thoughts will stray ; Praying for thee the dear Lord's care, To make your pathway bright and fair. That you, while seeking daily bread, The sunny walks of life may tread ; That you, while striving here to please. May find the way that leads to peace. THE FIRE. Last evening, while quietly sitting. And spinning a merry yarn, I suddenly heard a curious sound, That gave me a quick alarm. Turning to Annie (who sat by my side), " What is that ?" I made inquire. She opened the door, and, starting back. Cried, " My God ! my room is on fire ! " " Oh, Annie, your baby, go get him," I said, But she seemed not to hear me at all ; So into the room I fearlessly sped, And gathered up baby, blanket and all. POEMS. 11 "Bring water," I cried; and in spite of the flaine Which rose in a column so bright, I speedily left the hot place again. Without getting much of a fright. The water was brought, and was quickly thrown Right into the midst of the fire, By the trembling hands of one who is known As Daniel, the aged grandsire. The fire extinguished, the damage summed up. The result you quickly shall know : The excitement over, we soon found out 'Twas confined to a lamp, a dish, and bureau. We never shall know how it came about ; But the cause of the fire was seen In the shattered remains of chimney and lamp, — 'Twas an explosion of kerosene. Three women were sitting together at ease, Enjoj^ing a season of rest ; When the sudden shock came, they quickly arose. And did what they thought was for best. 78 POEMS. They quietly worked, no alarm was given, And the rest of the folks in the house Never heard of the fire until ten the next day. For they kept it as still as a mouse. MORAL. When you hear a strange noise, No matter how late, Rise quickly up And investigate. PAY THE DEBTS. A Levite passed, with haughty grace, A little child with smiling face. And tender, laughing eyes of blue, — No guile their sweet depths ever knew. A debt he owed he could not pay. To answer back was not his way ; He seemed to think this little boy A useless thing, an idle toy. POEMS. 79 A man his brother once did greet, While walking in the busy street ; But his sordid soul was all intent On buy and sell, his mind was bent. If from my brother's purse I take, Through busy trade my money make, What matters it if he must lose ? He need not trade unless he choose. A lady, dressed in silk attire, Her humble sister's work doth hire ; The labor done, she could not pay. But bids her come another day. An humble home doth lack for bread. The days and nights are filled with dread ; Had she been paid in time of need. For charity they might not plead. And so our busy life goes on. We meet the sunshine and the storm. Each for himself I O selfish man ! If each would do the good he can, And thus relieve the needy one, Then happier thoughts would to us come, Sweet peace into our souls would flow. And heaven begin for us below. 80 POEMS. GRANITE HILLS. Ye rugged rocks, ye granite hills ! Across whose rough and furrowed face The little rills still trickle down Like silver tears, throughout the days, The months, and years. Then quiet flow through meadows sweet, Where flow'rets spring, where wild birds sing, Where beauty reigns complete, — Your hoary heads uplifted high In bold relief against the sky Fear not the hand of time. Though winter doth with snowy shroud Enfold your form, you silent stand And wait the morn, When summer with her clinging vine And verdure green shall at your feet Her freshness twine. Ye rugged rocks, ye granite hills ! When on your stern, gray face I gaze, My heart with rapture thrills. To God ascends, in rev'rence bends Before His majesty sublime. FOEMS. 81 THE WHISTLING BUOY. Rocked in the cradle of the deep, The whistling buoy is lulled to sleep ; And high above old ocean's roar Is heard its loud, melodious snore. It warns the mariners away From treacherous rocks in Sandy Bay ; And tells them of the dangerous reef Which brings our noble ships to grief. It warns them from our rock-bound shore, Beyond the breakers' sullen roar ; And the pilot, standing at the wheel, At its voice a thrill of joy doth feel. As the vessel slowly wears around, He lists to catch the welcome sound. 'Tis thus we know the whistling buoy, Though a landman's pest, is a sailor's joy. 82 POEMS. PRECIOUS JEWELS. What do you think I saw one day, While resting on my couch I lay ? Why, I saw two of the bonniest girls ; And the little one had soft brown curls, While the eldest, from her eyes so blue Looked (through her glasses) sweet and true! From kisses my lips could not refrain, And the youngest to my heart I strain ; While the other doth my bliss complete, With kisses from lips both rosy and sweet. Their cheeks were round and rosy too, Those bonny girls, so brave and true. And I knew the jewels of that mother's crown Were fit for the Prince's diadem. And there were two that I could not see, But their pictured faces looked bright to me ; And I felt that the mother had a right to be proud Of the four bright nestlings of her little home brood. POEMS. 83 NELLIE. Dear little Nellie is writing home, Bidding her friends for her to come. Our homes are divided by land and sea, But I hope little Nell will remember me. For sickness will make for us friends, you know. And kindly feelings through the heart will flow; Together we've passed many pleasant hours, Marked by memory's everlasting flowers. For surely you know that the heart will bloom Into ne'er-fading fragrance, that beyond the tomb Will brighten the life, and cheer up the heart Of those left behind, when a friend doth depart. Then Nellie, dear Nellie, remember me ever, When over for me shall be life's fitful fever ; For in the bright home where all shall go We will meet face to face, each other to know. 84 POEMS. GRANDPA'S PRIDE. Meery little prattler! grandpa's darling pride ! Sitting in his little team, taking, oh such rides ! Going up to Boston to get his Auntie Nell, Stopping on the way in Lynn to take the rest as well. Roguish little darling ! with his shining eyes Sparkling like twin stars in the far blue skies ; Little feet that patter on the kitchen floor, Little voice ringing in at the kitchen door. He's the darling, pride, and pet of the old home farm ; May his Heavenly Father keep him from all harm ; Happy little Georgie ! innocent and free. One of Jesus' little lambs may you ever be. POEMS. 85 A SUMMER DAY'S IDYL. The wooded hills were dusky green One pleasant summer day, When on a trim and natty boat We steamed from home away. The rugged rocks along the coast Stood out in bold relief. Alas ! the rock of Norman's Woe Could tell a tale of grief : How, many, many years ago, A noble ship went down With all her brave and manly crew, In sight of Gloucester town. And now, Rafe's Chasm comes in view, Crowned with an iron cross ; It tells us of a lady's death ; O sad and cruel loss ! She dreamed not of the danger nigh. As she watched the curling wave : It clasped her in its close embrace, No human power could save. We leave those rocks of death behind, And soon Magnolia reach. Its shores with summer houses lined, Its pleasant Crescent Beach ! 86 POEMS. How cosy looks the little place, Nestling down by the sea ! 'Tis here that city dwellers rest, When from the " Hub " they flee. What towers are these before us now ? 'Tis Baker's Island lights ; They guide the mariner on his way. Thro' many darksome nights. Ah ! here we have the half-way rock. That stands out in the sea ; Its rough and weather-beaten face Seems like a friend to me. We pass the town of Marblehead, Famed for this story old : How they tarred and feathered, and carried on a cart, A rebel vain and bold ; Floyd Ireson by name ; he dared rejoice At the patriots' defeat : They seized and bore him through the town ; His punishment was complete. Still farther on we see Nahant, Another famous place, Where fashion's votaries may be seen In all their airy grace. POEMS. 87 Where Nature's students love to sit Upon the rocky shore, To watch the whirling, dashing waves, And list to ocean's roar. In Boston Harbor may be found Deer Island, and the Forts. 'Twould take my pen too long to tell Of all the famed resorts. If a day of pleasure you would hail. Although I am no boaster, I bid you all to take a sail In the steamer " City of Gloucester." HIGH STREET, NEWBURYPORT, AS SEEN FROM THE CORNER OF SUMMER STREET. Looking thro' the open vista, 'neath the grand old shading trees, Whose long arms waving to and fro, and rustling in the breeze. Seem beckoning on to fairyland, where sha- dows flee away. And glist'ning lights, with shining rays, turn darkness into day. 88 POEMS. Where shadowy forms, in floating robes, are glancing here and there, And tiny teams, in distance seen, are moving everywhere. Now close beside my window-seat, my eyes rest on that place Where treasured friends are laid to sleep, and leave no other trace That age and childhood rest in peace, but just a lowly mound All covered o'er with rank, green grass, — but it is holy ground. For those who laughed in merry glee, and age's sober joys. Alike within that hallowed place heed not that which destroys Our peace of mind, our happy homes, and turns our hopes to fear. For they have done with earthly cares, they are no longer here ; With Him who gives His loved ones sleep, where naught can trouble more. They're safe within the heavenly fold, and closed the golden door. But in the midst of moss-grown stones, and tablets pure and white. There stands the House of God, which to the world gives light : POEMS. 89 Within its walls the words of life are given unto men, And little children, 'neath its dome, their Sunday lessons ken, Learning the truth, the way, the life, that all must learn to seek Ere they can walk in perfect faith within that blest retreat Where the wicked cease from troubling and the weary are at rest. Ere they can say with earnest faith, " O God, Thou knowest best." Still farther on, adown the street, the Kelley schoolhouse stands, Where youthful learners must be taught about their own dear land ; Where week-day lessons must be learned, and children made to know And heed the texts before them set, if they would strive to grow In grace and knowledge, better far than gold or silver ore; And there, within those stern brick walls, they con them o'er and o'er, — Those lessons which shall be to them a mine of wealth indeed, If faithfully they now attend, and to their ways take heed. 90 POEMS. Still further down I see the Mall, the Court- house old and gray, The little pond behind it hid, where golden fishes play ; While, up and down the old playground, the boys on flying steed (A wonder of this modern age) are trying now their speed ; And merry shouts now fill the air, and faces fair and bright Are turned toward them fiDed with fun, and sparkling with delight. While twinkling eyes and rosy lips do speed them on their way. Oh happy, happy childhood ! this is your brightest day. So all adown this grand old street the sha- dows come and go. And busy life, in every form, is moving to and fro ; While overhead the grand old trees, with branches interlaced. Add to the weird enchantment wherein my sketch is placed. The green leaves rustling in the breeze make music soft and sweet, — The fancy flits, my senses wake, the picture is complete. P0E3IS. 91 RAPE'S CHASM. O MIGHTY chasm of the deep ! Whose inurmuriDg echoes never sleep, But ceaseless moan in monotone, Till roused by ocean's gloomy frown. Ah I then thy thunders break and roll Beneath the heavens' dark'ning scroll, And angry waves come dashing in With foaming crest, and 'mid the din Is heard the sea-gull's piercing scream. All Nature bows beneath the shock : The lofty tree-tops bend and rock ; And e'en the grass, each slender blade, Close to its mother-earth has laid. But lo ! a hush comes o'er the storm, The sun brings forth a rosy morn. And on each rough and ragged seam The drops of spray like diamonds gleam. And thro' thy cavern, dark and deep. Once more the echoes moan and weep. 92 F0JS3IS. MIDNIGHT REVELS. Softly a pure white mantle, So soft, so pure, and light. Covered the earth's broad bosom, As on came the silent night. Swiftly the little flakelets, Came dancing and whirling down, Resting upon the tree-tops, And covering the branches brown. Falling in waving billows. That glisten and gleam in the dark. Changing the face of Dame Nature, Hiding each old landmark. Falling, still falling, so softly, So quiet, so pure, and white, Spreading a downy carpet. For the roguish elves of night. Out from each darksome corner Come the little folks in green. Forming a magic circle Around their brilliant queen. I POEMS. 93 Never did eye of mortal Gaze on a more winsome sight, Than these wild, little eerie people. Glancing like sunbeams of light. Flirting with maidens so tiny, That the feet of mortal would crush. Who would vanish away in the darkness If e'en our rude garments should brush. Wilder and wilder their orgies, Swifter and swifter they flew, Madder and madder the revels Of this riotous little crew. Quickly the dream is ended : The little folks disappear As night lifts her sable curtain, — And a pale snowy morning is hersu THE EMPTY NEST. Ok the naked bough of a poplar tree There hangs an empty nest. Where once the birdlings chirped in glee. And cuddled down to rest. 94 POEMS. It swings and sways in the chilly wind, On a cold autumnal day, When the leaves are falling from the trees. And the birds have flown away. There's many a home that is empty now, Like that curious little nest, Once filled with nestlings fair and sweet, — But some have gone to rest. And some have wandered far away From friends and kindred dear ; Their restless feet have gone astray. We miss their presence here. But pray that God will bring them home In His own appointed time. Will keep them safely while they roam. And stay their hands from crime. He careth for the sparrow's fall. More precious far are they ; And soon they must obey His call To dwell with Him alway. POEMS. 95 THE LADY AND THE KNIGHT. " GooD-MOEROW, sir," the lady cried, As the knight came quickly to her side, And clasped her little hand so white. And smiled into her eyes so bright. " Good-morrow, dear," the knight replied ; " Pray, wilt thou be my honored bride ? And make with me a happy home. That I no more alone may roam ? " The lady hung her head, and said, " Not now, when summer flowers lie dead. Nor when cold winter's icy blast Shall freeze the earth and hold it fast." " But when ? " he cried impatiently. " Art longing from thy vows to flee ? My heart with jealousy is stirred. Is there no truth in lady's word? " With blush and smile she quickly turned : " A lady's way you have not learned ; Your bride I will be, very soon. Just in the leafy month of June, 96 POEMS. *' When roses bloom, and violets blue ; Till then to you I will be true ; Then hand in hand with you I'll go, And naught but joy your heart shall know.' REVERIE ON NILES' BEACH. 'TwAS on a stretch of shining beach I sat, and watched the rising tide Come rolling in with lapping sound, That fell like music on my ear. The distant boats soft rose and fell. Lulled sweetly on old Ocean's breast, And far at sea as eye could reach All quiet seemed and peacefulness. I sat and dreamed that on the shore Where angel forms, all robed in white. Were waiting for us patiently. That happy restfulness might be Like unto this ; no care, no fret. But just a quiet resting after toil ; Bright flowers blooming all around, And green grass waving soft and fair, And cool spring waters clear and sweet. Might be our portion in that calm retreat. POEMS. 97 I waked,, and lo, close at my feet The rippling waves came plashing in, And sent me farther up the sand. All changed the scene, and busy life Was scattered round me everywhere ; The dancing boats, with white sails set, (And laughing crews of merry boys, Hailing each other with gleeful shout,) Rode proudly by my rocky throne. The bathers, too, in suits unique, Were battling in the waters cool ; Some, floating gently on the waves With face upturned, seemed challenging Old Neptune, in his caverns deep, To do his worst, they had no fear ; Others were waging merry war, and shining drops Fell in soft showers on their heads ; While all about me, on the beach. Were childish forms, now here, now there, Throwing white pebbles far out from land As little hands could do, making the eddy- ing Circles round them larger and larger grow. Until at last 'twas gone, and naught re- mained To tell us where the missile fell. Or what calm power did tlie waters quell. 98 POEMS. Thus shall it be through all our lives : We throw our pebbles out uj^on life's sea, And naught remains to tell what we have done ; But when at last our busy hands and tired feet Shall rest, and we shall sleep, to wake again On heaven's shore, and nevermore Shall carking cares and heavy woes Burden our hearts until we faint, Then shall we find that little deeds And little words of comfort given here Shall bring to us a rich reward. Although we know it not, and help us on- ward Through this weary vale of tears. And on the shining sand (our labors o'er) We'll sit and dream, and flowers sweet Shall bloom around, and green grass wave. And cool spring waters, flowing out From the Eternal Throne, shall quench our thirst. And unto all our God shall say, " Come dwell with Me, forever stay, And ye shall never fret nor pine. But ye shall lose all trace of time." POEMS. 99 CHRISTMAS EVE. 