LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. Shelf.'..i».5.Si + %^3 UNITED STATES OF A3IERICA. 1 ^£^it. # ARTOTYPE, E. BIERSTADT. Poetry ANT^ Prose. m SUBMIT CHESEBROUGH LOOMIS (Goltk-n Ko.l.) Nkw Yokk: GKO. IT. lUTRNHAM lSi)3. J7/-2-'^V m iM ) ^^.-^ '?"' -'"^ COPYRIGHT, Bv MRS. L. J. WING w I? fi-lfes/-:,' This Book is Affectionately Dedicated TO My Mother ! The Daystar of My Youth ! The Angel OF Peace! The Beacon Light, the Faith, the Lodestar Which has Constantly Through Life Draavx Me Toward Her Own Spirit-Realm of Bliss. Submit Q. ^oomis. w ^^ a 'I ^-^ =?^s:f^"'J^r«59>,^^^:::;^i^-£N^i^^^^ PKEFACE. The majority of those into whose hands this book will fall were personally acquainted with the writer, and knew and admired her many fine qualities of heart and brain. They realized how ^progressive was her mind, and noted with what an eager interest she investigated new theories of religion, science, mechanical arts, and late inventions, and how extended was her knowledge on all subjects of general interest. But the thought that lay more closely to her heart than any other was on the Eternal World, — that realm of bliss, that land of light and beauty, that final home of ever- lasting day, where sorrow never comes, where parting is unknown, but where reunited loved ones live on in peace and liarmony forever, forever progressing in knowledge and power, forever going towards the great Eternal Center that draws all souls upward towards His own, the source of all light, of all worlds, even unto God himself. That Heavenly home contains her dear mother and other loved ones, from whom death did not seem to sepa- rate her, for she lived with them constantly in memory, each day recounting some incident from their daily lives. In her diaries they are frequently mentioned, and the anniversaries of their births into this life, and when they were born into immortal life, are always given with more than a passing notice, which shows they could never be separated from her affection, which like all her other cha- racteristics, was fixed on the firmest and most enduring foun- dations. Her heart was filled witli a love for humanitv k and a great desire to see the world oroadeii into tlie sun- light of love, patience, charity, and equal rights which would distribute the advantages of education among the lowliest and teach them how to preserve and strengthen their strongholds against oppressive employers, as well as to enlighten their minds and lift them out of the slough of ignorance, uncleanliness, and vice, in which so many souls now languish. She hated slavery and oppression in all its forms, believing in the right of every man and woman to freedom of thought, of si:)eech ; the right to elevate oneself and march onward with the progress of the age, to reach beyond the present to discover new theories, new themes, new forces, new Avorlds, if possible. She believed in the right of raising questions which would disseminate the sun- light of knowledge and cause us to seek with our intelli- gences the intelligence given us throughout all nature. She believed that the power of the brain to acquire and keep was limitless, and her greatest happiness consisted in absorbing knowledge, for she seemed more to absorb than to learn. She believed that all truths were rays from God ; that wisdom is divine; that science and philosophy are both si)iritual and worldly treasures, and that love, pure and un- selfish, comes directly from God, — that it is holy in all its emotions and all-absorbing in its charities. