a %>^%> # LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. } .54- '/* y*^/**^ I i:\ITED STATES OF AMERICA. J. AGATHA; ANb ^OlM kY E. SEA-I^LE^ ..^^^^v'^^ 0/ / MORRISON, ILL. : 1867; ■J^%l^'i '0 ^n 4^ Entered occording to an Act of Congress, in the year, 1367. B^ST THE. uA^XTTKCOI^, in the Clerk's G^ce of the District Court for Northern Illinoisr ^ TO THE READER. Poetry, however much it may be decried in this " Brazen Age" of literature, has been in all time past, as it is to-day, one of the most powerful agents of re- form and progress, among mankind. By po try, how- ever, I would not be understood to mean a certain number of measured feet of accented and unaccented syllables in lines beginning with capital letters — I mean poetry, in any form of expression. The lan- guage of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, is the language of poetry ; and though its teachings have so olten been tortured by stupid commentators into the most prosaic nonsense, its poetry can never die. It is this alone which has preserved from putrifaction, for so many ages, the dead bodies ot the dogmas, rituals, and creeds to which it is inhumanly bound, by Super- stition and Materialism ; but a light is breaking upon us that will soon dispel the blinding mists of error. I am sensible that in a Poem of this kind which is designed to be an allegorical picture representing cer- tain characteristics and conditions of society, political and social, as they existed during the late war of the Rebellion, and as they still exist, to some extent, more poetic genius is requiste to give it tone, or finish than I happen to possess. It really needs powers of a Mil- ton to paint such a picture of our " lost paradise" as to lead the public mind seriously to reflect how it may be regained ; for still is seen the fiery demon, with the flaming sword barring entrance — that demon is Dem- agogism, and his flaming sword is jDolitical prejudi-ce and dissension which still distract and divide the na- tion. Perhaps a few hints may be useful to give an idea of the design of tlie story. I need not say that the character of Agatha is designed to personate true pat- riotism and lovaltv — that of her rival, infidelitv and 4 TO THE READEE. Secession — the first book, or " Vision," the unsettled state of politic al sentiment, during the first years of the war; and if the reader finds it as incomprhensible and shadowy as a dream, it will only be what I de- signed to make it — a dim foreshadowing of something to come with which it has no logical connection, and in the absence of notes the reader will have to grope his way in the dark. The story properly commences with the second Book. If I have made the heroine of the story, who is coxsTiTUTiONALLY purc and loyal, a less interesting ^eri'.onage than Julia, who is by birth and education disloyal, it is because there is necessarily a sort ol fas- cination in strong and perverted passions. It is, for the reason that we have still among oui- politicians so many Satanic characters who would *' sooner reign in hell than serve in heaven" that the secession spirit is still a personification ; but let us anticipate the time not far in the future, when we shall see the state of things pictured at the close of this Poem — a union of repentant and reconstructed Secessionists with true national patriotism and loyalty. I have left one of my characters where we now find the politicians he is intended to j^ersonify — in the arms of his mistress. I have introduced the Battle of Antietam, because it was the results of this battle by which the power of Rebellion was broken — not as a military success ; for it w^as a victory changed into defeat — but by ma- king Emancipation, which was always a political ne- cessity, a military one. In Literature, as in Fashion, there will always be those who admire flash ornaments and gaudy color- ing; if I happen to please this class of readers it is for want of ability to do better. I confess to having fallen infinitely below my own ideal — so far indeed, as to feel a difiidence in submitting the book to the public, for whatever be the verdict passed upon it by my friends, I am aware tliat in many of its fea- tures it is' sndlv detective. on A E0MAM3E OF THE WAR, CANTO I. SHU 'VIBION. The golden sunbeams of departing day, Through the dim lattice sliot a fading ray:^ The v/avy branches of the poplar trees., Sigh to the music of the passing breeze. The drowsy murmur of the waterfall Breaks on the ear. The cowboy's distant call is heard at distance ; while the ringing notes Of the wood robin on the soft air floats. Like anthems of sweet angel voices sighing, Over the couch where infancy is lying. Nature's mysterious, organ symphonies Hum in the ear of Toil sweet lullibies; The*gorgeous landscape, ripe as young October^ Fades into twilight, tranquil, calm, and sober; ft AdTAitAe And as Night shadows, like refreshing sleeps In silence o'er the quiet hamlet creep, A holy calm, like nature's dreamless rest Comes o'er the spirit. In the flushing west^ LoA^e's star is shimng with a silvery light, -Clear as a dialnond on the brow of mght. And there is one who smiles to gaze upon Its heavenly radiance, in vrhose bresfst there shone Love'^ hallowed light, reflected from a soul^ 'That jields enraptured to its sweet control. Wearing his garlands on her fair, young brow^ In all the flush of hopeful beauty now. Fair son of Venus ! thy chance-winged dart ! Why was it aimed to touch so pure a heart. As that which beat in that fair maiden's breast ? — = Sweet Agatha, dream on and take thy rest, Enjoy the happiness the present brings,. Kor think young Love may spread his truant wings^ And leave thee lonely in tliTSaddened home, When sorrows aiid adA^ersity shall come. Thou that hast been fair Fortune's favorite child-— A tender flower, reared in a garden wild; How couldst thou bear the chilling blasts, and storm, ^f hat bea'ts on Poverty's cold, houseless form. AGATHA. Without Lovers gentle smile to cheer thy heart, And soothe the pangs of fell Misfortune^s smart ? Oaze on the scene of beauty, and enjoy The youthful hopes experience may destroy, Till like the " baseless fabric of a dream," The light dissolves in shadows false and dim; And in the anguish of tliy soul thou'^lt say, ^' Why have I loved an idol formed of clay ?'' To thee, fair dweller in youth's iSowery vale, Such propliecy were but an idle tale, As musing now upon a scene so fair. Thy spirit walks Elysian fields of air, 11. Oh, there ai-e feelings in th' harmonious tone Of wedded souls that chime in unison, With the ideal and the real blending. The bliss of all that earth can give, transcending A love so pure, and sacred, it retains No trace, or shadow of its earthly stains; But breathes that very atmosphere of love Which spirits feel in realms of light above ; Andjjuch was thine, young dreamer, Agatha, Who at the lattice, by the twilight ray, Waited his coming from the distant war, Cheered by the mild beams of the lover's star. 8 AGATHJ^. HI. And yet he comes noirr-r-sad and Trearily, The solemn hours of waning night went by. More dimly burned the midnight's flickering lamp— ^ And still there came no sounding of the tramp Of courser's feetr— and all is calm and stilly Sare the sad music of the whipporwill. Chanting his strains of mournful melody Upon the ear of night ; nor till the sky Flushes with morning's beam far in the east. Have the lone vigils of the watcher ceased; But with the faint flnsh of the morning beam^ She seeks her couchj to muse, and sleep, and dream. IV. Brightly and beautiful the^ morning breaks,^ And from repose the lovely dreamer wakes, To muse upon the picture Fancy wrought, In slumbers, on the latent mines of thought. Mysterious Power I what visions dost thou bring. Weird, wild, and strange, beyond the pictui*ing Of the romancer or the poet's pen ! Yet coming often back to us again. In after years, frona the dim, shadowy Past^ Called up afresh from Memory's desert waste^ The harbingers and tj^es of things that are AGATHA. S To be in future — ^liope — -joy — and despair, Sleep, in fresh dreams, does to the mind's eye bring. While o'er us brooding with its downy wing, V. Fair Agatha ! how sad the picture wrought