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Odes &' 
 
 Odd fQoments 
 
 i^^ 
 
 By 
 Elizabeth Owen 
 
 ■ 
 
Odes ^ 
 
 Odd fDoments 
 
 Br 
 
 Klizabeth Owen 
 

 To any and all who read and 
 find upon its pages something 
 of value, something that means 
 pleasure or profit, amusement 
 or instruction, do I entrust and 
 dedicate this little volume; glad 
 of its acceptance; grateful for 
 the patronage; appreciative of 
 the indulgence. 
 
 E. O. 
 
 Copyriffht, 1922. 
 
 ©CI.A659181 
 
 MAR 17 im 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 INTRODUCTION. 
 
 If any little word I say 
 
 Can benefit the reader, 
 I'll speak it readily and frank, 
 
 Like seed, abroad I'll scatter. 
 
 If any little thought I have 
 
 Can somehow help another, 
 
 I'll give it freely to the world. 
 Its message thus I'll offer. 
 
 If any little wish I make 
 
 Can comfort those who suffer, 
 I'll make it known in accents clear 
 
 And banish doubt forever. 
 
 If any little act I do 
 
 Can lead to something better. 
 On yonder height I'll fix my goal 
 
 And strive to reach it ever. 
 
 If any little good is found 
 
 Herein, by those who ponder, 
 
 I'll dedicate this volume through 
 To those who follow after. 
 
 If I have said, or thought, or done. 
 That which I should not utter, 
 
 I ask forbearance kindly shown 
 
 Alike from friend and stranger. 
 
 BUY A BOOK. 
 
 If you want to have a friend 
 Whom you never can offend, 
 Though you ruthless cast aside 
 And on others set your pride — 
 
 Buy a book. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 If a pal you'd like to know 
 Who'll contented with you go — 
 Never murmurs or complains 
 When it snows or if it rains — 
 
 Buy a book. 
 
 If a chum you'd like to find 
 That'll refresh your views and mind, 
 Adding to your strength and power, 
 Cheer you in a lonesome hour — 
 
 Buy a book. 
 
 If some good you'd like to do. 
 Something that will count for two, 
 And some help you'd like to give 
 To a struggling soul to live — 
 
 Buy my book. 
 
 UNSELFISH AND TRUE. 
 
 It's good to be famous in culture and art. 
 To form of the world a conspicuous part. 
 But far better than honors, I think, don't you? 
 Is just to be modest, unselfish and true. 
 
 It's fine to be counted among the select, 
 Our names on the list of four-hundred elect. 
 And well to be gifted with flowery speech. 
 Stand firm on the heights where the few only reach. 
 
 It is pleasant to lead an indolent life, 
 So care-free and heedless of struggle or strife. 
 And noble to prosper and win fortune's smile. 
 Our aims and ambitions succeeding the while. 
 
 All these and much more claim attention and thought. 
 And reek with delusions, so cunningly wrought, 
 But fail in supplying the need of the soul 
 Or render assistance in reaching the goal. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Let naught but the standard of duty and right 
 Appeal for defense to your reason and might; 
 No better than that would I want, or would you, 
 For that's surely modest, unselfish and true. 
 
 THE RAINBOW ROUND THE THRONE." 
 
 When threatening clouds betoken 
 
 A near impending gale; 
 When courage aimost falters. 
 
 And doubts and fears assail; 
 With awe, yet firm decision. 
 
 Faith seeks and grasps its own, 
 And sees beyond the tempest 
 
 The rainbow round the throne. 
 
 When earth is in a turmoil. 
 
 Unrest seems to enslave. 
 Revolt and revolution 
 
 Rocks like a surging wave ; 
 Amid the dire forebodings 
 
 Though doomed to stand alone, 
 Hope sees beyond the tumult 
 
 The rainbow round the throne. 
 
 When pain and weight of sorrow 
 
 Has tried the very soul. 
 Impenetrable darkness 
 
 That permeates the whole; 
 With keen anticipation 
 
 Through rifts, where light still shone. 
 Love sees beyond the sufif'ring 
 
 The rainbow round the throne. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 IT ISNT EASY. 
 
 It isn't easy, but it pays 
 
 To climb the mountain high, 
 
 A clearer vision, wider range 
 Greets the observing eye. 
 
 It isn't easy, but it pays 
 
 To smile in face of scorn, 
 
 Conceal the grief within your heart 
 And hide the suff'ring borne. 
 
 It isn't easy, but it pays 
 
 To crush the bitter thought, 
 
 Forget the little petty ills. 
 
 The sting, and hurt they brought. 
 
 It isn't easy, but it pays 
 
 The wrong you've done, admit, 
 Confess the fault, and openly 
 
 Apologize a bit. 
 
 It isn't easy, but it pays 
 
 When all life's work is done. 
 To have recorded with your name 
 A finished race, well run. 
 
 TD RATHER BE RIGHT. 
 
 It is pleasant to own a vast estate 
 
 Without fear of want or of frowning fate, 
 
 But revel in luxury, day and night ; 
 
 Oh ! I'd like to be wealthy, but I'd rather be right. 
 
 It's fine to possess a superior mind, 
 
 Quick in discerning both value and kind. 
 
 Correct in its judgment, keen in its sight ; 
 
 Oh I I'd like to be brilliant, but I'd rather be right. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 It's good to be known as you go along 
 
 And greeted with cheers by the passing throng, 
 
 Your influence helpful, like rays of light;. 
 
 Oh ! I'd like to be famous, but I'd rather be right. 
 
 It is grand to wisely counsel, and teach, 
 
 To sway the masses by eloquent speech. 
 
 And utter the thoughts that cheer and delight ; 
 
 Oh ! I'd like to be gifted, but I'd rather be right. 
 
 It is great to be loved by all you know, 
 Commanding respect, wherever you go. 
 Acknowledged a leader of power and might ; 
 Oh ! I like to be honored, but I'd rather be right. 
 
 FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF A NOTED 
 CHURCH. 
 
 Oh ! who can sum the total 
 
 Of service rendered here. 
 Tell of the souls uplifted 
 
 And strengthened by its cheer; 
 Who can produce a record 
 
 Of every noble deed. 
 Of every time that succor 
 
 Went out to human need — 
 
 In fifty years. 
 
 Who can describe the courage 
 
 Its members have displayed, 
 The ceaseless watching, praying, 
 
 And working undismayed ; 
 Tell of the depth of purpose. 
 
 The truth for which it stood, 
 Enumerate the blessings 
 
 Or estimate the good — 
 
 In fifty years. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Who can depict the shadows 
 
 That sometimes blurred the way — 
 Explain the faith that centered 
 
 In hope for better day, 
 The hope that bore its fruitage 
 
 Unyielding to maintain, 
 And by its zeal and effort 
 
 That greater life attain — 
 
 In fifty years. 
 
 Who can surmise the power 
 
 That from its portals went, 
 The influence it carried 
 
 Or measure its extent; 
 Tell of the lives that triumphed 
 
 Beyond our vision gone. 
 The nameless, countless heroes 
 
 That still go on and on — 
 
 In fifty years. 
 
 Yet somewhere in God's volume 
 
 The record doth appear 
 Of life's unfailing conquests 
 
 That crowned each passing year, 
 And some time in the distance 
 
 With hidden things made known, 
 We'll realize more fully 
 
 His care for all His own — 
 
 Through fifty years. 
 
 ON THE MOUNTAIN TOP. 
 
 Would you choose to live secure from harm, 
 Within a cave, where nothing can harm, 
 Apart from a world so full of mirth 
 With clear blue sky and beautiful earth ; 
 Where music of birds can never reach. 
 
Odes of Odd Moment 
 
 And fields and flowers no lesson teach, 
 Where the morning dawn and sunset glow 
 Are things so vague, you never can know? 
 
 Would you be content without the light. 
 Demurely sit enjoying the night, 
 Happy in selfishness there to dwell 
 Your life secluded within a shell ; 
 Do you seek a cave and then declare 
 There's nothing worth getting anywhere, 
 Effort and beauty and hope are vain, 
 Nothing of value, naught to attain ? 
 
 Do you live for self, and wonder why 
 
 You see the evil in passing by? 
 
 Does the world seem wrong, fraught with despair 
 
 And sin apparent everywhere? 
 
 Then pause, and question, do I abide 
 
 Where truth and justice are wont to guide? 
 
 Have I faith in God and trust in man 
 
 Doing the very best that I can? 
 
 No soul so hopeless, dwarf'd and unstaid, 
 As that whose basis on self is laid. 
 To such a being the world is dark 
 And life in its worth a question-mark; 
 Harboring thoughts and visions of gloom 
 Constantly weaving impending doom, 
 Would you shun these ills? Then you must gain 
 In some way, some where a higher plain. 
 
 Is there a burden crushing your head 
 Threatening clouds you anxiously dread; 
 Somewhere a shadow lurks in the way, 
 Sometimes a doubt, a fear or dismay; 
 Is there a cross too heavy to bear. 
 Some secret sorrow no one can share. 
 
10 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Some hidden cave, where oft you retreat, 
 Pondering over trials you meet. 
 
 Sad heart, would'st thou hear a sweeter strain, 
 And clearer, better vision obtain. 
 Then rise and follow the beck'ning light 
 With steadfast purpose, scaling the height, 
 Nor faint till you reach yon sunlit crest 
 And over beyond the hill-slopes rest. 
 There you can see as never before 
 The faith of a child restored once more. 
 
 Then climb, yes climb to the mountain top, 
 Weary and struggling, but never stop 
 Till yonder summit at last you greet; 
 The mists of Earth beneath your feet. 
 So high you can touch the peerless blue. 
 No blighting shadows twixt heav'n and you. 
 On that height sublime, nothing to fear 
 Triumphantly stand, for God is near. 
 
 TO A COLLEGE GRADUATE. 
 
 May the joy of this day continue 
 
 Till you reach the twilight of life, 
 Your hopes and ambitions prove real 
 
 With fruitage abundant and rife; 
 As you journey along may heaven 
 
 Its choicest of blessings bestow, 
 Making richer the world for having 
 
 Your influence felt as you go. 
 
 Set high your ideal of living, 
 And no, never a duty shirk. 
 
 For always the height of achievement 
 Is gained by strenuous work; 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 11 
 
 In sunshine and shadow, may courage 
 And constancy govern within; 
 
 Success is the victor's triumph, 
 
 The plucky, not lucky, who win. 
 
 AMERICA. 
 
 Must we believe in our country so fair 
 There is grasping and grafting e-s^erywhere, 
 That greed in its power is trying to crush 
 The weak and the helpless, and they say hush — 
 I am the one that's licensed to talk — 
 Before such a king you silently walk. 
 
 In palace and hovel throughout our land 
 The high and the lowly, one law demand. 
 The rich and the poor must that law obey 
 For state and nation are under survey. 
 Hence do everything in the light of day 
 In a noble, manly, and upright way. 
 
 In public or private, don't try to steal. 
 Concealing the fact and acting genteel ; 
 Don't cover with velvet the ugly claw 
 Or hide with a smile the craving maw; 
 Don't soothe with lotions the poisonous sore 
 Or varnish and polish the rotten core. 
 
 Don't wait for instructions, or try to shirk. 
 For just where you are, is the place to work ; 
 Corruption, no matter where it is found, 
 Has always a loathesome, ungainly sound ; 
 Then quickly "get busy" and renovate. 
 Root out the evil, from city and state. 
 
 Get honor and fame, get wealth with your might. 
 Get all that's worth getting, but get it right ; 
 In the battle for good, determine to win, 
 
12 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Desiring the noblest without and within, 
 Making our country just what it should be — 
 "The home of the brave, the land of the free !" 
 
 When purged of its vice, from center to shore, 
 And dire oppression is heard of no more; 
 When banished forever the doers of wrong, 
 But rising still higher the triumph song; 
 "Old Glory" will wave with power intense 
 And lap in its folds a world's recompense. 
 
 AMERICA IN THE WORLD WAR. 
 
 Land that we love and proud of its standard, 
 
 Forward the cry we exultantly raise, 
 Long may our flag embellish each fortress. 
 
 Crowning with glory and splendor the days ; 
 Waving majestic, spotless, and regal. 
 
 Safely enfolding each stripe and each star. 
 Bearing aloft the hope of the nation. 
 
 Emblem of honor in peace and in war. 
 
 Hail, Oh ! our country, nations are looking 
 
 O'er the broad vista, oppression to stem. 
 Let that reliance be answered in action. 
 
 Bringing deliverance to thee and to them ; 
 Onward thy motto, steadfast in purpose, 
 
 Lift and protect, set the down-trodden free — 
 Mighty in valor, fearless in duty. 
 
 Truth make thy ruling, and justice thy plea. 
 
 Hope that is buoyant, hearts that are loyal, 
 Firm and unflinching an army of might. 
 
 Ready to battle, willing to suflFer, 
 
 Zealously struggling for freedom and right; 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 13 
 
 Spurning the thought of evil ambition, 
 
 Quashing the semblance of unkindly prate, 
 
 Crushing the root that nourishes anger. 
 
 Greatness is never the product of hate. 
 
 Help us, Oh God ! to trust without doubting, 
 
 Seeking to follow wherever thou lead, 
 Help us to know thine infinite goodness, 
 
 Fill with thy power imperative need ; 
 Keep in thy mercy from harm and disaster, 
 
 Strengthen our effort in doing thy will, 
 Thy gracious presence grant without ceasing 
 
 Be to our country its sole refuge still. 
 
 AMERICANS SONS IN THE WORLD WAR. 
 
 The nation bows in sadness 
 
 From shore to inland mart. 
 The fangs of war was clutching 
 
 Its very life and heart, 
 Its sons, our noble manhood. 
 
 It ruthless took away, 
 The builders of tomorrow 
 
 The promise of today. 
 
 From humble homes they rallied 
 
 And stately mansions, too, 
 Together in the conflict 
 
 They strove their best to do, 
 Not in revengeful spirit. 
 
 They marshaled to the fight, 
 But a desire to hasten 
 
 The triumph of the right. 
 
 By highest motive governed 
 Unmoved by clan or creed. 
 
 That history might not record 
 One cruel, hateful deed, 
 
l^ Odea of Odd Moments 
 
 For better far than riches 
 
 Or e'en the country's fame, 
 
 Is to preserve untarnished 
 A great immortal name. 
 
 Those who returned may justly 
 
 Be proud of what they done, 
 The nation does acknowledge 
 
 Its debt to every one ; 
 The fallen, silent heroes, 
 
 Adorned with wreath and gem. 
 In "Honor's roll" they're listed 
 
 And we are proud of them. 
 
 SILVER WEDDING ANNIVERSARY. 
 
 Two people on a voyage 
 On life's uncertain sea. 
 
 To man their barge judicious 
 Together did agree. 
 
 For five and twenty summers 
 No blast came to destroy. 
 
 The placid scenes and sailing 
 And years of constant joy. 
 
 With hearts and hopes united 
 The journey was serene. 
 
 Time only served to strengthen 
 The bond that bound between. 
 
 Along the way, true service 
 
 Was rendered with delight. 
 
 The touch of real kindness 
 
 That cheers the gloomy night. 
 
 The barge is chartered onward 
 More pleasure still to get, 
 
 Until the years count fifty, 
 And even farther yet. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 15 
 
 Long to the distant future 
 
 May happiness attend, 
 Your lives and labors proving 
 
 Successful to the end. 
 
 May blessings without number 
 
 Be showered on your way, 
 'Till toil and time is vanquished 
 
 In an eternal day. 
 
