LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. %P- iop?rig|l]ftt IL-Li li li'* IL Jii li' S FlU) M i'JdiJiiy^ )y^^ilfc3^ -:BY H. M. HOLMES.: — Kvt'iy life is a hook — Exporieiices iiri' li'avos. "Ars t!i>'(" iiMsw.'i-.'tli to riicc ill water, su tli OPWASH^^^^1 CAMBRIDGE, ILLS.: B. W. Seaton, Printer, Chief Office. -f Entered accordins: to Act of Congress, m the year 1883, by MRS. NELLIE M. HOLMES, In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington ♦f TO TIIK IJKr.OVKI) DOMESTIC (JIlOl'P — MV msRAXi), AM) TUK vorTunr. J'ont, wirosK (.uiifTKs'r pkaiskor cKNsriti:, I'JiOMl'TS Oi; CHKCKS MY mSIN(; INSIM- UATION— WHOSE LOVK IS MOllK TH A N lAMK— I DEDICATK THESE FEIT- TEIlTXfJ LEAFEETS. A Message 41 A Spring Expeiienoo 46 Absence fi:i A world wide circle of Pniyer. ... 6T An Experience 72 A Tribute 79 Autnmn 84 A Leaf of Life 86 A Goodly Vine 104 An Revoir 120 A Token 12? An PJmbleni 1:^5 "And they shall be one tlesh" 1 87 A -Soldiers 'j^Portrait 170 A June B(j^quet • 187 August 5th . 189 A light fancy 214 A Plea for the Boys 2l8 A Souvenir 227 An Episode 228 A Broken Chord 240; Are there not Persons ... 248 Album Notes 250 Brother John at Twenty-one. .. 38 Bessie 45 Bereft, but not forsaken 55 Balm of Gilead 68 Beauty for Ashes 232 But not to me returns 5i33 Baby's Acknowledgement 235 Contrast 53 '•Consider the Lilies" 54 Con Amore 80 j Chalice 139 Clove-apple 145 Crowned 149 Chrysalis 1 50 Col Ellsworth. ]f;2 Congratulatory 225 Chastened 236 I Concerning one Asleep 242 Do they miss me at School ? 22 Day-break 185 Echoes 40 Evening 155 "Example is better than precept. .183 Etchings on Wood 237 Follow Me 51 First Purity— then Peace 160 Fifteenth Wedding Anniversary. .201 GoMen Wedding Anniversary.... 75 Gone Home 89 Gold-lined 144 "Go, work to-day in my vineyard". 151 Gossamer. ....199 Good Resolutions 216 "He hath made everything beauti- ful in its season" 16 Home Carol 34 "He that bath friends must show Hearth and Home .57 himself friendly" 128 Heartsease 243 Invocation 5 Inscribed on a beautiful picture of a fair girl with harp in hand 24" "I will not leave you comfort- loss" '. 100 I wish you a Happy New Year. . . 103 "In hope of a glorious immortali- ty" 105 "It is well with the child" 117 If and If 136 I wish thee joy ! 171 Impromptu 178 Interlude 180 Invitation 188 "In everything giving thanks". . .197 In Memoriam 263 Katie Lessons of the Rain Lillian Lines accompanying a child's gnerreotvpe Loss and Gain Little Nora Lulu Little Rosa .143 . 19 43 62 65 8-2 ■ 95 Little Nellie 101 Looking Forward 112 Lonisa 12U Lift UD your eyes 172 My Eighteentii Birthday 9 Mother, dear Mother, kiss me 14 March 31 Motherless 70 Memories 91 Musings 115 Moss by the wayside 14G May . . ! ' 147 Morning 157 "Memento Mori" 175 My Princess 241 Now and Then 60 Oh ! call me Nellie 25 Our Geologist 58 Oh a Gift of Flowers 98 Orange Blosfioms 103 Ode to 1859 109 Our Brother 141 Opportunity 179 Op«n Sesame .218 Prayer of the Dying 113 Pilgrims 114 Picnic, July 4th, 1861 165 "Put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ. 196 Parody 222 ■ Request 44 i Retrospective 50 Resignation .... 64 Remonstrance 110 Raillery 175 , Resurrection 177 \ School-girls' good-night ... 12 ! Stay, old year ! 18 Susie 48 Snow 108 Spirit Aigor 123 Sunset, August 22nd 129 "She goeth to the grave to weep there" 134 Summer 174 September 18th, 1872 193 Sleeping 204 Song of the Lilies 245 The Unexpected Guest 125 The Robin's Plea 6 To my Husband ^27 The Laborer 33 "Through Nature up to Nature's God" 73 "There is a time to die" 85 To my friend Eliza 92 Tryst 97 "They shall walk with me in white" 106 To C- 119 The memory of the just is blessed. .122 To Fand M 130 To the four Motherless Ones 13l "The silver cord is loosed" 140 The great rebellion. 1860 158 To One in Camp .168 To Ida 181 To Lillian 191 "The steps of faith fall on the void and find the rocks beneath". .195 Twin Immortals .203 To my dear boy 209 Temperance campaign song 215 The Legend of the Leaves 231 To-morrow 246 "Using as not Abusing" 206 Welcome • 77 Welcome to April 133 Watchman ! what of the night?.. . 166 With the gift of a fanciful cross. .206 We live by Deeds 236 Young Climbers 94 1861 164 1825—1875 207 ^ ■I ^ 'r INYO C A T I O N Come ! gentle Muse, whose potent spell, O'er field and prairie, wood and dell. Hung from my early childhood days My own New England's dreamy haze; Like her blue summits, which appear To mount and blend in upper sphere ; Thy fantasies in wayside walks — Suggestions thine in simple talks- Lifted many a hillock low To simulate the. mountain's brow, And bent the glory of the sky Through rainbow-tinted ministry ; I cull thy flowers along the path. Some starry blooms the valley hath — More, heavy with the dew of tears Droop like Spring's early harbingers ; Come, twine them with a subtle grace. Give each its fitting form and place. Among the modest borders let Some fragrant immortelle be set, That through the fading symbol yet. Heart may to heart perpetuate The living sympathy which claims Infinite kinship — heavenly aims — And love, which tips each cloudy night With the gilt edge of perfect light. -^- ♦^ liEAFLETS FROM THE ROBIN'S PLEA. Come, now, and take yonr pay Out of my tuneful throat, For fruit you so deplore ; Hark! would you change that note? rp in this sheltered nook My little mate and I, Our modest leaf-thatehed hut Constructed quietly. And while the fabric grew With honestest intent, Rigrht early every morn We paid our daily rent. We hunji: the slender wall With its soft lining round, And then, adventurously. Glanced out to view the ground. Among the spreading boughs These cherries, rosy-cheeked, A week or more have been Playing at hide and seek. ^ NATINI-; WOODS. \\'(* lus(('u pliiiitcd tlM'in lor us. And jis jibrojid I flew 'Vo fcjisl oiy woiicl(;rinjjf eyes ( )m nature, jiud to take Some healtlilul exercise, Sweet berries J (jspied, Shji|)(Hl lik(; your tliiiiihle, Miss, And uuuiy Ji diiiiity meiU 'IMiey've ^iven me <'re this. Those currants, white jukI vi'(\, lianj^in^ so plenU^onsiy, I surely thought there wen* Knou^ii for you and me. And wliiie your jjjarden i'v(] Our modest appetite, Unto another sense We ministered deh'pfht. VVakinjj^ our (!hoic(?si sonj^s Each swift succeedinjj: day, Enlivciuirijjj your toil With sw(*(;test melody. Away on yonder trcie (>wn(Ml by your neighbor, then?, ^' ♦ ♦ S LKAFr.ET.S FROM I saw the cherries tliick As ever green leaves were. And over all there hung- A delicate fleecy net, With wonder, ill concealed, (Questioned the use of it. Suspended by a cord, A little pendent bell Discoursed, at sundry times .Sounds sweet and musical. But these conveniences I now begin to see Were not the kind attentions They were supposed to be, For once my daily round As I essayed to take, I heard a murmuring voice In tones none could mistake, Saying, "these saucy birds Will all this fruit destroy ; Oh! dear! my very life They constantly annoy." Then followed hasty words And harsher epithets. Such as one having heard Not easily forgets. ♦^ ♦ NATIVE WOODS. 