Upon thy soul, or imaged in the thought, Of that expected one, who, on that night. Came not to cheer, and give thy heart delight — r Of one who left thee with the plighted vow But comes not, love-sent, to redeem it now. Yet wherefore came he not — ^Qh, ere you blame His long delay, or censure Wilfreid's name, Interpret, as time will, that boding dream, Which argues falsehood may deserve esteem, 'Twas in a Southern and a sunny clime^ Where war's grim rnonster, smeared with blood an(l crime, Leagued with fraternal hate, and every wq, Wliicli from the fount of Oivil Discord flow. Revelled with reckless, and relentless hand, Through all the borders of that fated land : In camp, in hospital, on battle-field. Where grim-browed death Ills fiery coursers wlicQlod, The " boys in blue" were falling thick and fast, 10 ' AGATUk. As autumn leaves before the eddying blast"; Some from their homes in that far northern land, Whose towering hills the summer breezes fanned, That kiss the waves of vast Ontario, Kipling and dashing in their ceaseless flow ; And some from where broad Susquehanna winds Its onward course, and scarce a passage finds, Betwixt the sky-blue mountains that oppose Its mass of waters, as it foams and flows On to the ocean. From each clime and shore, Stood men who in defence of country bore The marks of many a fierce contested field, Where Valor made rebellion's minions yield : And some unconscious, in their sufiering lay, Fast bleeding their devoted lives away Alone and unregarded. Agatha i5eside one stood, upon whose brow there lay The cold death damp ; but ere his eye grew dim. She filled a cup of water to the brim And proffered to his lips. That cooling draught, Brought back afi.*esh the failing powers of thought ; And then, like one reviving from a trance, lie gazed upon the fair, young countenance So bending o'er him, and he whispered low, *' I could have prayed to Ileaven, to perish so,'^ AGATHA. 11 But for her love, to whom my plighted vow Was fondly given — I would not leave her now* Oh, let me live to meet on earth again, My gentle Julia — death could wring no pain From his embrace, wei*e but hei* presence nigli To look upon — 'twere rapture thus to die ! But who art thou ?^ — and wherefore art thou here ? — ISTay, gentle lady, dry the useless tear : I would not see thee weep — ^but tell me true I Art thou not Julia ? N"o, her eyes of blue Did never with such mild expression shine On me, as do those quiet orbs of thine. Say, am dreaming, or have spirits ceme, To bear me heavenward, to my future home f Visions of glory, indistinct, and dim, Bef6re my scarce recovered senses swim; Fair Julia bending o'er me, do I view ? Nay, 'tis another, tell me, who are you I VL And I am one, the dreamer sad replied. Who should have been a noble soldier's bride, But that he left me for a form more fair — I gave him love — he left me to despair. Long, long in bitterness of soul I mourmd, Aild pined for love that might not be retuniod : 1 2 AGATHA, But now I come, a hopeless mourner liere^ To bless the clving, and to raise and cheer The sad and sorrowing — and till grief shall end My weary life, to be misfortune's friend. I saw thee pale and senseless, and there came A faint reviving of a dying flame, From the cold ashes of a bui'ied love : In vain against its influence I strove ; Swift ran the throbbing current through each vein . I feel the dreamy madness in my brain ; By some unknown, mysterious influence moved, I pitied thee, a stranger, and I loved. The cooling draught which to thy thirst I gave. To snatch thee from tlie portals of the grave. Did to thy feeble frame fresh life impart ; But seemed to draw its virtues from my heart. And since thou art grown strong, my spirits fliil; I feel an icy chilliness prevail O'er all my languid frame — faint beats my lieart^ And at its core I feel Love's winged dart* I am not Julia, but alas I am one, By cruel fate made wretched — and undone, One question only will I ask of thee, *nur heroine may be allo>red to say in her dream ^hat the rules of ^o<.d taste would hardly tolerate in society. The reader will, of course, pardon Buch impropriety, unless he is of that refined class of pliilosopliers who hold us morally resporisible for our dreams. AGATHA. 13 What are her virtues whose sweet witchery Does spell-bound in her captivating chain, Thee, a too willing prisoner detain ? And wert thou free — or might I break the spell? — Lady, could woman work that miracle, 'Twere thou alone — but more, I shun to tell, Till my weak, wandering senses are restored, And this strong arm again may grasp the sword T.o fight for freedom from that tyrant's sway. Who rules a nation to make lords obey, And give to slaves a freedom not their own — So let him reap the harvest he has sown. I fought on Shiloh's bloody, fatal field. And with my blood, had my attachment sealed To the just cause for which a Georgian fights — The honor of his State, or for her rights. But that some hireling in the tyrant's pay, Had aimed a minnie in the desperate Iray, That sent me to the earth with ghastly wound, And left me pale and bleeding, on the ground ; Nor till I late awakened with a sigh. To meet the wildering glances of thine eye Beaming upon me, have I felt a gleam Of reason's light break in upon my dream Of fighting fields, and wounds, and blood and death. 14 JlGATHA. Of Julia's love, and of the plighted faith I gave her on that sad, and solemn night, I left her presence for the fatal fight. VIL Soldier! thy words and bearing well proclaim Thy nature noble — of thy rank, or name, Further I question not, yet fain would be All that — nay, more than — Julia is to thee : I would redeem thee from Rebellion's curse — - Nay, frown not — have I saved thee from a worse Than lingering death in hospital, afar From home and kindred, or fond woman's care? The cup of healing waters which I gave, With love that snatched thee from a yawning grave Demand some answering kindness in return. From thy proud, rebel heart, however stern ; Some portion of the homage Julia shares Might yet reward a pitying stranger's cares. Thou might'st renounce a base, unrighteous cause, And yield to the demands of honor's laws For one who loves thee as a stranger — blind To all thy guilt, and to thy weakness kind. I ask thee not thy plighted vows to break ; Or leave the loved one for that stranger's sake, Although she feels not, and will never know Such love as mine, or bear such weight of wa; Yet I entreat thee in the name of Heaven, As for thy sins thou hopest to be forgiven, Renounce allegiance to that rebel cause, Which wars Against conscience, and with honor's laws, And to thy county's flag yet faithful be, Which soon shall wave in triumph o'er the free.. There's that within my heart impels to save Thee, from a ti'aitox's base, dishonored grave ; It is a love more i^leading, than e'er hung Upon the accents of weak woman's tongue ; 'Tis I alone — not Julia — that must be A ministering spirit unto thee: Refuse to heed the counsels which I bring, The morrow sees thee a cold, senseless thing, O'er which the vulture, hovering for his prey, Shall shriek his funeral dirge and soar away. VIIL He met her searching glance without reply,, The fires of anger kindling in his eye ; Yet, quickly tempering the expression, came Like quenching water on a smothered flame^ Love's winning glances, tender, sad and mild — Till Passion's eloquence his thoughts beguiled. Quick to his feverish brow his hand he raised. l6 AGATHA; And in the vision on the dreamer gazed, Till pride, and rebel hate was forced to yield^ And leave young Love the master of the field ; And thus he spoke : Fair winning stranger, tell Whence comes the power to plead a cause so well ? What is thy secret of that eloquence. That so bewilders all my powers of sense, That e'en my Julia's image fades from view. As thus 1 gaze, sweet charmer, upon you ; Tell me, oh, tell me truly, what thou aii;. Whose words have stich straiige power to change the heart, Woman, or angel from the upper sphere ! And what the mission that hath brought thee here^ Didst come to save, then tempt me to forget My love, my country to repay the debt Of gratitude, which to thy love 1 owe. My sweet enchsintress, and beguiling