 THE MAIDEN'S SOLILOQUY. 
 
 With careless air and brow serene 
 There stood a maiden just sixteen. 
 In pride she tossed her pretty head 
 And to herself demurely said : 
 The man who would my fancy please 
 Must be a gentleman of ease, 
 Delight in parties, balls, and such, 
 Or I won't have him, no, not much. 
 
 A little later, blithe and gay 
 And everything just fixed her way, 
 I would not pause upon the street 
 To recognize some men I meet ; 
 The hero I would have, said she, 
 Must handsome, gallant, noble, be. 
 If you know such, just send him here, 
 I'll do the rest, you needn't fear. 
 
 Still later on, with some dismay 
 
 As if the future to survey, 
 
 With tact she plans what to pursue 
 
 And views the situation through ; 
 
 The fellow I would wed, said she, 
 
 A clever, manly man must be, 
 
 All others do not stand a show 
 
 And if they doubt, I'll let them know. 
 
16 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 When later hope began to wane 
 Thus reasoned now the comely dame, 
 Whoever wins my heart, said she, 
 Devoted, loving he must be ; 
 His contour may be out of place 
 And always wear a frowning face, 
 But he must have a record true 
 Before the world, and nothing rue. 
 
 Now later still, and doomed to wait. 
 Will someone pity my sad fate, 
 I'll question not his past, nor care 
 What future ills I'll have to share, 
 I care not if his heart is cold. 
 But then he must have lots of gold, 
 The more the better it would please 
 And thus insure a life of ease. 
 
 Alas ! still later, sad, alone. 
 She spoke again in undertone. 
 Bewailing that she set at naught 
 The suitors who her hand had sought; 
 Ain't there no one who'd volunteer 
 A lonely maiden's life to cheer. 
 His very sight would be a boon 
 And Oh ! he can not come too soon ! 
 
 The maiden now had reached the place 
 
 Of saner years and wisdom's grace. 
 
 When from her reverie awoke 
 
 Calm, self-possessed 'twas thus she spoke: 
 
 Why need the aid of any man 
 
 To carry out life's worth-while plan, 
 
 Such foolish thoughts I'll set aside 
 
 And with myself content reside. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 17 
 
 MARGARET AND KATHLEEN. 
 
 (Twin Babies.) 
 
 I know two little ladies 
 
 Who dwell in sweet content — 
 And get the finest living 
 
 Though earning not a cent, 
 They wield a magic power 
 
 Each in the home a queen, 
 Yet bear no royal titles, 
 
 Just Margaret and Kathleen. 
 
 They do not dote on fashions. 
 
 For jewels do not care, 
 And in the strife and struggle 
 
 For riches do not share ; 
 They do not sigh or worry 
 
 Or moan: "it might have been"; 
 They smile their satisfaction. 
 
 Miss Margaret and Kathleen. 
 
 They win appreciation 
 
 And real joy impart. 
 And make their way unconscious 
 
 To every human heart ; 
 I know you will acknowledge 
 
 You never knew or seen. 
 Two people more attractive 
 
 Than Margaret and Kathleen. 
 
 Anon when years have flitted 
 
 And time its changes wrought, 
 I trust they will develop 
 
 In noble traits and thought, 
 Their lives continue happy 
 
 And nothing come between. 
 That good will be the portion 
 
 Of Margaret and Kathleen. 
 
18 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 SUCCESS. 
 
 If you desire that happiness 
 Your efforts recompense, 
 
 With care observe the mighty law 
 Of love and commonsense. 
 
 Along the path together grow 
 The thistle and the rose, 
 
 You must decide — to you is left 
 
 To choose twixt these and those. 
 
 If honest praise you would secure 
 And loyal friends possess, 
 
 In nothing feign, be constant, true, 
 *Tis highway to success. 
 
 OBSERVATIONS OF MR. SEE MORE. 
 
 (A Resident of Mars.) 
 
 How very funny, I confess 
 
 To find myself in such a mess. 
 
 While living happily in Mars 
 
 Some thoughtless imp removed the bars. 
 
 And then, Ah ! me, I simply fell 
 And found I was where Earthies dwell, 
 A people strange in tongue they be 
 And many customs queer to see. 
 
 They hustle, bustle, move so brisk, 
 To follow close is quite a risk, 
 I am in fear and constant dread 
 Lest I should trip or lose my head. 
 
 From every quarter all around 
 I hear all kinds of funny sound 
 That makes me quiver thru and thru — 
 I want to live in Mars, I do. 
 
Odes of O d d Moments 19 
 
 But then my business is to get 
 Some knowledge of this curious set, 
 And instantly I did proceed 
 To notice every word and deed. 
 
 Some glad, some sad, some young, some old. 
 Some very shy, some very bold. 
 While discontent was plainly seen 
 On many faces here I ween. 
 
 Of what they have, they seem to tire 
 And something different they desire ; 
 When it is cold, they like it hot. 
 Always want what they have not. 
 
 And some, Fm sorry to relate. 
 Are given to prevaricate, 
 And when recording what they say 
 I must explain some other way. 
 
 One did declare while waving claw 
 A jam so great I never saw. 
 Perturbed I tried to get a share, 
 Found naught but people everywhere. 
 
 Another said in rushing past 
 Me for a rest, Fm going to fast. 
 But later with my very eyes 
 I saw him simply gormandize. 
 
 Saw one who sat with lots of twine 
 All raveled out and cut so fine ; 
 "All kinds of laces," here said he, 
 It didn't look like lace to me. 
 
 Youth came to living-room from yard 
 And said 'tis raining very hard ; 
 I went to aperture to see 
 And very soft it seemed to me. 
 
20 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Went to a meeting-house one day 
 Where Earthies worship, so they say, 
 And near the entrance there I hid 
 To note the things they said and did. 
 
 They came by one and then in lots 
 Some long, some short, some tiny tots ; 
 They sat in line with placid mien 
 Without reserve or space between. 
 
 Some wore much hair, a frizzly top, 
 And others just a stubble crop. 
 Some had it wired upon their ball 
 While others came with none at all. 
 
 At certain sign they did arise. 
 Proceed at once to make a noise, 
 And when they're done, again sit still 
 While one alone performs at will. 
 
 With many gestures he declamed 
 And fearlessly his views proclaimed. 
 Denounced the wrong, upheld the true, 
 And told the others what to do. 
 
 Some calmly nodded their assent 
 
 While ready listening ear they lent, 
 
 Some wrapped in thought profound and deep 
 
 And some it seemed, came there to sleep. 
 
 Much as I cared for this display 
 I soon decided not to stay; 
 To stand was much too hard for me, 
 And when I sat I couldn't see. 
 
 In front methinks put there for show 
 Were tiny gardens in a row. 
 And here and there some feathers grew, 
 Completely shutting off my view. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 21 
 
 As I departed from the place 
 My thoughts I could not well efface ; 
 There seemed to be some magic spell 
 And of its power I can not tell. 
 
 One day I wandered down the street 
 Where lots of Earthies always meet, 
 They moved so rapid to and fro 
 As though they knew not where to go. 
 
 Some wore a frown, and some a smile, 
 And some kept grinning all the while ; 
 Some in their manner seemed to say 
 You are no count, out of my way ! 
 
 Some carried brush upon their map 
 And some with screen-work covered trap ; 
 Some wore a frock down to their soles 
 And others up, exposing poles. 
 
 Some dressed like bears, some peek-a-boo, 
 Some hid their hands, and faces too, 
 And with a stick so queerly bent 
 Held in the air a little tent. 
 
 Saw some so small they couldn't talk 
 And some poor things who couldn't walk. 
 Must have committed some great sin 
 And for that crime were hobbled in. 
 
 Saw one fair dame upon the mart 
 Push living dolly in a cart, 
 And then another gay, sweet thing 
 Was towing bow-wow by a string. 
 
 One Earthy talking to a friend 
 Held little tree with curly end, 
 Another passed in hurry pace 
 With small Vesuvius on his face. 
 
22 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 In shut-in cage some move about 
 Built upon circles very stout, 
 They whisk around with wondrous speed 
 And those who plod they never heed. 
 
 Upon one corner saw a man 
 With sizzle-sizzle in a can ; 
 "Hot tamales here red hot," 
 Were all the words he ain't forgot. 
 
 Some stood in shop just back of board 
 And shelves of things they seemed to hoard. 
 In manner suave they smile and plead 
 And make folks buy what they don't need. 
 
 I sauntered to where many wait 
 And others came in hurried gait. 
 They acted like 'twas one great treat. 
 To nothing do but eat and eat. 
 
 On roots and herbs and flesh they feed 
 And oft display a wanton greed, 
 When reason say they've had enuflf 
 They still cram down some frozen stufif. 
 
 They gulp all kinds of liquids out 
 Of little molds or tubes or spout. 
 And then to cork the gap they stand 
 And put therein a fire-brand. 
 
 To recreate an hour or so 
 To some dark cave in crowds they go, 
 And gaze at phantom moving hosts 
 That make no sound and look like ghosts. 
 
 The more I see, I long to know 
 What mysteries surround me so, 
 For many freaks I daily spied 
 And more exist I'm satisfied. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 23 
 
 Although unfinished is my quest 
 I am enforced to leave the rest, 
 Perhaps some day they'll grow to be 
 Great, wise, and noted just — like me. 
 
 DISCONTENT. 
 
 The world is full of discontent. 
 Each one has something to lament, 
 The choicest gifts and richest store 
 Seem always at our neighbor's door; 
 What harmony no doubt would be 
 If I were you, and you were me. 
 
 The poor man shivers in the cold 
 And covets oft the rich man's gold, 
 The rich would part with all his wealth 
 Just for to gain the other's health ; 
 What harmony no doubt would be 
 If I were you, and you were me. 
 
 The lonely sits in silent gloom 
 
 And sees the clouds in blackness loom. 
 
 In social whirl the other frets 
 
 And longs for rest, but never gets ; 
 
 What harmony no doubt would be 
 
 If I were you, and you were me. 
 
 A little change would make things right 
 And remedy all ills in sight. 
 The jar and jangle now so great 
 Would vanish from both home and state 
 What harmony no doubt would be 
 If I were you, and you were me. 
 
24 O d e 8 of Odd Moments 
 
 ALIENS; AMERICANS; CHRISTIANS. 
 
 A theme so great, we fail to grasp, 
 
 To reason, or define. 
 We must confess we only know 
 
 The work is yours and mine ; 
 We hold for them an open door. 
 
 Alluring scenes portray, 
 How can we shirk the debt we owe 
 
 If then they come and stay. 
 
 These people who have sought and made 
 
 America their goal 
 And henceforth destined to become 
 
 A part of our great whole. 
 Are seeking riches, better homes, 
 
 And liberty desire. 
 And look to us for guide and aid 
 
 To gain what they aspire. 
 
 Attracted by our Country's fame 
 
 They gather to our shore. 
 With expectations justified ; 
 
 Each year a million more. 
 A million lives just such as we 
 
 With needs to be supplied, 
 A million eager hearts that crave 
 
 For sympathy applied. 
 
 Like ships a-drift in some vast sea 
 
 They wander here and there, 
 Unknown, unheeded by the throng 
 
 And no one seems to care; 
 Temptations rife, like surging waves 
 
 Are threatening to destroy. 
 Engulfing the unwary one 
 
 By subtle shrewd decoy. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 25 
 
 A million souls for whom Christ died 
 
 And whom He seeks to save, 
 Shall we withhold His gift of love 
 
 Ignore the charge He gave ; 
 If unto us the truth, the life 
 
 And greater light was given, 
 Shall we not help them, teach them how 
 
 To know the God of Heaven. 
 
 The thought, the word, the prayer we make 
 
 Is labor not in vain. 
 When in the light of yonder day 
 
 Our deeds are all made plain, 
 When character shall stand supreme. 
 
 When good, not gold shall count. 
 When night gives way to endless dawn 
 
 God's heroes up shall mount. 
 
 THANKSGIVING. 
 
 Has the year been cloudless and sunny 
 
 The days one continuous calm, 
 Were the hours crowded with pleasure 
 
 The moments with sweet summer's balm ; 
 If the past has been teeming with blessings 
 
 That came unbidden and free, 
 And the future is laden with promise 
 
 Of still greater bounties for thee? 
 
 Give thanks ! 
 
 Were you from all danger secluded 
 
 And happiness waited your call, 
 Were your efforts amply rewarded 
 
 Prosperity crowning them all? 
 If history never recorded 
 
 A passage you'd like to forget. 
 
26 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 And into your life came no shadow 
 No stinging remorse or regret? 
 
 Give thanks ! 
 
 Was failure indelibly written 
 
 Wherein you had sought for success, 
 Mistakes and misfortunes abounding 
 
 That left no chance for redress; 
 If somewhere through torrent and tumult 
 
 You saw a faint gleam in the night, 
 And somehow your soul was illumined, 
 
 Inspired by that halo of light? 
 
 Give thanks ! 
 
 Was there sorrow and bitter anguish, 
 
 A foe you dreaded to meet. 
 Are thy hopes and fond ambitions 
 
 A wreckage forlorn at thy feet? 
 If over the trying conditions 
 
 You triumph'd in every test, 
 And if in the final accounting 
 
 You can whisper, I did my best — 
 
 Give thanks ! 
 
 GOOD-BYE, SANTA. 
 
 Time was when here a tot I stood 
 
 So gladly doing what I could 
 
 And helped with others, year by year. 
 
 To emphasize the Christmas cheer; 
 
 Time now decrees Tve run the pace 
 
 And with the grown-ups must take my place, 
 
 Though other work my thoughts will claim, 
 
 I'll love these gatherings just the same. 
 
 Fm glad that I was taught to be 
 A speaker at a Christmas tree ; 
 
O d e s of Odd Moments 27 
 
 I leave the stage with some regret 
 But Santa, you'll continue yet, 
 With heart aglow and righteous pride 
 To sound the joys of Christmas tide; 
 In other spheres I seek for fame 
 But then I'll love you just the same. 
 
 And dear old Santa, how I long 
 Our pleasant friendship to prolong 
 The parting gift; don't think me bold 
 A pair of stockings would not hold, 
 I do not care for toys and blocks 
 But something in a pair of socks; 
 Good-bye, dear Santa, keep thy name. 
 The child's fond idol just the same. 
 
 Kind friend, if you would like to know 
 The reason why I treat you so. 
 Progression is the watchword still, 
 Make room for others with a will ; 
 Though tinge of sadness in my heart 
 I now withdraw from active part. 
 On memory's tablet carve your name 
 And love you ever, just the same. 
 
 NOBILITY. 
 
 What is nobility? Where is it found, 
 
 In glittering palace of gold? 
 Surrounded by luxury, wealth and ease, 
 
 Is it there its beauties unfold? 
 What marks the steps to that glorious height, 
 
 Is it reached by consummate plan? 
 Is it houses and lands and a bank account, 
 
 That measures the standard of man? 
 
 Nay, banish the thought, and spurn with disdain. 
 Let conduct and character stand — 
 
28 Odes of Odd Moment 
 
 As forces unequaled in moulding a life 
 That satisfies every demand. 
 
 A life that aspires for greater, for good 
 Its effort and aim be the test, 
 
 Each action control'd by justice and truth, 
 Content with no less than the best. 
 
 GO ON. 
 
 Go on and on, brave willing heart. 
 
 Rise yet to higher plain, 
 Unswerved by ought from duty's path. 
 
 With might the right maintain. 
 
 Go on and on, endued with power. 
 And through that power prevail, 
 
 With purpose true, unflinching stand. 
 And hope that cannot fail. 
 