'Tis Christmas Eve ; the little ones Are early sent to bed ; The stockings in the chimney hang ; Sleep from all eyes has fled, — For Santa Claus is coming, With whip and top and ball. With kites, and lots of other things, — Presents enough for all. For one there is a jumping-jack, Another has a drum ; For little girls, a doll or sack. Ah ! Santa has some fun In bringing such a heavy load To please the girls and boys ; There's none so happy as he is When giving out the toys. Just think, ye merry little ones, How many yon can find Who never saw old Santa Claus ; To such as these be kind, And give to them from out your store, A little here or there. For those who give there shall be more. And life shall be more fair. 100 POEMS. More precious tis to give than take, Moi'e precious in His sight. Then igive you for the Saviour's sake, Make some sad heart grow light ; And though the tears may dim the eye, The trembling lip shall say, " Blesj^ them, O Father ! from on high, Make pleasant their pathway." Oh ni£ty their hearts be full of joy. May sorrow come not near These thoughtful little children ! Oh, keep them. Father dear! Whene'er their feet shall falter, Whene'er they step aside. Oh, lead them gently back again ; Witjh Thee may they abide ! And ail ye older children. Seek out the needy one, And guve them from your bounteous store Befcre the day is done. Glory to God in the Highest ! From angel lips it fell, Peace on earth, good will to men ! Ring out, O Christmas bell ! " POEMS. 101 TO MY FRIENDS G. AND J. Dearest friends, it is with pleasure Your invitation I receive ; That you have my heart's best wishes You may readily believe. And may Heaven's choicest blessings On your pathway ever fall, Till in age you sit together, And do tenderly recall All the many joys and sorrows That may fill your future years. And may beauteous rays of sunshine Scatter all your doubts and fears ; Never let the smallest cloudlet Cast its shadow on your way, Nor the shade of night be falling While it should be brightest day ; Each forgiving little trifles, Keeping far from bitter strife, Ever tender, kind, and loving In your daily life. Thus to you the days and moments Quick shall flee, till 3^ou shall come To the end of this life's journey. And shall reach your Heavenly Home. 102 POEMS. Now, below this little prologue, You shall read my hopes for you. As together you shall travel All life's different changes through. To my friends, thus early starting On life's journey hand in hand. Shall I conjure up, to help them. Blessings from a fairy's wand. First, I wish them sweet contentment With whate'er to them is given ; Strength to send their daily incense Upward to the courts of Heaven. Strength to bear each other's burdens In the turmoil and the strife That assails them as they travel Through the busy walks of life. Love to guide them in each duty, Hope to cheer them on their way : Thus they both shall grow in beauty, Finding peace day after day. And if little children, coming. Fill their home with music sweet. Is there more that Heaven could give them To make their happiness complete ? POEMS. 103 Thus I ask for them these blessings : Faith to cope with every ill, Hope their pathway to illumine, Love divine, to do God's Will. A WEDDING GIFT TO MR. AND MRS. ANDREW J. HALL. Just five and twenty years have fled Since this dear couple first were wed ; Since, through both fair and stormy weather, They've travelled down life's vale together. Though trouble they did never borrow, They've had their share of joy and sorrow ; Though children came, all could not stay ; But smiles have chased the tears away. God called them home to Him above ; He called them in His tender love. That these dear friends of ours might see That where the treasure is, the heart must be. I write not thus to make them sad, — They must be merry and be glad ; And in their home may they ever find Both happy hearts and tranquil mind. 104 POEMS. For life was given not alone for sadness, All must have their share of joy and glad- ness ; And life must not be found a burden, Like the famous story of little Dame Durden. We wish them of joy the biggest share : And may their hearts be free from care As together they wend their way along Among the busy, jostling throng Of those who with their stir and bustle Make everything around them rustle, And sing to the tune of life's busy way, And move along merrily, day after day. They are both of them young, whate'er may be said. And five and twenty years' wedded life has fled; Then five and twenty more to these let us add. As the wish of their children, both maiden and lad. And the wishes of friends may here be given, A long life on earth and a bright home in heaven. POEMS. 105 And now, my dear friends, let me bid you good-night, To be followed by a day both happy and bright. TO MY GRAND-AUNT. To my dear old friend so far away, I must send a greeting on her birthday. Through ninety-four years of weal and woe. Through summer heat and winter snow, With loving heart and patient will. Bidding rebellious thoughts be still, Walking in faith, with hope to cheer. There's naught in this life for her to fear, — Waiting patiently here below For the summons which bids her go To meet her Heavenly Father, where Is built for her a mansion fair. There doth her loving Saviour wait To lead her in at Zion's gate. For they that do believe in Him A home by His side are sure to win. Though sickness and grief are sometimes ours, The way is often strewn with flowers. And heaven is found within the heart Of all who choose the better part. 106 POEMS. Though you and I may never meet, Yet this thought to me is very sweet, — In the future life we are sure to greet, Where sickness and sorrow are never known, Before our Father's pure white throne. Many kind wishes to you I send ; And when in prayer before Him you bend, Oh, ask for me a blessing sweet. That, ere my life shall be complete, I may learn to say, whate'er may come, " O God ! Thy will, not mine, be done." And now, dear friend, may kind fortune strew Comforts and blessings in the path which you Day after day may wander through, To keep you happy, cheerful, and glad. Mother and sisters their love do send. And pray that sweet peace your pathway attend. And I to you say, " May the Father of love. When He calls you home to Him above. Send an angel of light, with pinions of down. To bear you up, where the immortal crown All shining and beautiful waits for thee — In that glorious home, in Eternity ! " POEMS. RETROSPECTION. 10^ Turn backward five and twenty years, — A bride stands one March niglit, With radiant face ; she has no fears; Tiie future looks to her most briglit. Her bridegroom close beside her stands, With proud, protecting air ; His wealth is more than house and lands, — 'Tis his bride, so sweet and fair. They care not though the storms shall beat About their little home ; They go through life with tireless feet, Although the trials come ; For little children gather round This bride and groom, I see. But perfect bliss can ne'er be found Where mortal children be. A little babe, so sweet and pure. To their loving care was given ; But soon their hearts must pain endure, — God called him home to heaven. Again a fair babe came and went ; It left an empty home ; It w*is not given, 'twas only lent, Till God should bid it come 41 108 POEMS. To dwell with Him, in perfect love, To grace His diadem. Two jewels bright they shine above, With Christ of Bethlehem. And still unto this happy pair Came children, dear and sweet, — Four children, rosy, bright, and fair ; Now seemed their happiness complete. But once again the Reaper came, And took from them a babe ; Again their hearts were filled with pain As in the little grave 'twas laid. Three children still their hearts do bless, — Two daughters and a sou, — A Who, with their love and tenderness. Keep sunshine in their home. Through five and twenty years of joys. Of cares and sorrows too. This bride and groom have travelled on, And now to-night the past review. So one and all we give to them Our wishes for their health. Their happiness, prosperity, And, best of all, their wealth, — Not gold and silver do we mean, For children dear, and happy home. Are greater far than these, I ween ; Such wealth to them has come. POEMS. 109 And may their future years be filled With comfort, peace, and love, Till every earthly wish be stilled, And they meet their friends above. GOD REIGNS. U. S. G. God reigns ! the hero's words Ring out triumphantly ; The nation's heart with fire is stirred. The echo sounds o'er land and sea. God reigns ! His power doth move Great hearts to deeds of love ; Our hero's work that power hath proved ; God reigns in heaven above. God reigns! oh, wondrous thought, — God reigns within each heart ! Oh, then, like him for whom we mourn, Let us choose the better part ! God reigns ! O glorious faith That lifts our hearts on high. That leads us through life's darkest maze, And cheers us when we die ! 110 POEMS. THE BABE OF BETHLEHEM. Long years ago, the story said, A Babe was in a manger laid, And wise men from the East did come To see the dainty little one ; And Bethlehem's star rose high and clear, While all the world this song did hear, — " Peace on earth, good will to men. For Christ, the Son of God, has come." They brought Him incense from afar. Sweet spices, frankincense, and myrrh : And proud men bent a lowly knee Before the Babe they came to see ; They blessed the future Lord of hosts Who came to save us at such cost. And through the world hosannas rung. For Christ, the Son of God, had come. Sweet Son of Mary, may we strive Like Thee a holy life to live ; To lift our hearts to God on high. And to the Fountain-head draw nigh ; When petty trial shall annoy. To find contentment, peace, and joy. To sing the song the angels sung. For Christ, the Son of God, has come ! POEMS. Ill ROCK OF AGES. On the Rock of Ages Christ's Church shall firmly stand, Scattering blessings broadcast o'er this Chris- tian land; Sending incense upward to the Father's throne, Ever gently leading weary wanderers home ; Bidding the heavy-laden seek the living God, And humbly bend the knee beneath the chast'ning rod. Come meekly to the cross, and lay the burden down. And on the aching head He'll place a shin- ing crown. Before His footstool bending, our many sins confessed. Our weary, heavy-laden hearts shall find eternal rest ; And in His holy presence, all purified and free, Our raptured eyes. His face all glorified shall see. 112 POEMS. On the Rock of Ages the Christian Church shall stand, And spread His holy teachings throughout this happy land ; And on our blessed Saviour our faith shall firmly be Fixed, as the Rock of Ages, through all eternity. JACK FROST. One day as I sat musing. And watching the afterglow, I saw Jack Frost, with his pencil. Making the fern leaves grow. Quickly over the window The point of the pencil flew. As under the artist's mystical touch The maiden-hair fern leaves grew. Never within the forest, Under the shading trees, Did my covetous eyes ever rest On such delicate ferns as these. POEMS. 113 Ah, Jack ! with your snowy finger, And your breath so icy cold, Did ever more beautiful fancies Your shadowy arms infold? And I asked, as I sat gazing. And striving the future to see, " Will the finger of Fate ever weave Such beautiful things for me? " Ah, yes ! when the Father calls me The vesture of heaven to wear. The garments of white which He offers Will be more enchantingly fair. Washed in the blood of the Saviour, Made purer than glist'ning snow, — A treasure more precious than this Can the future on us bestow? And as we move on in our life-work, Guided by the hand divine. May we learn to say in submission, *' Not my will, O Lord, but thine." 11-i POEMS. TO MY FRIEND. I PRAY that from life's tangled thread You may weave a pure and spotless web ; That in your youth you may strive to please The living God, — 'twill give you peace. For if in ways of sin you go, 'TavIII give to you deep pangs of woe ; But faith will lead from darkest gloom, To where the fadeless flowers bloom. For if to Him you freely come, Receive the precious words, " Well done," Your heart will evermore rejoice That Jesus was your early choice. WEDDING BELLS. I HEARD a sound at yester-eve, — The sound of wedding bells ; Twenty, it said with joyous sound. Twenty glad years have rolled around Since on your ears my music fell. Both joys and sorrows have you known As through these years, so quickly flown. The golden band has bound your hearts to- gether ; POEMS. 115 And childish faces, fair and sweet, Come one by one your eyes to greet, The silence of your home to sever. And may this bell, so sweetly ringing, Twenty more years to you be bringing. All fragrant with the gifts of love Sent down to you from heaven above. And make your lives worth living. And though I ne'er may see your faces. In the web of fate are found the traces That link my life to thine ; And in the future life to come. Before our lives on earth are done. And lost the count of time, The wishes that I send to thee Are these : may love triumphant ever be Your portion here on earth ; May sorrow e'er be far away ; And may sweet plenty crown your day, And sounds of joyous mirth Be heard within your home. But if the tangled thread of life With grief or sorrow e'er be rife. May faith and hope to you be given To lead you onward into heaven Where troubles never come ; Where the eye of faith the way can see ! These are the wishes I send thee. 116 POEMS. THE WHISTLING BUOY. 11. I WALKED upon the glist'ning sand, And viewed the distant, misty land, But one thing marred my joy : I listened in vain for the sound of the voice That makes the fisherman's heart rejoice, — The voice of the whistling buoy. Oh ! where can that little monitor be, Whose voice rose high o'er the moan of the sea When storm-winds came to destroy? We wait in fear when the fog comes down. And listen in vain for the welcome sound, — The sound of the whistling buoy. I wonder if the heart of the landsman quakes When the billows foam, and the tempest makes Of the fisherman's bark a toy; Do they ever think of the sad hearts here That await the return of their sailors dear. Whose guide is the whistling buoy? When snugly ensconced in their shady re- treat, And wooing the drowsy god of sleep. Or the muse of poesy coy. POEMS. 117 Do thej^ ever think of the fishers' wives Who daily pray for their dear ones' lives, And bless the old whistling buoy ? To all who live near to Sandy Bay, And know of the treacherous rocky way. Its music does never annoy ; They know that the mariner's heart grows light, His song grows clearer, his eyes more bright, As he harks to the whistling buoy. Then come back once more to your native sea. And send out your voice in hearty glee. And cheer up the sailor boy ; And the fishers' wives will all rejoice, And their little children bless the voice Of the dear old whistling buoy. Sometimes, when bowed with sorrow and grief, A tender, loving word will bring relief. Happy is he who can comfort the sad. Can dry sorrow's tear, and make the heart glad. 118 POEMS. THE RUINS. DEDICATED TO E. M. B. Over the ocean my lady went, In search of change and pleasure. Her time and her money she freely spent Among the Old World's treasure. 'Mid ruins of castle and battlement, Grown gray with each passing year, Each day a new charm to her journey lent. And she'd never a thought of fear. Anon, as she stood by the moss-grown stone, Her thought on the dead past bent, It seemed not that she stood alone. For shadowy creatures came and went. Fair ladies without a word passed by, And bold knights on mischief intent ; The presence of mortal they seemed to defy, As their hair with pale hands they rent. Ah, dreamer among the ruins so gray ! The past, with its secrets and sin. Shall never reveal to the light of day The horrors that dwelt therein, — The broken hearts and the wasted lives Of the ladies so pale and so fair. Or the jealous rage and the cruel strife, That drove the young knights to despair ! % POEMS. 119 With a start and a sigh she came back again From the shadows that fell around The ancient ruins where the dead past slept, And made it seem hallowed ground. So over the waters my lady went, Seeking for change and pleasure ; And her time she counted happily spent, Among the Old World's treasure. AN AUTUMN BOUQUET. My friends, I come to you to bring A 2)leasant autumn offering ; 'Tis nothing more or less, you say, Than a big, brilliant-hued bouquet ! Well, so it is ; and first I bring The holly red, and wintergreen ; Then yellow, red, and russet brown From the maple's waving crown ; Now asters wild, with purple hue, And golden-rod, I bring to you. A little bit of mountain pine Will, put in here, look very fine ; And just below a friend you'll greet, A lovely spray of bittersweet ; 120 POEMS. For though our lives look bright and fair, The bittersweet is always there. From who's been abroad, I guess, I beg some bits of edelweiss, Whose velvet flowers are found, you know. On highest Alj^s, 'neath ice and snow ; And in the field, both long and narrow, I found these pretty heads of yarrow. And everlasting flowers, that grow All through the winter's cold and snow. But this bouquet, without the white. Would be too showy and too bright ; And so I searched the hills all over, But could not find the sweet white clover. But with the Fates I will not quarrel ; They brought me where the mountain laurel With waxen flowers and glossy leaf Grew in profusion ; and with relief I plucked the rarest I could find, And blessed the Fates for being kind. And searching through the shady wood, Upon the ground near where I stood The blue-fringed gentian held its head In beauty from its lowly bed ; And gathering them, I placed them where All eyes could see their beauties rare. Again, we need a dash of green ; And the fragile ferns, well shaded in, POEMS. 