foe ? My thoughts grow strange, my giddy senses swimj And the Past fades into a wildering dream; For thee, should I forsake the cause I love. And false to honor, and my country prove ? liebellion's curse — you call it by that name — To me, 'tis honor, loyalty and fame : A prisoner, o'ercome, but unsubdued, AGATHA, 17 Sooner I'd shed the last drop of my blood. Than by a craven, coward deed, to buy From thee, the boon of life and liberty. It is thy love alone has power to win, Or lead me from temptation into sin : With thee to seek some happy, favored clime, I dare the guilt, if loving be a crime. IX, He ceased — and o'er the maiden's brow there came A smile of triumph, and a flush of shame ; She mused of Julia in her distant home, Waiting and weeping for her love to come, Through th^ long, silent vigils of the night, While in the midnight lamp burned dim the light, Flickering and feeble as the dying gleam Of Hope — once fed from Love' unfailing stream: But he was saved — she felt he could not die, Beneath the love-light of her watchful eye : No more on him a traitor's cm^se should rest— That thought, at least, was solace to her breast i One noble soul, by love would be redeemed— And more than lover to her now he seemed, As leaning his arm, she passed the door Of that barred prison— to return no more* IS AGATHA. Then came a sound of battle. On the air Rings out the shouts of triumph and despair ; With fearful shock the fiery squadrons meet, Advance and charge,, and waver and retreat The booming cannon, with its deadly aim, Like a devouring element of flame, Mow down theii' ranks ; and veterans in the wars, Who fought beneath the banner of the stars, Yield to the charge the fiery Southron made, And look to fortune, or to Heaven for aid. Too weak to breast it, and too proud to yield. Their dead and dying strew the bloody field : One brave brigade alone, unyielding met The clashing charge of sword and bayonet; While here and there, in wild disorder flying, Minging their shouts vrith groans of thousands dying, Theii' comrades yield, by numbers overborne, With guns disabled, and with banners torn ; While on the hill, in view, ten thousand lay, Nor moved to save the fortunes of the day, ^ When all seemed lost, or all that yet remained To hope, must be by desperate valor gained 4 A single point must be maintained, or lost Defeat and ruin is the fearful cost. Their brave commander in the western sky. Gazed on the sinking sun with aching eye, And prayed that he would come, or night, to aid His fainting soldiers, with its friendly shade. A charge is ordered now, which must decide Which way shall roll the battle's fiery tide — And Agatha, with proud heart beating high With loyal hopes, has turned her anxious eye To his brigade, that firm, unwavering stood. Slaughtering and toiling through a sea of blood. Onward it moved, unyielding as a rock. Foremost to meet the battle's fiery shock. She felt though all beside should quit the field, Its noble leader could not fall, nor yield ; And all her soul, inspired with martial flame, So intermingled with his own became. She longed to seize its starry flag, and be Her country's " Joan," shouting victory. XL The field is won — the dying, and the dead, Thick as the withered Autumn leaves, are spread On the cold ground. Like friends, or brothers tried^ The victors and the vanquished side by side Lie down to sleep — no more to wake, or dream — With cannon booming a loud requiem, Till faint, and fainter in the distance dying, Its eclioes cease to dying groans replying. 20 AGATHA. XII. I'lie sun is set — ^her mantle twilight throws Over the scene of agonizing woes ; And Agatha is there, again to lend Woman's kind offices — to nurse and tend The dying soldier — God of mercy I who. Wounded, and dying, meets the maiden's view ? Brave Wilfreid, once the loyal and the true? No 'twas the faithless lover — ^renegade, Who had both country, and her love betrayed— He, who had left her with love's plighted vow, Fresh on his lips — false and dishonored now — His life blood ebbing fast from every vein, He lies among the ghastly heaps of slain :_ With rebel uniform about him worn. Stained with his blood, and foully soiled and torn ; Yet, at a glance, her penetrating eyes, Saw the lost lover in this sad disguise. And a cold horror stirred her slumbering brain, Tearing her heart-strings with a wrench ol'pain; One moment she recoiled with doubt and fear — 'Twas but a moment — then advancing near, She whispered " Wilfreid" faintly in his ear. XIIL The name, and the sweet music of the tone AGATHA. 21 Recalled lost reason to her vacant throne : Feebly, and with a moan, his eyes he raised. And on the face, thus bending o'er him, gazed With a calm look of anguish that would wring Tears from the stoic eyes of suffering, And sighing, whispered " Julia." At the name, A sudden, agonizing faintness came Over the listener — to the earth she bowed Her helples form, and moaned, and wept aloud. And then a new, unwonted calmness came. And breathed fresh vigor in her fainting frame: "* She took his hand and raised his dying head. And on her lap the precious burden laid And chafed his temples; but her care was vain. To bring back life, or consciousness again. Death's damps were gathering on his icy brow — His filmed eye grew fixed, and whispering low The name of Julia, from its form of clay. The soul of her lost Wlfreid passed away. XIV. The vision faded — in the dewy west, The cloudless moon was sinking to her rest : The stars have dimned their brightness in sky, And Day hung out her golden canopy. While sable Night, the nurse of Solitude, 2 2 AGATHA. With all her unfledged, sickly, silent brood Gf night-mare fancies^ shrinking from her beams, Hies to the land of shadows, and of dreams ; When Agatha awoke from sad repose, And to th' accustomed, daily labor goes, But stifling in her bosom, as she went, A solemn, and a dark presentiment. CANTO. II. THIS FB.IS03\r. The deepening shadows of the twilight gray Through the barred windows chase the fading ray Of struggling sunbeams, that with sickly glare, Had lighted scenes of hopeless misery there,- Where pale and famished, languidly reposed A soldier's form ; and as the shadows closed More darkly round, so indistinct and dim The picture grew, it seemed some hideous dream; Starvation, pain, and misery were there — Fever's delirium, and cold, blank despair. Death reigned no more a hateful tyrant, here, But often came a welcome messenger To many a father, brother, husband, son, Tortured, till wasted to a skeleton ; Within whose home, from misery's plea afar> Shone the sweet influence of love's genial star; Whose dear ones for the absent, long must wait, Anxious, but vainly at the unopened gate. 24 AGATHA. : . Victims of malice, recklessness and wrong, Manhood was here — ^the aged — and the young. From every State where Freedom's banner waved. Were those that for their comitry's honor braved The toils, and dangers of the battle jBeld, Faithful to to Eighty and 'gainst Oppression steeled^ Bearing with stoic firmness, all the woes, Which rebel heads could frame, or hands impose* Here might you see the feeble, dying boy— « Perhaps a widowed mother's hope and joy, Refused a scanty morsel of their bread. To keep awhile the dying from the dead* See on a filthy pallet th^re reclined, One who had wealth and luxuries refined ; Who shared the love and quiet of home. Where wretchedness and sorrow never come* He, to the instincts of his nature true. Bid home, and love, and happiness adieu To fight his country' battles — ^low he lies In a foul cell — perhaps no more to rise— ^ And not a friendly, nursuig hand to bring A cup of cooling water from the spring, To cool the fever on his burning brow — Yet he is firm, or had been so, till now. He turns his face to the cold, cheerless wall To watch the loathsonie vermin as they erawl AGATHA. 