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend; and all that an unusual intelligence and loving heart could devise was done to soothe, comfort, cheer, sustain, and bring happiness to the fortunate ones with whom her des- tinies were thrown. She never knew defeat, never de- spaired, never found any cloud so dark for herself or others but that she could see its silver lining. There was no spot in life so barren but she found an oasis co rest u[)oii; VII :io garden so filled with weeds but she could find sonie- Avhere in its intricacies some flower worthy to preserve and make the garden worth reclaiming. So her life was at once a comfort, a light, a never-to-he-forgotten lesson, and a sustaining happiness to those that came in contact with her, and many that she has blessed now live to bless her name and revere her memory, liaised a Baptist, she left the severity of that faith for the brighter one of uni- versal salvation, and while yet in her teens joined the Uni- versalist church. The theory that God is love and through His love, — and not by threats of eternal puiiish- ii^eiit^ — He was to reclaim the world was more in accord with her generous nature, wide benevolence, and far-reach- ing charity. She identified herself with that then unpopu- lar church, and was an active member of it for many years. AVhen the subject of Spiritualism began agitating the public mind she investigated it, being attracted by the yearning love of a heart that never could forget its dearly loved dead. She was soon convinced of its truth, and throughout her life lived in the light and comfort which the beauty of this new faith brought her. It spread its effulgent rays around her, opening the door of Heaven, showing her the radiant pathway to its Eternal gates. She knew and felt the celestial glories awaiting her, and, when death came, all unexpectedly, she was fully pre- pared to go, and passed from earth to Heaven with all the joyousness of a victor going to be crowned ; with all the delight of one whose brightest anticipations are about to be realized ; with the deep happiness that one finds in the ful- filment of a long cherished hope. She did not die, — hers was a glorified soul that sprang joyously through death's portals and A\-as crowned with im- mortal glories. Among her varied accomplishments she was a fine elocutionist. She died October 7, 1802, at twenty-five niinutes past six o'clock in the morning. At midnight before her death she recited in a clear, full voice the following beautiful lines by Lizzie Doten : It was midnight and out of that deep Whose waves from the Infinite roll, AYhich men in tlieir blindness call sleep, I awoke to the light of the soul. And a feeling of fear and of dread In that land of the boundless unknown Came over my soul and I said : " I am here with the shadows, — -alone! " Then a nearness, a mystical sense Of a jjresence unseen made me pause And thrill with a feeling intense, — Like a magnet that quickens an\m-, Not 3^et was my spirit made free From the earth and its storm-clouded shore. But I knew I had found what I sought, That my spirit was guided aright ; Those wondrous pulsations had caught AVhich quicken the children of light. Dear child, said the spirit, be bra\^e Thy mission on earth to fulfil. And know that no soul is a slave Tliat hath fathomed the secret of will. Farewell ! And he vanished away. Like a star that hath drank its own light. I turned to my dwelling of clay, — To the earth and the shadows of night. But I know as I never have known That this life which we live is a dream; That the spirit is never alone And we all are far more than we seem. For oft when we battle Avith fate With courage undaunted and strong, AVe hear from the beautiful gati; Sweet echoes of music and song. We shall ])lant the Avhite lilies of ])eace On the grave of our deadliest ill. When our idle complaining shall cease And Ave Avork Avith the Infinite Will. v^. j^v;t^^,^c.;-^p Tifr, .'^:-4''^f>i- CONTKNTS. POETRY. My Angel Mother . . . . i My Coquette ------ ;] For ax Album - _ - _ - 3 Philosophy ------ 4 Art -------- o True — -False ------ The Misaxthroi'k ------ 7 My Sistei: ------- s Ox RecEIVIXG a BoU(iUET - - - - 8 The Storm ------ 9 The Death of Confidence - - - - 10 Martha Rosanna - - - - - 11 Day Dreams ------- 12 The Death of President Garfield - 14 My Birthday ------- IT) To D. K. M. — Repentance - - - 10 Time - - - - - - 17 Grieve Not ------ is An Album • - - - - - - li) Mary ------- u) Ska Shells - - - - - - - l>(I "Let Your Lkjht So Shink"' - - 21 F My Spirit Birth ----- 87 My CiuLDUKX ------ 88 Nature ------ 89 Melodia -------- 90 Fancies .