9 Surprised and greatly shocked, Conscious of honest mind, I plead, I have not been At all to theft inclined. 'Tis but a fair exchange. And well and wisely planned, That we, in turn for favor Some service render man. And may the^reat All-Father Appreciation give, E'en of the humblest creatures PJis bounty makes to live. MY EIGHTEENTH BIRTHDAY. What is this mystery that broods Over Nature? Winter no longer reigns, — But earth and sky are heavy with portent ; Some subtle force seems wrestling with this vast Inertia ; not tke threatening earthquake, But a change as absolute, silently Creeps through the deep arteries of our great Common mother, and this March morn is all Aquiver with the tremulous thrill 10 LEAFLETS FROM Of new awakening life. No bud— no leaf- But from a giant heart the vital Current of a living world connects Through countless pulses. Steadily the won- drous Organism perfects its circulation. Sweet and sacred is this ominous hush To those who year on year tenderly kept The birthdays of the violets, and learned The tokens by which the ferns unfurl their Curious fronds. With what expectant joy Our conscious hearts throb through this dor- mant Period, detecting in clouds and winds Harbingers of animate loveliness, Strength, and power. How great and rich in reserved Resources the friend whom we call Nature ; Is there in human life something akin To her's? Is this forecast of earnestness Analogous to the mysterious Possession of inert matter by some Mighty soul? Is then my dream of girlhood Broken ? Is it time to lay aside the dear Delights of childhood hours for sterner tasks? Woman hath work to do. The world hath need Of diligent hands and loving hearts, But something pleads not yet. Others have left Flowery paths and hastened forth to chosen Toil. Not yet ! not yet ! Oh ! little wicket ^ NATIVE WOODS. 11 Enclosing" my pleasant play o^round, why swing Outward so soon into a wilderness Of unexplored fields and doubtful paths? Oh , Life instinct with mystery, must I meet Thj^ serious visage hence, which like this Great still earth clasps myriad purposes To wait development ? I thought to cull Wild roses this year also. True, they faded In my hand while I remembered how Ruth Went gleaning 'mid the summer sheaves. Strange thoughts Astir like hidden rootlets intimate That life must grow. Nothing goes backward save To blight and loss. This mellow mold is rich In prophecy. I will arise and follow— I will take my place among the maidens Who humbly glean the precious scattered Grain. ^ ! I -J l.KAFl.l.rs I'KOM s("ii(>(M.-(ii Khs' (nx »i> N KJirr. (iood ni.ulit, Itnu-luM-; .uontly Tnlls 'Phis swtH^l sDund at I'loso of ilay, I Ami tlio school room's hallowM walN j lA'li(>ini;" Iho mu^^ic say j ( Jooil tiii;'lu. I (mhhI ui.uht, Mary ; st)l(ly still Lin^uvrs it on lii>s wo lovo, I Somlinu" throu.u'li our lu^art-^ a thrill I A.s wo swiftly homoward imno, (Jooil iiiLihl. (rood ni^ht, Kllon ; Famiy, toi>. With a hoart-warm smilo wo liiviU, l>art tho lovinji: li'huu'os throii^uh As briii'ht lips in parting' moot, (lOOil niulu. Ciood iiiiiht, Kauma.swoot ami oloar Miisioally tloats iiKhiu-, Nollio ami Louisa iloar. With a strain of luunnurVi sonii (Jooil niiiht. ^ NA'IIN'I'; WOODS. \fi (iood ni«;li( (luavors at my sicU; — (Quickly turniiij^', I espy llaiinah's lonn rotreatinj;' lii^lo — "Pis \wv bird-like tones which say Good nij?ht. (rood ui^ht roj'ui.sii Addic bn^atiios With a shy niischicivous fiance, And the merry smiles which wreathe In each rosy dimple dance Good night. Good ni^hi sisters, one and all, Teachers, brothers, hear us say; J^o! the lading sunbeams fall- Wearily declines the day, (iootl night. Kindly greeting, radiant smile, Loving glance, and they are gone — •Silence reigns a little while Broken by to-morrow morn, Good niglit. i,F.Ar'i,i:rs i'udm MOTIIKU, DKAK MOTllKK, KISS M Motlior, dear Motlicr, kis8 mo, Tin very sad to-day— CMoso ((> your bosom press mo And driv(^ this cloud away : W'luMi 1 WHS a woo lass, MotluM\ Vou hushotl my iufaut ory Witli words of ot)mfort on yt)ur lips, And kissiHl mo tiMuiorly riio day is ohaiiirod uow, MotluM*, And mauy yoars havi» tlown, lUit 'uy hciwt ktH^i>s tiuio, Mothor, 'rt> boatiuji' of your own ; Whouovor tho shadows ^athor. Or whou tho wavos aro wild, I turn my shallop toward homo Ami am a_uai!i a ohild. Many aro tho frionds, ]Mothor, 'Pho sutmy Summor briuu:s, Timo is tloot, and lilb is swoot Whon lloatinu* upon wind's; *l NATINI') WOODS. \\\i\ \vli(«ii chill (liiys coinc, Mojlici- And ImUcrflics luivc llouii, \V<' need one loviiifj^ liciirt, IMollicr, 'rii:i( \V<' Cilll l<';iM 1I|»(»M. Tln'ii kiss iiic, Mollici-, kiss nic, P'or 1 urn riill of tcMis, Nor csui I KJvc any caiisc! Vav IIm'sc opprcHHlvci IcarH: So Hootlic inc SIS you used, Mollicr, Ik'fon^ I (»v(^' knew ^riiMl every sorrow in the world ( 'onld not he sliared hy yon. As one his iMollier (!oni forts I.ot ino bo lulled to h1o(^[), I'll bniyer h(^ to-rriorrow If you my vi^il keep ; My (l(!ar lonj^-sullerin^' i\Iolher, J low dark tho world would he If to tho Mheltor of your loye I never more could lle<'. I KJ l.l.AI'l.l'.rs 1 KOM 111-: iiATii MADi-: i:\'KKY'riiiN(; iu:Ar rii TL in irs skasv)n." Ilo buUW'lh tlu> yoimi;- Spriuo-liiuo Willi mild :nul Imliuy Uiviith, Hroak o'or tlu* \\\^>rhl in jiUviluoss, 'rhrouj»h \V inter's divury tliMlh. 'Mill lilVM>u(.un»sl»in.u' tViH^ly Whilo birds juv i';irollin,u", Intoxieato wo niniiuur *'(iivo ns peivnnial spring' !" Wo ilroani, whilo skios aro smiling- -how briof tlu' day ! WtMvaki^I I ho glory tatling, passiv-^ away. Ilo biddt^h SumuuH' blossom, Antl wi*ar a blooming orown, *Mid tho wooiUands and tho nuwdows WluM'o Spring's tlrst gU)ry shone ; lie weaveth rosy garlands And llii\geth at t>nr foot— And Spring is bnt a ohild, ln>side The blooming maid oompU»to; b'.ntranotul, wo gather her olVerings rare And reuow our vows to tho iSunimrr fair. NAIMXIO \V<)l/i(;n coining", spread we his throne - And Wint(5r n^i^iis o'er us kiiij^'olall alon(\ Y(ia, all things hav(5 a season And in their time rejoices, l*rjiisin^ th(iir (h'oat Creator With one united voice. Alik(; the (Uoud-capp'd mountjiin, Alik(! th(^ valh^ys rais(5 In everlasting^ (!cho A tribute to 1 1 is praise: IS LEAFLETS FROM Let man crowning creation, superior lionor bring Nature's beneficent Source — of kino>^ tlie Kins:. STAY, OLD YEAR! Stay, old' year— let tliy little sail Stem the swift returnless'tiile. Blossoms of marvelous loveliness I left waving on yon hill-side ; Amaranth leaves of fadeless hues, Merchandise in yonder port, AVith rich odors and spices embalmed Offerings fitting its royal court. Stay, old year— there are priceless, gems Glimmering back thy dusty way. Sadly relaxing, this feeble grasp Scattered a shining store to-day ; Oh ! let ms now with earnest step Carefully the path retrace. Laden anew, with precious freight Joyfully thy passage haste. Stay, old year— there are pages dim Blotted too in memory. Ere is added the final seal Let me revise thy histor3' ; ♦ J,. NATINK WOODS. ]U 1 (iiv<' UK* Init hack llic spotless hla. k, Wasted drops oftlie eriinson (Vnint, Swiftly thei) shall this winged shaft Deeds of mercy and love njcoinit. 