121 Will beautify these simple flowers Which I have culled from Flora's bowers. And this, my autumn oftering, To one and all I humbly bring. LAND OF NOD. Come, baby dear, and go with me To the beautiful Land of Nod ! There, put your little hands in mine, And hush that quivering sob. Come, close your shining eyes of blue ; The way leads gently down Through the beautiful valley of rest and sleep. To a dear little baby-town. There's naught to disturb the happy hours. There's naught but pretty birds and flowers, And feathery sprays of golden-rod, Down in the beautiful Land of Nod. There angels bright shall guard thy bed. And, floating softly round thy head. Shall keep thee safely for thy God, Down in the beautiful Land of Nod. 122 POEMS. THE TEMPERANCE ARMOR. Gird on your temperance armor, And battle for the right ; Whatever foe besets thee, Stand firmly to the right, Nor let your courage falter ; The foe in battle meet, Nor rest you from your labor Till victory is complete. There's many a sad one asks you To lend a helping hand, Until, the demon conquered. Their feet can firmly stand ; Until, their weakness fleeing. Their hearts can gladly say, " Get thee behind me, Satan ! Temp'rance has won the day." There are many little children Who call on you for aid. Whose starving souls and bodies For their fathers' sins have paid. POEMS. 123 They call on you to help them, To guide their little feet From the mire of intemperance, Into cleanly ways, and sweet. There are many wives and mothers Who call on you to come And save their sons and husbands From the influence of rum ; To give them words of comfort, And other comforts too. Denied them by the Tempter, Who ever searches through This land of peace and plenty. To gather victims in From the paths of honest duty. Into the ways of sin ; To wreck the homes of plenty ; To drag our loved ones down Into the depths of sorrow ; To tear from them the crown Of manhood God has given To all the sons of earth ; To take from them their birthright. And make their lives a dearth. 124 POEMS. Then gird you on your armor, Nor let your courage fail Until the foe is conquered, Until their sun shall pale. And God, who sees your efforts, Shall crown you with success. And the victims of intemp'rance Your name shall ever bless. REMINISCENCES OF FRATERNITY LODGE. Written for the 22nd Anniversary, May 22nd, 1884. For two and twenty years this lodge has stood, Consecrated to the public good ; Though many storms have o'er us swept. Our principles are bravely kept. Both young and old are strong and true. And strive to carry temperance through ; More than twelve hundred to our ranks have come. And many have hard battles won. Some have fallen by the way, And some have faded day by day. POEMS. 125 Until their work on earth was o'er ; They have entered heaven's door. Some have tired and left our side, And some are scattered far and wide ; Others are walking firmly on, Waiting to hear their Lord's " Well done ! " Our courage has been often tried. But Faith, Hope, Charity with us abide ; Faith leads us onward, Hope doth cheer. And Charity shall wipe away oppression's tear. With cheerful heart we patient wait To see the ills of rum abate, Doing the little that we can To help our fallen brother man ; Cheerily singing our temperance song. Striving to make each other strong ; Holding the hand of those who are weak. Guiding the faltering, tottering feet. And thus we ourselves a lesson shall learn, And in our own weakness to God we shall turn, Asking for help in the thorny way That we all must tread, e'er shall come the day That shall find us there before His throne, That glorious place, our eternal home. There were many here who were tried and true. Who left us to work in places new : 126 POEMS. There is Brother Eddy, to us so dear, — How gladly would we have kept him here ! There was Sister Lane, too, who has left us alone, To make for herself a happy new home ; And you may know, if you're very astute. That her name is now Amanda Lane Root. There's another charter member, in the ser- vice grown old, And we value her more than untold gold ; She is not here to-night, but you can plainly see That her name is Sister Sarah D. B. There is Brother Parsons, too, with heart and hand willing ; A place on our committees he is always filling. There are many more, too, whom we know quite as well. But their names it would take me too long to tell. But, years agone, there came a brother here, Who to me was ever a brother most dear ; His hands are folded, his work is done ; It is many years since he heard the " Well done/' And the Grand Templar greeted him in the heavenly home. POEMS. 127 There was another, too, quite as dear to you all, Who answered with him his Father's call, And in that glorious temple above They are waiting for us, where all is love. And to the friends gathered with us to-night God promises a future as happy and bright ; For when life's storms and ills are o'er. They too shall enter heaven's door. And now to my comrades in the temp'rance fight, A word of cheer for you this night : Just in proportion to the work you do, God will give you strength to carry you through ; So fight gallantly on, and never give up Until we abolish the fatal cup. The weak and the weary, the travel-worn, Must be led from the glittering temptation to turn. Until at last, with thankful heart. They have learned to choose the better part. But we ne'er can do this until we give A part of our lives to help them live. With prayer and with song, and words of good cheer, We will welcome them all as they gather here; 128 POEMS. Recitations, tableaus, and dialogues too, Shall help us in the work we are chosen to do, Until, our prayers answered, we shall see them come. And shall know that the temp'rance battle is won. THE BUILDING OF THE TEMPER- ANCE FLEET ON OLD CAFE ANN. Long years ago a sturdy crew Desired to make a journey through This world of strife and sorrow ; They wisely agreed to build a boat That on the sea of life would float. So said, " We'll begin to-morrow." They built a neat, well-seasoned vessel. That with the waves of sin could wrestle. With snag and sunken ledge ; And then they quickly did agree That the name of this fine boat should be The Washingtonian Pledge. As time passed on, the boat seemed small ; And so to please them, one and all, And keep the fleet still growing, They studied out another plan POEMS. 129 That in some wise heads long had ran (For some folks are most knowing). They wandered up, they wandered down ; They gathered material from the town From early morn till night ; And then, although ill manners laughed, They built another sturdy craft, And called it Rechabite. Thus starting out with hopes so bright. With cheerful face, and heart so light. While sailing o'er the waters, There came in view, all trim and new, The Pinkey Temperance Daughters. And now, upon the silvery sea, The fleet already numbers three Who fight for abstinence, — When lo ! while loud the cannons roar. They gather strength with number four, The Sons of Temperance I Three jaunty boats to swell the fleet, — Magnolia, Esperanza, Wingaersheik ! But now a ship, both stanch and strong. With sails all set, comes proudly on. My friends, 'tis very plain to see. Her standard is equality ; For on her deck, so heavily laden. Stand comely matron and fair maiden. With heart and hand thus linked together, 130 POEMS. They fear not wind or~stormy weather ; On the ship Good Templar's planks they stand, A strong, determined, courageous band. Look ! in the distance there's another, Whose crew ever call each other brother ; And this I'm sure is no misnomer, For the name on the prow is the Temple of Honor. Now little boats are coming out, And rowing round them all about. The Bands of Hope and Juvenile Temples Are setting us some good examples ; For earnest, ardent, full of life. They enter bravely in the strife Against the growth of sin and wrong. God grant that they may grow more strong As years roll by, and age comes on. 'Tis true that some of our proud ships Have made some hopeless, barren trips ; That storms have swept over their decks, And made for us some useless wrecks. Those that are left can hold communion With the Christian Temperance Unions. As brave little crafts as ever sailed. Whose crews' stout hearts have never failed. But, looking onward to the right. Stand firmly in the temperance fight. POEMS. 131 And then, to make up for our loss, Comes on the brilliant Golden Cross ; And round its banners ever stand Of brothers and sisters a noble band. Insure your lives while yet you may ; Wait not for to-morrow, come to-day ! And now, my friends, why should we fear With all these stanch boats waiting near ? We'll grapple with the foe, and fight From night till morn, from morn till night ; For we're numbered by thousands of women and men, With courage to beard the foe in his den ; To stand by our emblems untarnished and bright. To stand up undaunted in the cause for the right ; For in the great battle the fleet we've out- ran. And the ship Good Templar ever leads the van. 132 POEMS. TEMPERANCE BELLS. The temperance bells are ringing. Do ye not hear their chime ? They are telling us of sickness, Of sorrow, and of crime. They are calling us to labor, To labor hard and true, To slay the demon License, And carry temperance through ; To put the curse of free rum Beneath our eager feet. And raise the sons of sorrow Into a rest complete, Where the chains of degradation Can fetter them no more ; Where they can stand up firmly On Temperance' clean-swept floor ; Where the wail of suffering thousands Can never more be heard, And the love of all things wholesome Within their hearts be stirred ; P0E3IS. 133 Where the hope of God and heaven May be to them a light To lead them onward, upward, Into the paths of right. To free our bright and noble land From the curse of rum and wrong, We ask our God to help us, Nor let the time be long. Then never let us falter. Nor linger by the way. But raise the sons of mourning Into a brighter day. The temperance bells are ringing ; Then listen to their chime, And work you with strong ardor To stay the march of crime. The time is surely coming (For God doth see our need) When He shall crown us victors. And all be free indeed. 134 POEMS. THE TEMPLARS' WELCOME. Friends of temperance, welcome here ; These are the words we often hear When to these rooms we enter in ; Here we our temperance work begin. We gather the young into our arms, We fill for them these rooms with charms ; We gather them in from out of the street, With pleasant words their coming greet. We keep them out of the haunts of sin, And help them in the world a place to win ; Throw around them the charm of temp'rance love. That wins the " Well done " from Heaven above. To those who have fallen into the slum. We will take their hand and say to them " Come ! We have listened with tears to your pitiful cry; Come, lift yourselves up ; we will help you ; try. POEMS. 135 " Try hard ; 3^ou can conquer the terrible foe If to the right source in sorrow you go. No one ever asked of Him help in vain ; He will wash from your souls the crimson stain." And we, who the curse have never known, Must comfort give to the sorrowing one ; Must keep them from starving, must help them to live ; From out our abundance to them we must give. The brothers alone can never stand ; The sisters must lend a helping hand To gather the young, and gather the old. Into the warmth, from out of the cold. And in these bright rooms we will to them impart Such lessons as they may take to their heart. Both lessons of temp'rance, and lessons of love For the Father, who looketh on us from above. Then, my friends, take courage, and your work is done, Even though in truth it is only begun ; 136 POEMS. For when, with His help, we find the right way, We can move gladly on, and be merry and gay. For pleasure and work must go hand in hand If we wish to conquer the foe of our land ; For the places of vice with allurements they fill, To deaden the senses and fetter the will. So make these rooms cheerful with work and with pleasure, And may we all learn their bright precepts to treasure ; For thus we will fight and will conquer the foe, And on those we love a blessing bestow. Friends of temperance, welcome here ! A cordial welcome to our good cheer ! May God's best blessings upon you fall. Brothers and sisters, on friends, and on all ! POEMS. 137 THE TEMPERANCE FIGHT. The temp'rance fight will be weary and long, For the foe of our land has grown very strong; The Tempter stalks forth by night and by day To lead both the young and the old astray. Then let us rise up and be doing our work, For our duty we Templars must never shirk ; And then perhaps, too, if we just stop and think. Some of our dear ones may stand on the brink. 'Tis a terrible thing, for the Tempter is sly. And the weak ones of earth he will never pass by ; In the bright garb of pleasure he will hide the dark thing ; He will lead them to ruin ; oh, how bitter the sting Of their conscience, when they have found out What the foul fiend of darkness has been about, — How he led their steps downward, against their weak will, 138 POEMS. And tlieir souls with deep sorrow the sad thought will fill. Then give unto them a strong helping hand, And help them become bright lights in our land. Oh, may the dark Tempter be left far behind ! And I pray you to all of the tempted be kind; And God, from His beautiful home on high, Will unto us all in His great love draw nigh. ODE TO OUR HALL. As I stand to-night in this hall so bright. Surrounded by the friends of old, I feel well assured that contentment is wealth, And a pure heart better than gold. When we come here we have naught to fear, We may do as we please every time ; And year after year this Hall will grow dear, As round it our affections shall twine. Although our chairs cannot be called pairs, Nor our stands and our carpet agree, If quite hard we try, perhaps by and by Less difference between them we'll see. T0EM8. 139 I doubt very much, as kind feelings we touch, If chairs, stands, or carpets we see ; We would not part with a loving heart, No matter what our surroundings may be ; For the Templar saith. In each other have Faith, And Hope for the best at all times ; And Charity sweet makes the chain complete. And this is the end of my rhymes. TEMPERANCE POEM. My friends, I stand before you To ask a question plain, — Has the year that's passed so quickly Been a year of loss, or gain ? Have you lost fraternal feeling For a sister or a brother ? Have you lost the art of healing The sorrows of another ? Have you lost those precious jcAvels Which we call the virtues three, Which in our hearts we cherish, — The gems of Faith, Hope, Charity ? 140 POEMS. Have you no Faith in friendship Which binds our hearts together, And makes our lives so sunny, No matter what the weather? Have you no Hope for future good, No hope that times will brighten ? If each should do the best he could. Some burden you might lighten. Have you lost Charity, that greatest gift, God-given to us all. The charity that bids us help All creatures great or small ? Again I ask the question. And I make it very plain, — Has the year that's passed so quickly Been a year of loss, or gain ? Have you not gained one little thought To help you on your way. E'en though the path be strewn with thorns What have you, friends, to say ? I think I hear you saying That the year has not been lost. Although you've been discouraged. And sometimes tempest-tost ; POEMS. 141 You have not lost the feeling Of fraternal brotherhood, Nor e'en the art of healing, And doing others good ; That our jewels have been cherished Within your inmost heart ; That none of them have perished. Then choose the better part, And keep your Faith in all men. When possible so to do. And then you'll find that others' faith Will stronger grow for you. And Hope, sweet Hope, her light shall shine Across your lonely way. And warm within your heart shall glow Her sweet and cheering ray. And Charity, that gentle one Who leads our hearts above. And makes us all the happier For cherishing her love. Will cover over many a sin. And many a heart shall soften, So that at last we all may win The right to heaven ; and may we often 142 POEMS. Pause, while on through life we hasten, To think of others and to try Some other hearts to lighten ; And with each other we shall vie To make some heavy heart grow light, And hope shine forth anew, That others' paths may be more bright. This work we have to do. Again I ask you. Has this year Been a year of loss, or gain ; If we've tried to banish some one's fear, Or soothe a bed of pain ? God grant that, as the years roll on. We all shall choose the right ; And all look down with sweet content From heaven's eternal height ! THE REQUEST. You ask me, friends, to speak to you ; What shall I find to say ? There's work our hands can find to do For some one every day ; POEMS. 143 Some drunkard's home to brighten, Some little ones to feed, Some pale-faced, sorrowing mother. Who wants a friend in need ! But if we nothing else can give. We all can give a word Of comfort or encouragement. Our voices can be heard Within the homes of sorrow, Where cheerful, loving smiles Can work a world of wonder, Can a mourning heart beguile ; Can lend a helping hand To lift a brother up When he has weakly fallen Before the Tempter's cup ; Can throw around his pathway A chain of hope and love, To help him in the struggle ; Ask help for him above. This is the Templar's power, — A glass of water cold ; It gives us health and strength, It naakes us free and bold ; 144 POEMS. It keeps our brain unclouded, Our energies alive ; It fills our pockets and our hearts. Then strive, ye Templars, strive To gather in the converts, To strike a deadly blow At the root of this great evil. To let the people know That we are now in earnest. That we mean to work and win, To wage a deadly warfare, And check the course of sin. MOTTO. With Temperance on our banner. With the shield of Faith in hand, With Hope to cheer us on our way. And with Charity's golden wand, We'll start forth on our journey As workers in the Lord. Thus clothed in His strong armor. We'll take His holy Word To guide us onward, upward, To the city of our God. POEMS. 