25 Along its sickening damps — ^then drops a tear For woman's nursing, and for woman's cheer. And does he dream ? or hears he a loved tone Of a sweet voice of one whom he had known In other days, break gently on his ear ? He turns, to see a veiled form standing near. Silent and searching. Quick through all his veins. His thin blood rushes — then his eye he strains To catch those features, through the twilight dim. That stands to gaze so searchingly on him. Hope, in his bosom, sunk, and rose again. Till doubt became a torture and a pain. She paused a moment — threw her veil aside. And with a look where sympathy and pride Seemed deeply blended, met the inquiring gaze, So fixed on hers, by the expiring rays Of fading daylight — then with careless eye. She slowly passed him, as unheeded, by. And left him, like th' illusion of a dream, Or ray of sunlight, with its fitful gleam. II. Periods there are in human life, like these. When moments grow into eternities; As hope, and doubt, alternately control The deep emotions of the struggling soul. 26 AGATHA. As when m slumbers happy visions gleam We fear to wake and find it but a dream, So Wilfreid felt, as fading from Ms view, The figure passed, he bade a mute adieu ; But with a feeling he might not explain. Which fondly argued, they would meet again. He felt a thrill of hope— vague — undefined. That gave a peace and quiet to his mind. He turned to rest — his thought were far away, Under a blue sky, with his Agatha — And slept unconscious, till the morning beam. Through that barred prison shot a feeble gleam. ni. He rose, by sleep refreshed, and felt again Renewing hope, an antidote to pain. And while new health and vigor nerves his frame* Love's sweet delirium o'er his spirit came. IV. There was a fellow prisoner who had stood Calmly beside him, on the field of blood. Fighting for freedom ; but the fatal stains Of Afric's blood v>^as running in his veins ; And, for this crime — his mother's, not his own — That he was born a Southern noble's son, (Perchance not hers ; for where Oppression reigns, AGATHA. 27 The passive subject still must wear the chains Of gi'oss and sensual passion, to fulfil The lawless dictates of a master's willj He was condemned by rebel law to die, As a poor wretch that had aspired too high. Long ere he went to mingle in the strife. That law had robbed him of a child, and wife : Torn from his fond embrace, the twain were sold, For a small sum of that base metal — gold. And from the hour he said to these, farewell^ To him the world was but a prison cell : No love — no light upon his pathway shone ; He stood heart-weary — desolate — alone. And when he fought beneath the banner fi-ee^ 'Twas more for vengeance than for liberty. Confined and fettered in a prison here. With nothing left for hope, he scorned to fear ;. Yet often would an answering sympathy, Flash out in the dark glances of his eye. Towards Wilfreid, when in confidential tone^ He spoke of miseries that were not his own. And since the visit of that lady guest, A more than wonted interest warmed the breast Of these caged captives — a mysterious tie, That held each heart in closer sympathy. 28 AGATHA. And with that dream, so vague, and undefined, That raise a dying hope in Wilfreid's mind, On that auspicious hour, when first had come That lovely stranger to their dungeon gloom. Ever there came a strange presentiment. That she would be the guardian angel sent. From fate, or death, the doomed one to redeem — Perchance 'twas but wild fancy's idle dream : Whate'er it was, it roused a spirit there That gave new courage, or forbade despair. He waited — watched the day by hope inspired, That happy chance would give the boon desired, Or grant, once more his longing eyes to rest On her who woke this fancy in his breast. V. The first day passed — she came not — second — third. And hope more faintly in his bosom stirred. Short was the time that yet remained to shape Plans for his own, and for his friend's escape ; Who with a stoic, cold indifierence met The worst — and questioned, " Why should he regret The doom that seemed to threaten him ; or why Fear or a martyr, atid a man, to die ? He had no friend in all the world beside. To mourn his fate, or question how he died; AGATHA. 29 Another love consoled the wife exiled ; Another father claimed his only child : He had no sister, brother, sire, to mourn His fate, or wish, and sigh for his return ; His youthful mother, long ago, had laid On the cold lap of earth her dying head — Then let the oppressor do the worst he can, He lived a' martyr, and could die a man." With words like these, he baffled causelss hate, And calmly smiled at destiny and fate. This calm indifference of the friend begot In Wilfreid's soul compassion for his lot — A warmer feeling of that brotherhood, Deduced not from nobility of blood. VL The fourth day came, and with it brought the guest, Whose image had so lastingly impressed Itself on every nerve of Wilfreid's soul, Attracted like the magnet to the pole. In queenly beauty still she moved, but wore A look more sad and thoughtful, than before. A glance, like pity, in her fiery eye, Betrayed a soul, alive to sympathy. Upon the inmates of that dismal cell She smiled, as words of hope and comfort fell • aO AGATHA. Like sweetest music, on tlie friendless ear^ Inspiring peace, and confidence, and cheer. On Wilfreid and his friend, she eyer cast A prying glance, as often as she passed The fettered slave— oft turned to gaze again, As if some doubtful thought perplexed her brain* 'Tis but a moment — moving quickly on. She passes, like a meteor, and is gone. VIL And then she eanie, attended by a page, Infant in years, but circumspect and sage ; So lithe of form, and beautiful in face. In him, the Afric's blood you scarce might trace i: His manly bearing, graceful, free, and bold, A tale of noble birth and lineage told. Seven summer suns on his dark brow had shone, As yet few flowers had on his path been strown ; But now from the dark shadows of the past; His steps emerged into the light at last. A basket, filled with choicest fruits he bore, And while his little hands dispensed its store Of dainties, at the couch^of sufiering. Prouder he looked, and happier than a king. And his fond mistress tenderly the while, • Surveyed her protege with approving smile.. AGATHA. ^1 VIII. Wilfreid had noted with approving joy Until a te airdrop moistened in his eye ; And now the mistress, while she cast aside Her former coldness, or reserve, or pride. Towards him advancing, with sweet com^tesy^ Spoke a kind word — ^then turned her restless eye Full on his mute companion sitting near, As she would speak that which he must not hear.. She beckoned Wilfreid from his presence — then She hesitated, blushed, and spoke again : ^^ Soldier, perhaps, you wonder that I feel More than a common interest for your weal ; Since first I saw you in a prisoned cell, I have had strange fancies that I dare not tell. In dreams, that image so filled my mind. That peace, or rest, I may not hope to find. Pardon, if now my woman lips reveal That on which prudence still shonld keep a seal.. [ came yon prisoner's forfeit life to save, that wears the chains and fetters of a slave ; Vhy I would free him seek, not to inquire, "e must not perish, though he dared aspire net you here, a prisoner forlorn, ' pangs of sickness, and gaunt Famine worn ; 32 AGATHA. And there was that deep meaning in thine eye. That held me captive to captivity. In vain I strove to chide away] the dream That woke a something more that cold esteem. A thousand times I said, begone ! — farewell ! But still my heart was in a prisoner's cell. I am but woman, weak and foolish — nay, Turn not incredulous, your eyes away. Were you not held a helpless prisoner here, Midst all that tortures, save remorse and fear. The words I speak were strangers to my tongue, Though life itself upon my pleading hung. More at this time my heart forbids to tell, Sweet rest be with thee, soldier, fare thee well ! IX. She called the boy and vanished from his sight, And left him doubting if he saw aright, The charmer gone, over his sinking frame, A weakness born of desolation, came. Fair Agatha ! in thy pure, stainless breast Hadst thou divined the thoughts that marred his rest, Sure thou hadst felt one pang of jealousy, (For when was woman from that weakness free ?) As now he sought his couch of straw to find In sleep, an opiate for a restless mind. AGATffA. 83 X. 