-.--.- 91 To A Gll[EVLX(^ FlMKXl) - - - - <)1 My Loved Ones - - . . . 93 Or 11 Estelle's Jjikiiiday - - - - 94 FoKBEAIt -.-..-- 95 My Biktiiday' ------ 9o The Difference -..--- 90 The Age ------.- 97 "Perfect Love Castetji Oft Fear'' - 98 At the Grave of Douglas - - - 98 On Seeing a Sick Infant Sleepin(^ - 1(H) Liff:\s Pictures ------ 100 "More Clearly I Behold Tiie.m Now Than Those That Never Died" - lo2 1859 -------- 103 Unrecognized Genius - - - - - io4 On Recf:iving a Gold Pencil — Prk- SENTED liY My Class - - - - ]05 Spirit Power ------ 106 Pass On ------ - 108 Admission of Tfxas t<> the Union - 108 "Tune, Shaw" ----- 109 The Purest Lo\ i-: ----- no Life ------- 111 Beyond the Tomm ----- 112 Suspense — Certainty - - - - - 113 Ingratitudf ------ 114 Philosophy of Prayer - . - . no A Skf'I'ch ------- 117 A A" To AN Actor - - - - - - 110 August 31 ----- - 1:20 L.ET Me Go - - - - - - - 121 The Death of an Infant Ctuaxdchild - 122 Sonnet - - - - - - - - 12:^ JPalse Friendship . . . . - ]24 ■"The Lord Is in His IToly Temple'' - 12.') Etola ------- 12C) Guardian Angels - - - 120 To My Husband ----- 127 AuPtORA - - - - - - - 129 A Portrait - - - - - - 131 T'ascinated -..---- 132 Mabel's Birthday - - - - - 132 Eloquence - - - - - - - 134 Eva's Fourth Birthday - - - - 135 A Petition - - - - - - - 135 Unforgotten - - - - - - 136 "Love Not" ------- 137 St. Helena - - - - - - 138 Spring — Summer - - - - - - 139 The Inner Temple - - - - 141 The Hill Top of Life - - 141 Farewell ------ 143 To Colonel Kobert Klotz - - - - 144 Answer to a A^\LE^■TINK - - - - 14G Mm Ocean - - - - - - - 140 Hope's Star __---- 147 Aif Anniversary - - - - - 148 The Dying Year - - - - 149 Snoav - - 150 On Yisitincj a IVfAciNiFicENT Park 152 AY] Childhood's Eden ------ 153 My Childken ----- - 154 In a Diaky ------- 155 To A Fill end . . - . . 15(5 To My Bashful Fuiend - - - 158 'Tis Only Small Acts - - - IGI FoiiGET Me: Not - - - - - - 1G2 My Ne:phew's Toy AVatek Wheel - 163 Verses for the Children - - - J 60 The Frog ...... 105 The Rosebush - - - - - 107 The BircPs Nest - - - - - 168 Riddles -------- 169 Valentines Written for My YouN(r Friends ------- 159 Fragments ------- 175 m PROSE. Extracts From a AVork On Phrenology - 183 Introduction ------ 1S3 Temperaments - - - - - - 187 Faculties of the Mind - - - . 194 Moral Sentiments - - - - - 208 Size of the Cranium - - . - 229 Phrenolog}^ ---._. 930 Phreno-Magnetism - - . - 233 Extracts Fro^i A Lecturk ON Pjirenology - 239 Essays -------- 251 Think for Yourself ----- 251 God's Love ------ 956 Goodness ------- 258 Extracts From Diaries - - - . 959 Tobacco -------- 283 The Tobacco "WoR^r ----- 287 Extracts From a Lkcture ox Odd- Fellowship ------ 288 Old Age ------- 296 My First Grandmother - - - - 301 " What Hath God Cleansed " - - 302 • ^i=c>-MTir^-iv-. ,^^^'?<;;o.^•rc-.-p <^,r-r:<':'-i* ^vr^^^^^Tsr^-rx-ri^;.. t'^ r-r^*.^imMf^, m ^1 W m POETRY. ••>; f:^ '^^ ^'^ m ■O^r S r-fi ^^^7^5;^^^"^^^?^ MY ANGEL MOTHER. Spirits wliis})er, tell me truly, Ai'e ye here and do ye speak Truths to us but given newly To impress us mortals weak \ When mild zephyrs come and whisper ]\lelody within mine ear, Is it thus thy evening vespers Blend with ours to heaven in prayer' Dearest near me dost thou linger, — Am I in thy presence now ;' t^fi Do I feel thy viewless fingers Softly laid npon my brow ? Canst thou see my heart is throbbing With the cares and ills of life ? ^J^ Shall it cease its grief and sobbing ^^^ AVhen its pulses stop its strife t 'i>^', ^^ I'eathe my brow with light that's gushing Fi'om the fountains of the blest, S])eak in soothing tones that's hushing All life's tumults into rest. MotlK'i- dear, could I behold thee In those radiant bowers of bliss, — 1 — 2— , Oil ! I could not wait to fold thee To my inmost soul in this. Mother dear, thy angel presence Lifts me upward