145 A PLEDGE. Brothers and sisters of Agamenticus, We have come to visit you without any fuss ; We have come to pledge you and have a good time, — To pledge you in water, not in wine. Agamenticus friends, here is long life to you ! There is work in plenty for us all to do ; With brain unclouded, untrammelled, and free, A power in the land you are destined to be. Then raise high the cup with its cold water draught. Free from temptation and demon's craft ; We will drink our fill and be merry and glad. For a glass of cold water ne'er made the heart sad. 'Tis the rumseller, then, with his sparkling wine. We must earnestly fight and conquer in time. Overturn his casks, and break all the glasses That tempt and betray the weak of all classes. 146 POEMS. We will fight them openly and hang out our sign, Precept upon precept, and line upon line ; By our good example, and by our pure life, We'll encourage each other in the bitter strife. Then here's to Good Templars all through the land ! We will pray heart to heart, and walk hand in hand. May God bless us, and help us to conquer the foe And raise up the fallen wherever we go. STRIKE HARD. Strike hard, while the iron is hot ; Strike hard, and falter not ; Bruise the serpent and crush the foe With an iron heel, wherever you go ! Starvation and want follow quick in its train ; Evil companions a pure soul will stain. Then step to the front with an iron will. And your glasses with purest cold water fill. POEMS. 147 O, drink to the health of the young and the fair ! Bid them take the pledge and our armor wear. So, banded together, you may strike without fear. And keep the Tempter from entering here. We know that our Heavenly Father hath said That where the footsteps of a few might be led, In His name to gather, He too will be there, And answer in time the earnest prayer. So, brothers and sisters, let us work with a will, The lessons of temperance in all hearts to instil ; And so by example speed on the good cause That will strengthen and purify moral laws. For it is by the law that we all must abide. And trust to God's love our footsteps to guide ; For, trusting in Him, we ne'er can go wrong. And patient endurance will make us strong. 148 POEMS. Then onward, my friends, I bid you God- speed ! He will comfort and cheer in the hour of need. Oh, turn unto Him when the storm clouds lower. He will carry us safe through temptation's dark hour. And at last, when the work of the Templar is done. And we pass away from the earth one by one. Hold fast by His hand, — He will lead you safe home. Where standeth forever the great white throne. FRANKLIN LODGE, RIVERDALE. Brave Franklin Lodge, in your infancy, Striving a power in the land to be. Looking straight forward for future good, Building a home of stone and wood. O, build you a home both strong and fair ; Build it with patience, with love, and with care; POEMS. 149 Build it up firmly, with Christ for its head, Looking to Him for your daily bread. Build it so high on the Rock of Salvation That your power may be felt in every nation ; And though the wild tempest around it may break. Its solid foundation shall never shake. Taking Faith for your guide, looking forward with Hope, Grasping firm in your hand the temperance rope. Cast it far out in the liquid sea Of intemperance, when a struggling soul you may see. Pull it in gently, hand over hand ; Bring the poor victim safe unto land ; Clothe him and feed him, and help him to be Upright and honest, fit for Eternity. Have charity for all men, whate'er they may be, For into their hearts your eyes cannot see ; The spirit may be willing, though the flesh is weak. And a helping hand they may gladly seek. 150 POEMS. 'Tis thus you may help to right the wroug, And build for yourselves a monument strong ; Your name shall be spoken with words of praise By all whom your hand shall help to raise. May God bless you all ; may your future be bright ; May you conquer the wrong, and ever do right ; May your deeds on earth win proud renown, And may full success your efforts crown. MISS CADWALLADER, 1776. I'm an old-fashioned lady, as you may see. None of your new-fangled notions for me. With my straight black gown and my mob- cap too, I have come to town to visit you. With my kerchief so neat and my apron so clean, I'm as tidy a lady as ever was seen. With my black lace mitts to cover my hand, I assure you, my friends, I feel very grand. P0E3IS. ^^^ When I was young, and went to school, My lessons I learned, and obeyed each rule ; My teachers were kind ; and so, you see, ^ There was no occasion for disobedience in me. But I very soon learned that I must knit Both mittens and stockings, and make them fit. . ^ So this stocking you see I am knitting to- night Is roomy and large, and a clean tidy white. No stockings for me like barbers' poles, With striped legs, and feet full of holes. Or even the new fashion of one red leg, And the other as black as,- well, old Uncle Ned. For old Ned was black, whate'er you may say — As likely a nigger as you'd find in my day ; And in our good times the banjo he played, And our good times these modern out- weighed. For then we used to dance the minuet, A very grand and stately step ; But now they dance such whirligigs As Money Musk and Chorus Jig. 152 POEMS. When I was young no gaslight was seen, But plain tallow candles, — their light was not mean. Before gas and electricity came to be used, We had candles and oil lamps ; now they're abused. 'Twas "Yes, ma'am," and "No, ma'am," when I was young. And children then learned how to hold their tongue When their betters were speaking, and to go to bed When the hens went to roost, so my mother But alack a day ! those good times are gone, And children grow up as soon as they're born. 'Tis lady and gent where 'twas master and miss; They forget the "ma'am," and 'tis "No," and "Yes." Years ago Uncle George cut the tree with his hatchet, But the youths of to-day in mischief can match it ; POEMS. 153 They can smoke and chew, and swear a round oath, And other queer things of modern growth. About my age I cannot lie, — I'll be a hundred and nine next Fourth of July. Now don't you think I've shown you good will. To come and see you from Bunker Hill ? But really I cannot spend any more time A-knitting this stocking and spinning rhyme. So I bid you good-night, and may your dreams Be as full of good things as this stocking has seams. I think the Good Templars a very fine crowd ; Of my visit among you I feel quite proud. I invite you, dear madam, and you, my dear sir. To visit Miss Cadwallader whene'er you can find her. 154 roEMS. THE TEMPERANCE BANNER. Tune — ^^ Morning Light is Breaking.'' Lift high your temperance banners, And fling them to the breeze. And look ye in what manner Each one shall strive to please. 'Tis not by idle flattery, Or by the glass of wine. But pleasant, loving words and smiles That round the heart shall twine. Lift high your temperance banner, And fling it to the breeze ; Its waving folds shall gladden The eye of him who sees. And the Eye that's ever watchful Shall see our every deed, Shall tenderly watch o'er us. And prove a friend in need. Lift high your temperance banner, And fling it to the breeze ; Its work shall be accomplished On land and on the seas. POEMS. 155 The friends of sin sliall tremble When they see it waving there ; It seems to say unto them, " Beware of sin, beware." Lift high your temperance banner. And fling it to the breeze. And faithfully stand by it If you would seek to please. To those who do stand by us We give our grateful thanks ; We ask them to come forward And join our temperance ranks. THE STAR OF PROHIBITION. The battle is pending — we scent it afar ! I see in the distance the temperance star Rising slowly above the heads of the na- tion; 'Tis the grandest thing in this grand crea- tion — The Star of Prohibition. 'Tis a star the brilliance of whose lustre should never Be dimmed by contact with Intemp'rance River. 156 POEMS. The time is coming when its glorious light Shall shine through the clouds of the darkest night — This Star of Prohibition. Yea, the time is coming when all men shall know That its possession will on them great riches bestow ; That their lives will be better and grander by far. Than ever before there arose this star — The Star of Prohibition. Let us hope that the women of this grand old State Will not, in the future, have long to wait Ere the husbands and brothers of whom they are proud Will join in the ranks of the temperance crowd, And vote for Prohibition. And this, my dear friends, is my wish for you, — In your hearts be born high resolves and true ; POEMS. 157 No matter what comes, fail not in your duty, But show to the rulers of this country the beauty And value of Prohibition. And at last, when our country is ruled by men Who are temperate, honest, and true, oh, then Will be found in the hearts of the faithful few A contentment and peace such as those never knew Who trampled on prohibition. NORTHERN LIGHT LODGE, PIGEON COVE. Out on a rocky coast the Northern Light is shining. Nor cares for storms or blow ; And all rejoice to see, when daylight is de- clining. Its beacon light still brighter glow. And every Wednesday night, in fair or stormy weather, Within their pleasant room, 158 POEMS. The earnest lads and lassies gladly meet together To welcome wanderers home. To-night we celebrate with reading and with singing The closing of another year ; And, looking backward, memory to us is bringing Fond thoughts to us most dear. We see around us fair and smiling faces. But some dear friends are gone ; While others come to fill the vacant places, We cannot feel alone. Bright hopes for the future are in our hearts upspringing, For we have work to do, While joyous through the world the songs of temp'rance, ringing. Are to the friends of freedom ever new. As on our rocky coast the northern light is shining So steady, strong, and true, Let our kind wishes, round your future twin- ing, Be, long life and health to you. POEMS. 159 TO GOVERNOR LONG LODGE, MARBLEHEAD. My brothers and sisters of Governor Long, I see that the temp'rance ranks are strong ; I am glad to be here with you to-night, With friends whose faces are happy and bright. I miss from your ranks Brother Jonathan Orne, With his pleasant face and his portly form. His laughing eyes and his smile so sweet. That in days of yore we were wont to meet. I hear he has left your quaint old town For the State of Maine, with its pine-tree crown ; We will wish him a long and a happy life. With freedom from turmoil, care, and strife. I hope soon to meet you in Newburyport. Where often is held the Superior Court. Our meeting a far different meaning hath. For we walk in the straight prohibition path. So judges and courts have nothing to do With the Cold Water Army, as they pass through 160 POEMS. The ancient city of Newburyport; For we stand behind the temperance fort Fighting the Demon of alcohol, Making mighty efforts for its downfall ; To break its chain and save man's soul From the charm of the serpent and the flow- ing bowl. With many kind wishes for future success, I ask the Father above us to bless And help you on in your upward way, Till shall come at last the Eternal Day. ESSEX COUNTY LODGE. At the annual session of the Essex C. L., An august body, as we all can tell. Where temp'rance and pleasure, together combined, Exert a good influence and elevate the mind, We met in Amesbury, and we found a good field In which to labor and expect a good yield ; The members turned out in numbers large, And listened earnestly to the solemn charge Of fidelity, honesty of purpose, and truth, POEMS. 161 Which tends to encourage our spiritual growth. Our duties are many, ^Ye're expected to see Which way the wind blows, and to trim the tree Of Intemperance close down to the very bark, And if we succeed we shall make our mark. We must bend little twigs in the way they must turn. And help them the Temp'rance Ritual to learn. Thus strength'ning and nourishing the little ones, And help them to faithfully stand by their guns And take true aim when the enemy is round, And they'll surely bring the foe to the ground. That's one kind of work we're expected to do. And fail not in the work but carry it through. And this is another : save others from falling; We are told in our charge that this is our calling, Seek out the weak brother, hold fast by his hand ; To drive out the curse from our fair native land J* 162 POEMS. To touch not, to taste not, to keep ourselves pure ; And all persecution to meekly endure ; To be faithful ever, each one to his trust ; To follow our Master, so tender and just. No matter how faint-hearted, how discour- aged we are. We must never let traitors our fair standard mar; But buckle on our armor and cheerfully fight, And soon through the darkness we'll see a great light That will help us onward and upward too, If we're honest in purpose, faithful and true. Now, brothers and sisters, what more can I say To encourage and help in the work to-day? I can only promise to do my share. I am always ready to do and to dare ; With hopeful words and willing hand I will help to cleanse my own dear land From the bitter curse which inthralls it now. Then lift your hearts above, And pardon He will give you For all your many sins. To him who faithful is, and true, Fair Heaven on earth begins. Thus will we strive to comfort And aid each sorrowing heart, Well knowing, in so doing, We take an humble part In working for our Saviour, And helping on His cause. We encourage, too, each other, And obey God's holy laws. Thus, striving to do good unto others, unto these my brothers and sisters in this glorious cause, will I give a few loving words of counsel ; and if they be but a repetition of the rest, let me hope that they will be received as kindly as given. And patiently scatter the seed that shall grow. And bring forth at last a harvest so white, That will reward our labors in the temp'- rance fight. And unto those who are cast down we will give words of comfort, to cheer and to strengthen. Oh sad of heart, and weary ! God looks in pity down Upon your life, so dreary, Without one curse or frown. Why do ye sit and languish ? He knows the heart's d-eep woe, 164 POEMS, He knows your grief and anguish Wherever jq may go. Ye cannot hide your sorrow From His all-piercing eye. Why do ye trouble borrow, Why make such bitter cry ? Oh bend the knee in meekness, And trust His tender love ; He'll strengthen all your weakness, O lift your hearts above. Then put your hand upon the plough And turn not back again. The work must be pushed forward now, It long has idle lain. With earnestness of purpose, With steady hand and eye. We'll eagerly press onward, We will not falter now. By patient waiting, we now find A mighty work laid out, And we the chosen vessels. Must tread the weary route That leads through many trials, Ere we can drive the foe Before our steady fire, As forward we shall go. Then courage, brothers, sisters, God gives us strength to fight ! POEMS. 1^^ We'll gird us on His armor And forward march to right ; And soon we'll find the pathway That leads to victory, And resting on our laurels, The millennium we shall see. ESSAY. At the Essex County Union, on a certain day, Brother Leonard asked me to write the essay To be read at the very next place of meeting, When our brothers and sisters we should be greeting. My heart gave a jump, it gave me such a fright. And without a minute's thought I backed out, quite ; But after a season of deep meditation, ^ Of indignant chiding and earnest berating, For trying thus a duty to shirk, I quietly set my wits to work, And this is the result of my labor. 166 POEMS, Brother Leonard himself did write the essay To which you listened with attention that day; It has been conned and studied by the most of the members, And in many has awakened the slumbering embers Of enthusiasm into an undying flame, Which shall burn up brightly and shall never wane, But shall light up the path of our army. At the Beverly meeting, with indignation quaking, I longed to give those brothers a shaking, Who railed at the doings of our Grand Lodge. And our officers, too, how they patiently sat And listened to this one, and then to that. Although each in turn received a good hit. Ah, my friends, which of you would find yourselves fit To be placed in such a responsible position ? No matter what might be your purse's condi- tion. Do you think you would labor both early and late ? For neither this one, nor that one, will wait. POEMS. 167 But must have your attention before any other. Just think, my friends, what a terrible bother, If you gave all your time from daylight till dark And your courage seemed dying, ay, the very last spark. Would you think it a matter so very funny If some one should say you were paid too much money ? What, think you, would clothe you, and fur- nish your bread, Or keep a home over your dear ones' head ? I speak not without knowledge, the lesson I've learned. And for many long years my living I've earned. By working, and waiting, and praying as well ; Ah ! who but the workers the story can tell Of patiently working to earn the dollars To buy the food, the garments, the collars. The boots, and the gloves, and the many little things That cause the money to take to itself wings And fly away so quickly, that you scarcely know 168 POEMS. Where the hard-earned wages could possibly go. And surely you know the Grand Lodge must be fed, And the subordinate lodges must furnish the bread. They ask of each member but a very small slice. I pray you, my brothers, don't grumble at the price. For we know that the lodges could not hold together Were it not for the influence of our august mother ! Now the brothers in turn are much inclined With their respective lodges some fault to find ; But the sisters, I'm sure, with me will agree That many pleasant things in the lodge-room we see. The very first thing that comes to my thought Are the principles of our Order, as they are taught. For these my dear friends, are the virtues three. That we must cherish. Faith, Hope, and Charity. POEMS. 