'The morning dawned, calm, beautiful, and fail* ; There was a bracing vigor in the air, Which, with its kindly influence, crept through The bars of Libby's prison, fresh and new. Man's art may nameless modes of torture find, To wreak his vengeance on his suffering kind, But cannot take from heaven's pure atmosphere, That which brings hope and vigor, health and cheer. Though poisons may be mingled with the gale. In damps, which from foul prison cells exhale, Whers fell Disease with all its horrors reigns — And fevers raging in the victim's veins Are fed, and nomished by that want that wrings The red drops ii'om frail life's exhausted springs : Yet the sweet influence of the balmy air. Is felt by the poor famished prisoner there. Like inspiration gently to revive Life's energies, and keep its flames alive. This Wilfreid felt ; and never since that day. When first a prisoner in that hold he lay. Famished and wretched, had he breathed so free, With the dear hope of life a&d liberty. XL Again she came — the stranger — but she Avore 34 AGATHA, An anxious look, less cheerful than before. The boy beside her, with his little hoard Of choicest dainties in his basket stored. Oh, how joy sparkled in his eager eye. To cheer thd heart of want and misery, By lavishing his bounties, as he goes, Dispensing blessings grateful e'en to foes. His acts so winning, e'en to feeling moved The imprisoned slave — and while a smile approved Each generous deed, fancy a moment strayed — Once more he seemed beneath the cedar shade, List'ing the prattle of his infant boy; Not Lissy more his pet, his pride, and joy. His pale lip quivered, and he turned away, And from his dimned eye brushed the gathered spray- Meanwhile the boy approaching where he stood. Proffered his gift, as if he felt the mood Of his sad thoughts, and tenderly would seek Some word to cheer the stranger's heart, to speak i. The simple act erf childish kindness, wrung With more than grief, a noble nature stung With the keen arrows of despair and wrong, Till fond words grew as strangers to his tongue Samething so winning in that noble child — ' The act so noble, and the look so mild, AGATHA. 3^ Awoke those sympathies that long had slept. While blank despair had o'er his being crept. XII. And where the mistress ? with her face half-veiled, Leaning as if her woman strength had failed, Against the damp walls of that dismal room, Like one to speak her own or others' doom, More dear to her than life itself— a life, That must be ever with her love at strife. She looked on Wilfreid with a pleading eye, That spoke before her words, " He must not die !" Would I might save and win thee to a cause, Upheld by justice, truth, and honor's laws. Believe that I would sooner wear thy chains, In this sad place, where starving misery reigns, Than see thee perish^ though my country's foe. Thyself would triumph in our overthrow. You think, perhaps, it woman's craft, or whim, And lightly of my words, or motives, deem : Then let me prove to thee my truth and faith, And snatch thee from the cruel jaws of death. My sire does wealth and influence command, And life and ransom both are in his hand. Would you but yield to claim the proffered grace^ 36 AGATHA. And a just cause, so worthy thee, embrace^ . My heart is pained to read thy destiny. When but one noble act would set thee free. Nay, frown not, but bethink thee of the wrongs Which we hare borne so patiently and long: Denounced a^ heathen by a ranting tribe, Whose god is Freedom, worshipped for a bribe. Of Slavery's curse what though they rant and rail, They bow the knee to Mammon, or to Baal. Phillips and Greeley are the lights that shine, To prove their doctrines, and their gods divine. Free lovers, and well schooled in skeptic lore. Higher than Revelation they would soar, And call down withering curses on our head — PuU down our laws, and set up theirs instead. They call us rebels, since we dare to fight For law, and Constitution, and the right, Seeking to rule us by a tyi^anny, To set a poor, benighted people free. Who in their servitude, are happier far. Than your blind followers of their teachings are. Look on that youthful smiling countenance. Love and affection in each eager glance ! Think you he would be happier were he free From such a fearful bond of slaverv AGATHA. 3T As binds him to his mistress? He would grieve In pining sadness were he forced to leave E'en for a day> his station at my side ; And 'tis his joy, ambition, and his pride, My slightest wish, or bidding to fulfil; He serves in bondage, but he loves me still. Ah me ! were all mankind such willing slaves, Fewer would pine for quiet in their graves; Life might less joyless, and unhappy prove. Were all so governed by the law of love. XIII. She ceased, and turned her fiery eyes away, And left him to reflection still a prey. 'Twere vain to paint the tumult of his soul. Where doubt, and hope, and love assume control, Alternately repelling and repelled. Till 'gainst their tyranny the man rebelled. He felt, too deeply felt, temptation's power. And rose to meet it in the'^trying hour ; Should he forsaking his country's flag, and prove False to the right, his honor, and his love. To purchase life, while thousands by his side, Without a murmur of complaint, had died ? Young patriots who had never felt, till then, A pang of misery, suddenly grew men To suffer and endure — yet hard it seemed^ S8 AGATHA. A country that tliey served iiad not redeemed Her sons from such a fate, or in tlie strife. Had else avenged their wrongs with life for life. In northern camps, their rebel foes were fed ; None felt neglect, or famished for their bread; And that cold apathy, he felt indeed. Might just excuse, e'en for desertion plead: Yet by such influence alone assailed He could have met the tempter and prevailed 5 But with a foe more dangerous he must deal, That taught him less to reason, than to feeL He felt the danger, while he sought in vain, To break the pleasing bondage of his chain, XIV, He roused himself to speak, but she was gone, And, save his chained companion, there was none, To whom he might unveil the thoughts that hung Now eager for expression on his tongue ; And while he paused, half-doubting, Marius broke His moody silence, and thus smiling spoke: *' A telling speech thy lovely friend has made, Perhaps 'tis best her counsels were obeyed : It sure must need slight argument to prove, Twere best be governed by the law of love. She who could so paint Slavery, might paint AGATHA. 39 A Beelzebub, and show him for a saint. I grant she has, to show it features fair, A most eonvincmg sample, but a rare ; But would she paint it on a broader scale, Doubtless her charming eloquence would fail: And should another for a sample sit, It would change the picture — nay, would ruin it" XV. The smile sarcastic, withering and cold. That curled his lips a tale of suffering told ; And Wilfreid's cheek grew crimson as with shame, While deep emotion thrilled through all his frame. He would have questioned further of the past, JBut the stern look which Marius on him cast, F^orbade inquiry, and in sullen mood. Confused, perplexed, and unresolved he stood, Until his fellow prisoner agaiia. Broke in upon the reverie of his brain. XVL *' I care not for the doom pronounced on me, That sooner sits th' imprisoned spirit free ; Yet would I live for vengeance — to repay The debt I owe to those who took away. What was more sacred, and more dear to me, Than home, or friends, or lifq, or liberty. 40 AOATHA. I could have served tlie master as a slavey. Till toil had worn this body to the grave, Without a murmur at the cruel doom, But that they robbed me of an angel, whom I loved and honored — and a darling boy — All, all that could inspire my heart with joy; That hap]>y page, oh, how he calls to mind, The loved, and lost !— so like in years, and kind^. That I can almost fancy that in him, I see fulfilment of prophetic dream. But doubting friend, I wonder that you stand Halting 'twixt two opinions — -if the hand She offers you, to starving you prefer. Leave this accursed place, and follow her — Self-preservation is God's law, and made To govern all things — it should be obeyed. Although it often breaks the kindred tie. And on Faith's fainter impress stamps a lie. Life with new love is better than the cold, Unsympathizing memory of the old. With helplessness, starvation, and despair, Like ghostly phantoms, present everywhere. Your country, so unmindful of her fame. Has little right this sacrifice to claim Of tliose to whom j^rotection is refused — Their faith betrayed, and loyalty abused : AGATHA. 