to thy home, Bids the car of time move swiftly. Can I wait so long to come? Must I on this plane material Linger long, away from thee 'i Teach me how my work to hasten That I may come home to thee. Teach me how to light the darkness, How to lift the veil of woe From the wan, distorted features Of humanity below. Teach me how to truth attract them, How to light each heart with love That shall burn with golden brightness From this life to that above. vi^^^mrT^T^'-fcv^/A^;,-^. MY COQUETTE. When I gaze in the depths of thy dear eyes I see The sunlight of beauty, Sweet, sliining on nie, With that gay, arch expression on ruby lips curled. What sight is more lovely? 'Tis the joy of this world. I know there are moments when sorrow or doubt SjDreads darkness that mantles thy dear face about. Like the cloud thaf s obscuring the. light of the sun They recede as the day god smiles through every one ; So my happy heart with true sympathy yearns And faith' s holy fire in my bosom still burns. FOR A^^ ALBUM. Thine album is a casket full of pearls, Of glowing heart-gems which no time can dim. P^acli item is a banner whicli unfurls And rises heavenward, — like all Nature's hymn. Their form material 'neatli this cover lies, — Aifection's, hope's, and love's most holy prayer We read in fondness with our mortal eyes ; But in our iuuiost hearts we store them where, m A — Like sweetest perfiiiiie l)lending witli the soul And lifted upward by its magic power, AVe feel amid life's cares their sweet control And see their light in sorrow' s darkest hour. Then treasured })e these gems by dear ones given, | They'll form a wreath of diamonds for thy d l)row, J For memories dear will reach from eartli to heaven 1 And like thine album keep a record now. So sacred to loved playmates of thy youtli, This book will live thi'ough many future years, A l)eacon light to guide to hope and truth And draw thee onward to celestial sx^heres. PHILOSOPHY. Our pleasures and pains are all in Pate's l)ook, AVhich Fancy but gilds with a vanishing look. Our hox)es, trusts, and doubts alternately blend Through life's varied moments the same to the end. Since Fortune has checkered this pathway of ours. And thorns lurk unseen 'neath the loveliest Howers, Let us smile when destruction and sorrow attend, — For, when storms rage the fiercest, they soonest will end. ''^^^^^^^^^''^m^i^iZP^s^yi.ir^Si^^G^,.^^^ ART. Art, child of God Jind messenger of Heaven, Without thee Eden were a desert waste : By thee attracted, mind from thence was riven To worsliij) here thy beauty's magic grace. Who wouhl not bend in awe before that power AVhicli trains and guides Heaven's restive, fiery steeds i Who woukl not worship wisdom' s brightest flower Whose fragrance makes us gems of earthly reeds i AVho would not adore the shadows full of grace Which hold the features of the loved, and lost, And kiss in dear remembrance the loved face Whose fate with ours by death or fortune crossed. Art, child of God, triumphant o'er the grave. Thou smilest calmly at death's iron spoils And. seals the soul-lit features love would save To cheer our hearts amid life's cares and. toils. m &; ^TWi*^ /;5>i'^-r».>i<-.y*:rN.,.?Y?;-'s*-^-»c"?^^-v:r; •', c^D/c-rs^r-T?sj:.v?i^iM" TRUE — FALSE. Can absence e' er sever that golden-linked chain, Which friendship hath woven and burnished with love ; Can the smiles of new faces, wealth, station e'er stain One link of its brightness i No ; ' tis wrought from above. Beware of false brilliants, — those summer friends fly Who never are nigh except fortune shines clear. When our spirits run low 'neath a threatening sky, Tliey turn from our presence wuth visage severe. One true-hearted friend is better by far Than all the gay throng so careless and cold Oh ! cherish that one whose friendship for aye Will shine with the new and be true to the' old. THE MISANTHROPE. Why shut thy heart from all the world, Why petrify thy mind. Why from thee is each blessing hurled, Why to God's goodness blind ;; Shall one dark spot u^^on the sun Spoil all his cheering rays,— And we refuse to gaze upon The light for fear of haze ? Shall we grow angry if a cloud Obscures a brilliant sky '. Let mental anguish like a shroud Bid hope forever Hy \ ImiDious thou to fault thy God, Ungrateful ' tis in thee To feel that thy ungracious iiod Could better Avorlds decree. Know this, — thy discontented mind And selfish spirit, too, Has made thee to earth's beauties blind And draped thy life with Rue. Learn to love Nature, — and her love May warm thine icy heart ; She'll point thee to that power above Whose fiat worlds impart. 