1 lark ! 'tis the dip of the hoatinan's oar Launches holdly the tiny craft, Favorinj^ ;;^ales hlow over ine Gazinj^ r(^^retfully abaft; Never more l)y those radiant shores Shall the restless mariner ride, Coursing onward the vi(?wless track Farthei- adown the river j^lides. 12th iionr, '{1st day, 12th month. J.ESSOXS OV TJIK RAIX. Patter, patter, hear the footstejis Of the j^entle rain, Improvising^ fitful music On the window pane, Lower the skies but yester morn lladiant and fair, Olimmerinj^ grey and distantly Through the upper air. ^Myriad crystal drops adorn The disjTiaritled trees, f--- --^ — ~~ -I" 20 leaflets! P^ROM other myriad lightly rii)ple Miniature seas : Sparkling cascades, whose fleet mission Distances our sight, Flowing through ten thousand channel.'^ Limitless as light. 'Neath the sheltering protection Of my humble home, Where the sun of love is shining Heed I not the storm : Save a tender thought of pity And of helpless pain, For misfortune's children wandering In this Winter rain. Sterner storm-clouds oft encompass With their sullen dread, Beating merciless and heavy Some defenceless head ; Frosts of cheerless discontent Chill Life's hardiest flowers, Driving sleet and hail of scorn Banish summer hours. Rivulets whose sweet in tout To enrich and bless, Ice-bound, shiver 'neath the dense Mist of selfishness ; Sparks ignited from the flame Of Divinity, -^ ♦ ♦ r -r NATIVE WOODS. 21 'Neath Enrth's sordid ashes hide Ignomiiiiously. But the Spring is surely coming— Her inspiring breath Viviiies with wondrous vigor Nature's seeming death. Snows depart— and icy thrall Yields the sceptred hand, A new resurrection Now awaits the hind. Shall w^e from the dormant state Of inaction rise, Fling the portals of our hearts Wide to sunny skies. While the gentle showers of Truth Love's young buds recruit, Nourish tlieir delightful bloom Up to perfect fruit. 22 l-KAFI.F/rS I'M{OM DO 'nii':Y miskS :mk at sc^hoolv Ho tlH\v miss mo n( school ? do tlioy miss mo. As ^;;i(luM* lovM fsuHVs at morn, Ami l-'artli is imoonscioiisly jj^ildtHi \\'i(l» simlii^ht, so rosy and warm, Do lIuM'o rmi;or sofl (\V(»s at tlio windows And voiros mis|H\d^!ibly d(\n-, As tiirnin.u' awMy iialf n^«;-n»lful Murmur, "Oh I how 1 wish shi» was lioro." D«) (hiw miss moat school? do tlu\v miss mt>, As nuMrily noaU^th tlu> chinu*, Anil tlu^ liohtost of footsteps oboyini:: UastiMi homo at tho noon's ufoIdiMi primo ; Do(*s sonu> lov'd om^ turn haok a monuMit And musoofa hrii^ht Winter's day, \N'hon as now sho had pausod with tho (pu\s- tion, "Is thoro no ont^ that's ,u\>ini;- my way?" Do tlu\v miss mo at si'lu)ol ? do tht\v miss mo, As warm u'riH^tm^s tly tpiiokly around. And arms that instinotivoly opon Hound precious ones quickly are wound ; NAT IV I", WOODS. Is llicrc <'V('r ;i hn-Mk in 1 lie circle A link WJiiiliii;; in Mi:il sisici" cliiiin, ( )r do llic yoiin^j^ lic;uls cluster closer N'>r ever an jibseiij one iiiune ? I )o 1 hey miss ok; ill school ? do they rriiss iiie It wer<' s\V((el 1-: I) ON A iii:Ar Tiini. i»i( rrKK of a iwik (iiin WITH llAKF IN HAM). Why sittost Ihoii with siu-h poiisive air, lair Sai)ph()? Is thy iiarp not in tiino that tluis Thy i)nant tin^vrs itlly swoop its string-s ? Mothinks tliinc* n[)ward look invokos souu' Spirit-presonoe to inspire thy music. Is it with ohastenoil Joy, or tender Sorrow, that tlioii seekest expression in son^;' ? Is it a hiy of oldon niolody Or a sweot j^irlish sonnet of thine own ? C'arelessly tioat tiiy ilark luxuriant Hinj^lets from their flowery band, droopin*;- In shininj>' clusters on thy graceful neck, l^'lows in soft folds thy liji:ht loose robe ; Lift thy ]Mild eye, enchantress, nor wander more Through labyrinths of song till I shall Somewhat ask. Tell me, dost thou ne'er breathe Thy heart's own deep impassioned eloquence oil! CALL ME NKLLIK. oil ! call hk; xNellio ; lot tiic am'iils fall tSo pleasantly upon my listening ear, That dearly loved home voices musical With tendcn- cadence I shall seem to Ixnir; I would not that y(\ S(;ek more studied phrase, Or with formal politeness near me comc», JIabit the stranger in primitive grace. And simple manners of the olden hom(^ '>-, NATINI': WOODS. I'poii (licsc slriiin'S ? Wind they nolclo.-cly rouiul 'V\\y \\l\\ linked \vi(h its dearest Joys, its roiidcsl Hopes? Ojxsi thy lips one moment, unveil A little of this myst(u-y that shrouds The;' unto me. Ah ! why waste sentiment On pictures they arc^ dumb to all our Pk^adings for heart history, i)assive, inert. Hut yet their iUuU) appeal of attitude, Or lace, reveals secrets of other lives And witli slgiiilicanc<' mirrors our own. 2G I.EAFr.ETS FKOM ' Yes, call me Nellie; with that clianiied sound A flood of tenderness is wont to flow, I muse of ^lad young- faces clustering- round With each sweet lip upturned where'er I go; My Father though he speaks it not will dream Of the one household child— his only one— And Mother dear will always lonely seem Thinking- of Nellie when she was at home. Oh ! call me Nellie ; I am but a child Though woman's mission is upon me now, The gushing- feeling's unrestrained and wild With childhood's freedom oftentimes o'er- flow ; Ye would not check this volatile tem[)er mine, When breezy gusts of gaiety do come, Or chide if I should weep, but by this sign Recognize Nellie as she was at home. Yes, call me Nellie ; there's a vibrant tone Within my heart of hearts, while yet ye speak, Echoing responsive — a sacred one — Which this new proof of interest doth wake, A unity of purpose quickly fires Spirits that to a common altar come, A hallowed influence trust inspires Like what pervades a family at home. Oh ! call me Nellie; there are lips beloved Which sometimesyllabled that simple name *r NATivr: WOODS. 27 With sacred intonation, n(nv removed They hold my ear with everksting claim; 'Tvvould bring me very near your household If witii familiar greeting ye would come And trusting Nature's first impulsive voice Just call me Nellie as they do at home. TO .AIY HUSBAND ox uKCKn'iNc; M^ FiiisT li:ttj:u from iiomi:. Forgive these faliing tears, for joy or woe Ilathquickconnection with interior springs, Which fed to fullness, speedily o'erflow. Nor of their source or dei)th bring any tid- ings,' Nor yet are proof of weak ne:^s, the bright shower Through which sunbeams retiect their glit- tering gold In rainbow facets, shows as wondrous power As the storm-shaken forest drenched and cold. ♦ ♦ T 28 LKAFLl'/rs FROM We may not know the secret of tlie brook Xoi.sily babbling o'er its shallow bed, Or the deep river's l)Lirden, albeit look With skill to fatho'.ti each with line and lead. The mystery of ehang-eful hurrying moods Ye cannot run and read nor yet explain, Ask April of her skies and v^erdant woods, Whenc? and how came their varied shades of green. How smiles -and tears chasing each other, blend In a new compound, is an alchemy No science has discovered ; how a friend Can love yet grieve, remains a mystery. Yet have patience ; delicate processes