41 E'en you^ who fought with honor in the fields Find not in her all-powerful arm a shield ;. She leaves you here, thus unavenged, to starve^ And gives her foes rewards for which we serve — She gives her prisoners food, and needful care ; • They give to us starvation and despair. XVIL The words on Wilfreid's tortured spirit fell Like burning coak Avhose fires he could not quelL These had a logic to affect the sense, More potent than the specious eloquence. Built on that nice, and subtle theory. Sage politicians deemed it wise to try — To conqure rebels — and protection lend, To screen these '' erring brethren," and defend. To those who never sickened, starved, and .pined In rotten dungeons, this might seem. but kind; But they who suffer, «' rights" cannot discuss— They feel, with ^sop's frogs, ' 'tis death to u; That which was thought a farce the actors maci A most expensive tragedy, when played, That loyalty that can excuse all wrong. Must be indeed forgiving, hopeful, strong : This Wilfreid felt — but yet had stood the test, Had not another passion warmed his breast, 42 AGATHA. And roused such feelings as denied him rest. He thought of Julia till her image grew Into a fairer picture than the true. XVIII. And when she came not on the promised day. His warm impatience scarcely brooked delay^ Till now, he hardly felt how slowly by Crept the slow hours of his captivity. He might with stoic resignation bear The withering influence of cold, blank despair; But when 'twas tempered with the sweet unrest, Which Hope and Love had -roused within his breast, Fanning the flame, each day, with words and dghs, And the fond pleadings of fair womans' eyes, 'Twas like a fire that tortured and consumed, Tet with its light his prison walls illumed ; In vain, to chase these wicked dreams away, He thought of her — the gentle Agatha, Long had he pined, as in a living tonib. Waiting and hoping, but no word had come To cheer his sinking spirits and revive The fires of love, and keep its flames alive; Until, despite its strength, too sorely tried, • Desj^air had conquered, and faint hope had died.. But love and sympathy awoke anew^j AGATHA. 43 Those pent up feelings, he could not subdue. Freedom and love in Beauty's shielding arms, The firm resistance of the will alarms Till half-unconscious, to the force he yields, Who never faltered upon battle fields, And conquered by bewildering Beauty's charms, He sinks a willing prisoner in her arms. In prison hold he might have pined and starved, N"or from his steadfast loyalty have swerved— In gayer scenes, undazzled, he had met The witching smiles of the arch, gay coquette, And never, e'en in thought, or fancy, strayed From one to whom his first fond vows were paid. But gives himself in ^this ill-omened hour, To the soul's weakness, and to woman's power^ Beauty, with love and sympathy, had gained The mastery — and o'er the patriot reigned, And joined with these, an earnestiiope to save From fate impending, the death-sentenced slave. Who by some subtle influence of mind Had closely round his sympathies entwined. His very being, till a kindred tone Of thought into companionship had grown. The choice once made, he dared not jiause to think ; But, like the dreamer on the dizzy brink 44 AGATHA. Of some vast precipice, startled, impelled To take the leap — by that strange influence held,. Which m'ges forward, oft against the will, Fate, Destiny, or Mission to fulfil. XIX. 'Tis midnight — in his prison'^ deepest gloom Sat Marius, musing of the morrow's doom. Unconquered, firmly, calmly did he wait The last award of unrelenting fate. He seemed her chosen victim, but too brave To be a cringing suppliant, or a slave ; Bereft of all, which makes existence dear,. He had no future hopes — no present fear. He was alone — without one tie to bind His crushed and sore affections to his kind. To him a blackened ruin but remains — No drop of blood that run in human veins Claimed kindred wiih. his own — a mother died The victim of a traitor's lust, and pride. A sire had never deigned to claim his own — And but the memory of a wife and son Remained to him — ah! happy if the tomb^ Had these redeemed from Slavery's fearful doom !. That kind assurance would have brought relief, And soothed the silent anguish of his grief. AGATHA, ^^ Life shorn of blessings, once so clearly prized, If proffered now had been a gift desj^ised, But that a hope of vengeance still possessed The deep, dark, wild emotions of his breast ; Not vdngeance on his fellows, formed of clay— A feast for worms — a phantom of a day ; But on that system that usurped control Over the sacred instincts of the soul; And under the dread sanction of a law. Protects the brute, and holds the man in awe — - Xjives him, at will, to break affection's ties. And make of honest love a merchandize; And he had prayed to see — if by the sword— A nation humbled, till it should accord To Slavery's sons, those sacred liberties. Which traitors still might claim as guarantees. Vain hope ! for ere might set to-morrow's sun, Life's sad, and painful journey would be run ; The fevered dream of being would be o'er, Nor wrong, nor hatred, gall his- spirit more. XX. No sound breaks on the stillness of repose, Which darkness o'er the scene of suffering throws. Save wlien, at intervals, the feeble moan Of pain is heard, or fainter dying groan 46 A.GATHA. Where some poor slffferer with expiring breath,. O'er Misery tiiumphs in the arms of death. Some with half-disembodied spirits roam Amid the dear, familiar scenes of home. There far from war's dread horrors and alarms, Breathe out their souls in love's embracing arms, dose by the side of Marius, there lay A soldier breathing fast his life away — A boy in years — and as death's trance began,. To happier scenes, awakened memory ran, And with a mother's kiss upon his cheeks. In faint, and dying accents, thus he speaks; Dear Mother, kiss me yet again — - Your hand upon, my brow ; It soothes — the fever of my braia Is quenched — I'm happy now. I had not thought, dear mother, I Should e'er again behold Your face, to bless you ere. I die — 'Mother! 'tis very cold!' Before my eyes 'tis growing dark; Why burn the lights so dim ? Where is my little sister? Hark! Who sings, so sweet, that hjanri:; AGATHA. 4'T You taught me once? it is her voice I Go, mother, bid her come, How she will love me, and rejoice- To welcome brother home ! The lights are dim — I cannot see That smiling, happy face. Closer — your arms, and give to me, One loving, fond embrace. How very strange ! It almost seems Some fency of the brain. That often came to me in dreams, That I am home again. Oh, let me feel your hand once more^ Upon my forehead prest ; 'Tis sweet to think my march is o'er — I am. weary, and must rest. ^Tis long since I have lain this head, Save on the damp,, cold ground ^ Or where the prison glooms have shed Their fetid vapors round. Oh, sweet will be my rest to-night, Upon my downy bed So long unpressed — To feel the light -^8 AGATHA. Tonr smiles upon me shed. But why so silent, mother ? — Speak 1 It cannot be a dream — I feel your kiss upon my cheeli, But darker shadows seem To come between, and now, alas ! It fades — the visix)n bright — 'Tis but a cloud — and soon will pass ; I go to rest — Good Night," But hark ! I hear afar the sound Of music in the air^ Its notes my failing senses drown— A light — see, mother, there ! They beckon me, and I must go. Where shouts of triumph swell— I had not thought to leave you so — Mother — one kiss — farewell! XIX. It ceased — that voice ; but on the listener's ear, Its echoes rang, in accents soft, and clear ; While by his side in death's repose there lay A wasted form of cold, and senseless clay. A death so happ}', where kind angels drew 3 AGATHA. 