7 i-^^^y^f^m:/^ ^&^ MY SISTER. My sister, when our cliiklliood years With playful sports and mirth shone gaily, Like dew on flowers our tiny tears Exhaled, as other joys came daily : — So when life's sorrows sadly cast Their gloom around us as we sever We know their shadows cannot last, — That hope must still shine on forever. As far from thee in stranger lands I wander. Stemming the current of life's boisterous tide, Remember that of thee and home I ponder And pray thy barque may o'er smooth waters glide. ON RECEIVING A BOUQUET. Sweet bouquet, sweeter as the pledge of kindness. Thy perfume stealing o'er the ambient air Grateful to all, thy spirit in its blindness Bequeaths its blessings free that all may share. Could I but speak my spirit' s deep emotion. B 9 — Yoii then could see how in my heart's devotion The flow of gratitude has full control. I have no language to disclose the fulness Which the deej) feeling of my soul distills For all your kindness, — even my thanks have dul- ness, And cause regretful tears my eyes to fill. May He who has tlie power to grant me hearing Bless all my friends (the token ye have given) With life, health, jjeace, and friends Avhose love endearing Gives joy in Time, and future bliss in Heaven. THE STORM. Darkly hung the sable curtain O' er the western, watery sky, And the lightning's brilliant flashes Told the god of storm was nigh. High he rode in mystic chariot Drawn by coursers of the air. Deeply, fiercely, loudly rumbling Roll the wheels of his awful car. Now tlie sound is in the distance. Nearer comes, — its crasli we liear. — 10 — Grandly and sublimely riding IS'ow the god of storm is near. If thus mighty is the agent Which but executes His will, How much more is He who sayeth To the elements : "Be still." THE DEATH OF CONFIDENCE. I saw a group of lovely mourners. Love, Avliose angel wings glitter with sunlight, is now A-eiled and covered with the weeds of sor- row. Friendship, whose gentle tones and stfir-gtnumed diadem bring peace to so many hearts, now casts down her lustrous eyes, whose fountnius flow all unchecked. Joy and llai)i3iness, (crowned with golden ringlets from beauty's bower, and wont to make the air ring with their songs of gaiety Jind mirth, now sob in grief and woe. Pale faced Peace, whose light and snowy drapery floats so gracefully around her beauteous form, covers her ethereal whiteness with the sable weeds of mourning. Pity, Avhose eyes are always iilled with tears, now lets them flow afresh in mournful sorrow. — 11 — These lovely mourners gather near each other and niurnnir softly throngh their tears: "Conh- dence, our angel sister, is dead, and with her death we bury all that brings peace to our hearthstones, steadfastness to our friendships, trustfulness to our loves, and comfort to our hearts in dark hours of adversity. "Without her, life can only be a dreary waste and we are forever bereft ; for Hope will hide her light from us and veil her star in darkness, while all that makes life iDure and holy, sweet and beautiful, — our sister Confidence lies dead. ' ' MARTHA ROSANNA. My Martie — Rose dear, thou earnest first to cheer A fond mother heart wdth a new love so dear ; All unseen our guardians were watching to know How soon the sweet rosebud was destined t(^ blow And slied its soft perfume from such tiny lips. Dark eyes, rosy mouth, and wee finger tips ; — A herald of love thou, — for six others