Develop like the ever tj^pic germ Caressed and shielded, yet retjuired no less To reach maturity, knit fair and firm. Oh ! blessed sunshine of abundant love, Visit my life, producing grace and bloom. Oh ! tender, tearful rain, droi) from above To nourish virtue's roots, and shed perfume. NATIVE WOODS. L I L L 1 A N There hath come into our home A tiny baby form, And with the ghul occasion A new love-link is born ; A precious gift we deem her, Prizing her none the less Because she clingeth to us In utter helplessness. A brief month only claiming Our assiduous care, Part and parcel of our lives She holds a noble share ; \Her eyes are shining mirrors We seem to see in them Reflected heaven's own azure Lit by a glad sunbeam. How little knoweth Lillian To what world she hath come, In blissful unconsciousness She lieth fair and dumb, 2i) ! T- :{(i m: viMi l.iUoM iViiii^iMl i^iMiliim urt^pin; Vvo\\\ its proloctin^ cup With Jill its (It'Nv.v promiM- IVjilntily [\)UUh\ up. Oulslrippin;:: hcv sliu:lns Abovt* :i (low ny nrst. As in ;i rnltnroil i^artliMi Tin* sp(>tUvss lily st^mds !vtX:il anionii tlio tlowors, Sal\* \'vo\\\ {[vWWuiX l»antls. So onr snnvU bulb in sw »mM w'w Ami ohoiot^ oarth otn olop. Ilor lW\ Minonu: tin* Ulit\s, IUm" I'on^ln^avi Urtod up. A bnr.n\n but! t^xi>5\ntii»iii" Hol'on* our ojiiior (\vt\s, Uospi\>\kinii- I'urtM'nl nurluiv A stray l"n>ni Panuiiso; nU^st Hlvor of this troasuro, Mallow swot^t natuiv's tio With b>ttitM* purposes An, I i:r;u'ions nilni>^try. •I- NATIVI') WOODS. ."»! (iu'inl Iicr will-some inftiiicy SccMin; Irom (*v(?ry ill, III soni, it) inind, in pcr-^on, Our (Icjin-Ht. ho|M'.s riilflll : Mnk<' Imt yoini;r <4irllio()r| li;t|)py TfiywcIC Imt -iiire «I<'IV-iim<', ll(;Het witfi (liairioiid \iihif, 'I'lic )»c;irl of iiiiiofr'iic*-, \Vc (Tavc no <'Mrthly riclKs, \V(; Kcck ii(y^il. Or bowed tlie shrinking" sa|)liii,u-, or wantonly Hut1"et(>d the hoary oak ? Let fhis atone - She wept, llatli she sniiU'd ni)on the rare I'rnit-proinise and then frozen it with her Cohl thi>i-ers? llatli she refused tlie prayer ( )f shiverinu' branches pk^adinu' to be eh\d ? l>etained tl>e«irass-l»Ia(les witliin their Winter I'^astnesses? I<'riu'hted the sonu-birds, or tni'- ned Tile train of wild Li'eese retrograde? "Set It not ilown in malice." The errors Of the repentant (h'ad k-ind nieniory Shronds, and wreathe- them with their vir- tues as W'itli tlowers. Oiu' niuht slu' robed the ti'ees in ermin(\ every little shrub was MntUed, all the vines bun*;- fairy, feathery festoon*. A^>"ain she fashioned .V crystal settin;»-and the world shone like Knchantment. l>;'iiohl how swift her court- iers Learn another's bidding'. April hath won The tii'kle skies to smile out of their tears lM)r her. To-morrow she will clothe them In «;'ol(l livery, or sable frin^'es, as Best betitteth her capricious humor. .\ little power proveth base mottle, Or ^iveth play to iioblo faculty ; I remember when April ruled the kinijfdom Like a fretful housewife ratluM- than A beni.L'iiant sovereijiu. A^ ♦ I- XATtVK WOODS. .'};} Oh ! I am Slow (^\L']ian^inalle( m"()\\ , I"'ainliiiH" (»r liopcriil, prcssiiiu on 'i'lir()ii<;li Hood or drought and lniniiiiL;- sun \'ain Ins labor and sad Ins lot, Tlu' ( Jod of the harvest hiessiiiii' not. Lahorers liearinu' imniorlal liiaiii (Jod hath set on llis livini;* plain, In each portion the pronusc* leaves, "i-'aithridly sow, yi' shall ^-ather sheaves.'' "Seed-time ai'.d harvest are my eare, lliist(»n, I'or earm^st woiU nri^pare, lJnheedin«i- pain or weariness, 1 will repay in Me is rest." 11 () M i: (' A K (> L . I have one little daiij»'htor In whose hhu* (wriu'st eyes, I mark the ji'low of t»a«;er thou«;ht And n»ad rich liistories: Slu^ will «»'lid(^ to my sidi* From her careless play, She will }4'a/i' ii» >ny faee In her winsome way, - NVitii tlu* velvet toueh On njv shonlder laid NATIVI') WOODS. ;r) *r or her lilllc li;iii(I, W'liicli l!:illi oih-ii in:i(Ic My liCMil wildly llirill, Or }»t once slniMJ slill. SIm' IimIIi :i V}i<^uc. wiM .> <'!iiiiiM; l''or H()in(?thiiij< iiiMlolincd, AiKJ she HtrivcH to satisfy 11 cr rcKtIoMs little; in i rid : W ill) her cycH how sho tri(?s JA^rytfiiii^ to sec, W'lirit slic licjirs with her (jirs Poiidi'is muMin^ly, i Jkc IIk' |»;ill('riti^ ruin 'Ncalh tin* (Jrowsy <*hv<'S, Or Iho rustling' fall or tin- AutiJitirj IcsivcH, Do th(^ (jucstioris slip I'ronj lic(5 as air to cjirth, In a moment more- Fitful April ehild ! How the tear drops i)Our Wher(; th(; su/dij^ht Hmihso\v, the sky is clear- Ami iiDW, (.'loud- api»car. i j In tln> twilight's hiisliM jxliniiHor I Daylight fading;- silently, ' Mark upon tlie wall t!u' shadDWs ; Flitting swiftly, airily, i To anil IVo— there tliey j^-o C'liasing- one anc^ther, — Little feet— tripi)int>- fleet, | TiirninLi', kis- eaeh other. ! TluMi at last subside i Xoisy o-loe and wonder And the merry eyes Drop away to slumber. Then 1 sit me down Oft and muse alone. With a briinmin;^: heart of questions, Hopefully, fearfully, Strive 1 through the distant future i To reail their destiny. \ And I know where the How ' Of life's stream is teiKlin Faithful, unendinof ; j The restless risinj? Ofthe fettered soul, i riie stormy wavelets Oftentimes that roll. Proclaim good or ill Waitiiio- on the will. XATIVK \V()()!>S. 07 ' One little ^irl 1 fear nw Will tread a weary path, For she is sadly laekiiijif riie principle of faith. She re(;eives and believes What her (iye« have seen, Hut sh(; must takci on trust More tlian this I vvc^en. Father! let Ikm* not On lif(!Vsea he lost, Driftinjj^ far nsldc; W(;ary, tcunjx'st -tossed. Open thou tiicj harhor Of tiiy lov(! to Ikt. Tvvininse my weary eyes, ^1- ^^*^ J.EAFT.KTS FROM With an (.'arn(\st iTtros[)e('t Of teiulor nienioru^s ; Slern aiui true, tlie roviow Of the day is passinar, Krrors here, doubtin.<»s theic, IMy sad j> lance retraein«>-; Sometimes sadly wayward Older children prove, Would they turn as j^ladly With repentant love, Lost one-half the hitter, Sweet would be still sweeter. BROTHEll JOHN AT TWENTY-ONK. My brother, your first score of beautiful Returnless years is full. As throut»-h the Golden Gate, the traveler sweeps the swift recedino- Landscape, mountain and luxuriant vale On smilino'shore, then turns to breast the low iNIonotonous stretch of boundless waste un- known. Undefined; so you serenely glidin": Out Youth's o^olden g-ate, with backward j»'lance catch Retreating: shores and halcyon skies Of Boyhood's sheltered bay, and turnino-, face With serious earnestness the open main, ^ NATIVK WOODH. -V.) WhiU; crc^.stt'd and uphi'aviM^-, tossing you Hints of my.stcry in its spmy— its wonders Unexplored, unfeared its treacherous forces. Faiily embarked on limitless ocean Your white sails woo favorinj? jr^les and bravely JSland to sea. As earlier hiunclied, o'erswept By brealvcrs, imperiled oft, yet sure Of the main channel, I note your course And si<^nial back. Oh ! joy to know who holds Your helm— wiiose sealed orders you bear. Beware of shoals nor trust. invidious Calm — c(jnsult thc^ friendly beacon— study The chart— let no untimely trade