1^^ Faith in each other, in the Father above, A perfect faith in His infinite love. Hope for the fallen where'er they may be, Hope when no light in the darkness we see, Hope, that the clouds may be driven away. And the bright sun of Heaven shall shine on our day. Charity for all men, whate'er we may know, \ Charity that falleth hke a mantle of snow On the sins, and the failings, we cannot cure, For temptations are many and often allure ; Alas, the consequence to the sinner is sure. For as sure as we sin, in our hearts we know That punishment follows wherever we go. Then the Good of the Order presents to my mind Many things that are pleasant and must be refined, To accomplish the work we are trying to do, — Raise up the fallen, help the weak ones too. Each one has a talent of some kind or other. Yes, I mean every one, both sister and bro- ther ; With recitations, songs, some conundrums as well, The time passes quickly, as all can tell. And then, again, the smiling faces. 170 POEMS. As the members come in and take their places, Are pleasant to see, and 'tis pleasant to greet Each one in turn as they take their seat. There are also the Fairs, the Apron Sales too, Give some of the sisters plenty of work to do. The sewing circle meets one evening each week, 'Tis work and pleasure combined that we seek ; And if we have pound parties, I am sure you'll agree That the packages brought are sometimes funny to see. So fun, work, and pleasure together will make The hours pass quickly and keep us awake ; And if, some time, some sister or brother Will cast out aspersion, and grumble at each other, We know that before the meeting is done, With hard feelings gone, a smile is won, And we go forth to our homes with contented heart. And the good nights ring out merrily as we depart. Now with a kind greeting to young and old, POEMS. ITl I would say to you all, if I may be so bold, — Seek not for trouble, it will come soon enough, And many, many times we shall find the way rough. Walk steadily on, seek out the bright side. And the way will come easy, whate'er may betide ; See to it, that we neither stumble nor fall. That in our own weakness on the Father we call. And He, in His tenderness, pity, and love. Will keep us from danger, and lead us above. And now, my brothers and sisters, having given vent to the indignation which took possession of me at the Beverly meeting, I would like to say a few words to you on that subject so old, yet so inexhaustible, — the subject of Intemperance. Oh, I wonder if mothers ever think that the first lessons of intemperance, the thirst for strong drinks, are implanted in the baby breast by loving and tender hands. I wonder if mothers, when they clasp the little ones in loving embrace, and shower kisses on the baby head nestled so lovingly on the bosom filled with undying affection for the child to whose future they 172 POEMS. look forward with such fond anticipations of noble life, — I wonder when they have recourse to the bottle of gin to still the pain, or the bottle of paregoric to soothe the nerves and close the baby eyes in an unnatural sleep, if they think they are blasting the future, plant- ing the seeds of an unnatural appetite, that shall be to them a reproach and a curse, to follow them to the end of life. Let us hope that they will remember, and tremble, for the responsibility is great, and God will surely require a soul at their hands. He will ask, Is it well with my son ? Who can tell the anguish with which such mothers see the once innocent babe sink into a drunkard's grave. Another evil by which our children are exposed to this terrible temptation, is, when fathers drink the draught prepared for them by Satan, and put the glass to the lips of their little ones, that they may drain the sugar from the bottom ; do they not see the thing lying therein, that biteth like a serpent and stingeth like an adder ; which shall turn upon them in their old age and bring their gray hairs in sorrow to the grave ? Again, children growing from babyhood into child- hood, their ears growing familiar with curses, their eyes perhaps accustomed to sights of POEMS. 173 brutality, merging from childhood into boy- hood, ay, and even girlhood, left to their own resources, allowed to spend evening after evening wandering in the streets, loaf- ing at the corners, lolling in the shops where perhaps the accursed stuff is sold; can we wonder then that our towns and cities are filled with drunkards and prostitutes, and alas, murderers? Do we not shudder at the prospect before them ? Is there not cause to tremble ? Oh my brothers and sisters, banded together to fight this giant evil, falter not in the work we have undertaken, cease not your efforts to conquer this terrible foe ; even though ye cannot see the fruits of your labors. For by constant watching and work- ing, by constant prayer and earnest faith ye may be enabled to help on the work of sal- vation. Even to save one soul is greater far than to sit with folded hands despairing at the enormity of this evil. And having put your hand to the plough turn not back again, walk onward and upward trusting in Him who has sent us to bind up the broken- hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and to open the prison doors to them that are bound; to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the gar- 174 POEMS. ment of praise for heaviness, that they may build up the old waste, that they may repair their waste cities, that they may repair their former desolations, from the desolations of many generations. See to it, my brothers and sisters, that ye faint not at the prospect be- fore you, for the God in whom we put our trust will strengthen us in our hour of need, and to each and all of us who labor faithfully in His name will He say, when at last shall come the angel of death to take us Home, " Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." Thus must we ever labor on With willing heart and hand. To drive that curse of rum and wrong. Intemperance, from the land. The Lord of hosts shall be our stay. Our Helper, and our Friend, His love shall guide us on our way. And keep us to the end. Then falter not, but cheer the sad. Lift up the fallen one. The heavy heart make light and glad — Then shall our v/ork be done. POEMS. 1T5 And when at last the Lord shall come To bear us home to heaven, To all who then His Cross lay down Will the crown of Life be given. WRITTEN FOR THE NINTH ANNL VERSARY OF THE RIVERDALE REFORM CLUB. Nine years have passed since first we met To fight for liberty, Against the demons which beset Our feet, nor turn and flee, But nobly face the foe and fight it down With strong determined will. And fear not though the world may frown. Our homes with comforts fill. With peace and happiness. Reform ! our watchword e'er shall be. Clubs strike the vaunting foe. We'll win the battle and be free. Our banners round the world shall go. What though the passing years have been A checkered page of fears and joy, Not one of all earth's children win The gold, without alloy. 176 POEMS. Not one has stood before the Lord, From all earth's troubles free ; Yet, taking comfort in His word, His children all shall be ; So, friends and brothers here to-night, This comfort you may take: All who shall win in either fight He never will forsake ; But when you pray for help to see The way in which to walk, His hand your loving guide shall be. His love, firm as a rock. Shall be a rod and staff to thee ; One Shepherd and one flock. THE ESSEX COUNTY SQUADRON. Minnehaha, laughing waters. First upon the temperance list. Through its noble sons and daughters. On prohibition doth insist. Riverside goes with the tide That flows in pure cold water. Nothing with them can e'er abide That makes such fearful slaughter. Third comes Linwood, always good For battling with old Satan, POEMS. 177 They know he gives them poor brain food, And send back all he gives, verbatim. Now comes the lodge of old Cape Ann, Our social, brave Fraternity, And firm we'll stand, both maid and man, Through all eternity. Brave Mountain Rill is never still. But keeps our Hale still hearty, With flowing rhymes our ears to fill, Whene'er we give a party. From Pontiac we did not hear, But know they are still living ; On its account we need not fear, — A report 'twill soon be giving. Fair Silver Lake is clear and bright, Nor tries to Dodge its duty, He marches bravely to the fight. With honor, manhood's beauty. Alas ! our Forest tree is dead, Killed by adversity. Its branches, scattered, lost, and fled, We never more shall see. Governor Long is staunch and strong, And ever holds its own, We'll right the wrong, this is its song. We'll pull the rum fiend down. Now here's to you, Steadfast * and true, * steadfast Lodge has since surrendered its charter. 178 POEMS. Your motto " Honor bright," We know your crew are all true blue, And watchful day and night. Always with us, Agamenticus, Kept shining by our Emery, And long we trust it may be thus Kept green in every memory. Ah ! where away hails Ocean Spray, And pipes its crew to arms, O long, we pray, may be its day In beautiful Beverly Farms. Excelsior one motto was, — Where can its followers be ? Why did they leave our glorious cause ? I'm sure I cannot see ! Ah ! now we find the bright Sunshine, And bask within its ray, It warmth and light doth both combine, No clouds can near it stay. Crystal Fountain, once so clear, Has vanished from our sight ; Where once its ripples we did hear, All silent is, like night. Franklin Lodge, of Riverdale, Is growing up so fast. Its members are so strong and hale, They'll own a Hall at last. POEMS. 179 Danvers quite near the Asylum is ; I think they do not care ? Cold water is their motto, — while it is, They never will go there. Grand Washington ! we'll ne'er forget Our namesake true and bold, We'll achieve his glorious standard yet, 'Tis better far than gold. Rantoul is dead, in its quiet bed It rests, no hope of resurrection-, Its fires with words of wrath were fed, They carried dire destruction. The poet Longfellow doth survive In the memory of the people, — May his namesake's precepts ever fly From cottage, dome, and steeple. Sometimes we roam in Sylvan Dale And view the prospects there. We find sweet flowers, they will not fail, They are human, sweet and fair. On our rocky coast the Northern Light is shining. Its rays, once bright, are dim. But clouds, you know, have oft a silver lining, We'll try and help you up again. Next comes Niagara, — oh so grand, — Its record always good, 180 POEMS. Throughout our fair and happy land, On mountain, vale, and wood. Garfield, though small, competes with all To keep the ball still rolling, It vows 'twill crush old Alcohol, His knell they now are tolling. Endight has fallen by the way, In quiet now 'tis sleeping. And o'er its grave, both night and day. Another Lodge is vigil keeping. It steps up proudly to the front. And calls itself Aggressive, In freedom's battle 'twill bear the brunt, And thus become progressive. Lincoln, our Nation's hero, died. Thousands wept o'er his bier. — His namesake vanished from our side. None shed for it a tear. The Temperance fleet is now complete, And ready for the fight. We'll cheerful greet, and on our feet Stand firm for God and Right. LIFE AS A SCHOOL. 181 LIFE AS A SCHOOL. Are we not scholars from the cradle to the grave ? Does not the infant, with the first gleam of reason, look up into its mother's face to learn whether love or anger dwells there? Is not the mother's face the first book wherein lies all its hopes and fears? Does not the disobedient, child read its failure in the lines of care upon the beloved face? And as the child grows older, and takes the first trembling, tottering steps, has it not commenced its education ? Do not the mischievous little fingers learn to meddle with everything that comes in their way ? And as they grow older, and learn the rights and wrongs of life, how hard it is to choos,e the right when it conflicts with their own wishes. Must we not learn to bear and for- bear ? Ah, how happy the child learning the first short, sweet lessons of life ! No sorrow, no care, no grief that a mother's kiss cannot care. Only to be happy ! Would that we could always learn to do right as little child- ren: how much sorrow would we save our- selves and others. From our babyhood do we not become the boys and girls of the public 182 LIFE AS A SCHOOL. schools, and take our places on the stage of life, as actors in its comedies and its trage- dies ? — from the tuition of our loving fathers and mothers, to the teaching of the school- master or mistress ? Ah, then is often told the story whether the home teaching has been kind and just, firm and loving, exacting obedience, or weakly indulgent, allowing the child to grow up wayward and contrary, following its own will until it becomes sec- ond nature, and its disposition crooked and warped. Oh mothers, look to it that ye be not guilty! Let us follow the scholar and see what he becomes; coming from a home where love and reason rules, the boy and girl, having learned to obey, follow in the path marked out by the patient teacher. A correct deportment, lessons faithfully learned, an earnest insight into the future, and the boy becomes honest, industrious, just in all his dealings, beloved by all who know him, and, leaving his boyhood behind him, be- comes the man whose integrity helps to build up business prospects, and wins an honorable place in society. The girl becomes modest and ladylike, an ornament to society, a trea- sure to her family and to all who know her, fitted by education and character to fill an LIFE AS A SCHOOL. 183 important position in life. A tender, loving wife and mother, making home happy, and the world better for having lived in it. Did I hear you say, Perchance that may not be her lot in life? It may be that she has marked out a far different course from the one I have cited. It may be that she will take her place among the bright lights of the world. Perhaps as a minister of the Gospel, carrying glad tidings of great joy unto all the people ; perhaps as a doctor she may cure diseases of the mind and body, cheering the sick with her kindly words of sympathy and love, as well as curing them with her medi- cines. The world made happier by her music, her poetry, her serials. Whatever paths she may pursue, we may be sure her home teaching has given us this fair, pure woman to help us onward and upward. A lecturer appears upon the field ; his earnest truths, his enthu- siasm, fill us with new resolutions, new hopes. From him we learn that God is good, that the world is fair and beautiful; His pure thoughts elevate and strengthen us, give us new life, and lift us from the slough of despondency and lighten the cares and the troubles that enter into our daily life. Are we not learning from him, from them all, 184 LIFE AS A SCHOOL. that we may not live for ourselves alone? that we may give our help and encourage- ment to others, as they have given to us? Now let us look on the other side. Where do our murderers, our adulterers, our thieves come from ? Not from those who in child- hood learned to obey the Golden Rule. From those who, all unused to control, be- come lazy, rude, and wicked, losing manhood and womanhood in the wild, turbulent life they lead; following their own uncurbed passions, until at last they become outlaws, thieves, drunkards, and, alas, perhaps dye their hands in their brother's blood. Oh, fathers and mothers, curb the fierce passions, the unruly tempers of your little ones while yet ye may ! Guard them as more precious in His sight than gold or rubies. They are not given, only lent. God will surely require their souls at our hands, will say to us, " What have ye done with my jewels ? Have ye nurtured them with care, have ye culti- vated their talents, have ye taught them that in Heaven there is an inheritance incorrupt- ible, that fadeth not away ? Have ye taught them that, as the pleasures of earth fade from before their eyes, there is One who will lift up the weary, drooping head, and will guide LIFE AS A SCHOOL. 185 them safely down the dark valley and shadow of death, who will lead them over the river, into that Home not made with hands, eternal in the heavens ? " Happy are ye if ye can say, " Yea, Master, all this have I done." Let us consider what we can do to help those thus unfortunate, who have not had the hand of father or mother to help them through weary years of sin and woe. Good examples, kindly words, and loving help to those in need, must be our portion. Pass not by one whose condition appeals to your sympathies, lift up the fallen, and keep others from falling, put not tempta- tions and stumbling-blocks in your brother's way, turn not in scorn from one who has fallen from the paths of rectitude and honor ! We know not the cause thereof. Come not with fear and trembling before your heavenly Father : come with faith and love ; pray to Him unceasingly, that ye may learn the right way from the cradle to the grave, that gate of heaven, and Jesus will intercede for us, and God will wipe away our tears, and we will sing with the redeemed, "Glory be to God on high." In infancy's cradle, we calmly sleep. While over us mother-love vigil doth keep. 186 POEMS. We heed not the storms or dangers nigh ; All cloudless the blue of our sweet spring sky. In childhood we wander at our own sweet will, And the mother-love watches over us still, Shaping the paths that before us lie, Chasing the clouds from our summer sky. As manhood and womanhood draweth near, There are cares and woes, which we shrink from in fear ; We look upwards in faith to the Father on high. He mellows the clouds in our autumn sky. We walk into old age with tottering feet. The span of our life is nearly complete : We call unto God with a passionate cry. As the chilly clouds darken our winter sky. Then sit at His feet in patience, and learn. And yield unto Him a gracious return. Our natures are strong, sweet knowledge we crave. We are scholars and learners from the cra- dle to the grave. POEMS. ^^"^ THE GIPSY PROPHETESS. I AM a gipsy prophetess, I've come from over sea. Who'll take a piece of silver And cross my hand for me, That I may read the horoscope That's cast for you in heaven? For unto every man and maid God has a fortune given. I see before me many friends Whose lot is lowly cast. But do not be discouraged. You shall rejoice at last. For He who judges all the world. Loves none above another ; Each one must answer for himself, None answers for his brother. The maiden with the dark-brown hair. And her sweetheart true and bold, Will find that true love purer is And better far than gold ; That they must take the narrow way. As they journey on through life. If they would escape its vicissitudes. And much of its care and strife. 