 Go on and on, thy labors blessed. 
 Will each succeeding day 
 
 Bring sweetest joy and perfect peace. 
 To smooth life's rugged way. 
 
 Go on and on, a struggling world 
 Appeals with outstretched hand 
 
 For sympathy, for hope and help. 
 To gain a nobler stand. 
 
 Go on and on, with fervent zeal 
 
 Directed from above. 
 Some heart to cheer, some soul to lift. 
 
 By words and deeds of love. 
 
 Go on and on, in constant trust 
 'Till yonder goal appears, 
 
 A race well run, is victory won. 
 
 Why grieve o'er doubts and fears. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 29^ 
 
 Go on, yes on, 'till toil shall cease 
 
 And earth has passed away. 
 Then reap with joy a just reward 
 
 In everlasting day. 
 
 GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY. 
 
 Full fifty years have vanished 
 
 Into the silent past, 
 Years with blessings laden 
 
 And memories that last ; 
 A home that is ideal, 
 
 A life that stood the test, 
 And yielding in its fruitage 
 
 The beautiful and best. 
 
 Upon this glad occasion 
 My greetings I convey 
 
 And join the host of others 
 Who honor you this day, 
 
 May other days that follow 
 Abundantly contain 
 
 The benefits and bounties. 
 
 The charm, and cheer retain. 
 
 He who has been thy refuge 
 
 And thine unerring guide, 
 Unfailing will continue, 
 
 To shelter and provide; 
 Will make your lives prove clearer 
 
 The truth for which you stood. 
 By radiating ever 
 
 An influence for good. 
 
 In the approach of twilight 
 Be it your lot to know, 
 
 Naught but a tranquil evening 
 And restful sunset glow; 
 
30 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Beyond the things that perish 
 Your vision penetrate 
 
 Into that realm eternal — 
 
 And home, within its gate. 
 
 APPEAL OF THE MISSION BOX. 
 
 I want some Indians, quite a host 
 And then some whites of which to boast; 
 Perchance an eagle comes your way, 
 Secure at once this bird of prey, 
 And when you get them, snugly place 
 Within my hold each cunning face. 
 The work a constant joy will be 
 And bring its own reward to thee. 
 
 THE PRESS. 
 
 From sea to sea, to every clan 
 This great discovery of man. 
 With rapid strides has made its way 
 And manifests a potent sway. 
 How justly won thine honor'd place 
 Great benefactor of our race. 
 We hail thee with extended hand 
 Prime educator of our land. 
 
 The peasant in his humble home. 
 The king upon his gilded throne, 
 In yonder cottage by the way 
 And mid palatial's grand display. 
 The press holds forth with equal pow'r 
 The hopes and topics of the hour, 
 A welcom'd friend to each and all 
 Concretive knowledge at their call. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 31 
 
 Within its varied scope abound 
 The new ; the ancient also found 
 The work of ages it reveals 
 And movements of the present seals, 
 The history of the past unfolds 
 And record of today it holds, 
 What rich resources here we find 
 What priceless boon to human-kind. 
 
 Who can esteem the wealth of thought 
 And deeds of valor nobly wrought ; 
 Or who can count the endless train 
 Of noble lives who live again. 
 Of gallant souls who stirr'd the world 
 And freedom's banner held unfurl'd, 
 Acquired at such tremendous cost — 
 Save for the press, all would be lost. 
 
 What stores of treasures it contains, 
 And depth of wisdom it maintains. 
 No other medium can compete 
 No other medium so replete ; 
 It reaches nations in its might 
 And fills the world with radiant light ; 
 Progression by it is enhanced 
 And civic, moral life advanced. 
 
 Oh ! haste the day when o'er the land 
 The press in unison shall stand. 
 And its distinctive voice be heard 
 In no uncertain sounding word, 
 To aid the right, defend the just. 
 Prove worthy of the people's trust, 
 Its credence by true merit gain 
 Its standard on still higher plain. 
 
32 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 A PASTOR'S RETURN. 
 
 After such a long vacation, 
 Needed rest and recreation, 
 We now hail thee with ovation ; 
 Welcome, welcome home. 
 
 Gladly view the situation 
 Thankful for the kind protection 
 And the pleasant recollection; 
 Welcome, welcome home. 
 
 Here is still the main attraction 
 And the object of affection. 
 Still we need your strict attention; 
 Welcome, welcome home. 
 
 Better place in all creation, 
 Greater work our one ambition 
 And united in construction ; 
 Welcome, welcome home. 
 
 Concentrated in our action 
 We'll withstand all opposition, 
 And maintain our trite position ; 
 Welcome, welcome home. 
 
 OUR NEIGHBOR. 
 
 To find who is our neighbor 
 'Tis useless to consult, 
 The role of casts, and colors, 
 To get the right result ; 
 
 You can not count in numbers 
 Nor of their value tell. 
 
 You can't locate by figures 
 
 The place wherein they dwell. 
 
Od€8 of Odd Moments 
 
 33 
 
 It is not class nor station 
 
 Displayed by dearth, or show, 
 That proves the true condition 
 
 Determines what we owe ; 
 But something higher, better 
 
 That moves the soul within, 
 That binds us all together, 
 
 And "makes the world akin". 
 
 It's wrong to keep referring 
 
 To any old-time scrap. 
 And bad to be consulting 
 
 The calendar or map; 
 For neither time nor distance 
 
 And neither creed nor clan, 
 Makes up in sum and substance 
 
 "The Brotherhood of Man." 
 
 Our neighbor is whoever 
 
 By trouble prostrate laid, 
 
 Whose shackles we can sever 
 By giving needed aid ; 
 
 Whose burdens we can lighten 
 By serving the depressed. 
 
 Whose pathway we can brighten 
 By sympathy expressed. 
 
 THINGS YOU CAN AND CAN'T BUY. 
 You can buy a farm and forest, 
 
 Or a fertile garden spot, 
 You can buy a place of business, 
 
 You can buy a house and lot ; 
 You can buy the costliest fixtures 
 
 To adorn from ground to dome, 
 You can buy the grandest paintings, 
 
 But you can not buy a home. 
 
34 O des of Odd Moments 
 
 You can buy the masterpieces 
 
 Writ in story and in song, 
 You can buy the works of wisdom 
 
 To instruct and help along; 
 You can buy historic volumes 
 
 At a little slight expense, 
 You can buy the books of learning, 
 
 But you can't buy commonsense. 
 
 You can buy a fine equipment 
 
 To indulge in pleasure more, 
 You can buy the flashing jewels 
 
 Over at the corner store ; 
 You can buy the modish garments 
 
 In which fashion doth delight. 
 You can buy the latest fiction. 
 
 But you can't buy truth, and right. 
 
 You can buy a railroad ticket 
 
 For a long, extended trip, 
 You can buy accommodations 
 
 On the biggest sailing ship ; 
 You can buy the market's choicest. 
 
 To supply your daily mess, 
 You can buy the best that's selling. 
 
 But you can't buy happiness. 
 
 You can buy imported china 
 
 To display at your command. 
 You can buy the finest silver 
 
 That the dealer has on hand ; 
 You can buy the richest carvings 
 
 That your mind can apprehend, 
 You can buy the sweetest flowers. 
 
 But you can not buy a friend. 
 
d e 8 of Odd Moments 35 
 
 THE CONTRAST. 
 
 1 love to see the contrast 
 
 In nature all around, 
 I love to stop and listen 
 To every varied sound. 
 
 The springtime in its beaut5^ 
 
 And wealth of growing things, 
 
 And then the frost-tinged colors 
 That autumn always brings. 
 
 The summer in its fullness 
 
 Of ripened fruit and corn, 
 The winter bleak and barren 
 
 And all the verdure shorn. 
 
 The mountains' rocky surface 
 
 The fertile vale and plain, 
 The massive, lofty forest 
 
 And fields of golden grain. 
 
 The grass a fluflfy carpet 
 
 Of countless tiny blades. 
 The flower a blooming wonder 
 
 Of coloring and shades. 
 
 The sky a panorama 
 
 Too dazzling for the eyes. 
 And ever changing grandeur 
 
 That's teeming with surprise. 
 
 The hum and busy buzzing 
 
 That comes from hidden nook, 
 
 The rustle of the pine-boughs. 
 The murmur of the brook. 
 
36 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 The robin in the branches 
 The cricket on the lawn, 
 
 Each has its gift and message 
 In evening and at dawn. 
 
 The cackle in the barn-yard 
 The wild-fowl up above, 
 
 The frog-pond in the distance 
 And then the cooing dove. 
 
 The quacking of the ducklings. 
 The crow-bird loud and shrill. 
 
 The chatter of the sparrow 
 
 And slinking whip-poor-will. 
 
 All tell in accents certain 
 Of a Creator's care, 
 
 And glorify together 
 
 His presence everywhere. 
 
 THE PESSIMIST. 
 
 The pessimist declareth 
 
 The whole world's going wrong. 
 Beneath the weight of evil 
 
 'Twill sure collapse ere long; 
 He always knows that nothing 
 
 That's good can long endure, 
 Sees swift and sure destruction 
 
 To everything that's pure. 
 
 The pessimist keeps doubting 
 
 Like some untutored elf, 
 Until he thinks he's perfect 
 
 And honest with himself; 
 He thinks it only folly 
 
 And useless waste to strive 
 In teaching truth and justice, 
 
 It never can survive. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 37 
 
 The pessimist discovers 
 
 A net-work to ensnare, 
 Some thorns on all the bushes 
 
 And poison everywhere ; 
 He sees the muddy surface, 
 
 Finds germs in every stream, 
 Locates the dread baccilli 
 
 In every bright sunbeam.' 
 
 The pessimist sees nothing 
 
 Nowhere to make him glad; 
 To him in sweetest music 
 
 The notes are always sad; 
 He's filled with dire forebodings, 
 
 Paints everything in black. 
 And never lets the sunshine 
 
 Come through upon his track. 
 
 The pessimist can never 
 
 See anything quite right, 
 He looks through murky glasses 
 
 That dulls the sense and sight; 
 He always has some grievance 
 
 Because his morbid mind 
 Excludes the joy of being 
 
 Just, tolerant and kind. 
 
 If all were pessimistic 
 
 The world would soon become 
 Unfit for human beings, 
 
 A place of sordid glum ; 
 The reverence and gladness 
 
 Would quickly disappear, 
 And only death and darkness 
 
 Be found upon our sphere. 
 
38 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 THE OPTIMIST. 
 
 The optimist is happy 
 
 And wears upon his face 
 A smile that is contagious 
 
 In every clime and place; 
 He revels in the beauty 
 
 Of nature and of art, 
 Delights in always having 
 
 In life an active part. 
 
 The optimist is never 
 
 Alarmed about his fate, 
 And never broods o'er perils 
 
 His dreamy brain creates; 
 He never stops to ponder 
 
 The if and "might have been", 
 But thinks the world the grandest 
 
 And best he's ever seen. 
 
 The optimist ne'er whimpers 
 
 About the snow and rain, 
 And sees no real reason 
 
 To worry or complain ; 
 He goes about his business 
 
 With a contented air. 
 And says, if someone murmurs, 
 
 Tomorrow will be fair. 
 
 The optimist sees something 
 
 Of good in every one. 
 Discovers in their record 
 
 Some worthy act they've done; 
 He never talks of pitfalls 
 
 And dangers they are in. 
 But helps them in t^he battle 
 
 To fight it out and win. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 39 
 
 The optimist ne'er troubles 
 
 O'er past unpleasant things, 
 Or possible disasters 
 
 The morrow mayhap brings; 
 He sees distinct and clearly 
 
 Above the peerless blue, 
 And when the clouds are thickest 
 
 Sees sunshine peeping through. 
 
 If all were optimistic. 
 
 Made most of what's their lot, 
 How much of earth's misfortunes 
 
 Would soon become forgot ; 
 'Twould help in the fulfillment 
 
 Of prophesies of old, 
 And speed the glorious reigning 
 
 Of peace so long foretold. 
 
 FALLEN LEAVES. 
 
 The sturdy oak, king of the wood. 
 Majestic, grand, defiant stood. 
 Its massive branches tow'ring high 
 Resplendent 'neath the summer sky. 
 Its matchless robe of green at length — 
 Bespeaking beauty, life and strength, 
 Such stately grandeur crowns the whole 
 That moves the heart, and stirs the soul. 
 
 I came again and sought the place 
 The scene to scan, the picture trace. 
 But lo ! a blast of winter's morn 
 Had touch'd that tree, its beauty shorn ; 
 Upon the ground, faded and dead 
 And under-foot so thoughtless tread. 
 Were leaves, the leaves that kiss'd the sky, 
 In form and hue art could not vie. 
 
40 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 I mused in silence on the scene, 
 
 I mused as one in fitful dream; 
 
 My heart was sad, but e're I turned 
 
 Is there no lesson to be learned? 
 
 Is there no thought to aid the soul, 
 
 That strives to reach a higher goal ? 
 
 And from this vision as I woke, 
 
 The tree look'd down, and thus it spoke 
 
 Those leaves so wondrous, deftly made. 
 And in the breezes gently sway'd. 
 Whose beauty caught the vigil eye 
 And held in awe each passer-by; 
 Those scatter'd on the earth below 
 Enrich the soil wherein I grow. 
 From this profusion and decay 
 Will spring new life some future day. 
 
 Alas ! how true of human life. 
 This surging, changing, constant strife ; 
 How oft the plans so well contrived 
 And castles fair by time destroyed ; 
 The morrow that should pleasure bring 
 Produced instead the keenest sting. 
 Ambitions thwarted, hope and trust, 
 Alike have crumbled into dust. 
 
 How many times the promised joy. 
 Was found to harbor much alloy. 
 How many failures marked the way 
 How many errors made each day ; 
 Oh ! happy they who conquering stand. 
 Compel these ills yield to command, 
 And from this wreck defeat and pain 
 A higher, nobler life attain. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 41 
 
 DEAR PARENTS REST. 
 
 Dear parents rest, the journey's o'er, 
 Earth's tears and toils are thine no more, 
 Through faith I see beyond death's gloom 
 An incorrupt eternal bloom. 
 
 Dear parents rest, thy work is done, 
 Life's battle fought and victory won, 
 No more to weep, no cross to bear, 
 With Christ above, a crown you wear. 
 
 Dear parents rest, the Master's voice 
 Who called you home, bids you rejoice, 
 And with that great unnumbered throng, 
 Join in His praise in one grand song. 
 
 TO A "SHUT-IN." 
 
 Fond friend I wonder if to thee 
 
 The hours seem long, and life has woes ; 
 Hedged in, too oft we fail to see 
 
 That on the hedge there blooms a rose. 
 
 Brave heart and true, I know, I feel 
 
 A love like thine has power to stand; 
 
 No cross, or test, can but reveal. 
 
 Thy strength and safety in God's hand. 
 
 Though sorely tried, and light is dim, 
 Without a doubt, fear or dismay, 
 
 Thou cans't in darkness trust in Him 
 
 Who gilds the clouds and speeds the day. 
 
42 O d e g of Odd Momenta 
 
 AN HONORED HERO. 
 
 'Neath the shadow of the forest 
 
 Bloomed a flower in beauty rare, 
 Erstwhile hidden was its value, 
 
 And the world was unaware, 
 Modest, quiet, unassuming 
 
 In simplicity it grew 
 'Till one day a chance occurrence 
 
 Brought its loveliness to view. 
 