wind O'er-take your idle sail— Watch! As a goodly Merchantman gather rich cargo, gold Of experience, precious stones of holy Purposes and noble deeds, pearls that pass Current at the Upper Port. One voyage Longer or shr)rter, now swift scudding o'er Smooth water, anon slow laboring 'round Some dangerous point 'gainst adverse winds, still Ncaring the haven of your hope. Dear broth er, Not as wrecks let us be cast upon The Sapphire Shore. F.ull rigged and taut -f f 4 I 40 LKAFI.F/rs FROM I And richly IV^MU'liti'd may its sliininor smihIs KfiHMvi^ us, wliilo otliiM' iTaft tractMnii" wido waUo - I'\)llo\v our u:loaiuiu}j:Vail. KUUOES. W'luMi the rosy suMli«;ht (JiUls tho oastoni .sky, And tliiMhirkuoss Hccth Swiftly— silently, C'liildron's l)oannnj>' lacos With the nu)rnin«j oonie, Mako the inner sunshine liri^iht in inany a home. When tile birds j»:o winjifinu: From their (luiet nest. Merry bird- like voices Min^linir with the rest Make tlie houseliold musie Keho full and elear, Puttinji: in a chorus Sweetly here and there. While the hours are hasting: Throujih the busy day, Little feet <;() trippinj** Each familiar way, ♦ ... XATIVK WOODS. 41 i And tho plfitisimt iviurrnur Of their joyousiHi.SH Is alike exi)reH.sivo or our hiii)i>iiie.s.s. So our hearts k(Ht\) freHheMcrl As witii early (l(;\v, Memory softly sayinj^ We were ehildren too, Mak(!s us mild and })atient, Makes us jjjlad and t^ay- - nd lif(;'s j^rave routine (^instant holiday. A MESSAOi:. A My brother in playful mood Gave mo this sheet of white, And hade mo across the sea A little messa<^o write. Ah! how to the far unknown Shall I launch this tiny craft? This dove with an olive branch What favorinj^ br(;ezes waft ? Swifter than white sail gliding Yon blue waves, is the winj^ Of thouf^ht, to ends of the earth O'er the loved hoverinji:. -\- I- 4 42 LEAFLETS FROM ' Brighter tlian jewels of gold Are affections that cling, They lieighten the bliss of living And sweeten everything. Over us all is the dome Of one glorious sky, Over us all is the watch Of one Unsleeping Eye. !So whether we walk the hind Or ride the restless deep, We trust one Potent Hand Our l)est treasures to keep. Here's my hand and kindly wish- May sweet delights of sense And pure soul-felt pleasures Enrich experience ; So that this passing journey Speed safely and joyfully, Ty[)e of a prosperous voyage On life's uncertain sea. ^ r NATIVE WOODS. 48 LINES AC(;oMI'ANVlN(; A child's DAGU ICKHKOT V PR. Swecit baby May, they've pictured tliee In thy y()unal in vain I (■liildiiood's t'oiitUIiiiji: trust and h)ve, I Beyond the sun, despite tlie chain, 1 Their perfect impress lives above. UKQUEST. 'CUi : iii.v IVifinls. li;i\f Vf lurgotti'ii t.' lua.v lor inu My brother beloved ! I crave earnestly One boon, that a breath May confi'r upon nie. Your sensitive heart Its 8:enerous care, With the poor and needy llejoiceth to share. Enfold iuji: your loved ones When you bend the knee. Let your scope of petition Embrace even me. NATIVi: WOODS. 15 I -f- BKSSIK. HoKsiii is ;v merry maiden — Blither and jj^ay and full of Uo\)v-, Aiui her heart retains its freshiK^ss liike tiie dew in lily-cui> ; Hessi(; is a child of nature:, Sportive, hriininin^ o'er with glee, Timid, coy, yet all the sweeter- Bessie is tlie g:irl for me. Bessie is a for(;st wild flower. Blooming in its fartlu^st dell, And the birds and all tin; blossoms Know the little fairy well. Bessie's eyes are lik(; the sky-(h4)ths In their azure brilliant hue, If you see my ^entUi B(,'ssie Maybe you will love her too. Bessie is not vain— co(iuettish. Artful— all devoid of trust, But it only takes a moment To producer a t<;ll-tale blush ; Jiessie is all ^rac(! in motion. There's a lij^htness in her stc^p You'd attribute to some si)irit You have fancied in your sleep. 4() LEAFLETS FROM Bessie's voice is like the music Waking in a poet's dream, Oh"! you'd think the birds had taught her Or the little dancing stn am ; Newlj^ charming every day, 'Tis no wonder that I love her, Bessie is the girl for me. A SPRING EXPERIENCE. The hardy little lilac buds Peeped forth one sunny day, While Winter slept behind a hill, And Spring stole forth to play. The soutli wind softly whispered. The skies bent smiling down, Invoking brown hills and prairies To put their beauty on. But the early buds were timid, They heeded not the call. For they feared old Vv' inter's sleeping A ruse to kill them all. So the daisy slept on the hill-side, The wind-flower in the wood, And the blue bell 'mid the hazel l)rush, Its chosen solitude. ♦ • ^ ♦ «. - - ^ -r NATIVE WOODS. 47 I And tiic grass blades cluso together In their winter covert lay, Awaiting- the April sunshine, Or brighter dawn of May. But the cheerful trusting- lilac Put forth its leaflets green, Enclosing the future promise, Its })urp]e blossoming. A storm cloud came floating over, Obscured the morning sun, And Spring crept back affrighted, The day's brief frolic done. Stern Winter arose, and casting His mantle o'er the plain. Bade its foldy, all white and chilling, Envelop the earth again. 'Mid the snowy wreath encircling The leaflets kept their trust, Tlie bleak wind bowed the branches, But the buds were kindly nursed. And now they are gladly greeting Each warm and welcome ray. Hoarding up their grateful fragrance To bless a future day. Ye may call it a common fiower— Ye may pass it lightly by, ^- 48 i.i:afi>kts from To my lu'ai't 'tis sweetly telliii;^^ A nobler destiny. For to me it is an emblem, With its meek endiirinj^: faith, i)f a love no Winter chilleth, Which never knoweth death. SUSIE. "N and follow nic. "l'\)ilo\v luM'o this narrow way, Treadini*- hravcly, patiently, (\)nitbrtin^ the sad, Ministerini>' as you may Words of cheer and sympathy, iNFakin^- all hearts «;iad. "Follow me, not so precious Ar(^ the heavier foot-prints In the ji^olden street, As the steps all faint and line, Set so tenderly in mine By your little feet. •'Follow me, a shininj? n^ad Leads you on and up to (iod. Sure and steadily, Though tlie way is passinj^: strait, Enter at the narrow «ate. Follow, follow me." ^ X AT I VI-: WOODS. 03 i CONTRAST. A .l.-ar cliil.J icniDvr-il from h li.iiint, of wrotcli(Mliie«H, want ariil MiiflVjrin« to tlio deliKhtrt and hU-HHtul iuttuancaH of a beautiful ••ontitry home, writ«s tliu-i: "Kvorytliing sf!f!rn.» Haying to m« 'lOlla, J lovft you.' " "Klla, I love you." J lark! how swoct Th(? tender accents fall On the young ear, so iontr unused To voices musical ; Tiif; soft eye kindles, with a thrill T\\(i little heart upboiinds, KinfliH-.sH like healing h dm distills On the old cruel wounds. "Klla, I love you," magic words! From which thought swiftly rears its first delicious memory 'J'hrough a wide waste of years; J low the drear retrospect of woe, The shudder and the sigh, Through Life's swift current sends the flow Of untold agon3\ '"Klla, I love you ;' is this Heaven, This fresh delightful air. These blossoming fields, these singing birds, These forms surpassing fair? o4 l.KAKI.KTS KKOM 111 my (hirk i^rison-honso 1 dri^aincil, Tliiit lip a sliiniiio- stair A sniilinj;- aiiiTol btH'koiicil \uv, Methinks I iiiiist l>o tluM\>." Lovt^! tcnu'h that tuiuMiil Jionl aiU'W, Yt» hills rt'spoiisivo riii^-, Voj»:hul, fiw winds with wich* ai'chiini, Ye woodhuuls ochoin*::, ThiMniivorsal thoino, that thrills 'VUv jxoldoii harps above, Somuls as faint pivUule lu'iv bolow , Tho woiuirous kt\v-noto— lovo. C\)\Sll)KU TllK LILIKS. How j4:rai'et*nlly, upon ton thoiisaml tioKls, The toiulor liJios roar their variod bloom, Throu<»li the h^nji' simuuer days, UMtirinj»:ly, Disponsini^ tVooIy, boanty and port'iimo. I'nhoodini;" where the teet ol' man may tread, Or luiman eyes, admirinj::ly, behold, They blnshin*; bend beneath the t\iM' of Goih And iiladly tiieir brief loveliness unfold. Behold how lovini^ly the waters bear ThestatelyXympha'— queen of all her niee— Her sea-*ri*een sandals vieini^ modestly With snowy beauty of her reyral dress. NA'IIVK WOODS. Tlicsc wsiit n\)(>u lli'-ir Kindled by a loving <*>'<', And a (!