188 P0E3I8. The sisters, who with pitying love Will hide a sister's fall, Will happy be, and gladly go When they hear the Father's call That bids them stand before His Throne To answer for their deeds. They'll find that there no difference is In religion or in creeds, That in the Golden Rule they'll find Religion strong and true. If ye do unto others as ye would That they should do to you. The brothers, who with manly hearts Stand firmly by their friends, And shield them from the tempter's power, E'en to the bitter end. Shall find a satisfaction sweet, That naught can take away, 'Twill be a comfort in their lives, And help them on their way. And when their work on earth is done, And they stand before the throne. Their hearts will leap for joy When they hear their Father say, " Well done." The maiden with the laughing eye. With the sweetheart far away. Will find that life is what we make it, What we do and say. POEMS. 189 That cheerful hearts and willing hands Will help us on our way. And she who from the piano's chord Such music sweet doth bring, And in whose heart we know The echo of that music rings, Shall brighten some dear lover's home. And make his heart grow light, When tired and hungry from his work He comes, night after night. The matron with the portly form, And her spouse with smiling face. Who leave their home night after night, And take with you their place, Will find a sure reward in heaven For all their kindly deeds. As they seek out and aid the poor, And minister to their needs. The sisters, who with willing hands Work for the homes they love. Will find at last a perfect rest. When they enter heaven above. The brother, who with little ones Growing up within his home. Must labor on with cheerful heart, 'Neath heaven's deep-blue dome. Nor let his heart grow faint. Nor by the way must fall, 190 POEMS. For He who feeds the sparrows Careth for us one and all. And though the way is dark, And the clouds seem closing in, 'Tis he who faints, nor falters not. That shall the victory win. There's one who stands with lordly mien. And holds the Lodge's funds. Ye know him, one and all ; With prolifics he doth abound ; Your faith in him is strong. And he knows that fact full well, A reward for faithfulness he'll win. As every one can tell. There's one I see before me now. With face so set and stern. He does his duty well. And calls you each in turn To mind what you're about : And that is where he's right. And if you don't do better soon He surely will show fight. Politeness and respect should Be shown unto the Chair ; And the rules and regulations Show you that his course is fair ; For faithfulness in duty A sure reward will bring ; POEMS. 191 And to fill the Templar's chair, you know, Is not an easy thing. There's some who listen calmly, Then gravely say, " I doubt." They'll find that in the world to come The doubts must be left out. 'Tis they that have the perfect love Which casteth out all fear. That win the eternal crown of heaven, — But they must win it here. Now, all ye youthful lads and lassies, Who gather round this Altar, The gipsy bids you hasten on, And never, never falter ; For the vow you took within this room. Before the All-seeing Eye, You took for life ; be firm and true. And keep it till you die. The gipsy has been round, And if any she o'erlooks. Remember that your fortune's written Within the Father's books ; That whatsoe'er you do on earth, Whether it's right or wrong. That ye must answer to your God : Ask Him to make you strong To battle for the right. To conquer every ill. 192 POEMS. To think of others, not yourselves, And thus obey His will. So speaks the gipsy prophetess, Who comes from over sea. God bless you all, and keep you, And may you happy be. DIVINE LOVE. There is a love, all other loves commanding, Which gives to us the love that passeth understanding; And though to us the gold of life seems turning into dross, We'll surely find that love, O Christ, by clinging to Thy Cross. Beothers, sisters, and friends, when the storms of life overtake us, and everything looks dark and dreary, then it is that we look upward for help in time of trouble. Then it is that we feel the power of Divine Love, and reach upward to cling to the ever- helping hand. How often, alas, when bask- ing in the smiles of fortune, borne high on the waves of prosperity, do we forget the Giver, and worship the gifts, looking no higher for help than in our own arrogant hearts and stubborn will ! But when, having risked our all in the speculations of life, we find the bubble bursting, and ourselves nearly ship- DIVINE LOVE. 193 wrecked, then, indeed, do we remember that we do not live for ourselves alone, that the heavenly mandate, Bear ye one another's burdens, was meant for us. So it is, when our terrible foe, the demon of alcohol, runs riot through our land, devastating hearts and homes, that we, forgetting our own cares and sorrows, must put forth a helping hand, with words of counsel and of warning, to those who through weakness are falling around us. We who are banded together to fight this common foe must work faithfully and well, and must not weary in well-doing. When- ever and wherever we may see a chance to speak a word of encouragement, a possibil- ity of helping a sufferer from this curse of our fair land, the rum traffic, let us take that chance; let us reason with them, telling them of that love which is all-powerful, which will keep them in perfect safety and peace, if they will but put their trust in it. the love which faintethnot, nor faileth, which shall be a light unto their paths, and a guide unto their feet, if they will forsake their evil ways, and turn unto Him who knoweth all things, and doeth all things well. And unto them who have placed hope, happiness, and even life itself in the hands of those who 194 DIVINE LOVE. have fallen by the tempter's cup, even to them, whose hearts are breaking under the weight of their sorrows, who have seen the bright gold of life turn into sounding brass, and whose cup of bliss has turned to gall, — to them we will come in sympathy, bidding them look upward to Him, cling fast to His loving hand, and He will sustain them, and comfort them. But while speaking words of comfort, let us not forget that hunger may have laid its gaunt finger upon them, that the sting of poverty may be upon them, and that cold, want, and starvation may be their portion. Then show unto them the charity which feedeth the hungry and clothes the naked ; and then shall we know that it is more blessed to give than to receive, and we shall forget our own sorrows in thus remembering the sorrows of others. There are many orders, many societies, banded to- gether to fight this evil, and yet it strides through our land with its brazen face, not even seeking to cover its deformities. Wherein lies the fault? Is it that, while professedly banded together for good, we forget the object, and seek only our own pleasure which we may gather from our weekly meetings? Do we think of others, DIVINE LOVE. 195 as we ought ? Are not the principles of our Order forgotten, or at least kept out of sight? While we look for, and expect to find, pleasure from our meetings, which we must render pleasant and inviting for the young, let us not forget that the principles of Good Templary are founded in the Bible, and that our motto is, Faith, Hope, and Charity. A faith in God's goodness, a faith that believes in His willingness and power to turn evil into good. A hope that sweetens the bitterness of life, a hope that we shall see the evil crushed, and the down-trodden lifted up. A charity that covereth like a mantle of snow its neighbor's sins, a charity that thinketh no evil, and we shall mingle work with pleasure, and life will be better and brighter for us and for others. A short time ago I listened to the recital of that beautiful poem, " The Changed Cross," and remembering the unrestfulness of the one who was seeking after a lighter cross than that which God had given him, how, after wandering from cross to cross, lifting one after another, finding each heavier than the last, he soon espied a little jewelled cross, and springing forward with a cry of joy, he raised it to his bosom. But alas! in how 196 DIVINE LOVE. short a time did he begin to stagger under his burden, and, laying it down, returned unto his own, and was surprised to find how much lighter it had become. So we, too, will find that, carried with cheerfulness and submission, our own burdens will grow lighter and lighter, until at last we shall lay- down the cross and take up the crown. What though the dark clouds gather Round our defenceless head, What though we bend in sorrow Above our sainted dead? What though our earthly sorrows Press on our aching heart. And grim care, in her taunting mood. Refuses to depart ? What though we shrink in terror Before the reeking foe Which brings to many hearts and homes Such bitter grief and woe ? With Christ-love in us dwelling, We count all gain, not loss. We cannot be discouraged While clinging to His cross. POEMS. 197 THE SOLDIER BOYS. Onward, right onward, The soldier boys come, Onward, right onward. To the sound of the drum ; Onward, right onward, With drum and with fife, Fighting for country. For home, and for life. Onward, right onward, The temperance boys come. With banner free floating, With cheerful words come ; They are bold and determined ; They shrink not from strife ; They are figkting for country. For home, and for life. Our soldier boys fear not The shot or the shell. The prayers of their loved ones Cast o'er them a spell ; Onward, right onward. How quickly they move ! They fear not the danger ; They are fighting for love. 198 POEMS. Our brave temperance army, Though they meet not the shell, Must conquer the enemy, And ring his death knell. He plunders men's homes, This incarnate fiend. He robs them of honor, Of money and friend. He robs them of children, Of mothers and wives ; He stings like an adder, And wrecks men's lives. Then God bless our soldier boys ; Our temperance boys too. They are honest and noble, Brave-hearted and true. With banner free floating, With fife and with drum. Onward, right onward, The grand armies come. POEMS. 199 THE DRUNKARD'S PLEA. A DRUNKAKD on his knees one day Was pleading unto heaven, That the lost crown of manhood Might once more to him be given ; That the tranquil mind and happy heart, That was his in youthful days, Might come to him and speed him on In honest, healthful ways : For in my dreams I often see My wife, and my darling babe Beside her, sleeping in the cot My hands, for her, had made ; My gentle Nellie's pleasant face And loving smile, I see. While on the window-ledge is placed A beacon-light for me ; But I could not pass the Golden Ball, That gilded haunt of sin. My feet would often turn aside And I would enter in. Once there, my reason lost its sway, And I would drink and swear. Until I lost all sense of self. A demon entered there 1 200 POEMS. I knew no more of time or j)lace, In drunken stupor lay, Until the sun began its course And night had turned to day. My patient wife, with tears and prayers, Besought me leave the path, I would not listen to her words But turned away in wrath ; And now, within the churchyard Are laid my wife and little child, My life is filled with grim remorse. My days are dark and wild. And on my knees I pray that God Will take away the pain. That I may lift my head once more ; Become a man again. AND THEN COMETH THE EVENING AND THE MORNING OF THE FIRST DAY. When the cares of life o'erwhelm us And the way is dark and drear. Brothers, sisters, then take courage For the night of rest draws near ! POEMS. 201 And when the burning sun goes down, The star of hope shall rise, And soon the morning's rosy tints Will brighten all the skies ; Then gladly work while yet you may. For soon shall come the rest When God shall call from earth away ; He doeth all things best. A PROPHECY. I LOOK with sad prophetic eyes into the future years, And for me, nothing there I see, but sighs and tears, A lonely, loveless life, with none to care Whatever my fate may be ; A wide and barren waste, whose arid plains I see Stretch out before me like a pall. O God, where shall I flee. 202 POEMS. IN MEMORY OF OUR DEAD SOLDIERS. Scatter the bright autunm leaves over their bed; Hang the immortelles above their head ; For we all must die, to be born again, Is the lesson that Nature teaches all men. We see it in every leaf and flower That fades away each day and hour ; It is only the outward form that we miss, The spirit awakens with the springtime kiss. And we know that our dear ones are like unto them. In the bright Home above we shall see them again, Where sickness and sorrow can never be found ; For the love of the Father sheds glory around. Then place the evergreen cross at their feet. The love of our Saviour is passing sweet. For love no greater than this can be, That gave up its life for you and me. POEMS. 203 Then mourn not for those who have passed away From this earthly life to immortal day ; We shall meet them again in heaven above, And dwell there forever in peace and love. Scatter the bright autumn leaves over their bed, And think of them living, and not as dead ; For in glory their angels behold the Face That is clothed in beauty and living grace. IN MEMORY OF MY FATHER. While sitting in the early gloom I turned my gaze abroad, And from the window of my room I saw the works of God. Far in the glowing western sky. Illumined by the sun, I saw a pictured city fair, — The new Jerusalem. And, as I gazed, the vision grew Until it seemed to me My father's spirit floated on. Untroubled, happy, free. 204 POEMS. His Saviour stood beside the gate, With tender, loving eyes And outstretched hands, to welcome home His soul to Paradise. Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Fair city of our God ! I know my father's soul is there, And not beneath the sod. Then to my weary, troubled heart. The aching void to fill. There came a whisper, soft and low, — My daughter. Peace be still. IN MBMOEIAM. Quickly passed the shade away. Brightened into glorious day, For he heard his Saviour's voice Saying, Happy soul, rejoice ; For thy pilgrimage is o'er, Enter thou at heaven's door. Enter thou, thrice blessed one. For thy work on earth is done. And thy Father needs thee here. Come quickly, son, and do not fear ; Soon thy loved ones, too, shall come. Gather here with thee at home. POEMS. 206 IN MEMORY OF OUR NATION'S MAR- TYR, JAMES A. GARFIELD. Bow down your heads, ye everlasting hills. And veil your gladness ; A mighty nation mourns its Chief In sadness. All honor to our glorious dead. Whose fate has thrilled all nations ; Sweet be his rest, though low his head. Disturb him not with lamentations. Weep with the wife whose stricken heart Is wrung with speechless sorrow ; But whisper, 'Tis not always dark, There is a glad to-morrow. Weep with his sons, and daughter fair, Who evermore must miss his love ; But bid them cast away despair. And look to Him who reigns above. 206 P0EM8. Weep with the aged mother, too : She mourns the son that's passed away ; Tell her this word is ever true, — There is a resurrection day. When all the dead in Christ shall rise To meet the glorious King of Light, Where heavenly anthems fill the skies, And there shall never more be night. OUR NATION'S HERO. U. S. GRANT. Sadly tolled the bells at morning. O'er our hero's drooping head, As along the streets the soldiers Bore our sainted dead. Softly lay him on his pillow In a quiet, endless rest ; Plant the fragile weeping willow O'er our soldier's breast. POEMS. ^^'^ SHERIDAN. Hail, Sheridan, brave Sheridan The battle is ended, the victory won. Upon thy calm and pallid brow The victor's crown is shining now. And though thy hands, in quiet rest, Are folded on thy pulseless breast. And closed the eagle eye in sleep. Above thy grave we will not weep ; But in our hearts thy name shall be Enshrined in loving memory. Hail, Sheridan, brave Sheridan ! A heavenly kingdom thou hast won. Where war and carnage never come ; Where angels wait, with harp in hand. To welcome home a soul so grand. In future years thy name shall be A watchword on to liberty ; And in our hearts shall live again The gallant leader, Sheridan. 208 POEMS. SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF TENIE. Sweet child of earth, thy pilgrimage is o'er ; For thee has opened wide the golden door ; Thy loving Saviour bade thee enter in, And stand with Him before the Eternal King. The solemn sentence passed upon thee, this : " Enter thou, beloved, into everlasting bliss ; Within the radiant mansions of the blest, Upon thy Saviour's bosom, find eternal rest." Though only eighteen years have passed, the cross, laid down. Upon thy fair young brow is placed the heavenly crown. May God, in tender mercy, cheer the aching hearts. That thy home-going pierced with sorrow's darts. May He send comfort to their desolated home, And may they learn to say, " Thy Will, not mine, be done." Three gems above them shining, three jewels rich and rare, To bind their hearts to God and heaven, and keep them there. POEMS. 