 Thus the hero's great distinction 
 
 Came to notice all apace, 
 And we found among the many 
 
 He had won a noted place; 
 Onward still to greater honors 
 
 We would cheer thine unsought fame- 
 Ever seeking to establish 
 
 Firm and blamelees a good name. 
 
 While the public stands admiring. 
 
 While applauded by the throng. 
 Let thy motto be, not laurels. 
 
 Vain and frail, that fade e're long. 
 But a nobler, higher standard. 
 
 That of life whose virtues shine 
 Ever with increasing splendor, 
 
 Thy whole being to enshrine. 
 
 Every gift and all endowments 
 
 Nature has bestowed on thee. 
 And the praise that comes unbidden 
 
 Surely must alluring be ; 
 Make it count for lofty purpose, 
 
 Prove you're equal to the test. 
 And content with no less motive 
 
 Than the doing of your best. 
 
d 8 of Odd Moments 43 
 
 YOUTH. 
 
 Your childhood days of ceaseless mirth, 
 
 Of sunshine without storm, 
 Were swiftly spent and disappeared 
 
 Like dew in early morn. 
 
 'Tis youth and strength that offer now 
 
 An ever widening field 
 To form a character that will 
 
 A future influence yield. 
 
 As time rolls on and you awake 
 
 To life's more arduous spheres, 
 
 Its realistic work and worth. 
 Its hopes, its joys, its tears. 
 
 See that that life be ever marked 
 
 By deeds and words of love, 
 And guarded, guided always by 
 
 The light that leads above. 
 
 'Tis not long years, or wealth of gold 
 That makes life great and grand, 
 
 But nobler purpose stayed by truth, 
 A perfect God's demand. 
 
 Then count the hours, each duty grasp 
 
 With ardor more and more. 
 And reap with joy your just reward 
 
 On yonder distant shore. 
 
 A LITTLE MAID. 
 
 A little maid with habits staid 
 On business bent and quite content, 
 I'm glad said she, that I am free 
 Controlling still my wish and will ; 
 
44 Odes o f Odd Moments 
 
 Life did not seem an idle dream 
 Which fancy wove in quiet cove, 
 Or flow'ry dell where lovers dwell, 
 But constant aim, the top to gain. 
 
 This little maid with habits staid 
 Found joy in work nor tried to shirk, 
 But did each day what came her way, 
 And merely asked for strength for task. 
 So she could live her best to give ; 
 Her toil though hard, brought rich reward, 
 For in her heart she won the part 
 Of gaining might by doing right. 
 
 A LOST HAMMER. 
 
 Oh ! have you seen 
 Here, there, between, 
 
 That little hammer. 
 By some shrewd trick 
 Or magic slick 
 Please find it quick, 
 
 That little hammer. 
 
 I much regret 
 It's missing yet, 
 
 That little hammer. 
 This very day 
 Without delay 
 Restore, I pray, 
 
 That little hammer. 
 
 Lo ! buried deep 
 I'll let it sleep, 
 
 That little hammer. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 45 
 
 No more 'twill mock 
 Or cause a shock 
 By cruel knock, 
 
 That little hammer. 
 
 Well understood 
 It's gone for good, 
 
 That little hammer. 
 It's hurt forget 
 And ne'er regret 
 'Tis missing yet, 
 
 That little hammer. 
 
 A BIRTHDAY GREETING. 
 
 Some greet their friends and kinfolk. 
 
 Revere for kindness shown, 
 But here's hello from someone 
 
 Who registers unknown; 
 Upon thy pathway ever 
 
 May light profusely fall. 
 And make each year the brightest, 
 
 Each birthday best of all. 
 
 YOUTHFUL SORROWS. 
 
 In summing up the trying griefs, 
 Reviewing hopes and wishes, 
 
 I find there's nothing quite so hard 
 In life as washing dishes. 
 
 When playing marbles in the street 
 
 And adding to my riches, 
 A voice comes floating on the breeze, 
 "Come in and wash the dishes". 
 
46 Odea of Odd Moments 
 
 When weary with the daily tasks 
 I close my tired lashes, 
 
 Some one who ought to do it, says, 
 "Wake up and wash the dishes". 
 
 I just wish folks wouldn't eat, 
 And only drink like fishes, 
 
 'T would save me such a lot of work 
 And need of washing dishes. 
 
 Some day when I am older grown 
 I'll tear away these meshes 
 
 That hold me back ; leave someone else 
 The job of washing dishes. 
 
 CASTLES. 
 
 There's pleasure in building air-castles 
 Though we know they can not exist; 
 
 Perfect joy in blowing air-bubbles 
 That burst into vanishmg mist. 
 
 BON-VOYAGE TO A FRIEND. 
 
 With feelings commingled 
 
 We gather tonight, 
 jExpressions of sorrow 
 
 But more of delight; 
 We dread the departing 
 
 E'en though for a while. 
 Of one whose glad greeting 
 
 Is hand-clasp and smile. 
 
 And while we mourn deeply 
 
 Your going away. 
 There's solace in thinking 
 
 You never can stay ; 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 47 
 
 We know you'll make merry 
 
 And have a fine trip, 
 But then you'll return with — 
 
 Perhaps the first ship. 
 
 We hail the good fortune 
 
 That smiles on thee now, 
 And come with fresh laur<els 
 
 Bedecking thy brow, 
 And wish you much pleasure 
 
 On land and on sea. 
 Rejoice at the prospects 
 
 In waiting for thee. 
 
 Why crossing the ocean. 
 
 What going to find? 
 Perhaps he's not anxious 
 
 To tell his whole mind; 
 Is there in that home-land 
 
 A magnet so strong — 
 The truth in its sequel 
 
 We'll learn before long. 
 
 Why braving such dangers 
 
 When right here at hand 
 Are treasures in plenty 
 
 To fill all demand; 
 It's useless to murmur 
 
 Bewailing the fate, 
 Or oflfer suggestions 
 
 I fear it's too late. 
 
 It may be a journey 
 
 Of searching for health. 
 It may be an effort 
 
 In getting great wealth ; 
 
48 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Don't question too closely 
 The object in view, 
 
 He may not be ready 
 
 Just now to tell you. 
 
 Don't seek explanation 
 
 Of whither he goes, 
 Don't think it your business 
 
 To know all he knows ; 
 Don't try him with artful 
 
 And cunning appeal, 
 It may be a secret 
 
 He dare not reveal. 
 
 We trust no dark shadows 
 
 Shall lurk in the way, 
 And hope to re-welcome 
 
 On some future day ; 
 When tired of Britain 
 
 We'll hail thee once more, 
 Returning to tarry 
 
 On America's shore. 
 
 DID YOU EVER. 
 
 Did you ever sit and listen 
 
 To the dropping of the rain. 
 Did you ever see the sparkling 
 
 Little gems on window pane, 
 Did you ever hear the thunder. 
 
 Did you see the lightning flash, 
 Did you see the torrent falling. 
 
 Did you hear the water splash ; 
 Did you see the clouds receding 
 
 And disclosing heaven's blue. 
 Did you see the rainbow forming 
 
 In its curves of matchless hue? 
 
Odea of Odd Moments 49 
 
 Did you ever in the springtime 
 
 See the bursting of the earth, 
 Did you see the seedlings sprouting 
 
 As the sunshine gave them birth ; 
 Did you ever hear the music 
 
 Of the tuneful birds and bees, 
 Did you ever hear the whispers 
 
 In the melody of trees?. 
 
 Did you ever see the dewdrop 
 
 Glisten in the morning light, 
 Did you ever see the blossom 
 
 When its petals close at night; 
 Did you ever learn the secrets 
 
 Of the forest and the vale, 
 Did you ever climb the mountain 
 
 Where all other objects pale? 
 
 Did you ever see the sunrise 
 
 As it tints the eastern sky, 
 Did you ever see the glory 
 
 As it upward mounts on high ; 
 Did you ever see it sinking 
 
 As the shades of evening fall, 
 Did you see the changing beauty 
 
 And the splendor of it all? 
 
 Did you ever talk with nature. 
 
 Have you ever read her book. 
 Did you ever solve the wonders 
 
 Of the little dell and brook ; 
 Did you ever pause and study 
 
 Things not understood as yet. 
 Did you labor in acquiring 
 
 All the knowledge you could get? 
 
50 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 If you did, then you're possessing 
 
 That which nothing can destroy; 
 
 One of life's divinest blessings 
 Is the power to enjoy. 
 
 TRYING THINGS. 
 
 It^s trying when you've wrestled 
 
 And worked with plans and things, 
 To suddenly discover 
 
 Your hopes have taken wings; 
 To find your castle fallen 
 
 With dismal, awful crash, 
 The wreckage though appealing 
 
 Is just a heap of trash; 
 And then to see some fellow 
 
 Whose conscious of your woe. 
 Stand by in heedless manner 
 
 And say, "I told you so" ! 
 
 It's trying when you're worried 
 
 Because of some mistake. 
 That brought about disaster 
 
 And sorrow in its wake. 
 That took away your courage 
 
 And made the world seem wrong, 
 That stinted your ambition 
 
 And changed to wail your song; 
 Then have your trusty partner. 
 
 Or friend whom you have known, 
 Declare in frosty accents, 
 
 "The fault is all your own". 
 
 It's trying to be hampered 
 
 By some unhappy fate. 
 To change and help conditions. 
 
 You find it's far too late, 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 51 
 
 Though not contented fully 
 
 Or liking what youVe got, 
 Accept in modest silence 
 
 What seems to be your lot ; 
 And then have someone heartless 
 
 Commenting on your plight, 
 Express no fellow feeling 
 
 But say, "it serves you right" ! 
 
 PLEASANT THINGS. 
 
 It's pleasant to remember 
 
 The care and pains you took, 
 To write each letter perfect 
 
 Upon your copy-book; 
 And when the page is finished 
 
 And pen is laid aside 
 You wondered if the eflfort 
 
 Would sink, or swell your pride; 
 And then have him whose business 
 
 It is, the work inspect. 
 Write plainly at the bottom 
 
 The simple word, "correct". 
 
 It's pleasant when youVe labored 
 
 And tried your best to serve 
 To utmost satisfaction 
 
 The firm, as they deserve ; 
 And yet you're somewhat fearful 
 
 Lest you have failed to fill 
 The lucrative position 
 
 Held open for you still ; 
 Then see the "boss" approaching 
 
 And with a word of praise 
 Add to his kind expression, 
 
 "You're worthy of a raise". 
 
52 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 It's pleasant when you've struggled 
 
 And strove to win the race, 
 And in the world endeavored 
 
 To find and fill your place ; 
 And when you sometimes question 
 
 The outcome of the whole 
 And wonder how, if ever. 
 
 You reached and helped a soul ; 
 Then have some kindly neighbor 
 
 Who knows you by your name. 
 Step in with friendly greeting 
 
 And say, "you've won your fame* 
 
 KEEP BUSY. 
 
 If you want to be successful. 
 
 Keep busy. 
 And abhor the name o' slothful 
 
 Keep busy ; 
 If you hate a frothy bubble, 
 Want your interests to double 
 And avoid a lot of trouble. 
 
 Keep busy. 
 
 If you want to be respected. 
 
 Keep busy. 
 As efficient help regarded, 
 
 Keep busy ; 
 If you want to gain distinction. 
 Wish to win appreciation 
 In the noble field of action. 
 
 Keep busy. 
 
 If you want to shun the morbid. 
 
 Keep busy, 
 And desire to quash the sordid, 
 
 Keep busy ; 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 53 
 
 If you wish to banish sadness, 
 Brighten up the gloomy darkness, 
 Fill your heart with real gladness, 
 Keep busy. 
 
 SOMETIME, SOMEHOW, SOMEWHERE. 
 
 Sometime the fears that trouble 
 
 And doubts that mystify. 
 Will fade and be supplanted 
 
 By hopes that never die. 
 
 Sometime the mists that gather 
 
 Between us and the blue. 
 Will disappear together 
 
 And vanish like the dew. 
 
 Sometime the broken-hearted 
 
 And weary with the heat, 
 Will find relief and shelter 
 
 Within a safe retreat. 
 
 Somehow the disappointments 
 And things not understood. 
 
 In some mysterious manner 
 Are working for our good. 
 
 Somehow the threads of anguish 
 That seemed to tie us down, 
 
 Will be preserved and woven 
 Into a fadeless crown. 
 
 Somehow the pain we suffered 
 The bowing 'neath the rod, 
 
 Revealed the deeper nature 
 
 And brought us nearer God. 
 
 Somewhere beyond our vision 
 
 The friends we loved and lost. 
 
54 Odea of Odd Moments 
 
 Have been rewarded amply 
 For all the toil and cost. 
 
 Somewhere when all is finished 
 The flowing tears will cease, 
 
 The soul be filled with gladness, 
 With love and endless peace. 
 
 Somewhere when sun is setting, 
 Setting to rise no more. 
 
 There'll be a host triumphant 
 Upon that other shore. 
 
 With all the chapters written 
 And book of life is sealed, 
 
 'Twill be but the beginning 
 Of wonders unrevealed. 
 
 PRESENTATION OF TUB AND WASHBOARD. 
 
 The old and only stood the test. 
 
 For many generations. 
 Of all machines it is the best 
 
 With proper undulations. 
 
 These articles you can't forgo. 
 
 For any late invention. 
 And if you think it is not so, 
 
 Please make investigation. 
 
 Reliable and useful both 
 
 Yet simple in construction. 
 
 To run it with success I quoth 
 Requires no education. 
 
 'Twill bring results if you conform 
 
 To certain regulations. 
 And then continue to perform 
 
 Repeated operations. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 65 
 
 The way it works is "out of sight", 
 
 Exceeds all expectations, 
 For elbow grease and Water White, 
 
 Makes wondrous transformations. 
 
 Accept this gift and when you rub 
 
 Remember our devotion 
 And ever may this little tub, 
 
 Bespeak our great affection. 
 
 And ne'er forget how it will work. 
 With careful demonstration. 
 
 Successful if you do not shirk 
 Its skilled manipulation. 
 
 A WISH. 
 
 That life may have much that is pleasant 
 And little of that which is sad. 
 
 That yours hold the beautiful record 
 Of making some other hearts glad. 
 
 That time only serves to make real 
 The multiple hopes of the hour, 
 
 That joy and success be your portion. 
 
 Increasing your strength and your power. 
 
 Seeking constantly faith and courage 
 The things that will lift and sustain, 
 
 That scatters the fears and repinings. 
 And only the good can remain. 
 
 And e'en though you sometimes may falter 
 And mists are obscuring the way. 
 
 You behold in the dreamy twilight 
 The dawning of a "perfect day". 
 
56 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 That all of us profit by being 
 
 Of service to someone in need, 
 
 That all of us get while we're living, 
 A trophy for some noble deed. 
 
 "OUR PARSON/^ 
 
 (Just resigned.) 
 
 With quivering lips and trembling hand 
 Before this august group I stand : 
 A subject so profound and deep 
 That I'd prefer in silence keep. 
 
 "Our Parson", what am I to say. 
 He's listening every word to weigh, 
 I'd like to make my meaning clear, 
 I'd tell you lots, if he weren't here. 
 
 Might make him vain, if you and I 
 Would tell him how we long to try 
 To make him feel he's just the best 
 We ever knew in East or West. 
 
 A manly man, "Our Parson" is, 
 The kind we need in a world like this. 
 The kind that's worthy of our trust 
 The kind that lifts us from the dust. 
 
 He thinks the world is not so bad. 
 Finds in it much to make him glad ; 
 He sees the beautiful and true. 
 And tries to plant that thought in you. 
 