(;rtain ^rav(; demearjor Oharming m(; uneonbioualy. ^ T : r I 5(> LEAFLETS FROM Weeks wont by and all forgotten Till from school, one Winter day, Came my little daugfhter sayinjjf, "Xellie jNIaynard died to-day." Suddenly a sad misgiving- Seized my heart and dimmed my eye- How this little stranger maiden Touched my tender sympathy. Friends, the iron your souls has entered And the pain is sharp and deep, But a wonderful provision From desv)air will surely keep ; Perchance from this broken blossom Bright eternal buds shall spring. And this grievous seed of sorrow Fruits of sweet repentance bring. Weak and human, often erring, Helpless most where most we love, How can we protect our treasures. Save to lay them up above? Having known the tender yearning Of the fond parental breast By your love interpret wisely W^hat your Father doeth best. Oh! believe Divine compassion Never sends a needless stroke, Love beyond our comprehenson To each neck adjusts the yoke; k ! NATIVE WOODS. Let us sweetly grasp the promise Hold out to our struggling souls, Live by Faith — life hid in Jesus Who the Universe controls. HEARTH AND HOME. Lot others boast their titles Of glory and renown, We sing the brave Republic With every one a crown ; For a firm, broad foundation We lay our corner-stone, And bright upon our banner Emblazon "Hearth and Home," flome ! the key- word of charmed sound Melodious the world around. Wherever golden harvests Follow the shining plough, Wherever bloom and verdure Out of waste places grow. Where thrift and genius fashion Their monumental stone. Their goodly seed was nourished Beside the Hearth at Home, Home ! the key-word of charmed sound Melodious the world around. Oil! tcinplos of luniian lovo! Within your siuMH'd walls Trciisiiros of kuo\vU'(l<2:t» and skill Await occasion's calls, The household ministry Hold rank anion*; the ^reat, Hearth and Home are mij^htier Than all the halls of State, Home! the key-word of charnuHl sound INIelodious the world around. OURGEOLOCHSr. Well ! here comes The A[>(»stle of the rocks, wise, ji:rave, Imperturbable, and yet withal CMad in such jjenial humor, as conceals And beautit'u»s all the sliarp an«iles Of his character, as the fri^sh, jrrati^ful iSloss, rearinu: its d(»licate tufts, adorns With wondrous grace the gray old stones he loves. Heware, yo fossils of a former race ! Lest with the keen shafts of liis wit He suddenly transfix you. Plying The mystic key, lo! he unlocks Nature's Vast treasure house, walks familiar 'Mid her mysteries, skilled in her laws, na'imnk woods. r)j) Stiilinj*' to j^nu'cfiil did ion \wv forces, Jlcr iruicliiMcry, and her wonders, wroii<»ld A^es (U'e he hejiian to breathe the lofty Inspiration of a iuinian sonl. Down In her iMl seen What tonjj^uci ean iK^ver t(^ll in Mower And tree, heard ii f(»w notes of the j;»:reat Anthem chanted continually In Nature inanimate and animate; Hut thou, by ilw broa'htiei' days Seek vainly a quiet resting place. Back to the farthest solitudes The white nian's footsteps hath [)ursued. Populous cities with busy tramp Have taken the place of tented can)ps Who?e dusky forms have glided on, Sadly in wake of the setting sun. Where the cunning huntsman bent his bow. And the mighty tread of buffalo Echoed, along the silent plain — Behold the harvests of waiting grain While the keen swift blade, and iron hand Reap their bending wealtli at their lord's command. AVhere the rustic wigwam once uprose Is reared the cottage— the orchard grows— The taw^ny children once at play Have changed to a fair-browed group to-day, ^t. NATIVE WOODS. 01 While i)()n(lerous pillars, with gloaminpr spires Arise from the smoke of the old watch-fires. Alas, that th(3 i)Oor red man should know, 111 his paler brother, a deadlier foe Than the Imnted beasts of his native wild, (^r hostile tribes in their greed for spoil, Who with heart of murder, or hoi)e of gain Binds the dread fire-water galling oluiin. Alas! that a nation, rising up In the strength of right from a foreign yoke. Should trample the weak 'neath its grinding heel. Or make its bidding a tyrants will. Or forge the fetter, or raise the rod. Or stain this heritage with blood. Alas! that the chains of vice and crime Encircle men's souls in this golden time, When the wide world spurning tyranny Rises to love of liberty. And Christian's prayers and patriot's blood Hallow the ground by their armies trod. i Rejoice, for all tyranny shall cease. From bondage of sin there is sure release, And the poor, despised, down-trodden, may Arise Christ's freemen, another day ; The wrongs of earth shall be righted then, And His glorious kingdom ushered in. ()- LKAFLETS FHOM LOSS AM) (lAlX. Oh! a world of tivasuro wo helost»s. We sit by a desolate hearth, But the little ones who sleep Jesus shall watch and keep With tender, tireless care, Transplant to his heavenly home. Array in new vigor and bloom Our beautiful angel pair. r *r NAI'IN'K WOODS. 08 I ap>si:N(K. I miss theo, dear one, wluni th(^ rosy lij^lit BeaniH soft and hallowed u|)on morning's brow, When in pjy eirclets flit the sunbeams bright Tuning: to measure sweet theirgolden flow, While throng' day-duties vomes this conscious pain, Thy pres(!neeeheers me not, [ miss tlieethen. I miss thee when with liusy echoing: tread Swift feet come heraldinj^ approaching noon, The moments loiter which with happy speed Wingetl this little hour, alas! too soon ; All gather round the board, 1 list in vain For thy light footfall, and I miss thee th(!n. 1 miss thee as around the fireside's glow Beloved ones circle, when the day is done; Uipphis of genial humor lightly flow Through depths of earnest converse, but there's one Exile from home, for whom with eager ken I search the silent night, I miss thee then. •f I ()4 I.KAFLKTS FROM KKSKiXATION. When last that younj;-, fresh lip With itseiioiceiUH'tar iaik'n pressed youroiwn, That brief delieions sip No token brought thee as a wai'nin.i;- tone That 'twas its hist. rhis cheek— its soft peach bloom I Lath rested upon thine so lovingly, Tliis keen dividin*:: sword Smites throno:h this tenderest love, this youngest tie, With double