209 MINNIE. " Not lost, but gone before." She is not dead, but sleeping : Thy Minnie, fair and sweet. Has entered into rest complete ; And round her lowly bed the angels bright A loving watch are keeping. She is not dead, but sleeping : Clasped in her Father's arms, Safe from the earth alarms ; While, in her lonely home, sad eyes Grow dim with bitter weeping. She is not dead, but sleeping : Look up, O stricken heart. Let sorrow quick depart ! Thy darling, for her faithful work, A rich reward is reaping. She is not dead, but sleeping ; Her life was pure and sweet. But quiet now the busy feet. Loved ones have welcomed Home your child, O parents ! cease your weeping. 210 rOEMS. JOSEPHINE. Through the gates of death ye shall enter into life everlasting. Slowly our dear one faded And passed from our sight away, Passed into the arms of her Saviour, Who bore her to endless day. No mother was near to lighten The hours of pain and grief ; But the young heart trusted meekly On One who could bring her relief. For the Father His child was watching With infinite pity and love, Watching, and waiting to take her Home to His mansions above. Weaker, still weaker, the footsteps, Fainter the laboring breath. For her the gates must be opened By the pitying angel of death. Strew flowers upon her last pillow, Above her you must not weep ; The words of the Father are spoken : He giveth His beloved sleep. Then place the frail casket gently Beneath the green sod to rest. The soul that He gave He has taken. She dwells in the Home of the blest. POEMS. 211 TO THE MEMORY OF JESSIE. Our dear young friend has left us. O whither has she gone ? The Saviour quickly answers — To join the immortal throng. There in her fair young beauty, Clothed in celestial white, She stands with myriad angels Before the Throne of Light, Chanting the Father's praises With voice so sweet and strong ; To mourn for her departure Would sinful be, and wrong ; For, safe within the vale. Her sufferings all are o'er, And in her fresh young girlhood She entered heaven's door. And on her darkened home, Made desolate and sad. The Father looks in pity, And bids their hearts be glad ; For, what has been their loss Is her eternal gain ; If they look to Him for comfort, They will not look in vain. 212 POEMS. Then take this promise gladly Into your lonely heart, — From those who seek His presence He never will depart ; But lead them gently through The night of dark despair Into the courts of heaven, And ever keep us there. GENEVRA. 'Tis many years since Neva died, My little one, my all ; 'Tis many, many lonely years. But still my heart doth call ! And yet, I know my child is safe Within her Shepherd's fold. That her short stay hath saved her ills My love could not withhold. I know that in my Father's Home Are many mansions fair. That in His pastures green she'll roam And cull the flowers rare. Yet oft in dreams I see her face, My precious little gem. All bright and shining, from her place In God's pure diadem. POEMS. 213 And though to distant lands I go And leave her grave behind, Her spirit is not there, I know, If I sought I could not find ; For He who from the cross has risen To seek His Father's side. Bade all souls follow, unto Him, Their faithful, loving guide. And though I know my little one Can never come to me, Yet 1 shall one day go to her ; Oh, let me patient be ; Then learn, my heart, to trust in Him. Ye must not, shall not grieve her. The time shall come when I shall see My own dear child, Genevra. SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF EMMA GORMAN. Oh eyes that were weary with long awaking ! Oh heart that beat quickly w4th pain I For thee a glorious light is breaking, The longing and waiting were not in vain. 214 POEMS. God hears thy prayer, thou soon shalt be sleeping, And resting after the heat of the day ; In heaven above receive a glad greeting : Thy Saviour is calling, oh hasten away. 'Tis over, and her glad spirit is winging Its way to the beautiful mansions of light. Where sorrow and death no dark shadows are bringing. And whose walls with His glory are bright. Over their loved one our friends are weeping. Do they not dream that heaven is near ? That where the angels their vigils are keep- ing, The Father has taken their Emma dear. Then mourn not for her whose life-work is ended, Whose spirit triumphant has entered that Home Where Heaven and earth together are blended, Where all of God's children shall finally come, POEMS. ^^^ IN MEMORIAM. Passed away beyond the shadows, Into heaven's glorious light. He hath heard the loving promise: There shall never more be night, But a day all bright and shining With the glory of the Son, Where no mortal, hence returning, Tells us of the victory won. So we leave him, safe reclining On a loving Saviour's breast. Friends, ye have no need for weeping He has found Eternal Rest. TO THE MEMORY OF EDDIE JOHN- SON. My heart is sad and lonely : Our baby boy has gone To live among the angels, And we are left alone. 216 POEMS. Empty stands his cradle ; No more his little head Shall press the downy pillow, Where he so often laid. No more our little prattler Shall make our hearts rejoice, Our ears shall listen vainly For the music of his voice. God took him home to heaven, Our tiny little gem, One more shining jewel To grace His diadem. He took our little Eddie To dwell with Him above ; A precious golden link, to bind Our hearts to Him in love. The angelic hosts are singing : Ye have not long to wait, Ere the guardian angels open For you the pearly gate. Then let us wait with patience Until that time shall come ; And learn to say triumphantly, O God, Thy will be done. POEMS. 217 LEANDER. Rest thou in peace : Thy life on earth is ended, Thy bark is moored on heaven's shore ; Thy voice with angels' voices blended, Makes music sweet Forever more. Rest thou in peace : Thine now are happy hours, Gone from thee, dread disease ; And thou hast found the little flowers Called by us mortals Sweet heart's-ease. Rest thou in peace : Thy sister met thee at the gate. And gave thee a glad welcome Home ; She went before, but had not long to wait Ere the dear Saviour Bade thee come. Rest thou in peace : The dear ones left in sadness. Whose hearts with grief are burdened sore, They shall be filled with joy and gladness. Shall meet thee soon To part no more. 218 POEMS. Rest thou in peace : The Saviour's arms are round thee ; The ills of earth shall trouble thee no more ; And though thy face we cannot see, Thy loving presence here shall be For evermore. SORROW. IN LOVING REMEMBEANCE, TO MY FRIENDS, MR. AND MRS. SAMUEL ELWELL, ON THE DEATH OF THEIR DAUGHTER, MRS. MARIA WHEELER. Slowly the earth scenes faded Away from the eyes of blue ; Dimmer, and dimmer the vision Of a fair young mother grew ; Sadly we watched our darling. For we knew she was going home ; Knew that the Saviour was calling. And that soon our dear one would be gone. CONSOLATION. Never fear, for her Saviour shall lead her. Though blind, your loved one shall see. For hath He not said to His children. Gome, lay all your burdens on Me ; POEMS. 219 I'll be feet for the lame and the weary, And eyes for all who are blind. The promise, how sweet and how cheery. Oh ! is He not gentle and kind. FAITH. Then trust in His word : He will send you A comfort most sweet to your heart : O seek for His presence, and never From you will the Saviour depart. Through the dark valley He'll lead you. Until you shall reach that fair Home, With the dear ones, gone before you. To rest in peace, never more to roam. SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF MY FRIEND, BETSY A. PARSONS. Many a day I've sat in sorrow Thinking of my heavy care. Fearing that the cross He gave me. Would be very hard to bear ; But His loving hand upheld me Through many a long and weary day ; Jesus ! it shall be my watchword, At His feet I'll kneel and pray. 220 POEMS. Never caring for the future, Trusting in His perfect love, Giving thanks unto my Father, Him who dwells in heaven above. Resting on His loving promise As I journey on my way; And His name shall be my watchword. At His feet I'll kneel and pray. Thus through all the weary waiting. Sorrow, grief, and cares to come, I'll be listening for His footstep, As He comes to lead me home ; Thus triumphantly I'll follow. Never doubting, in His way ; Keeping still my precious watchword, At His feet still kneel and pray. In the quiet of my chamber. As I calmly wend my way To the mansions of my Father, Through Eternity to stay. Gentle voices round me calling. Come, my sister, come away ! Clinging to my sacred watchword, At His feet I'll kneel and pray. P0E3IS. 221 DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF OUR LATE SISTER IN FAITH, HOPE, AND CHARITY, MRS. HAR- RIET G. MADDIX. The summons came at early morn. Another soul in heaven was born. Another home bereft ; Loving hands lift up the helpless head. Loving hearts mourn for their sacred dead, Whose hands so quick and deft Had ever ministered to their needs ; Whose life was full of kindly deeds And tender sympathy. O God, we give unto Thy care The orphan children weeping there, Oh draw them near to Thee. And he, whose home is empty now, We pray Thee, Father, teach him how To lift his heart above. Where hope shines bright in Heaven's light, Where all is day, where is no night. Where all is light and love. And we who, from our Templars' band. Shall miss our sister's helping hand And cheerful voice, 222 POEMS. We surely know that she is there, Where comes no sorrow, grief, or care; Then mourn not, but rejoice To know that she is free from pain, That earthly loss is heavenly gain In one more soul immortal ; For one who was with us at night, In early Sabbath morning light Had entered heaven's portal. IN MEMORY OF SISTER MARY E. CROCKETT. Once again the angel Gabriel raised his sword above his head, Slowly it descended, and a sister dear was numbered with the dead; One whose presence ever cheered us, one whose face we loved to see. One who with us in the lodge-room ever loved to be. One who ever walked in meekness, turning always to the right. Looking to Jesus for that comfort which makes the heart grow light; POEMS. 223 Asking guidance of her Father to keep her from the wrong, One whose voice was raised to praise Him in her daily song. She has passed beyond the portal of that bright and glorious land, Where our sister stands in waiting to take her by the hand ; In the presence of her Saviour, evermore to dwell in love, She is watching o'er her loved ones from her home above. Answered now the simple question, Who shall be the first to greet; Who shall be the first to leave us, in that temple fair to meet With the loved and faithful sisters, who have only gone before. Who have tasted heaven's pleasures, who would come back nevermore. Sacred be thy memory, sisters, tender be the thought we give To the dear ones left behind thee : Inay they ever, ever strive 224 POEMS. So to shed their light about them, that the path may grow more bright Unto many who have wandered from the pathway of the right. Thus the way shall be made easy, and the hope of meeting thee Shall bring peace and comfort to them, and they once more happy be ; This the work the Father gives us, when our hearts are filled with grief : Bearing burdens for each other, brings unto us sweet relief. When above in heavenly mansions we shall meet with thee at last ; When the Templars' work is finished, and our earthly life is past ; When we shall in time be gathered in that calm and sure retreat. Sister shall with sister, greeting, ever hold communion sweet. Rest thee, sister, from thy labor ; thou wert ever faithful here, And the sweet forget-me-nots shall keep thy memory dear ; POEMS. 225 Back to us, we would not call thee, for the glories of the throne Shine for thee in lustrous brightness ; thou hast found thy Father's Home. With the Grand Good Templar dwelling, in the bonds of holy love, Glorious anthems ever singing with the angelic hosts above ; While we, here, in patience waiting for the coming of the Son, In our hearts the lesson learning, — Father dear, Thy will be done. IN MEMORIAM. PRAYER. Tears dim mine eyes, I cannot see. The cross lies heavy on my heart, O Son of Calvary ! Help me to lay my burden down ; Help me, O Saviour dear, to wear The thorny crown. Help me to say, Thy will be done, Whate'er shall come to me ; Thou Holy One ! 226 P0E3IS. Help me to bear the grief and pain, Make all things here below To be my gain. ANSWER. Weep thou no more. Thy absent son, Life's weary, fitful fever o'er, A crown has won. Meekly on earth the cross he bore. The angels called : he is not lost. But gone before. Come, lay your sorrows at my feet, I'll give unto your longing soul A rest complete ; My yoke it is easy, my burden is light, I'll turn into a glorious day The darkest night. IN MEMORIAM. MARTHA SMITH WATTS. Our aged pilgrim's work is done. She faltered by the way : God took her up, she dwells with Him In never-ending day. P0EM8. 227 For her,, tlie Sun of righteousness Rose clad in glory bright ; As earth with all its varied scenes Passed from her fading sight. She labored in His vineyard long, Her faith her only wealth ; Many there are whom she sustained In sickness and in health. Fold the pale hands and close the eyes ; The spirit, flown away. Looks back in pity on the poor Frail tenement of clay. Sleep, aged friend, thy crown is won ; Earth hath no charm for thee ; Heaven's glories now on thee do shine, And time no more shall be. United there in bonds of love, With dear ones gone before ; The angels sing for joy above, We weep for thee no more. 228 POEMS. DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF DEACON THEODORE LANE, Who was for many years a faithful member of Fraternity Lodge, No. 35, J. 0. of G. T. Rest in peace, thy work is done, Life's battle o'er, the victory won. Fold thine aged hands across thy breast, Beneath the waving grass in quiet rest. Thou art not there ! Thy spirit fled To dwell with God. Thou art not dead ! He giveth His beloved sleep, oh happy soul ! Who should weep, when thou hast won the goal? Hath He not said in accents sweet, " Oh, troubled heart, be still ; Bow down before My chastening rod, obey My will"? 'Tis true that we shall miss thee From thine accustomed place, Shall look in vain, day after day. To see thy pleasant face ; Within our hearts we know our loss Is thy eternal gain. And though we look and long. And longing look in vain. P0E3IS. 229 We know the time is coming Wken we shall meet at home, In mansions builded not with hands, With wood or costly stone ; — Not here, among earth's foreign lands, Not weary and alone, But where life's fountain ever flows. Where fadeless flowers bloom ; Where our dear Saviour, when He rose. Said unto us, " There's room For all who labor in My Name, Who strive My work to do, Who live in love and peace with all, Who are faithful, tried and true." And thy dear life-companion. Who has travelled at thy side For more than fifty years of sorrows, joys, and woe. May God's sweet spirit with her evermore abide And comfort her when tears of sorrow flow. May she look up to heaven, and see the rain-. bow bright. Which shineth forth amid the clouds with wondrous light, A promise of unchanging love, to all God's children here, 230 POEMS. Which bids us give that perfect love which casteth out all fear ; And through the vreary hours, which she must pass alone, That love shall be her staff and stay, till God shall call her home. FLOSSIE. 'TwAS only a baby blossom, So sweet, so fair, so dear : God called her home to Him in heaven. Sadly we miss her here. 'Twas only lent to us, you know, Just for a little time, But oh, the tendrils of its love Close round our hearts did twine. Her sweet blue eyes and golden hair, Her loving little heart. Made her, to us, divinely fair. And made it hard to part. But in the garden of our Lord, Our flower blooms anew, POEMS. 231 'Tis promised in His holy word ; We know that this is true : Suffer the little ones to come unto Me, And forbid them not, For of such is the Kingdom of Heaven. IN MEMORIAM. MELISSA. Calmly now our dear one's resting, Life's weary, fitful fever o'er. In our hearts we sadly miss her, Yet she's only gone before ; Gone before us, there to greet us. When we hear the Father's voice Bid us drop our heavy burdens, In His presence to rejoice. Calmly resting in His bosom, Chanting praises all the day, Watching o'er her little darlings, Guarding well their earthly way ; Softly praying that their footsteps May be gently led aright. That they early find that wisdom That makes our lives so bright. 232 FOEMS. By her bedside we were weeping, When the solemn summons came ; Sweetly smiled she when her Saviour Called her by her name : " Come, my daughter, come up higher, Leave behind thee all thy care. In the mansions of the Father, Purest robes of white to wear." This the wish her lips expressing : . That a sister dear might go With her, to enjoy the blessings Which the Father doth bestow On the children whom He calleth Up above, to dwell with Him, In His presence ever living. Far away from care and sin. In His gracious love believing, Bid we now a last good-by. Till at last our names He's calling, Till we lay us down to die ; And our hearts, no more repining, Filled with holy love and light, See the Son, forever shining, Where there never shall be night. POEMS, 233 THEN. A LITTLE maid so fresh and fair, With bonny curls of golden hair, With rosy cheeks and lips so sweet, — Our life, with her, seemed all complete. Death loves a shining mark, I know, Yet I did not think my child could go. But she passed on to heaven above. Our child is safe, and God is love. NOW. An angel bright looks down from heaven, To whom a crown of ^gold was given ; Her loving, watchful eye I cannot see : That angel bright belongs to me. I look and long with aching heart, Hoping to see the dark clouds part, God knoweth best. He called her home. That we might say, " Thy will be done." 234 POEMS. IN MEMORY OF MRS. SARAH D. BECKFORD. He giveth His beloved sleep. And angels bright shall ever keep Her ransomed soul through countless Ages rolling on ; Her body lies beneath the sod ; Her soul ascended to its God In triumph, to chant His praises With the Immortal throng. Her pale hands folded on her breast Bespeak a sweet and dreamless rest From earthly cares ; of labor ended, Of heavenly mansion won ; The tliin soft threads of silver hair, The beauteous crown that age doth wear. Low, drooping 'gainst the calm, pale brow And withered cheek. Give to our dear friend's face a look. Saintly and meek. Her earthly work is done, the cross laid down. The bright crown won. For her, dear friends, we will not weep. He giveth His beloved sleep. POEMS. 