4@ The curtains close, to give a spirit view Of the long-lost sweet paradise of home '^ Marius had pined for, as for rest to come : But this, to him, unpitying fate denies — A felon's — not a soldiers death he dies, A^d to the last, relentless^ cruel foes^ Must gloat their eyes on nature's dying throes. XX. Thus musing, falling faintly on the ear, A echoed step he hears, or seemed to hear. He raised his head^-and lo, before his eye, A muffled form is moving silently, Like a wan, beckoning ghost, Avith cautious tread, Among the sick, the dying, and the dead. Approaching near, his fetters she unbound ; Then cautiously she threw her cloak around. And bade him follow. At the friendly sound Of that inspiring voice, he rose, and cast A searching glance, and following closely, passed The slumbering guard, and weary sentinel, And left forever, that detested hell : Once free, he raised to heaven a grateful eye ; The stars were shining in the cold, blue sky ; Afar upon the stream the curling mist, Crept softly — and the moaning night-breeze kissed The dusky laiidiSbape— all wsis Brigt't and feir"; There was an inspiration in the air, Which raised to heaven his thoughts -and checked despair. X purse of gold, in parting, now she dre#, And gave him, as she waved a mute adieu» And leil him there, with life and liberty, Though purchased at a ransom somewhat high,, To seek his safety in some friendlier clime, ^S¥here Faith and Loyalty were not a crime^. CANTO III. SHJS BATTZiS. ^Sigli on a greensward knoll a mansion stood, .Shaded, and half -embowered within a wood ; Stately and old, and grand without pretense, It wore a look of noble elegance; And seemed upon its neighbors to look down, With something half betwixt a smile and frown, As Genius sometimes from her eminence Looks down on her plain neighbor, Common Sense. The stately trees, that rose a colonade, Stretched wide their arms, to give more ample shade, Beneath was twined, a bower, in which both Art And Nature, seemed to share an equal part. Near by.a.giirden bloomed, w^here Taste might cull, To feast the eye upon the Beautiful. Where nought was wanting that could lend a- charmj A poet's fancy, or his soul to warm. There breathed a spirit of refinement there, vWhich shed.^ love-enchantment on the air; 52 . AGATHA. Here "Wealth her richest ornaments had placed, Culled, and adapted by the hand of Taste : No sjDot more lovely could proud Richmond boast, Nor one embellished at so lavish cost. II. ^Twas Evening — and the Autumn sun went down, In fiery splendor o'er the bust'ling town; Rumors of war — of battle to be fought, Were from the lips of anxious talkers caught. Near Antietam Lee's mighty army lay, Waiting impatient, for the coming fray; Flushed with success, and fii-ed with rebel rage^ Their hopes ' a certain victory presage, And confidence, as if their cause was gained, Throughout the streets of haughty Richmond reigned, III. Under the shadows of their moonlit bower. They sat — ^the lovers — at the twilight hour, Whispering in tones, low, musical, and clear, Words which had been but agony to hear, For that lone watcher whom we erst have seen, Waitmg the coming of the one — a queen In maiden loveliness ; but wanting, still. That firm, imperious, and unconquered will Of her proud rival, whose magnetic ^rt AGATHA* 53 Had won the mastery o'er a loyal heart* Like sage Ulysses in Calypso's bower, Detained a willing captive by her power, Whose fascination banished from his view Home, and the memory of a love as true As chaste Penelope's — till Wilfreid strove No longer 'gainst the current of his love ; But yielding to the influence of her charms, He sunk* a willing captive in her arms. IV. Long sat they gazing on the self-same star. Whose light was beaming on that home afar, Where Agatha for his return did wait Like stockdove pining for its absent mate. Twas the same hour, when by her hopes beguiled. She lingered at the lattice, wept and smiled : Though never doubting of his truth, a shade Would flit before her, like the shadows made By passing clouds that veil the moon's pale light, And steal across the sombre fields by night. V. And with some sad misgivings in his breast, He spoke of love — his thoughts the maiden guessed, And with some fond expressions from her tongue, S"# AGATHA. A half confession of his secret wrung :^ Of her fair rival — gentle Agatha, She heard him speak — and coldly turned away; . And schooled her woman nature, till by art, She conquered the emotions of her heart ; Whatever the past had been, she knew full well Memory had not the power to break the spell Her charms had round her captive lover thrown,. Binding his very being to her own ; First love, however strong, subdued at last,-, Must fade into oblivion with the ]oast ; And, ere the setting of to-morrow's sim. Would ties be formed that could not be undone, Further she shunned of her p^i-oud heart to^ ask-^^ — Their fates the future would alone unmask. VI. IJpon their bridal day, the sun rose fair ; Thro' the thronged streets of Richmond, everywhere, The multitude are hurrying to and fro, Elate w^ith recent triumph o'er the foe. Rumors of battle are upon the gale, Atw^hichfond woman's cheek, grows blanched ■ andl pale, Thinking upon her absent ones afar, So soon to mingle in the walks of war, iSany with listless, and a saddened eye- Survey the pageant slowly passing by. Few were th' inyited guests: but those who caine,^ Were counted noble — such they were in name. In Richmond many a gallant youth had vied, To win the loA^e of that imperial bride ; And there was one as proud and nobly born, ^ Had proffered love a woman might not scorn ; Yet, from her lips -a €old refusal took. With that; calm smile, a lover ill might brook — ■ Vnd now he came, and mingled with the rest, A half unwelcome, but invited guest ; And by the martial trappings which he wore, ''Tis seen it was a Colonel's rank he bore ; While on his face the imprint of ii scar^ Bespoke him him one not guiltless of the war. Proud was his beaming — and his steadfast eye, Spoke of resolve — a will to dare, or die ; And when he smiled, Avho closely scanned, might trace Dark lines which thought had written on his face : He wrapped himself, as with a screen, to hide The strife within, 'twixt love and wounded pride; And while the arrow rankled in his heart, He coldly acted an indifferent part — ]y[is Qai^eless words, like haunting echoes fell 56 AGATHA., Upon the ear^ arid pla^yed tiieirparfe s©^ wel?^ Few might discern the pent volcanic flame, That burned within, and withered up his frame. VII Kow searce "before the altar had heen sai.d These solemn words, " With this, I thee do wed,"* When casting on the bride a Yv^ithering look Of mingled jealousy and stern rebuke, He drew his hand across his threat^iing blade. And murmuring audibly — " The Re:n^eg^ab^e I?*^ Passed slowly down the aisle, and at the door, Vanished, like phantom, to be seen no more. VIIL Twere vain to paint the gloomy thoughts that burned In that proud soul that once his love had spurned ; A moment, half-unconscious, she surveyed The scene before her into darkness %de : Forgetful of her triumph as a bride, She saw Mm nott— the lover at her side ; But in his stead, a speetre,. gaisnt, and grimj^ Beiore her stood — the threat'ning ghost of him, Who for her love, had broke through honor's laws. False to his pledges^ and his country's cause^ That spectre bridegroom, with it^i^ bony arms. Extended wide, stood gazing on her charms ; AGATHA. 