edge. llow oft his innocent smile l"'rom life's excess of weariness or pain Thy spirit hath beguiled, And won the olden happiness again To clothe thy brow. I tremble, as 1 think Of the fond ho|)es which here their center found. The agonizing shrink Of clinging tendrils, hastily uiibound, Or broken otl'. NATIVE WOODS. * G5 But wluMi my raptured sij^ht, ]3eyond the shadows of this lowly vale, Catches 'mid Heaven's own lijj^ht Tiie wiiite robed cherub from the flesh un- veiled, My tear.s depart. My trembling? lii) hath pressed Tlie jjure pale foreliead of the early dead. And oil ! the loveliness Of the fair form that colhn cover hid, No t<)n<4'ue can tell. My heart jj^oes weepin<»' forth To shares the wound no human [)owiu- can heal ; The furrows sorrow makes, Willi infinite love One Hand directed well— Thy will b(; done. LITTLE NOKA. Asleep, with dimpled hands folded Over her breast, Upon the blue eyes so lightly The white lids press. Earnest we watch, half expectant The wakin7 A WORLD WlDKOllUir.KOK PKAYKK. Out oftliis misty niornin^" breaks, SpaiiniM<,Ml»(' worUI, n railiiint /oiu^ Hindin-- chjscly "Willi ^luniii^- links Peoples and nations anil tribes in one. Lo! it brifjjiitens tiiesea-^irt isles, Circles the broader eontinent, Flashes whevc^ ceaseless Summer smiles Added jijlow of its rainbow tint. See! in the distant twili^dit realms Darkness and shadow make hasto to tlee ; Brighter than Freedom's natal diiy It bursts upon sunny Italy. Over the wide and pathless main Suspend cables of mighty prayer, While rays of electric radiance Stream in the wake of the "Morning Star." Over some earnest kneeling ones Never this week shall day decline, Weaving the mystic bands that hold Soul to its lofty origin. ^ i t>8 * I*KAFI*t:rs KKO>l l^Al.^l OK ini.KAP. Thou ;\rt fallen, noMo tnw In tlio du>t thy on>\\MHHi head lyinjj, Whilo a sharp panir soi/.oth nu^ Like an oKl friend's dyiii^r; Vounirer thou than I : I have iTviZtHl with pride On thy bninehinsr shade SpnwdiniT irrivn and wide. Ami tl\y stately form Towerinsr more and iuort\ Whioh for years hath sIihhI Sentry at the dixir. When the sjhul youuir Sprinjr-tinie ininie With her all-aninu\linir hrwith. I have stvn thtv lay aside *l'he livery of lX\\th ; Out, in hold n^lief 'iitvinst a ohtvrle!^ sky. tMine the frairrant buds, IVvpiuiT nuxlesily. Anil the early rain, 8iH>n thrv>Uirh them distilUni. All the air annind With rich perfume lilieii. NAi'ivi: \\\n>ns. (U) rp into tliy loafy arms, or many a bri.u])( May morniui;-, 1 liavoMHMi ;vay pIuina.n^Hl bird- (I'iadly i'i>iiu\ ro{iirnin<;-, Ain] thy i;riHMi ioi-* mh'iu \Ako a pnhuv luiiii;*. Many doniod anil drapod Vov {\\o i'viWhovvd thronu'; IhiMH^ (ho nuH'kiii.u- bird TiiUod ids varitnl hiy. And \ho robin San;;- Swi'i^tly, I'hoorily. A^ t!u> SwiiinuM' day wdih* on I'loni tlio hot noon-tido's woary pani, \nd lh(Mhiy-}»'od fr* ;u his throno SvM)( bnrnin,i»' beams aslant, lld(M\01)tOll tlu>u Thoir nnwoK'omi^ boat, And thy shaiiow foil 'rriMnblin.n- at onr foot ; IJonlk'-.voii'od and low, liiko to sonnd of rain, \Vhisporini»' biv(v,'.\s s\\i^j>t 'IMironi^'h thy boniihs a,t;ain. l"\^lIod in thy glorious [ninio, With thy oniorald armor on, And thy ministry of lovo One season more boj^'un, Thy stroni^' root tempest torn I'rt^m its moorings fast, ♦^ , 70 LEAFLETS FROM Rising now no more, The slorm is overpast. With heaviness at heart, A dim and moistened eye, I sit on thy prostrate trunk And bless thy memory. MOTHERLESS. It is not with me as it has been ; Something has crushed me. Oh ! this dread- ful pain! Out of this fearful trance shake me ! wake me ! Amid a wreck of broken hopes and shattered Purposes, I struggle blind and faint With half my heart buried. God pity me, There is no comfort else. Here centred' all Perfect household bonds— the one broad bo- som, Our dear haven when storms have lowered ; Cheerful to plan, and swift to execute Love's labor— hands ever busy With a tireless skill, shaping some fabric To the forms she loved— restless feet, hither And thither hasting, chiefest joy to shield From weariness these other lives, her own* So richly nourished. . ■*-■-< NATIVE WOODS. 71 How shall I speak Her praises so beyond praise. My life is Full of her, as Summer noon of lij^ht. How Strong to bear all life's encircling ills, In reach of her warm heart. Blow, ye pitiless Winter blasts, rave on, Time's thunder-gusts, Let me but stand firm, brave and proud be- side her ; She taught me where to lean, she guided ]\[y wayward feet unto the cross, but O! 'I'his staggers me, this is a Mara-flood, To roam this cold world motherless— to know The ceaseless aching— the inward Desolation — to sleep, to w^ake with a dread Incubus weighing my late light heart. To watch and start to greet her wonted cheerful Coming— to feel great ocean swells sinking To terrible calm— all this and more. Oh ! God, carry me out of this weak Human ; stay me on Thine arm, Thou great Unsearchable. Bind these torn fibres And gird me up to a brave patience. Help Me walk in her dear footprints ; her rich Example, her love, her prayers, a priceless Legacy. How know I as I walk In the dim solitude of this deserted Home, but God will let her come to me And mingle with my woe a little Of her heaven? Out to that other shore My yearning soul reaches. Bridge o'er this mortal 4- LKAFLK'IS FKOM liitc\ () l\\tluM-I wit'n (UhhIs of love. Solf-inunolation ami raro (.•Iiihl-liko faith. WIkmi all Thy rl,i;litiMnis will wo hero havo SurtoriHl, lot us riso whoro our chiof Troasuro is. Coino, ^;atlior olosor to my Sido, niv littlo, sinifton rtiH'k. AN KKPKKIKXCK. 1 sat in tho dim twiliiilit of my room, nKmsiuo- its solitude for rest and thou.u:ht. One door away the busy eirolo (Jathorod, witli elioerful talk whiliuLithe hour. Uuddy with {)leasaut li<;ht and <;iowin,i;- tire The faeos eame aud went, and the smail stir Of housohold duties, min*;kHl with the hum Ofvoieos, wai.s like musie heard afar. Soon my little dau^'hter eame within the iloi)r C'allini;- to mo, her hands outstretehod, jL?ropinj»- The dark for mine. As nearer drew The uneortain step, I east my arm About her, and she nestled her briiiht head On my shouldor with loving- faith and (luiet Satistaetion. How oft we turn from the ji'ay (ilimmer of those lesser ligiits — from tho unrest Of those ilopartin«»joys,oallinii', ''Our Father," NATrvK woods' 73 And <;t()1)(' 111 siuMuiii!^- (Inrluicss lill the Strong' Ann ollovc enlblds us, iind llio pencil Whk'li pt.s.solli liiulcrstiuuliuj'' lills our souls. TlIIl()lI(;iI NATinUO lll» TO NATURE'S "For llic iiivisil.lc lliiiiiix i>\' liiiii rn.iii llic ciculinii ,,r tlir \v<.iM lur cliNirl.v siM'ii, liriii;;- iiiid.Tslnu.l by llictliiii-s Ihataic imulc v\i-u liis (.(,.|nal p.ivv,. I- 1111(1 (JoillKa.l s.) tlial Ihfy an- wiliioiit cx- Wliirli \v:ty went thy voii'ci IVoin tlicc, didst thou h<'nr The rush of its d('|);u-tin,i>- wiu^ hut now? Cai'st tiiou hy scarcliii)!.': (iud tii' invisil)lc? Or th!