came All wrapped in love's blanket, and loved just the same. 12- One sweet blue-eyed brother, so wliite and so fair, So dimpled and smiling — with flossy light hair ; How like fairies you wandered all day 'mid the flowers, The roses, and vines, and enjoyed the bright hours. Like birds you were singing and flying all day ; So busy, so lively, so cheerful and gay ; When evening approached, then in much needed rest My tired-out wanderers came home to their nest. DAY DREAMS. In my happier moods my spirit roams far. And I live in a world of my own ; I dream — my bright fancies take form in the air And my castles are high, and as shai:)ely and fair As though builded of marble and stone. Oh ! my beautiful gardens, — such odorous flowers AVith cool rippling fountains, and birds softly gay ; In those deej) wooded dells are the snuggest of bowers That are shielded alike from the sunshine and showers. And are filled with the breathings of May. m vs Theiv roses wliose sweetness is almost divine l)l()Oin in beauty o'er my castle so grand, — Tliey climb on its walls and lovingly twine Their blossoms all dripping with dew drops that shine With such lustre in my fairy land. I have walks — and a drive by a pure glassy lake Which reflects on its bosom so clear The soft hazy moon, and the stars as they take Their places on high in their order to make The bright constellations there. I have all that Nature and art can bestow To till every wish of my heart, And ''my world" is the heaven I live in below, — My moments of bliss when no sorrow or woe Can afflict me with tlieir cruel smart. Ah: my magical dreams! how tliey bring to my view The far distant loved ones so i)recious, so near, — How I bask in the sunlight of their smiles so true And press with delight again and anew Tlie hands of those cherished so dear. How tlie visions of tliose who have passed me in life VL^. — U — On our way to Eternity's shore Smile away from my heart every thouglit of the strife Of this world, — from tlieir home where love only is rife And dav dreams are real evermore. THE DEATH OF PRESIDENT GARFIELD. The sun in glorious brightness liath arisen From the dark cloud that hid from earth his light, So the immortal now hath burst his prison And shines in beauty far from human sight. A star hath set on earth to rise in heaven, Its light attracted throngs of living men ; — While here such brilliancy to it was given, — Its track is left along life's horizon, — Left in the hearts of those whose tear-drops flow In the deep consciousness of severed ties, AVhose love deep-welling from the soul must go To find its object in the spirit skies. Death is not death, — the bursting of the shell That holds us bound to this material i)lane, — The lifting from the soul (earth's wearied siDell) Is life, — and gives life's consciousness again. 15 The end of sickness, disapx^ointment, woe, — The end of grief, of suffering and tears ; Born to immortal joys thou now shalt Ivuow Only the glory thy bright past endears. Though thou art gone, a loving country keeps The story of thy life, written in deathless lines. Entombed thy dust in guarded care shall sleep And round thy name bright bays and laurels twine. MY BIRTHDAY. AVelcome this day which to the number giA^es One more to those of my departed years, — Chained to the past, its only record lives To form the number I am prisoned here : — Prisoned, — for who bound to a clog of earth Is free to monnt on wings of hoi)e and fly Through the vast universe Avliere worlds have birth. Or i-ead the wondrous pages of the sky i Darkly we see its spangled cover here ; Awed with the sight we long to read its page,— View ils great author in liis Heavenly sphere And taste those joys inunoi'tal minds engage. 