 When in a crowd he cannot hide, 
 For he grew up instead of wide ; 
 Of perfect poise and stately mein, 
 He greets you with a smile serene. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 57 
 
 A smile that's real regal brand, 
 That operates upon the hand 
 With kindly grasp, and word of cheer 
 That makes the shadows disappear. 
 
 If youVe a social for to git, 
 With willing hand and ready wit 
 He's there to boost the thing alon'g, 
 The glum make gay, the timid strong. 
 
 Sans dignity and nothing loth, 
 "Hail fellow met", this man of cloth, 
 Enjoying lemonade or punch. 
 The biggest kid in all the bunch. 
 
 He's earnest when about his work, 
 And never yet learned how to shirk. 
 He's going somewhere when he walks. 
 And saying something when he talks. 
 
 He loathes the least pretense to sham, 
 And in his soul he hateth kam. 
 Denounces wrong in fearless tone. 
 Yet stoops to lift the fallen one. 
 
 But if you want to know him through, 
 Just seat yourself in yonder pew. 
 Behold him on the rostrum near. 
 Unselfish, noble and sincere. 
 
 Read in his face in deepest thought 
 The message that his soul has wrought. 
 You feel it, know it, and he wins 
 Your very heart 'ere he begins. 
 
 With choicest words and fluent speech 
 He aims the listening ear to reach. 
 Proclaims in no uncertain sound. 
 Where truth and hope and life is found. 
 
58 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 And now when shadows cross the sky, 
 We will not, can not, say good-bye. 
 And though releas'd to roam at will 
 We somehow claim "Our Parson" still. 
 
 Our hearts go with him to and fro. 
 And follow him where 'er he go. 
 And loyally, sincerely say, 
 God bless him, guide him on his way. 
 
 WINTER. 
 
 When winter puts its label 
 
 Upon the things that grow. 
 And locks the earth in prison 
 
 Beneath a weight of snow; 
 It's very satisfying 
 
 To see upon the screen 
 Stand out in vivid contrast 
 
 A bit of evergreen. 
 
 When souls are crushed with sorrow 
 
 That seem too great to bear, 
 And life's profoundest longings 
 
 Have vanished in despair, — 
 It's pleasing and inspiring 
 
 To see, wrought by the test, 
 A nobler, greater being 
 
 And growth of what is best. 
 
 OUR DEPARTED. 
 
 Not dead but gone beyond the veil 
 Still in God's care. 
 
 We do not doubt, because we fail 
 To see them there; 
 
Odes of Odd Momenta 59 
 
 Oh, why could those so loved and true 
 
 Not live always, 
 To help and comfort those they knew 
 
 Throughout the days 
 
 The friends that faltered not in need, 
 
 Nor counted lost 
 The sacrifice, the time, the deed, 
 
 What'er the cost; 
 We knew it well, we feel it still 
 
 The touch that lifts, 
 The nameless something that could thrill — 
 
 In clouds make rifts. 
 
 Exemplified in life, in death 
 
 The works that told. 
 Something that did with every breath 
 
 God's truth unfold; 
 Great, noble host in living thus 
 
 We see a test. 
 And beck'ning light inspiring us, 
 
 To do our best. 
 
 The soul transformed, no grief they wear 
 
 Upon their brow. 
 The image of their Lord they bear 
 
 We know not how; 
 Silent in death, but yet they live 
 
 We know not where, 
 The Master peaceful rest doth give 
 
 Still in God's care. 
 
 DILIGENCE. 
 
 The diligent never questions 
 
 What others may think or say, 
 
 But does what in his opinion 
 
 Brings the best results and pay. 
 
60 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 A word that is kindly spoken 
 Is never uttered in vain, 
 
 A heart that delights in serving- 
 Has little of which to complain. 
 
 A mind that is always active 
 Can never become morose, 
 
 A life that is full of vigor 
 
 Finds work a real repose. 
 
 A QUESTION. 
 
 If you think the world just happened, 
 
 By accident came to be, 
 Please answer a simple question 
 
 That seemeth to baffle me ; 
 Who put the curve in the rainbow 
 
 And paints the blush on the rose? 
 Who scented the apple blossom, 
 
 And flavors the fruit that grows? 
 
 If you say the earth existeth 
 
 Merely as matter of chance. 
 Kindly lend some information, 
 
 My humble views to advance ; 
 Who is it controls the seasons 
 
 And sends the dew and the rain? 
 Who spreads a beautiful canvas 
 
 Of green over hill and plain? 
 
 If you know that man is something 
 
 Evolved from inanimate things. 
 Please tell why he's not contented 
 
 With what evolution brings ; 
 Who planted within his bosom 
 
 A searching desire to fill 
 The hope of immortal awakening 
 
 And life in eternity still? 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 61 
 
 DON'T WAIT. 
 
 Don't wait 'till summer is ended 
 
 To plant your garden seeds, 
 Nor expect the tender sproutlings 
 
 To kill pernicious weeds. 
 
 Don't wait 'till the storms of winter 
 
 To build you a cozy nest, 
 Or delay the work of finding 
 
 A place where you can rest. 
 
 Don't wait 'till the day is vanished, 
 And earth puts on her mask, 
 
 Before you awake to action 
 And enter on your task. 
 
 Don't wait 'till the years are squandered 
 
 To mend your idle ways. 
 Or tarry 'till life is waning 
 
 E'er you improve the days. 
 
 Don't wait for an introduction 
 
 If there's a chance to lend 
 Some aid to those who suffer 
 
 And comfort to extend. 
 
 DON'T HASTE. 
 
 Don't haste to speak when you're angry, 
 Stop a moment and think, 
 
 You're facing possible danger 
 On a slippery brink. 
 
 Don't haste to exploit a failure 
 
 Or point to a mistake. 
 Perhaps under like conditions 
 
 It's just what you would make. 
 
62 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Don't haste in quizzing your neighbor 
 About his private cares, 
 
 He may be able to manage 
 
 Quite well his own affairs. 
 
 Don't haste if you feel offended 
 To flaunt and fix the blame, 
 
 For sometimes the other fellow 
 Has feelings just the same. 
 
 Don't haste in a flagrant manner 
 
 Yourself to advertise, 
 The public will soon determine 
 
 Your worth, and weight, and size. 
 
 RECEPTION TO PASTOR AND BRIDE. 
 
 (The marriage a surprise to the congregation.) 
 
 Some years ago we brought to town 
 An Easterner of no renown. 
 He settled without scene or shout, 
 A tender-foot without a doubt. 
 But then we bore it, knowing well 
 He would develop in a spell. 
 And by and by how proud we'd be 
 Of his achievements, you and me. 
 
 Believed he'd always stay the same 
 Unchanged, except in wealth and fame; 
 Protected well on every side 
 And work, to keep him occupied. 
 We rested calmly without fear 
 And never thought of danger near; 
 We might have helped him, don't you see, 
 Had we but known it, you and me. 
 
 We somehow failed to realize 
 That he looked good to many eyes ; 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Who sought by divers means to catch 
 While we neglected keeping watch. 
 Who ever thought a fireless dart 
 Could penetrate our Pastor's heart; 
 So strange a thing could never be 
 Without our knowledge, you and me. 
 
 Of course we fear'd he might become 
 Entangled in the wiles of some 
 Fair damsel who espied a chance 
 To cast a flirty, knowing glance, 
 Or find that listed was his name, 
 Among the victims of the game. 
 But then we thought he'd surely see 
 That we were warned, both you and me. 
 
 But cupid is a sly old boy, 
 And chang'd his methods of decoy. 
 Without a murmur of his plan 
 He left behind the "also ran" ; 
 Kept us in ignorance so blunt 
 And glibly work'd his little stunt. 
 He might have giv'n, if 'twas to be, 
 A little hint, to you and me. 
 
 Our only solace is the fact 
 That few indeed possess the tact 
 And wisdom to avoid the knave 
 Who makes the strong a willing slave. 
 He lays his little sure-foot snare 
 To trip the heedless unaware. 
 If we but knew it, don't you see. 
 We'd fix Sir Cupid, you and me. 
 
 But now they've played a shabby trick 
 That did just make us awful sick. 
 If they determined were to wed 
 In confidence they should have said 
 
64 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 We're going on a little lark 
 To matrimonial shores embark. 
 The shock you know could never be 
 So terrible to you and me. 
 
 I do believe upon my life 
 That Mr. Twinkle and his wife 
 Think they did something real smart 
 And cunning, when they play'd the part 
 Of innocence. Oh, don't you know 
 It's fun to fool the people so, 
 And keep the secret to agree. 
 Without consulting you and me. 
 
 The bride seems tickled through and through, 
 The Parson seems quite happy, too ; 
 When we perceive such perfect bliss, 
 WeVe glad we ne'er prevented this. 
 We could not hope, had we a voice 
 To well improve upon the choice ; 
 'Twas wise and mutual as you see 
 As if arranged by you and me. 
 
 And here, I wish to emphasize, 
 'Tis not like us to criticise. 
 Besides, it seems to me quite plain 
 That they are satisfied, the twain. 
 For in their faces I can read 
 No sorrow for their cruel deed. 
 Then we'll forget it, don't you see 
 And greet them gladly, you and me. 
 
 We hope there's lifelong luck in store, 
 That disappointments nevermore 
 Will interfere or cause alarm 
 Or dampen the peculiar charm. 
 And we, the shock can't always last. 
 We'll overlook the sordid past, 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 65 
 
 And smile with pure unstinted glee 
 And say God bless them, you and me. 
 
 If it was ours to plan the way 
 We'd make it one long summer's day. 
 We'd see that every passing cloud 
 Would have a rainbow for a shroud, 
 That flowers in profusion bloom • 
 And harmony and gladness loom, 
 We can but wish it so to be, 
 With loyal hearts, both you and me. 
 
 AN IDEAL DAY. 
 
 A morning in the springtime 
 The distant sunrise clear, 
 
 And odor of early blossoms 
 Scenting the atmosphere. 
 
 A noontime in midsummer 
 The beauty of the field. 
 
 And varied ripened fruitage. 
 Surrendering its yield. 
 
 An evening in the autumn 
 
 Tinged with the sunset hue, 
 
 The many flaming colors. 
 
 Twilight and falling dew. 
 
 JUST LIKE ME. 
 
 It's strange how many people are 
 
 Just like me. 
 You'll find them here and everywhere 
 
 Just like me; 
 They worry over trifling things. 
 Keep nourishing the fear that stings 
 And wonder what tomorrow brings, 
 
 Just like me. 
 
6$ Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 They can't decide twixt modes and makes 
 
 Just like me, 
 And very frequent make mistakes 
 
 Just like me; 
 Sometimes they cannot see the sun 
 Because of curtains they have spun 
 And then regret what they have done, 
 
 Just like me. 
 
 Theygoften weary of their work 
 
 \ Just like me. 
 Feel very much inclined to shirk 
 
 Just like me; 
 They make some flimsy, flat excuse 
 And absolutely do refuse 
 To do a thing, but sit and muse 
 
 Just like me. 
 
 DIFFICULTIES. 
 
 I've always noticed that success 
 Is mixed with trouble more or less, 
 Too oft the man who does his best 
 Receives more kicks than all the rest. 
 
 If one is seeking a career. 
 The crowd don't always loudly cheer ; 
 I would not openly divulge 
 Expressions in which they indulge. 
 
 Sometimes when one is near the top. 
 Conditions change, which cause a stop, 
 Or may be climbing to renown 
 When someone knocks the ladder down. 
 
 If one desires to carve a name 
 Upon the tablet-stone of fame. 
 He must invariably contend 
 With arguments from foe and friend. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 67 
 
 I do not like to criticise 
 The way folks do who're great and wise, 
 But somehow I can't understand 
 Why we withhold a helping hand. 
 
 WRITE THE FAULTS UPON THE SAND. 
 
 Too small a world, too brief the span, 
 To cherish hate 'twixt man and man, 
 Too short the life, too near the end 
 To deal with any save as friend ; 
 Why censure then, for each has strayed, 
 Why point to wrong, for all have failed ; 
 Instead, with ever-ready hand, 
 Just write the faults upon the sand. 
 
 Go seek the noble, find the good. 
 Uphold the truth for which men stood. 
 Forget that somewhere in their life 
 They proved unequal to the strife. 
 And somehow in the battle lost. 
 With awful consequence and cost. 
 And with a kind forgiving hand 
 Just write the faults upon the sand. 
 
 Is there someone, some valued friend 
 Whose life denoted downward trend, 
 Whom you would help without delay 
 And rescue safe from danger's way? 
 Alas ! you stood devoid of speech 
 And saw them drift beyond your reach, 
 Yet shun them not, extend thy hand, 
 And write the faults upon the sand. 
 
 With hope and fear you plead in vain 
 For righteous life, but saw with pain 
 The evil grow, the good decline. 
 But keener was their test than thine — 
 
68 O d e s of Odd Moments 
 
 Along your path was never known 
 The tempter's snares so winning shown, 
 In pity then give them thy hand, 
 And write the faults upon the sand. 
 
 Chide not the one who went astray 
 The weary falt'ring by the way, 
 Their's may have been a harder lot, 
 With sorrows tried, where you were not, 
 And burdens oft too great to bear 
 The weight of which you did not share, 
 Then haste to lend a helping hand. 
 And write the faults upon the sand. 
 
 Do not condemn your fellow-man, 
 You do not know how well he ran. 
 You do not know the fight within. 
 The struggle made to conquer sin. 
 You only saw him fail and fall, 
 Think not that then you knew it all, 
 Go lift him up with gentle hand. 
 And write the faults upon the sand. 
 
 Perchance the world would brighter be 
 And life hold greater joy for thee. 
 More flowers bloom along the way 
 More hope and courage, fill each day ; 
 More real peace to thine own mind 
 More real good in others find; 
 If only just with willing hand 
 You'll write the faults upon the sand. 
 
 Remember only that which gives. 
 More love for souls, a love that lives, 
 A love that hopes, that can inspire. 
 And stand the test of foe and fire — 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 69 
 
 Wherein I failed to do my part, 
 Forgive the lack, with tender heart 
 In charity, give me your hand 
 And write my faults upon the sand. 
 
 THE RAINBOW. . 
 
 Lo ! yonder rainbow tints the sky 
 
 Hope instills and clouds defy, 
 
 It girds the earth with silent tread 
 
 And gilds the heavens overhead ; 
 
 Calm portending, and harmony blending, 
 
 While radiant beauty inspires to duty. 
 
 Along the way divinely lead. 
 
 Our lives may glow and radiance shed, 
 
 Reflecting goodness all around. 
 
 Revealing truth with certain sound ; 
 
 One grand unfolding, and constant striving, 
 
 To win the noblest and gain the highest. 
 
 HELEN ELIZABETH ALLISON. 
 
 (Infant Niece of the Author.) 
 On Monday, June the second. 
 
 There came a little guest, 
 Who neither pays nor labors. 
 
 Yet gets the very best; 
 Allisons' call her charming. 
 
 Every endearing name. 
 And I confess quite willing 
 
 We all feel just the same. 
 
 She rules the home completely 
 With magic power and ease. 
 
 Has everybody striving 
 
 Her very wish to please ; 
 
70 Odes of Odd M o m e n t i 
 
 She does not force obedience, 
 Or utter one command; 
 
 Yet keeps the household busy- 
 Supplying her demand. 
 
 As days and years speed onward 
 
 We gaze into the mist, 
 And trust with heaven's guiding 
 
 All evil she'll resist; 
 Her future life develop 
 
 Those noble traits of worth, 
 And radiate the goodness 
 
 That makes a better earth. 
 