235 DEDICATED TO OUR LOST FISHER- MEN. O God ! in bitter anguish We cry to Thee aloud. Our loved ones have gone from us, The ocean is their shroud. The cold waves dashing o'er them, Above each quiet breast. Shall sing for them a requiem,— They lulled them to their rest. And nevermore their faces. So full of loving care. Are seen in their home places. Where are they, tell us where ? A tender voice is breaking The stillness of the earth : In heaven they are awaking, — It is the second birth. God called them through the tempest, " Come home to Me, dear ones." They are living now among the blest, - God's holy will be done. 236 POEMS. Oh friends, whose hearts are waiting For those w^ho will not come, For them the light is breaking. Say thou, " Thy will be done." For unto you, His children, You who in anguish cry. He consolation giveth, He bids you all draw nigh Unto the Wells of Righteousness, Unto the Fount of Peace. Your saddened life with love He'll bless ; Your aching hearts He'll ease. Look upward, weary mourner, Look upward, cease your cry. Your loved ones are in heaven, They dwell with God on high. IN MEMORIAM. One by one our children vanished, One by one they passed away. One by one in sickness languished, — Could we wish them here to stay ? POEMS. 237 One by one the Saviour took them In His gentle loving arms, Took them home to Him, in heaven They are safe from earth's alarms. Sweet and tender little baby ! Mother's little comforter ! When you closed your laughing eyes. Aching heart was left for her. Then our precious little Susie Listened to the Saviour's call ; Followed after darling baby : Grief and sadness now for all. Then he called our noble Georgie, Father's pride and mother's joy. Come, my son, your Father needs you,- And He took our precious boy. Oh my God ! our hearts are bleeding, Send to us Thy precious balm ; Thou alone canst heal and soothe them. Hold us with Thy strong right arm. May we learn to bow in meekness, Learn to know and do Thy will. Strive to hear the voice that cheers us Bid our yearning hearts be still. 238 POEMS. For our darling children, dwelling In the circle of Thy love, Are with happy voices blending In the songs of praise above. Left to us four loving children. And we clasp them in our arms, Praying, Father, in Thy mercy, Keep our little ones from harm ! IN MEMORY OF MY SISTER, MARY S. HINCKLEY. O Father, hear our prayer ! Send consolation to the heart Of him whose darling lieth there So motionless and still. Our eyes with tears of sorrow fill As we gaze on her placid face: Oh ! who can take that dear wife's place Within her lonely home. The aged mother waiting there. So sad and lone. Will miss her daughter's care ; And he, whose light in life has fled. Whose heart is filled with grief. Must look to God ; he shall be led Where he can find relief ; POEMS. 239 To the Throne of Grace his prayer shall rise In this his hour of need, And He who hears His children's cries Will prove a Friend indeed. Will send a comforter to earth, With healing in her wing, To tell him of an angel's birth, To peace and comfort bring. For time doth soften every ill, And memory, fond and true. Doth weave a garland, fair and sweet, Whose flowers bloom anew, Whene'er we linger with our dead, As we are wont to do. Then, Father, hear our prayer ! May we who weep and sigh in vain To see our loved and lost again, Remember she is There. Beside the waters still and deep, Thy loving arms doth safely keep And guard her from all harm ; And though she may not come to us To cheer our hearts again. We shall at last go home to her. Blessed be Thy holy name ! 240 POEMS. IN MEMORY OF MARY, WIFE OF ALBERT OBER. Sadly we miss the gentle grace Of her tender smile, and her pure pale face ; Sadly we miss the gentle sound Of her little feet, as she walked around ; Those feet have entered the pearly gate, And we are left here alone to wait. Sadly we miss the tender love-light That shone in her eyes, once flashing and bright. Sadly we miss the tender care That filled our home, when she was there ; But now she dwells in a beautiful home, Where she is waiting for us to come. For us the sorrow, for her the joy. Earth's troubles and cares no more annoy ; By the side of her heavenly Father she stands And views the glories of the beautiful land ; For us our dear ones patiently wait. Till we, too, shall enter the pearly gate. POEMS. 241 TO THE AMERICAN SONGSTRESS, EMMA ABBOTT WETHERELL (EMMA ABBOTT). Hushed was the voice of the nightingale, When they told her the loved one was gone ; That nevermore would he listen, enraptured With the music of her glorious song. That nevermore would his tender tones utter Fond words of endearment and love ! That the voice of the Father had called him To dwell in His bright home above. Ah ! what though the sad heart is breaking, And the world looks empty and drear. The people are anxiously waiting The voice of their song-bird to hear ; So, with heart filled with bitterest anguish. She leaves her one treasure asleep. And goes forth on her long, lonely journey With scarcely the power to weep. O Father in heaven ! be with her. And keep her with tenderest care, Until she shall meet with her loved one In Thy heavenly mansion so fair. In this night of her anguish and sorrow, To Thy dear loving arms may she flee May the voice of the songstress rise upward In praises divine unto Thee. 242 POEMS. THE MOTHER'S VISION. Weep not ! I stood amazed ; Bewildered, round my room I gazed ; Weep not ! a soft voice spake to me, Yet none was there, that I could see ; Oh, weep thou not ! again it said, And seemed to come from overhead ! Upward I turned my weeping eyes And lo ! a thin, soft veil enveloped all the skies. Again the voice came down to me From one whose form I could not see : Why weepest thou? Thy daughter died to rise ; She only slept, to wake again in Paradise ! Tears such as thine cause grief and pain Unto the angel child, who to us came To lead thy wayward spirit home. Behind the veil thy daughter stands With eyes bent earthward, and, with hands Soft folded in a blessing on thy head, Is pleading to thy saddened heart. Dear mother, choose, I pray, the better part, And weep no more, dear one, for me ; No more earth's joys can ever be A pleasure to my ransomed soul. POEMS. 243 Then dry thy tears, and patient wait, Till opes for thee the pearly gate. The mother woke, a peaceful calm Fell on her sorrowing heart like balm ; Fell like a blessing all around. The troubled soul with peace was crowned. BABY SLEEPS. Dedicated to Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Pelton. A SILENCE round the household creeps. A little baby form we miss, A tender, loving, clinging kiss. Our baby sleeps. The mother turns aside and weeps. The little cradle empty stands. No more to rock by loving hands, For baby sleeps. Dear parents ! smile and do not weep. In the celestial home above. Safe sheltered in the arms of love Your baby sleeps. It is not death, 'tis only sleep. A welcome for each one doth wait Within the shining pearly gate. When we shall sleep. 244 POEMS. Let peace into the household creep, For angels tend their baby guest Till you shall lay you down to rest And fall asleep. DEDICATED TO MR. AND MRS. WILLIAM W. DAY, On the death of their little ones, Ahhie Josephine and Izzetta Warner, who died within ten minutes of each other and were buried in one coffin. They went forth together, they are not alone, A sister's hand guided the little one home ; Together they roam through the mansions above, Together sing praises to the Saviour of love. Dear Abbie, sweet Etta, your sufferings are o'er ; You have knocked and have entered at heaven's door. The Saviour is shielding you both with His arm. Henceforth and forever you are safe from all harm. Feb. Uth, 1864. POEMS. 245 AUGUSTA. '• We walk by faith and not by sight." Beloved, let us walk together Far from the haunts of men. I listened for the answer, — I heard a low amen. I saw the life-light fading From my darling's starry eyes. And from my sadly burdened heart There came such bitter sighs ! And I stood lost and helpless. As she slowly passed away Beyond the reach of earthly care. As she faded day by day. As with a sweet submission, Born of a purer love, She waited for the summons In Paradise to rove. Into her heart there came no fear Her pleasure to alloy. She watched the angel drawing near, In rapture, and with joy. For her. Death had no terror ; Her head would soon recline Upon her Saviour's bosom ; And soon His face divine 246 POEMS. Would bend above her pillow, And cheer the lonely way That leads from earth to heaven, To realms of endless day. For her, the joy and gladness. For her, the peace and rest ; For us, the grief and sadness ; But our Father knoweth best! He saw the patient suffering With which she bore the pain ; He knew that our earthly loss Was her eternal gain. And so He sent His angel To bear her home to Him ; And gave to her the glorious crown That all must die to win. We miss her, ah ! we miss her. But oh ! we cannot mourn. Although we know that nevermore To us will she return. We know that we shall go to her ; Our Father wills it so ! When ended is life's journey, The mystery we shall know ; Shall know why mortals are permitted To suffer grief and pain ; POEMS. 247 Stand face to face with Jesus, The Lamb for sinners slain ; Shall chant the Father's praises With never-failing breath ; Shall win a glorious victory Over the angel, Death I 248 POEMS. ACROSTICS. Methinks a name you'll quickly see, And with me here you will agree : Riches is a goodly thing If it doth not take its wing And fly away. Just and honest strive to be, Do not from your neighbor flee. Or e'er neglect your duty. Do not scorn to help the poor, Give, and you shall have the more ; Ever gain in beauty. Give, and you shall win a blessing. Love and prayers in words caressing. Over every kindly deed. Un forgotten you shall be. Children's hearts shall ever bless thee, Ever to thy words give heed. So shall you learn to find the way To the realms of endless day. Ever sowing seeds of kindness. Reaping whate'er ye need. Manifold thy wealth increasing. And thy happiness unceasing; Song of angels swell the strain. Such shall be your heavenly gain. POEMS. 249 Look upward, when the shadows fall On thee, to Him who died for all ; In Him to trust forevermore. So find the way to heaven's shore. Pardon for all your faults He'll give. And comforts all who for Him live ; Regards alike both rich and poor. So that we ask, He gives the more ; Oh may your life be full of cheer, Nor grief nor sorrow enter there ; Sincerely live, you need not fear. Martha has gone ! God called her name A few short weeks ago ; Redeemed from suffering and pain The soul rejoiced to go. Hallelujah ! Christ is gain. And heaven begins below. Well done, thou child of earth. He cried, A loving greeting find. Trusting in Me, though sorely tried. Thy name, in the Book of Life, is signed. Serenely rest, not one hast thou left behind. 250 POEMS. Listen ! 'tis a voice from heaven ! I am with you, mother dear ; Let your heart be free from sorrow, Lillie's spirit lingers near ; In the reahns of endless glory Angels sing the old sweet story : Naught can harm me, do not fear. Give to me the blest assurance, Even this I ask of you, Reverence my Lord and Master, Trust in Him, e'en as I do ! Rich is He in loving blessings, Unto all. He'll freely give. Daily from His hand He scatters Every good to help us live. Sorrow not, for I am happy. Holy is my God and King, All the world is His forever. Welcome home, the angels sing. P0EM8. 251 Ever remember that right is might ; Do all you can to help on the right ; Don't let temptation lead you astray, It is in your power to choose the right way, Ever to walk in the light. Conquer every evil foe. Live uprightly as you go. It will ever comfort you. For the Father's words are true : Trust in Me My work to do ; Or, if trouble comes to thee, Never fear, but lean on Me. My hand your footsteps e'er shall guide. Come, and in My love confide. Life is not an empty dream. Easy, careless, though it seem. All my work I leave to thee. Never fail, but follow Me. 252 POEMS. Glad hopes in the heart upspringing, Ever joy and pleasure bringing ; Oft I've seen the merry boys Romping with their childish toys, Gayly through the summer hours, Even in the leafy bowers. Have you ever seen such rogues, And heard them mock old Ireland's bro- gues? Really it is splendid fun, Romping when the work is done. I have seen them many a time. So have you, oh sister mine. Merry, happy, full of glee. Careless, jolly as can be ; Like two crazy little loons, Eddie, Georgie, roguish coons. Ah, my boys, to banish woe. Never in the wrong way go. POEMS. 253 There is a city fair to see, High built on rock and grassy lea, Encircled by the ocean. Contented there my lot is cast, In spite of storm and wintry blast. There all my loved ones dwell in peace, Youth, innocence, and feebleness. Oft have I wandered 'mong its hills. Forgetting not its brooks and rills. Gliding smoothly on the ocean, Look, its namesake you may see. O'er the waves with easy motion. Undaunted by a stormy sea ; Come, all who love a breezy sail. Ere the summer days are flown. Sit you by the steamer's rail. There's a pleasure all unknown, Except to those who love to be Rocking on the restless sea. 254 FOEMS. Millions have knelt at Jesus' feet And found in Him a rest complete ; Redeemed from bitterness and sin, Thus shall we all a victory win. Heaven's glories shine upon each heart, And bid us choose the better part. Grace is a sweet, melodious sound. Repeat the strain, it will rebound And fill our hearts with joy ; Come, take His hand and follow on. E'en till we change the Cross for Crown. Rest, perfect rest. He gives to all. Endure, and listen for His call ; Yours is a life in Him complete. Naught can destroy your sure retreat. Oh, may you ever find on earth Love, peace, and comfort without dearth Delights to crown your future years. Secure in Christ, ye have no fears. POEMS. 255 Rose, when you read this foolish letter, Only remember this, you know me better ; Such things I write, but only for fun, Evil there is not, but just a poor pun. Brooks flow adown the sidewalks now. Refreshing thought, you will allow. Oh dear, to church I have not been. Only up town, I can hardly tell when. Kept in by the snow, the ice, and the rain, Such is my fate, again and again. Parsons there are in plenty here, And not one of them does your servant fear ; Right makes might in spite of them all, So, if I can't get to church, some of them might call. Or if they come not, is it not quite right Not to go out on a stormy night ? So Rose, my dear friend, I hope you'll soon write. Your friend, M. J. D. 256 POEMS. Daily was heard his voice in prayer Arising from this world of care ; Vain and delusive snares were spread In the narrow path that heavenward led ; David conquered, — his soul from earth has fled. Welcomed by Christ, his work is done. And the march of progression has begun. There, singing psalms and praises sweet. The redeemed life is now complete, — Saved, purified in that blessed retreat. THE END. CUPPLES & HURD, THE ALGONQUIN PRESS, BOSTON. LIST OF SUBSCRIBERS. GLOUCESTER, MASS. Mr. Charles Anderson. Mrs. Eunice S. Andrews. " Lizzie Anderson. Mr. Clarence E. Brown. " Edward O. Brown. Miss Lucy P. Burnham. '* Mary B. Burgess. Mr. Charles W. Brown. Mrs. Abbie A. Burgess. Miss Mary E. Bride. Mr. Samuel W. Brown. Mrs. Mary E. Butler. " Frank Burnham. " Josie D. Burnham. Mr. John W. Black. " Edward K. Burnham. Mrs. Susan E. Bradstreet. Mr. Leonard A. Burn- ham. Miss Annie Burnham. Mrs. Mary Boylson. " Ella M. Brown. '* Aria E. Cressey. Mr. Benjamin H. Corliss. Mrs. Eliza J. Cross. " Lucy B. Carleton. Miss Katie Crawley. '• Hannah Center. Mrs. Mary E. Cunning- ham. Miss Genevieve Cook. Mrs. Addison Center. " Ellen Colson. " Mattie A. Crowe. Mr. Stephen L. Dodge. '< Leonard A. 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Emery, Lanesville, Mass. Mr. Nathaniel N. Frost, Boston, Mass. Miss Jessie Forsyth, Boston, Mass. Mr. Louis E. Gaillar, Chelsea, Mass. Mr. Marion Grimes, Brooklyn, N.Y. Mrs. Willard K. Hobbs, Salem, Mass. Mr. Frederick P. Hincklej', Newburyport, Mass. Mrs. Georgianna Harford, Georgetown, Me. Mrs. Joseph Hale, Stockton, Cal. Mr. Lewis Horton, Boston, Mass. Capt. A. H. Josselyn, East Boston, Mass. Mr. Frank I. Jefferson, Grand Councillor, Boston, Mass. Mrs. Sarah A. Leonard, Grand Sec'y, Boston, Mass. LI8T OF SUBSCBIBEBS. 261 Mr. William Leonard, Salem, Mass. Mr. Charles A. Langmaid, Lanesville, Mass. Mr. Lemuel Lane, Saccarappa, Me. Mr. Edward S. Merchant, agent B. & G. Steamboat Line, Boston, Mass. Mr. Anthony Nelson, Essex, Mass. Capt. Albert Ober, Beverly, Mass. Mr. Thomas P. Oliver, Georgetown, Me. Mr. Warren P. Oliver, Chelsea, Mass. Miss Ellen R. Richardson, Boston, Mass. Mr. Charles A. Read, Manchester, Mass. Mr. Thomas H. Rowley, Lanesville, Mass. 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