5t Deep in their sockets sunk, its fierce eyes roll — A skeleton of Love, without the soul — The slimy reptile, and devouring worm, Feasted, and crawled o'er all its hideous form ; In vain she sought its foul embrace to shun, As lovingly it whispered, " We are one !" But the words, she felt the shock, that broke .That fearful spell, and in his arms awoke, Fainting, and sick at heart ; but with a smile, That all their sad inquiries would beguile : And left the altar with a look so changed, As one, alike from love, and hope estranged. While oft the vision rose before her sight. Changing Love's noonday into darkest night. IX. We leave them now — young Wilfreid and his bride — With all that friends and wealth can give, supplied, To revel in all the pleasures tlfese bestow, Far from the scenes of wretchedness and wo, That in the famislied prisoners' cheerless gloom, Prepared the wretched victim for the tomb. The soft winds, sighing through the light parterre^ Brought sounds of sweetest music to the ear ; The luxuries that crowned tlieir ample board, Were such as few in Richmond might afford ; They had their slaves, obsequious to perforin Their slightest bidding ; and whate'er could warm A lover's fancy, was at his command, Who stood among the magnates of the land. X. But Avhere was he — the friend he loved so well^ When yet a prisoner in his lonely cell ?. He, who from chains and thraldom had been freed,. And saved from vengeance, by a doubtfiil deed. Guided by the dim light of Freedom's star. By night, he travelled through the wilds afar. Seeking a refuge from, an outlaw's fate, And still pursued with unrelenting hate. His flight in doubt, and darkness, he pursued^, Concealed by day, in deepest solitude ; Until, by hope ins.pired, the outlawed man,^ To taste the sweets of liberty, began ; Though weary, famighed. friendless, and forlorn, He held the miseries, which he braved in scorn ;, So much the boon of freedom cheered his soul, Attracting like the magnet to the pole... He scarce remembered what the past had been^ As Hope relumined his dark soul again. XL Axid now his perils, and his wanderings o'er, AGATHA;. 9=' His thouglits turn backward to the past once more.. Keen were the wrongs that rankled in his breast, Musing on other hopes he once possessed ; The memory of a long-lost child and wifey Clouded this dawning twilight of a life. While yet a vague presentiment, at times,- Spoke of re-union in congenial climes. This fanned the flame of Hope, whose smoldering firo Gould but withj^is expiring breath, expire. Exiled, and outlawed, in a stranger's land". To baffle fate his daring soul he manned. And soon beneath the starry flag that wavcvd jlbove the free, war's perils ^he had braved ; And at South Mountain's desperate fight he woiis A Major's rank, by deeds of valor done. When gallant Reno, in that fearful strife, R'Sdfeemed'the day at forfeit of his life.. There when the setting sun's expiring ray. Threw its glint splendors o'er the hillside gray,. First in pursuit, he drew th' avenging sword, J\^d] like a torrent, on the vanquished poured ; And by his deeds of reckless daring, gave The foe to feel how valiant is a slave, When, freed by fortune from tlie tyrant's sway, lie fights to teach the tyrant to obey 60 AGATHxV. Those laws on which he tramples, as in scorn, To be the curse of naillions yet unborn. Nor unrewarded was the stranger's worth, Felt was his valor, though unknown his birth ; The time had come, when, trembling for its fate. Cooped in their capital, the ignobly great, Who ruled in counsel, but who shunned the fight, Were willing to accord to those the right, That craved the boon — to meet the foe in arms, Whose valor filled their faint hearts with alarms. ISTay, they would even condescend to praise. Or from the ranks " an imknown" private raise ; And so brave Marius — valor's just reward, A Major's rank, as fit promotion shared. XII. The harvest moon is shining calmly bright. Tipping the mountain tops with silvery light, And^ front to front, the hostile armies lay, After a slight encounter of the day. All was so tranquil, that along each line. Where dimly faint the distant watchfires shine, Rose scarce an echo on the evening air, To tell of a victorious army there. Waiting but for the dawning of the day, Again to mingle in that doubtful fray. AGATHA. 61 On whose stupendous issues hung the fate Of a proud nation's capital. Elate With recent triumph, Lee surveyed his host, With haughty triumph of a conqueror's boast ; While Hooker with firm confidence inspired, His gallant troops with noble ardor fired. xiir. Far on the left where Burnside's corps is seen, The Antietam's slow waters roll between The oj^posing forces. Near a bridge of stone Across the j^assage of the stream was thrown. Brave Marius here, among the loyal brave, Was seeking rest, along the placid wave. He could not sleep — strange fancies in his brain Awoke — and memories that gave him pain* He gazed uj^on the moon, and with a sigh. Beheld her mounting up the southern sky , The scenes reminded him of other days, When he had stood, a Avondering boy, to gaze Upon the beauties of the silent niglit, In all the ecstacy of youth's delight. What though a slave, existence then had zest, Which freedom now, awoke not in his breast : What was the present but a changing dream, Without that love the future to redeem ' 62 AGATBA. From those dark memories, which the mouriifiil Past Had o'er the blight of crushed affections cast ? Till soon from visions of distm'bed repose, To seek relief from torturing thoughts he rose, And listless though the moonlight meadows st-raye'fl. Until, by chance, his wandering eyes surveyed -'A fire that dimly bur.icd upon the height, Where all is silence, solitude, and night ; Kot distant far,'froni wliere encamped, his band, Were sleej)ing, by the welcome night-breeze fanned. XIY. Thither haif-doubtingly, he bent his way, Far up the soimmit of the hillside gray. And as the spot, with cautious step h.2 neared, Sudden a figure, mufiied close, appeared; And flitting by him like a silent ghost. Was soon amid' the deeper shadows lost; But following close, with cautious step and slo'W^ As one resolved, 3^et wary-of a.foe. He saw by the pale moon's uncertain light. The silent, ghostly wanderer of the night. Glide through the cops wood wild and disappear, Like frighted antelope or timid deer, Vain was his search the fugitive' to trace — k3A vanished like a spectre from the place. "AGATiE^A. XS And was it fancy, that he seem to hear 1A name familiar echoed on his ear, ^3By a lost voice the strangeness of whose tone, Had into sweet, tfiearthy mii^c -gi'own ? Awhile he stood to muse — then turned him back, To seek his 4;ent. Along his lonely track, The solemn night bird flaps his boding wings, And shrill and loud his midnight p^an sings"; Strange, hollow sounds- break fiuntly on his ear^ And thrill that soul, unknown to mortal fe^^.r. Little he recked of danger — with delight. He thought upon the morrow's promised fight ; But there was that in what he heard, and saw, That filled his soul with superstitions awe — He felt an influence round him everywhere. As if a spirit presence had been there. His thoughts from dim surroundings took their shape, And from vague fancies he could not escape, Ever before him on the startled air. Arose a phantom form^ so sad, and fair. He almost fancitjd in his moody brain, He might embrace the Avife he loved, again ; While thouglits akin to happiness, possessed, • And calmed the vague, wild terrors of his breast. 64 AGATHA. Until upon his coucli of earth reposed^ Refreshing sleep his weary eyelids closed* XVI. A night before the battle — quiet lay Two mighty armies, that with dawn of day Must meet iii conflict. Who shall paint the scene So lovely now — so quiet — so serene, Which on the morrow will be imaged there. — The shout of triumph bursting on the air, Mingled with shrieks and bowlings of despair— The booming cannon, that with earthquake tread, Hurls to the earth, in heaps, its ghastly dead, With Minnie buEets, flying thick as hail, As rank to rank, the furious hosts assail. And dying groans of thousands drenched in gore, Sounding above the thundering conflict's roar. With clash of sword and bayonet, that swell The tide of battle— all combine to tell A tale of human wo, and crime so deep^ Recording angles veil their eyes and weep* XVII. Morn dawns. The sun uprising from his bed, Streaks the far hill-tops with his beacons red; But dull, and heavy in the western sky, A thunder cloud hangs dark and gloomily; 4 AGATHA. € "When suddenly the cannon's opening roar, Reverberates along Potomac's shore ; And to the right where fearless Hooker fights, A charge is made to gain the crowning heights. There Lee'^ main force, in battle's dread array^ A fierce, unbroken, solid phalanx lay. The tide of conflict turns upon the foe ; Who, first, retire with steady pace and slow^ Till at our brave commander's signal sigii^ The cry of " Charge !" rang fierce along the line; Then through retreating ranks our gallants broke. Dread, and resistless as the thunder stroke. Borne backward on the field, they fly dismayed, Until is gained the woodland's friendly shade : Then from fresh