 RETROSPECTION. 
 
 There may be tall, obnoxious weeds 
 
 Upon your neighbor's lot, 
 A growth that makes it look like some 
 
 Neglected desert spot; 
 Before you advertise the fact 
 
 Or speak in disregard. 
 Deliberately stop and take 
 
 A peek at your back yard. 
 
 No doubt there is across the way 
 
 Some spots of dust and grime, 
 That is a menace to the eye, 
 
 A grievance all the time ; 
 Be not unkind in your remarks 
 
 Of hasty words beware. 
 Lest on your doorstep there is found 
 
 The need of special care. 
 
 There may be some whose manners are 
 Not perfect in your sight, 
 
 Their moral conduct and ideals 
 Not what you think is right ; 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 71 
 
 Before you magnify the fact, 
 
 Be certain in your mind 
 That in your life is never found, 
 
 A streak of the same kind. 
 
 Perchance upon a passing face 
 You notice discontent. 
 
 Perhaps a frown upon the brow- 
 Unyielding as cement; 
 
 But e're you censure that grave look, 
 Just pause and think awhile, 
 
 See that your visage always wears 
 A real wholesome smile. 
 
 There may be those whose courage fail 
 
 When tempted to say no, 
 Who are imperfect in their walk 
 
 And falter as they go; 
 Be not too ready to condemn, 
 
 Perhaps in looking back 
 You'll find some place where it is best 
 
 To cover up your track. 
 
 INTROSPECTION. 
 
 As daily in this busy world 
 
 You mingle with the mass, 
 Perchance that some don't measure up 
 
 To what you think is class; 
 Withhold your taunts, nor heap rebuke 
 
 Upon their heads for that, 
 And note the motive that controls 
 
 The man beneath your hat. 
 
 Among the many sons of men 
 
 Are those whose lives confirm 
 
 The lack of sturdy, real worth, 
 And want of strength affirm; 
 
72 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Be not too hasty to condemn, 
 Or o'er their failings gloat, 
 
 Just pause and calmly interview 
 The man within your coat. 
 
 Upon the earth are sometimes found 
 
 The birds of stealth and prey, 
 Whose plumage fair conceals their greed 
 
 And habits ne'er betray; 
 Before you criticise, be sure 
 
 TJiat none but harmless doves 
 Find place and favor ever with 
 
 The man who wears your gloves. 
 
 There may be some who don't possess 
 
 The knowledge of the wise, 
 Nor riches that too often count 
 
 In summing up the size; 
 It is not safe or sane to gage. 
 
 Much less indulge in hoots, 
 Until you fully understand 
 
 The man inside your boots. 
 
 The only thing in life worth while, 
 
 Adorning it with grace, 
 Is character that helps to make 
 
 The world a better place; 
 True greatness always stands supreme 
 
 The test for all the same. 
 Judge others not, but seek to know 
 
 The man who signs your name. 
 
 ANOTHER YEAR. 
 
 Another year, alas, is spent, 
 With all its charms and pleasures lent, 
 Another year, how sad the thought. 
 With anxious pain the heart is fraught; 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 7$_ 
 
 The year whose advent brought good cheer, 
 
 Prospective hopes to far and near, 
 
 Infused new life in young and old. 
 
 And richest gifts it did unfold; 
 
 Un-numbered blessings to us brought, 
 
 Akin to all; no ill besought; 
 
 But kindly bade each one to share, 
 
 In common of its bounties rare. 
 
 But Ah ! with all its glad and cheer. 
 
 Was mingled oft the sigh, and tear, 
 
 The joyous mirth in sorrow hushed. 
 
 And gallant hearts beneath it crushed. 
 
 It greeted millions that today 
 
 Lie covered by the moldering clay, 
 
 A little mound denotes the spot 
 
 Of slumbering hosts ! one common lot. 
 
 Its time is spent, the year is dead. 
 
 Henceforth its number is not said. 
 
 Its reign in calmness, pomp or rage. 
 
 Is only found on history's page. 
 
 Time still rolls on, and now the sound 
 
 Of the New Year is echoed round. 
 
 In mystery wrapped it doth appear. 
 
 Unraveled not by sage or seer. 
 
 But darkness clothes it in disguise 
 
 Till time reveals it to our eyes. 
 
 Mayhap to some of us it brings, 
 
 Some gladsome pleasure on its wings ! 
 
 Perhaps it sheaths a fiery dart 
 
 That soon will scathe and pierce the heart; 
 
 Through flowery vales our paths may wend, 
 
 And peace and joy our steps attend. 
 
 Perhaps dark clouds of anguish loom. 
 
 To snap life's cord and seal our doom. 
 
 It matters not for us to know. 
 
74 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 What this new year may yet bestow, 
 'Tis ours to do and live, and be, 
 What conscience, duty, asks of thee. 
 We sow and reap just as we go. 
 If we plant thorns, no flowers grow, 
 If we sow seed of truth and love. 
 The fruit we'll reap with joy above, 
 Then let us live with rightful aim. 
 The evil shun, the good maintain. 
 And with this motto ever clear. 
 Improve each moment, hour and year. 
 
 A SIXTY-SECOND ANNIVERSARY. 
 
 He who has guided your lives in the past 
 Will surely continue to keep 'till the last; 
 Sustain in His goodness, uphold in His might, 
 And brighten the way with the evening light. 
 
 Two and three score years are numbered, 
 
 Years that were happily spent; 
 Each had its measure of burdens, 
 
 Its share of joy and content ; 
 Each meant a higher conception 
 
 Of life, its beauty and worth; 
 Constant and truly revealing 
 
 The sweetness of heaven on earth. 
 
 A page of marvelous credit 
 
 Records your journey along; 
 No blot or sinister discord 
 
 Saddening singer or song; 
 Your faith still firm and unchanging 
 
 And fixed on eternity's goal; 
 Your hope an unmovable anchor. 
 
 The safe repose of the soul. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 75 
 
 Unlimited wealth of treasures 
 
 You've stored in that home secure, 
 Where blight and decay can't enter, 
 
 Where all is perfect and pure ; 
 Anon the call of the Master 
 
 Will come to you, one by one, 
 Bidding you there and rewarding, 
 
 Giving the welcome, "Well done". 
 
 EASTER THOUGHTS. 
 
 The story of the Easter time, 
 
 And lessons do not cease 
 To thrill the heart with boundless joy 
 
 And fill the soul with peace ; 
 The cross, the death, the vacant tomb, 
 
 A loving message brings; 
 Around them cluster truths that stir 
 
 The world to better things. 
 
 A living Savior for our need. 
 
 One who can sympathize. 
 And unto those in bondage say, 
 
 "I bought thy freedom, rise, 
 Reach out, and up, and ever strive 
 
 To live and do your best; 
 Bear all with cheer, delight to serve. 
 
 And leave with God the rest". 
 
 Oh ! may His life and sacrifice 
 
 Be a transcending light, 
 A power to draw, to lift, to lead, 
 
 And guide us in the right; 
 Enabling us to overcome 
 
 The doubts, and fears, and gain 
 A vision of the risen Christ 
 
 Who will our lives sustain. 
 
76 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 LIFE'S JOURNEY. 
 
 Amid the busy countless throng 
 Of human form and face, 
 
 That do unceasing onward move 
 Each one commands a place. 
 
 But Oh ! how humble, how minute 
 
 The place we occupy, 
 How little does our life concern 
 
 The millions passing by. 
 
 A frail, dependent living soul 
 Unconscious of its state, 
 
 Defenseless but immortal spark 
 To meet an unknown fate. 
 
 This wondrous world so beautiful 
 It scans with mute surprise, 
 
 And with each day the scene expands 
 To those untiring eyes. 
 
 As years advance and youth and strength 
 This human form acquires, 
 
 The heart is filled with eager hopes 
 Ambitions and desires. 
 
 The journey may be long and tried 
 By many a piercing dart, 
 
 Perhaps life's sun will set at noon 
 And nip its active part. 
 
 It matters little, when we die 
 
 And neither how, nor where ; 
 
 The vital point is, what we did? 
 How lived, and what we are. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 77 
 
 THE FOLKS I USE TO KNOW. 
 
 Oh, the folks I use to know 
 In the distant long ago, 
 
 Old fashioned, I suppose; 
 For they lived from day to day 
 In a modest, simple way, 
 And believed 'twas good to pray 
 
 For the night's repose. 
 
 Oh, the folks I use to know 
 In that carefree long ago, 
 
 Were not up-to-date; 
 For they never traveled far, 
 Didn't own a modern car. 
 Never tried to make or mar, 
 
 Anybody's fate. 
 
 Oh, the folks I use to know 
 In that quiet long ago, 
 
 Won the part they played; 
 For they knew just where they stood ; 
 Labored for the common good. 
 Never lurked within the wood 
 
 'Till the top was gained. 
 
 Oh, the folks I use to know 
 In that happy long ago 
 
 Had a real part, 
 In the moulding of my life, 
 In the fitting for the strife. 
 And their memory is rife 
 
 Still within my heart. 
 
 Oh, the folks I use to know 
 In that home-like long ago 
 
 Were of working fond; 
 
78 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Not feebly careless, or protem 
 But daily sought the wrong to stem 
 And their good deeds do follow them 
 To the great beyond. 
 
 Oh, the folks I use to know 
 In that pleasant long ago 
 
 Made a better earth ; 
 By their being true and kind 
 By their living pure in mind 
 And in dying leave behind 
 
 Legacies of worth. 
 
 With the folks I use to know 
 In that hallowed long ago 
 
 I would like to be ; 
 When the evening shadows fall 
 And I must surrender all, 
 Answer to the final call, 
 
 In eternity. 
 
 WHY. 
 
 Why does it demand such care and toil 
 The planting of seed and tilling of soil? 
 You must work and work, for countless hours 
 If you want results in blooming flowers; 
 But you do not need to sow 
 If you want just weeds to grow. 
 
 Why is it needful early and late 
 To prune and pamper and cultivate? 
 To be rewarded in fruit and grain 
 Means tireless effort and constant strain ; 
 But you can omit the cares 
 If you want to reap just tares. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 79 
 
 Why does the worthy in danger lie 
 Traits that are noble, languish and die? 
 The pure can never easy survive, 
 Good must be nourished to make it thrive ; 
 
 But the evil doesn't need 
 
 Any nurture to succeed. 
 
 Why does it require dominant will 
 Enduring patience and care and skill, 
 In building something of real worth 
 And making debtors the folks of earth, 
 
 But it's easy for a clown 
 
 To destroy and tear it down. 
 
 HOME. 
 
 Home is the place where you feel at ease, 
 Live as you like and do as you please, 
 Where happiness lingers all the while 
 And comfort is valued more than style. 
 
 Home is the place wherein you reside 
 With all of the noisy world outside. 
 Where you can rally and rest and play 
 After the cares of a busy day. 
 
 Home is the place where the atmosphere 
 Is charged with music of hope and cheer. 
 Where you like to go and love to be 
 Within a castle so glad and free. 
 
 NOTHING BUT DIAMONDS. 
 
 A weary traveler wended his way 
 Hungry and footsore from the heat of day. 
 His pack was heavy and his heart was sad 
 For one contained all the wealth that he had- 
 The other was crushed with sorrows of years 
 
80 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 The weight of the world, its trials and tears; 
 
 He sighed as he thought of his pitiful plight 
 
 And longed for shelter and food for the night, 
 
 When there by the side of the trail he found 
 
 A well filled pouch that he seized with a bound. 
 
 He eagerly opened it hoping to find 
 
 Something to satisfy body and mind. 
 
 When lo ! in profusion lay at his feet 
 
 A wealth of brilliants, but nothing to eat ; 
 
 In utter dispair he lifted his head 
 
 Saying, "nothing but diamonds ; I want bread". 
 
 JACK FROST. 
 
 Jack frost comes uninvited 
 
 And knows he is not wanted, 
 
 He makes no explanation 
 
 About the imposition 
 
 But in one single visit 
 
 Which we can not prohibit 
 
 He skulks around and lingers 
 
 Until his icy fingers 
 
 Have crushed to earth and blighted 
 
 All in which we delighted. 
 
 BETTER NOT. 
 
 Better not pet a bumble-bee 
 
 Or fondle a rattlesnake. 
 They might misjudge your friendly act 
 
 To many liberties take. 
 
 Better not trust a skulking fox 
 Or trifle with hungry bears, 
 
 They may design to sneak and rob. 
 By catching you unawares. 
 
Odea of O d d Moments 81 
 
 Better not speak when you're real mad 
 You're near a dangerous brink, 
 
 You may be sorry by and by 
 
 That you didn't take time to think. 
 
 Better not waste the fleeting time 
 Or idly spend hours that fly, 
 
 The day is fading fast away. 
 
 And the night is drawing nigh. 
 
 IS IT. 
 
 Is it any wonder 
 
 That we fail to find 
 
 Anything but trouble 
 
 When we feel unkind. 
 
 Is it any wonder 
 
 When we feel awry, 
 That we see discomfort 
 
 On every face we spy. 
 
 Is it any wonder 
 
 If our hearts are sad, 
 That it seems a trial 
 
 To see others glad. 
 
 Is it any wonder 
 
 If we smile and sing. 
 All the world about us 
 
 Has a pleasant ring. 
 
 Is it any wonder 
 
 If our thoughts are pure, 
 That we see in others 
 
 Morals that endure. 
 
82 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Is it any wonder 
 
 If our lives are right, 
 
 That about us glowing 
 Is a hallowed light. 
 
 For the world is but a mirror 
 
 And performing well its part, 
 
 By correctly just reflecting 
 
 The condition of the heart. 
 
 PRIVILEGE. 
 
 There's difficult places 
 
 So frequent in life, 
 And moments of testing 
 
 The strength in the strife 
 In point of achieving 
 
 Success is not luck; 
 More often its merely 
 
 Just courage and pluck. 
 
 To hope for all pleasure 
 
 We scarcely would ask, 
 But wisdom to master 
 
 The day's common task; 
 There's briers and roses. 
 
 Which do we expect? 
 The yielding is largely 
 
 The kind we select. 
 
 There's no certain method 
 
 For carving a name, 
 And no beacon guiding 
 
 To honor and fame; 
 Whatever our portion, 
 
 Live up to the best 
 Ignoring in calmness 
 
 All fear of the rest. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 83 
 
 Content we can't purchase 
 
 Nor happiness find; 
 The secret is wholly 
 
 A state of the mind, 
 If life is belittled 
 
 With whimper and whine 
 Its beauty is bartered 
 
 And lost, the Divine. 
 
 ONLY A LEAF. 
 
 Only a leaf, an autumn leaf, 
 
 Withered and faded and brown. 
 Lifeless and helpless, borne by the breeze, 
 
 Noiselessly floating down. 
 Only a leaf, an autumn leaf 
 
 That counts for nothing at all. 
 Its beauty and value and use 
 
 Together lost with its fall. 
 
 Only a life, a human life. 
 
 Summoned into the dark, 
 Snatched from the earth ; forever gone, 
 
 Is that living vital spark. 
 Only a life, a human life. 
 
 Not missed by the busy world, 
 But oh, how great the consequence, 
 
 How real the afterward. 
 
 ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 
 
 A century gone, within its folds 
 The destiny of millions holds; 
 The unrecorded deeds and names 
 Would volumes fill, oblivion claims. 
 But here is one without a peer, 
 More lov'd with each receding year. 
 
84 Odes of Odd Momenta 
 
 Time only serves to make him great 
 And more revered in home and state — 
 The name of Lincoln. 
 