16 Yet we this clirysalis, grovelling state must bear And carry still earth's clogging weight of clay Till dissolution bursts the bonds we wear — Then spirit-freed we'll soar to realms of day. TO D. K. M. REPENTANCE. My mother! Years, long, tedious years have passed Since thy mild eyes on me their lustre cast. Since thy calm voice in sweet, maternal tone Breathed cares for me. How all tliy love was shown. To Heaven thy prayers, — to me thy counsel gave. 1 could not think thee then so near thy grave. Oh ! to thine own prophetic ndnd 'twas given To know how soon thy home should be in heaven. Oh ! I was wayward then, how could I know That my wild mirth disturbed thy spirit so '. My boisterous ])oyliood's heedless, thoughtless glee Fettered to earth thy mind, — by grace set free. And thy fond love to guard my waywardness Lingered 'mid pain and death — my life to bless. rr>;5^oison like a wave Engulfed your mind, its peace and comfort stealing. Forgive thine enemies, — hearts liiled with hate And evil thoughts, wishing for harmful things, Absorb their own deep malice, — soon or late They find that retribution fixed as fate O'ertakes them, and a punishment it brings. Look with calm eves and try to judge aiiglit, Allowance make for words in haste that's spoken, Let not one small dark cloud affect the light On friendship's altar, which was always bright. Until one speck, one spot, its rays has broken. Oh ! then forgive ; this attribute divine Comes from oar Father, — comes of Heaven ; Turn thou thy thoughts unto His holy shrine And let its peaceful light o'er thy life shine Till thou forgivest the full seventy times seven. CUPID'S DARTS. Could I but learn of Cupid To let the arrow flit, Tliy heart that's now so stupid Should be severely hit. Could I but steal tlie glances From out thy beaming eyes, That soul which me entrances Should kiss me with its sighs. Could I but hear tliee whisi)er, In tones so deep and low, • * I love thee dearest ever. My joy no bounds could know. ,Vere I the glowing sunshine That revels on thy brow, I'd never leave for Luna To rival me as now. Were I the l)almy zephyrs Caressing all the flowers, rd leave tlieii* sweet breatli for thy side And dwell in love's bright bowers. ^Vere I liope's brilliant life-star, I'd rise and never set ; • On thy fair brow I'd shine for aye. Thy blazing coronet. 23 ALBUM. Ill sparkling love crystals of i-oseate line Affection's pure treasures shine brightly for you. Condensed in this volume are the tlioughts of your friends, All twined in the garlands wliich pure friendsliix^ sends. CHAINED TO EARTH. Oh ! wliy chain the si)irit' s free course to tlie earth, To a fast fading flower's loved hues ? Why fetter its soaring to the i)hu'e of its birth? Why clip the bright wings it would use ? Though thy fair, faultless form so adorned with each grace Which culture and art can bestow ; Though thy mind ever speaking imprints on thy face Its im})ressions of sorrow and woe ; Though thy w^ords are as honeyed as manna from heaven, And their eloquence charms every ear ; 24 — Si") — Yet the soulful expression unto thine eye given Is surpassed in the bright spirit sjihere. There tlie spirit looks out from the blue lustrouf- orbs ; There angel forms float in the sky ; There cherubs a god-like expression a))sorb From the seraphs in i^apture on high. There never is death, — we are angels so free To roam to the fartherest star ; All the known and unknown we are given to see. And our inner light shines out afar. ON THE BIRTH OF MY FIRST GRANDCHILD. Little gem so pure, so holy. Brilliant, beautiful, and new, From the great Eternal Fountain Whence all life its essence drew, — Recent ray of life immortal Sent from Heaven on earth to shine, — As we gaze on thee, sweet cherub, Love's fond tendrils round us twine. 