-()!ioh tli(* triH'lvh'- ; air its course pur- sue? Whal was tlio word, eau'si tliou at will recall ? Send thou swift niessenger.s to stay its iii^iit, Jiy [\\v, same path they flee, nor corno a<;ain — 'Tis a f()rl)id(len way to human sij;ht. What is thy countenance the prescMit hour? How looks the soul throu;;h its low win- dows there ? VVould'st its expression willinjrly transfer To the vast pictur(>-^a!l(5' of the air? How know we what unseen attendants wait With faitlilu! witness o4i the steps of man, J. LEAFLETS FEOM At His high bidding, wiiose Almighty Hand Hatli all things fashioned by a perfect plan. So thin the veil through whlcli to mortal eyes The All-pervading Deity appears, All His works praise Him, yea the least of all Some of His glory like a niantle wears. We tra.'C His foot-prints everywhere we stray. He walks mnjestie o'er earth's verdant sod, Makes the young buds His car(\ and clearly leaves To willing ej^es the impress of a God. His hand sustains the myriads of worlds, Attunes to harmony their wondrous round, AVhile not a single sparrow's feeble wing Without our Father falleth to the ground. All know their place, acknowledge His behest, And readily their strict obedience pay, While njan with his supreme endowments blest Is ever seeking out some other way. AVe call it Nature— the vast volume spread To our oft rapt and e'er admiring gaze, But oh ! how slow our hearts to render up To Nature's God the tribute of their praise ! With what glad wonder shall our spirit-eyes The book of mysteries unfolded see NATIVE WOODS. 75 While love interprets Science and reveals The Infinite Mind, the soul of harmony. GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY. Merrily peal Marriage bells Out on this opening- year, While from East and West The hastening guests Joj^ously gather here ; Silver locks and hoary, Like a crown of glory, Wreathe the broad high brow Calmly wearing now Furrows of care, And the kindly eye Beaming chastened joy Proves j-are fulfillment Of radiant prophecy. Softly mingle The tender chimes, While from the household cheer She of gentle mein And countenance serene Tranquilly draweth near; What though the quick flush Of youth's modest blush r — I 70 LEAFLETS FROM llei- t'lieok no longer wears ! With the swift hipse of years Tlu» niaiileii's clianns Add tlie matron's ^race ; She beareth re^-ally The clustering' honors Of half a eentury. Hear the Patriarch Musingly tell The reverent group around Strange legends of yore — A varied store His checkered life hath known ; Greeting with, honest i)ride His newly wed^-('ij This circle complete — These pledges replete With wealth that cannot be told. Death liath not huslied a voice. Number the fireside joys' Steady increase; The household music's ^ ^ NATIVE WOODS. 77 Htaid familiar beat Hath quickened to joyous carol, And patter of tiny feet. Summer blossoms And Winter o^enis In the passing? pageant rise, Decay and chan'h thou art, Well 1 know there sometime cometh Trial to thy heart; Are there any gloomy shadows Friendship can dispel? Are there any heavy hurdens Help can hear as well? If thy path all straight and pleasant Through green vallies lie, And a flood of golden sunlight Gilds thy morning sky, Hoard it not, my generous hi-otlier, For a future day- Open wide the spirit windows- Let it .shine this way. Dost thou hesitate to prove us? If are wanting here All those liner qualities AVhieh do most endear. Judging like the. blessed Master, Full of charity. In his heart as any thinketli, Written so, is he. f -I- NATivr: WOODS. 79 A TJtllUJTK. (.'{irvo out an ohony staff, Slender nnd straijjjht and slroiijj^; Give it'all Hkilful touehes That to thy ernft helonjj: ; 13rin'j: to its racest i)oIi.sh, Crown and over lay With gold or(!X Lie 'netitli this wob of gossamer tliat floats Between, wliat spirit-whispers may liave come T(j the young- ear, unreached by human voice! The delicate sense knoweth innumerable Delights. We walk the fields with full-toned Orchestra performing Hallelujahs, From whir of insect wings or dry leaves Rustling to the Autumn breath, to tender Tones that thrill the ifnmortal and grand old .Afelodies which set the spirit quivering Like harpstrings to the skillful touch, the swift Gradations rise. Familiar accents Of voices that we love, insi)iring strains j Cheering the multitude to Freedom's strife I And Right's inevitable conquest— glad j Notes of joy, they strike, vibrate and echo Through all time, like the rare passages ' And full triumphant choruses of the old Masters, stirring, thrilling alway. Yet there Are sounds of woe and mournful cadences Which draw up bitter drops from spirit- wells. Ah ! who can know the pain that through this Medium distills, who calculate the wounds By cruel arrows shot along this vital Avenue? Who hears the one must sometimes Feel the other. What though we walk Unconsciously through green enchanted glades, -f ^ ♦ ■ \ I 84 LEAFLETS FROM And over f5inoul(lerin<»' fires, doth not the same Celestial city lie beyond? AUTUMN. Autumn leaves are falling, fallinli all my soul, "Be still and know that I am Ood." I stood And gazed upon the western sky, as Upward rolled inmassiye shape and anood-bye, sweet friend, my lieart goes mus- ing backward Through all the checkered i)ast since lirst we met ; This parting word unnumbered scenes awa- kens . Whose living presence throng my memory yet. NATIVE WOODkS. 93 Back to our rosy girlhood, gay and careless, Speeds the swift thought-wing its unequal- ed flight. Once more we revel in those golden nnoments Which vanished, dream-like, from our waking sight. While dearer loves, perchance, have made their dwelling In our full hearts, abiding fresh and bright, The links of olden friendship bind together The little circle scattered far to-night. Thy path hath led through weary vales of sorrow. Alike through meadows beautiful and fair. But sorrow's baptism made thy spirit stronger Life's blessedness to know, its cross to bear. Thou goest from our midst, my gentle sister, With cheerful heart life's mission to fulfill, Trusting the Hand that led thee through the shadow To bless the sunshine with its guidance still. 'Mid other scenes and circles thou wiltmingle, Many a league from this thy girlhood's home; Oh! cherish sacredly thine early friendships, Whate'er new blessings to thy heart may come. 04 LEAFLETS FKOM Our love go with thee with its fond out-gush- ing, Our kindly thouglits and prn3'e!\s all freely given ; We trust the circle here so widely sundered Will know a better unitv in Heaven. YOUNG climbp:rh. Written for a prin.ary exorcise. Don't you know when merry May Practices her magic art, Thickly from each tiny spray liittle folded buds upstart? Froni each beam of sunlight, From each crystal drop. Fashioning a viewless stair TJiey climb lightly up. So the little human buds Precious germs of thought contain, Struggling up by Wisdom's light And Instruction's early rain; .Step by step the rising grade Of the lofty science hill, Gained by toil offender feet Guided patiently and well. NATIVE WOODS. 95 Nature in material realm Teachers for her eh i Id re n finds ; lAi^ht and heat and genth> airs Vie with sterner discipline, Talk of inner ja^rowth and stren