 Not princely birth nor large estate, 
 Not faultless manner made him great; 
 But loyal heart, his all to give 
 That wrong might die and right might live ; 
 For this he sought, and thought, and pray'd, 
 For this he labored undismay'd ; 
 A king in courage, power and will — 
 We'll blazon on our banners still, 
 The name of Lincoln. 
 
 Through decades of swift fleeting years, 
 Through sun and shadow, smiles and tears, 
 Above the crash of ill dealt blow, 
 The brutal plot that laid him low. 
 The nation echoes all around 
 With mighty force and certain sound ; 
 Though generations rise and fall. 
 He's still the hero to us all. 
 Our noble Lincoln. 
 
 Canst measure what his life has meant? 
 Canst weigh its value and extent? 
 Or multiply the real worth 
 Of this great legacy to earth ? 
 A type of manhood still at par. 
 So pure, so strong that naught can mar; 
 "God, give us men" just such as he 
 Who'll stand the test and prove to be 
 Another Lincoln. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 85 
 
 THERE IS ALWAYS A WAY. 
 
 There is always a way, and it brings good pay, 
 
 To be busy with heart and hand. 
 In moulding and building the structures of worth, 
 
 The things that will stay and stand. 
 
 There is always a way, and it brings good pay, 
 
 To be gentle, and frank, and just. 
 To scatter the seed, not forgetting the care 
 
 And tilling of soil, if you must. 
 
 There is always a way, and it brings good pay. 
 
 To be patient, and calm, and kind, 
 To search for the noble, in all whom you see ; 
 
 Extolling the good that you find. 
 
 There is always a way, and it brings good pay, 
 
 To be hopeful, and trust and smile. 
 To fill every page with a record of deeds 
 
 That will count for something worth while. 
 
 There is always a way, and it brings good pay, 
 To be cheerful, and brave, and true. 
 
 Rise over the gloom, and climb up to the heights — 
 To their summit; I would, wouldn't you? 
 
 REALM OF THE BLEST. 
 
 Is there a realm of peace and rest 
 Where all who dwell therein are blest. 
 Is there a place, some unknown spot 
 With toil and trial all forgot? 
 Where sin and evil is not found 
 And all is one melodious sound. 
 Where joy and harmony control 
 And fills the longings of the soul? 
 The realm of the blest is just where you are 
 If of earth's burdens you carry a share. 
 
86 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Is it to have within thy hold 
 Trophies and gems, and sums of gold, 
 On gain and greed, thine efforts spent 
 While phantom fancies feign content? 
 Is honored place and fragrant cheer 
 The most appeasing to the ear, 
 Or is it work with zest and zeal 
 And open heart to wants appeal ; 
 Be not deceived, the realm of the blest 
 Is living and loving, doing your best. 
 
 What worlds exist beyond the skies 
 Or realm beyond our planet lies, 
 I would not search that great unknown 
 To learn the things God hath not shown, 
 If the Almighty did conceal, 
 Not I in weakness can reveal ; 
 I only know that here and there 
 The same Lord reigneth everywhere, 
 Fearless and certain I'll echo it still 
 The realm of the blest, is doing God's will. 
 
 Not mine to peer beyond the veil 
 Seek to unfold, for visions fail, 
 Enough to know that I'm to share 
 A home the Master doth prepare ; 
 What there awaits I do not know 
 Or what reward He will bestow ; 
 I only know, if true to trust 
 The compensation will be just, 
 All that He's promised the Lord will fulfill 
 In the realm of the blest, and care for me still. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 87 
 
 ONLY TRY. 
 
 If you and I would only try, 
 
 Would only place our standard high, 
 
 And strive to win — 
 How much of sorrow, grief and pain 
 And needless burdens borne .in vain. 
 
 The wage of sin, 
 Might be removed and in their place 
 A peaceful calm, each brow would grace, 
 
 And hope within. 
 
 If you and I would only try 
 
 To do the work that's so nearby. 
 
 And leave the rest. 
 Content whatever may be our lot 
 To serve in palace or in cot 
 
 Nor seek to quest, 
 But wait in patience for the day 
 When time reveals that these are they, 
 
 Who did their best. 
 
 If you and I would only try 
 
 To right the wrong that's ever nigh. 
 
 Betray no guile. 
 But kindly think, and act, and do, 
 "As you'd have others do to you". 
 
 And all the while 
 For justice stand, decisive clear — » 
 
 What countless woes would disappear, 
 
 And heaven would smile. 
 
 If you and I would only try. 
 To pluck the thorn as we pass by, 
 
 And plant a rose, 
 A whole earth filled with incense sweet 
 And better path for weary feet. 
 
 Would soon disclose. 
 
88 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 How beautiful the world would be 
 And what reward to you and me, 
 No human knows. 
 
 If you and I would only try 
 
 To know the good that inward lie 
 
 In all we see, 
 For other folk are just the same 
 And often not as much to blame 
 
 As you and me; 
 Our very heart would throb in prayer 
 And every selfish motive there, 
 
 Would instant flee. 
 
 If you and I would only try 
 To ever lift our King on high, 
 
 Bethlehem's star 
 Would lead again the great and wise. 
 Till all the nations 'neath the skies 
 
 Would see afar, 
 Peace, heavenly peace, would quickly reign, 
 "Good will to men" on earth we'd gain 
 
 And cease to war. 
 
 ANOTHER CANDLE. 
 
 There came into my life a soul 
 
 Whose presence cheered and lifted, 
 
 That like a sunbeam changed the whole ; 
 "Another candle lighted". 
 
 There came into my life a friend 
 Tarried awhile, then vanished, 
 
 The shadows lengthened to the end, 
 A candle was extinguished. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 89 
 
 PART II. 
 
 GREETINGS ON MARRIAGES. 
 
 I would if I could make happiness thine, 
 A halo of peace around thee entwine, 
 Remove the dismay and ill you may dread 
 And gladden your hearts with music instead. 
 
 I would if I could make life so complete 
 So full of success no room for defeat, 
 No room for the false,' the petty and lure. 
 To hamper the growth and stifle the pure. 
 
 I would if I could create guiding light, 
 Illumine the way of justice and right. 
 And plant the desire the noble to gain, 
 The highest to seek and greatest attain. 
 
 I would if I could grant fortune and ease. 
 Supply the good things that readily please. 
 And better than that contentment bestow. 
 With friends ever true their kindness to know. 
 
 I would if I could prevent clouds to cast 
 A gloom of despair life's sweetness to blast, 
 Inspire if they come, to rise to your best 
 In courage to stand and equal the test. 
 
 I would if I could surround thee with good 
 And magnify truth for which you have stood, 
 Impressing the worth of humbly to trod 
 The path leading upward to heav'n and God. 
 
 I know not what life holds for thee 
 
 That now seems filled with gladness, 
 
 Will joy replete and constant be 
 
 Or sometimes tinged with sadness; 
 
90 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Will hopes that now your bosom fill 
 
 Be realized completely; 
 Will coming days be brighter still 
 
 And redolent with plenty? 
 In vain the quest, none can foretell 
 
 What future years will proflrer, 
 And I can only wish you well, 
 
 My kindliest greetings ofifer. 
 
 If I could weave life's fabric 
 And fix your guiding star, 
 
 I'd make it one of beauty 
 
 And let no shadows mar. 
 
 Your journey one of pleasure 
 With oft enchanting scene. 
 
 And e'en though clouds may gather 
 A radiant light between. 
 
 Your lives a mutual blending 
 Of harmonies that swell. 
 
 With no discordant echo 
 Its melody to quell. 
 
 Your home the place of comfort 
 Where peace and joy abound. 
 
 Where naught but trust can enter 
 And only love is found. 
 
 If any wish sincere of mine. 
 
 Could make your joy secure, 
 I'd gladly pour on thee and thine 
 
 The blessings that endure. 
 
 Hence may that love which binds you twain 
 
 In ardor never cease, 
 But constant in its strength remain 
 
 And with the years increase. 
 
Ode s of Odd Moments 91 
 
 Content with all but seek the best 
 
 Let no defeat alarm, 
 Make happiness your daily guest 
 
 Tranquility your charm. 
 
 If days are dark and shadows fall, 
 
 And clouds are lingering near, * 
 May hope and courage through it all, 
 
 Sustain the heart with cheer. 
 
 Make life replete with noble deeds, 
 
 With thoughts that lift and lend — 
 
 More valor to contend with needs 
 More value in the end. 
 
 If I had my wish, I'd have this happy time 
 Continue untrammel'd in station and clime. 
 Surround thee with plenty wherever you rest, 
 Endow thee with all that is noble and best. 
 
 If I had my wish, I'd make this golden day 
 An ernest of rapture that ne'er dies away. 
 Reverting the echo distinctive and clear. 
 Prolonging its gladness for many a year. 
 
 If I had my wish, though adversity's wave 
 Dash ruthlessly over the joys that you crave, 
 Even then may your soul be anchored secure 
 With power to stand and strength to endure. 
 
 If I had my wish, thy day would be light, 
 A far distant sunset both glorious and bright, 
 A well finished life with duties complete. 
 In goodness abounding, in richness replete. 
 
 "It's up to you", and serious too 
 
 To keep the troth you've plighted, 
 
 'Tis easy done when just begun 
 
 With hearts- and thoughts united, 
 
S2 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 But holding fast until the last 
 
 Requires some extra training, 
 
 Yet slight expense and commonsense, 
 Will make it splendid sailing. 
 
 As on you go seek for to know 
 
 The true, the good, the noblest. 
 And choose the right ne'er losing sight, 
 
 Of all that's best and purest; 
 Along the way, fresh every day 
 
 Are blessings constant falling, 
 From heaven's blue just dropping through, 
 
 Like sparkling dew-drops shining. 
 
 Thus may yours prove a happy move 
 
 A future full of beauty 
 And joyous day when each holds sway, 
 
 A life that's more than duty ; 
 Your home the spot with care forgot 
 
 And sweet contentment reigneth, 
 Where rests the dove of peace and love. 
 
 And hope and cheer abideth. 
 
 With hearty wish and will 
 
 I'd like to weave a greeting 
 
 So clearly worded till — 
 
 You'd not mistake its meaning. 
 
 If I could make it so 
 
 Your future would be radiant. 
 Serene like sunset glow. 
 
 And freighted with the pleasant. 
 
 Fd like your path to strew 
 
 With flowers in profusion. 
 
 And sprinkle them with dew 
 Each morning in succession. 
 
Odes of Odd Mo m e n t 
 
 Though changes come your way 
 Be it your sacred portion, 
 
 To find with each new day, 
 Increasing true devotion. 
 
 Your aims and efforts spell ^ 
 Success in every letter, 
 
 And all your hopes as well 
 Mature without a fetter. 
 
 Contentment, though not found, 
 And not obtained by buying, 
 
 Abundant will abound 
 
 Where love is always ruling. 
 
 The future now hail, with exceeding joy 
 Like the mirth of a child, with a brand new toy, 
 As sweet and as pure, as free from all care, 
 As ever was known a mortal to share. 
 
 A joy to increase as the days go by. 
 
 That deepens and grows as the seasons fly. 
 
 That fills your whole life with bright sunny dreams. 
 
 With never a cloud as dark as it seems. 
 
 I do not wish that all thy life 
 
 May be one constant realm of bliss, 
 I do not ask that every day 
 
 May be as full of cheer as this ; 
 But that contentment rule thy hearts 
 
 And love secure the sacred tie. 
 And that thy home, thy life, thine all 
 
 Stand for the best beneath the sky. 
 
94 O d e s of Odd Moments 
 
 Since you've decided it is best 
 To link your lives together, 
 
 Who ever did the thought suggest 
 I think was very clever. 
 
 Henceforth united in your aims 
 Your efforts undivided, 
 
 With all your interests and gains 
 By wisdom rightly guided. 
 
 And may the future hold in store 
 Success and joy untrammeled, 
 
 Increasing ever more and more. 
 As days and years are counted. 
 
 Hence may you ever realize 
 
 Life's blessings in their fullest, 
 
 Your fondest longings crystallize 
 In all that's best and truest. 
 
 Your home a place where happiness 
 Rules without limitation, 
 
 Where harmony without digress 
 Controls the situation. 
 
 Fond friends, were it mine to determine 
 
 What the drama of life shall unroll. 
 What the future holds in its coffer, 
 
 Placing just at your wish and control ; 
 It would mean the good and the lovely. 
 
 An abundance of all that is best; 
 It would mean the blessing of heaven 
 
 On your dwelling-place ever to rest. 
 
 Were it mine to lay out the pathway. 
 
 Choose the scene of your journey each day 
 
 Mark the course of duty and service, 
 Set the boundary line of the way; 
 
Ode s of Odd Moments 95_ 
 
 I'd hedge it profusely with flowers 
 
 Ever blooming, luxurious and sweet ; 
 
 And with trees whose tovv^ering branches 
 In a sheltering canopy meet. 
 
 Were it mine to order the changes 
 
 That unsolvable mysteries hold ; 
 Fix the height of hope and achievement, 
 
 Paint events that the years will unfold; 
 I'd make it an ideal blending 
 
 Of the beautiful, noble and pure ; 
 The harmony ever increasing, 
 
 And the happiness ever secure. 
 
 Were it mine to furnish the power, 
 
 Supply every requisite need ; 
 To master the trying conditions. 
 
 And in difficult places succeed; 
 'T would be wisdom, patience and courage, 
 
 Then devotedly working them out. 
 With trust in an Almighty leading, 
 
 Yes, a trust without murmur or doubt. 
 
 If it were mine to seal a wish 
 
 'T would be that you might gain 
 
 The choicest gifts of earth and heav'n 
 Your fondest hopes attain. 
 
 If it were mine to pave the way 
 
 And choose the path you tread, 
 
 I'd have it smooth, remove the thorn. 
 And plant a rose instead. 
 
 If it were mine to tint your sky 
 I'd make it changeless blue. 
 
 And pierce it with the radiant glow 
 Of sunlight's matchless hue. 
 
96 Odea of Odd Moments 
 
 No fitful dreams or vague ideals 
 Can make your lives sublime, 
 
 But constancy that does not wane 
 Or know the change of time. 
 
 Not spacious rooms, and gorgeous walls 
 
 Or richly gilded dome, 
 But love enthron'd alone can make 
 
 Your dwelling place a home. 
 
 If o'er your lives perchance will come 
 A cloud of grief or care. 
 
 In calm relief. Oh ! may you see 
 The sunbeam also there. 
 
 PART III. 
 
 TRIBUTES TO THE DEAD. 
 
 Weep, Zion, weep ! the sigh, the tear, 
 The vacant pew, and pulpit near, 
 In silence tell, a voice is hush'd. 
 And many hearts with sorrow crushed. 
 
 A faithful watchman God had given. 
 To point the way to Christ and heav'n, 
 A valiant soldier in the rank. 
 Devoted, true, persistent, frank. 
 
 His work well done, the arms laid down, 
 He wears today a victor's crown ; 
 One more is numbered with the blest. 
 Another servant is at rest. 
 
 Ye who have oft his counsel heard. 
 And listened to the preached word, — 
 Oh pause a moment on your way. 
 Let solemn thoughts your foot-steps stay. 
 
O d € 8 of Odd Moments 97 
 
 Do you persist to walk in sin, 
 God's name disdain, nor blush therein? 
 Do you reject the Master's call? 
 Do you deride and scorn it all? 
 
 Beside the grave, in earnest pray'r, 
 Is there no soul filled with despair? 
 This voice is silent in the tomb. 
 But God still asks — will you not come? 
 
 Hark! 'tis a voice, a gentle touch, 
 The seed must die that yieldeth much. 
 And Zion yet will loudly sing 
 The praises of her Lord and King. 
 
 Such was the message, such the call, 
 
 In unmistaken note; 
 The beck'ning voice said "Servant, come, 
 
 For thee I will promote". 
 
 From earth to heav'n from death to life. 
 From toil and pain to rest ; 
 
 And thine the vict'ry, thine the crown. 
 And home among the blest. 
 
 We do not breathe a sad farewell, 
 Mid tears that ceaseless flow, 
 
 But rather hail the dawn of day, 
 And yonder radiant glow. 
 
 Today we can not scale the heights, 
 Nor see that distant shore. 
 
 Where lives this nobleman of God, 
 In peace forever more. 
 
 But forward, onward to the goal, 
 
 His admonition heed ; 
 His life and labors emulate. 
 
 His hope, his faith, succeed. 
 
98 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 A little gem of priceless worth 
 
 Entrusted for a while, 
 To stay the hope and cheer the home 
 
 By winning, winsome smile. 
 
 Too tender was this little plant 
 
 To live *mid shades and gloom. 
 
 Transplanted to its native soil, 
 'Twill yield eternal bloom. 
 
 Today we can't locate the height 
 
 Or see that home above. 
 Where lives the one we cherished so, 
 
 In realms of perfect love. 
 
 Yet wholly trust in Him who came 
 Our woes and griefs to bear, 
 
 And through the clouds see the bright light, 
 That leads us, also, there. 
 
 Blest is the man who seeketh 
 Obedience to God's will. 
 
 Death's just a revelation 
 
 Of life more blessed still. 
 
 Again the reaper we call death 
 
 No fear or pity had, 
 But lov'd and loving ones hath claim'd 
 
 And homes and hearts made sad. 
 
 The one a tender little flow'r 
 That blossomed for a day. 
 
 That charm'd our being, won our love ; 
 That smiled, and then away. 
 
 Too fair and beautiful for earth. 
 Too precious in God's sight. 
 
 To dwell 'mid sin and sorrow would 
 Perhaps, its beauty blight. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 99 
 
 The other through maturer years, 
 
 Proved by her noble life, 
 That truth and righteousness will stand, 
 
 Defying test and strife. 
 
 That smiles and sorrows, tears ^and joys 
 
 Are messengers who serve 
 To build, unfold, in strength and worth 
 
 And hope that cannot swerve. 
 
 Oh ! may their lives' triumphant close, 
 
 Their entrance into rest, 
 Stir us to efifort and desire 
 
 To be and do our best. 
 
 And though we mourn, yet no despair. 
 
 Faith sees the light that glows 
 Above, beyond and through the clouds 
 
 And trusting says, God knows. 
 
 There is a time when language 
 Fails to express the grief, 
 
 When silence soothes the sorrow, 
 Gives solace and relief. 
 
 To speak is oft to question 
 Why was it order'd so? 
 
 Why was this life we cherish'd 
 So suddenly laid low? 
 
 A life that faith and duty 
 Alike claim'd equal part; 
 
 Whose kindness and consistence 
 Appealed to every heart. 
 
 Through cloudless skies of promise. 
 When hope was at its best. 
 
 There came the final summons 
 "Come unto Me and rest." 
 
100 Odes of Odd Momenta 
 
 Not hopeless are we mourning 
 This constant loyal friend ; 
 
 Nor doubtful of the halo 
 
 That crown'd her journey's end. 
 
 We knew not how or whither, 
 Her spirit found its way ; 
 
 We only know she liveth 
 In God's eternal day. 
 
 The voice is hushed 
 
 Fond hopes are crushed, 
 Loved ones fresh wounds receiving; 
 
 We question why 
 
 That he should die, 
 And leave so many grieving, 
 
 God knoweth best. 
 
 And gave him rest. 
 
 Born from above, 
 
 Filled with God's love. 
 With life, his mission ended; 
 
 Hearts that were sad, 
 
 Were oft made glad, 
 By sympathy extended. 
 
 God knoweth best 
 
 And gave him rest. 
 
 The truth he sought, 
 
 And set at naught 
 The world, for heavenly treasure; 
 
 Working with might 
 
 A power for right, 
 No human mind can measure. 
 
 God knoweth best 
 
 And gave him rest. 
 
O d e e of Odd Moments 101 
 
 We miss the smile 
 
 So free from guile, 
 That cheering word, far-reaching; 
 
 And voice the sound 
 
 Of praise profound, 
 For all his noble teaching. 
 
 God knoweth best 
 
 And gave him rest. 
 
 A step away 
 
 In endless day, 
 Beyond earth's cares, he liveth ; 
 
 The hope made sure, 
 
 The peace secure. 
 That peace the Master giveth. 
 
 God knoweth best 
 
 And gave him rest. 
 
 How vain the hopes, and frail the ties 
 That bind us to the earth, 
 
 The bonds of love are rent as naught 
 And tears suppress the mirth. 
 
 We long for peace, and look for joy, 
 And fond ambitions crave ; 
 
 One cruel stroke, and all is lost, 
 Secreted in the grave. 
 
 Another friend is called away, 
 
 Another warning had, 
 Another home made desolate, 
 
 And other hearts made sad. 
 
 A little span, a few short years. 
 An atom, it would seem ; 
 
 We realize with keen regret, 
 That "life is but a dream." 
 
.02 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 Ah yes ! a dream ; but pause, my soul 
 Beyond this little sphere, 
 
 Eternal weight, eternal doom. 
 Rests on the actions here. 
 
 A life so beautiful, so pure, 
 
 A character that could endure, 
 
 A conduct that will bear to trace 
 
 Its every act, and naught efface; 
 
 A Christian faithful to the end 
 
 Such as the Master doth commend ; 
 
 A life whose influence we feel 
 
 Whose death leaves wounds that cannot heal. 
 
 If we but could prolong her day. 
 With loving hands that arrow stay ; 
 If loyal hearts had only pow'r 
 To spare the sorrow of this hour; 
 Alas I for human efforts fail. 
 And hopes and pray'rs could not avail, 
 Helpless we cry and search for light, 
 For earth reveals but darkest night. 
 
 A mystery too deep to solve, 
 
 A cloud through which no rays evolve ; 
 
 A season when we cannot see, 
 
 A time when silence seems to be 
 
 The only thing that brings relief 
 
 The only remedy for grief; 
 
 When none but God can touch the heart 
 
 And He alone can peace impart. 
 
 And as this spirit wing'd its flight, 
 Oh ! may we recognize Thy might ; 
 Thy judgments and Thy mercies stand. 
 And all is safe within Thy hand ; 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 103 
 
 Since Thou hast fitted in Thy love, 
 For her a dwelling place above, 
 And taken home this cherish'd one. 
 Help us to say "Thy will be done." 
 
 We grope in darkness when we try 
 To understand the reason why; 
 "Lead kindly light," lead thou the way. 
 Transform this chaos into day; 
 With spirits crush'd beneath the blow 
 Yet dauntless faith help us to know 
 That out of trials triumphs come, 
 And then to say "Thy will be done." 
 
 I saw a flower in beauty rare, 
 
 Its fragrance sweet was everywhere ; 
 
 It filled the saddened heart with joy. 
 
 No thorn to pierce or hope destroy. 
 
 I saw it bloom in colors bright, 
 
 I saw its beauty changed to blight, 
 
 I saw it wither, fade and die. 
 
 Forever lost to human eye : 
 
 Such was thy life most worthy friend. 
 
 Which death so soon hath marked its end. 
 
 In all its hope, in all its bloom. 
 
 Enclosed within that narrow tomb, 
 
 Not like the flower there to be 
 
 Through ages of eternity ; — 
 
 Again to rise to life more blest. 
 
 To happiness, to home and rest. 
 
 A little shorter journey 
 A little earlier rest, 
 
 A little sooner entered 
 
 The haven of the blest. 
 
104 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 We planned for years of pleasure 
 For service rendered here, 
 
 God chose to call her yonder 
 To a more glorious sphere. 
 
 Triumphant o'er earth's sorrows 
 We know not how or where, 
 
 We only know she liveth 
 
 Still in the Master's care. 
 
 In solemn thought and voice suppressed 
 
 I ask can it be best, 
 That one so active, so beloved 
 
 Is early called to rest. 
 
 A life so noble, pure and good. 
 None knew her but to love, 
 
 Is lost to us but still exists 
 In higher realms above. 
 
 Loved ones now left in anguish sore 
 Fond hearts that grief doth rend. 
 
 With you I shed a silent tear 
 
 And mourn a cherished friend. 
 
 Our faith extends beyond the tomb 
 That sheathes the mortal clay, 
 
 And sees the bright and glorious dawn 
 Of yon eternal day. 
 
 Is kindness a trait of merit? 
 
 Has service a place on earth? 
 Is duty well done of value? 
 
 Has constancy weight and worth? 
 Is charity nobly acted 
 
 A quality to admire? 
 Is character pure and ideal 
 
 The sum of what we desire? 
 
Odea of O d d Moments 105 
 
 Do these form a life of beauty 
 
 The potent, real, sublime, 
 Measuring up to a standard 
 
 Worthy of effort and time ? 
 Then pause and offer thanksgiving 
 
 For the help, the \\h and gain. 
 Inspired by her noble being. 
 
 Those virtues strive to attain. 
 
 'Twas noon, life's noon, calm and serene 
 
 No clouds to mar the beauteous scene. 
 
 Pure as the dawn, bright as the day 
 
 Cans't thou picture a heart more blithe and gay. 
 
 Beloved by all, most worthy friend 
 True and unfaltering to the end, 
 Alas that grief this life should blight 
 And change its sunshine into night. 
 
 Kind friends to love, kind hearts to plead 
 Kind hands supplying every need. 
 But all in vain the shadows grew 
 And darker, denser, nearer drew. 
 
 A few short days and life had fled 
 
 The one so loved to us, is dead, 
 
 But liveth yet safe in the Hand 
 
 That lead her through to Canaan's strand. 
 
 Weep not for her, in silence bow 
 Though dark and drear it seemeth now, 
 Lift up your eyes and through the gloom 
 Behold bright sunbeams hither loom. 
 
 Mourn not for her whose song is joy 
 Eternal bliss without alloy. 
 Cast all your care in each dark spell 
 On Him "who doeth all things well". 
 
106 Odes of Odd Moments 
 
 In a garden of choicest flowers, 
 
 Bloomed one most surpassingly fair, 
 
 Its beauty and fragrance was pleasing 
 As it waved in the summer air. 
 
 By a chilly blast of the Autumn 
 
 The flower's endurance was tried, 
 
 The delicate blossom was stricken 
 
 It drooped, and withered, and died. 
 
 Just so our dear little Gurtha 
 
 With her pleasant and winning smile, 
 Whose life was a beautiful blossom 
 
 That was given for one short while. 
 
 Alas that a life so beloved 
 
 Should perish in early years, 
 
 Alas that a future of promise 
 
 Is a hope now silenced in tears. 
 
 But unlike the flower that faded. 
 
 And never to be revived. 
 Its value now over and vanished. 
 
 The beauty we fondly admired. 
 
 Again in most radiant splendor 
 
 She liveth beyond earthly cares, 
 
 And free from its woes and its sorrows 
 The home of the blessed she shares. 
 
 The home's a broken circle 
 
 One loved has reached the end, 
 While some have lost a brother 
 
 We all have lost a friend ; 
 A friend that stood for something 
 
 That vanish'd not with breath, 
 A pow'r for righteous living 
 
 Not silenced by grim death. 
 
Odes of Odd Moments 107 
 
 A life like fragrant blossoms 
 
 That permeates the air, 
 Diffusing joy and gladness 
 
 Around it everywhere, 
 Whose words and deeds were constant 
 
 Who did the truth uphold, 
 Whose noble Christian graces, 
 
 Were rich and manifold. 
 
 I know not why God summoned 
 
 So early to the grave, 
 And to Himself called yonder 
 
 So soon the life He gave? 
 I only know that ever 
 
 And whether here or there, 
 He's still the ''child of promise" 
 
 Within His boundless care. 
 
INDEX 
 
 PART I. 
 
 PAGE 
 
 Introduction 3 
 
 Buy a Book •. 3 
 
 Unselfish and True 4 
 
 The Rainbow Round the Throne , 5 
 
 It Isn't Easy 6 
 
 I'd Rather be Right 6 
 
 Fiftieth Anniversary of a Noted Church 7 
 
 On the Mountain Top 8 
 
 To a College Graduate 10 
 
 America 11 
 
 America in the World War 12 
 
 America's Sons in the World War 13 
 
 Silver Wedding Anniversary 14 
 
 The Maiden's Soliloquy 15 
 
 Margaret and Kathleen 17 
 
 Success 18 
 
 Observations of Mr. See More 18 
 
 Discontent 23 
 
 Aliens; Americans; Christians 24 
 
 Thanksgiving 25 
 
 Good-bye, Santa 26 
 
 Nobility 27 
 
 Go On 28 
 
 Golden Wedding Anniversary 29 
 
 Appeal of the Mission Box 30 
 
 The Press 30 
 
 A Pastor's Return 32 
 
 Our Neighbor 32 
 
 Things You Can and Can't Buy 33 
 
 The Contrast 35 
 
 The Pessimist 36 
 
 The Optimist 38 
 
 Fallen Leaves 39 
 
 109 
 
INDEX-Continued 
 
 PAGE 
 
 Dear Parents Rest 41 
 
 To a "Shut-In" 41 
 
 An Honored Hero 42 
 
 Youth 43 
 
 A Little Maid 43 
 
 A Lost Hammer 44 
 
 A Birthday Greeting 45 
 
 Youthful Sorrows 45 
 
 Castles 46 
 
 Bon- Voyage To a Ftiend 46 
 
 Did You Ever 48 
 
 Trying Things 50 
 
 Pleasant Things 51 
 
 Keep Busy 52 
 
 Sometime, Somehow, Somewhere 53 
 
 Presentation of Tub and Washboard 54 
 
 A Wish 55 
 
 Our Parson 56 
 
 Winter 58 
 
 Our Departed 58 
 
 Diligence 59 
 
 A Question 60 
 
 Don't Wait 61 
 
 Don't Haste 61 
 
 Reception to Pastor and Bride 62 
 
 An Ideal Day 65 
 
 Just Like Me 65 
 
 Difficulties 66 
 
 "Write the Faults Upon the Sand" 67 
 
 The Rainbow 69 
 
 Helen EHizabeth Allison 69 
 
 Retrospection 70 
 
 Introspection 71 
 
 Another Year 72 
 
 A Sixty-second Anniversary 74 
 
 110 
 
INDEX-Concluded 
 
 PAGE 
 
 Easter Thoughts -g 
 
 Life's Journey „^ 
 
 The Folks I Used to Know . 77 
 
 ^^ ::::::::::::::::; 78 
 
 Home ^ ^g 
 
 Nothing but Diamonds * 79 
 
 Jack Frost ; \ ^^ 
 
 Better Not ^^ 
 
 ^«" :;"::::;::::;:::::: si 
 
 Privilege g2 
 
 Only a Leaf 83 
 
 Abraham Lincoln go 
 
 There is Always a Way 35 
 
 Realm of the Blest ♦ * 35 
 
 Only Try 87 
 
 Another Candle gg 
 
 PART II. 
 
 Greetings on Marriages gg 
 
 PART III. 
 
 Tributes to the Dead 9g 
 
 111 
 
-■s 
 
 LRbFe^o