'I'hy 1)1 ue eyes so soft and dove-like, Ti'ue :md iuuoceiit and bi-ight. — 26 — Kindle — every moment kindle — ■ New affection by their light, As thy young and doting mother Clasps thee fondly to her breast And her kisses sweetly smother All thy little restlessness : — Heaven nor earth ne'er drew a picture Half so beautiful as this, When the mother on her infant Prints her first enraptureut. wlien blackens the tempest, his golden wing> fail To buoy Up his fonii i'roux the ground ; 58 — UuAvelcuine expeiieiu'e but shows liiiu how i'rail, — How fleeting liiVs pleasures are found. Even so the young si)irit when first on the world It looks out, full freighted with joy, Like the rosebud of i)romise with x>*^tals still furled, — It but blooms for the winds to destroy. So the young heart all truthful, confiding, and free, Takes all for pure gold which but shines Till the surface is broken, 'tis then it can see How black is the dross it confines, L' ENVOI. Pure indeed is that spirit who bouyant and free, Unscathed by life's foibles remains ; Who though fettered to weakness, life' s ei-roi-s can see And mount upward in spite of its chains. EARLY MORNING. The wings of the morning are Time's carrier dove, They flutter down the sunlight all golden from above ; They softly stir the branches and wake the happy hours, They kiss the sleeping roses, — drink the dew from off the flowers. They move earths emerald carpet in graceful waves that glitter ; They circle round and listen to hear the young birds twitter ; They skim across the laughing brook, as on its pebblj' way It sino-s a welcome carol unto the god of day. THE ROSE-TREE BY THE AVALL. How every rosebud's bursting bloom And every rose-leaf s fall Call to my mind my childhood's home And the rose-tree by the wall. 29 — 30 — To me it was a holy slirine Where silent worship rose To Heaven, — ^as its green branches twine And dewy buds unclose. How very dear its emerald leaves, How sweet its blossoms all, How my childish heart in fancy cleaves To the rose-tree by the wall. When morn her cheerful fragrance tiung, And the pearly, dripping dews Still mark where angels' breath has clung Deepening each petal' s hues : — My matin worship with the flowers, Blending our prayers for all, More deeply see and feel Heaven's powers At the rose-tree by the wall. PRAYER. ' Tis a lifting of our thoughts To the angel world above us. ' Tis a seeking of our spirits For the ones who used to love us. ' Tis ascending to the heights — HI — Of our inmost earthly portal. ' Tis i)eering tlirongh life' s casement To behold the bright immortal. 'Tis a kneeling of the soul In its inner temple shrouded. 'Tis a watch-light in life's window When our days and nights are clouded. ANSWER TO GERTRUDE'S VALEIN^TINE. " Mother, my darling, my weak Muse is trying To soar into Poesy's celestial domain. But, alas! far too callow her icings for such flying. She sinks back disheartened, — her efforts are rain. Mother, my darling, on fair Mount Parnassus, How oft with the Muses thou Jiast held sweet commune, Upborne to the stars on thy bright -winged Pegasus, Thy sircct song rouiin/ngled in hearenly tune. " Jfi'ther, )iiy dnrUug, unbiassed is thy daughter, Ilerfull heart is voiceless, her song is unsung ; Kind Nature the siceetest of melodies taught her. But forgot Jiow essential an eloquent tongue. Mother, my darling, love-lines are declaring By St. Valentine who the heart holds most dear, — Thou, Tiiou art the dearest, none other comparing With my soul's cherished Idol, my mother. Ma Mere." "Unblessed," didst thou say, while thy spirit im- mortal's On its wonderful way to heaven's diamond-bright portals i 32 "Unblessed," while its casket, — hazel eyes, auburn hair, Love's boon when you ask it with coral lips fair, — With the bright smiles oft lighting tliy pure lily brow \ (Thought's throne on thy forehead glows with love- liness now.) •'Unblessed," while thy mother and sisters all love thee, — One dearer (one brother with the angels above thee). Are you sure you have counted these blessings so sweet '\ Not the Mount of Parnassus with these can com- pete. Yet for one not accustomed u}) this mountain to ride The wild freaks of Pegasus as he sniffs in his pride, — I think you ride "splendid" and might even win a prize. If you avoid the dark rn vines, and with gentle slopes rise. Around Inspiration, with its bright currents tiowing, Wlien our glad hearts are lifted, — how far, we not knowin":, — 83 Laves our si)irits with sunlight, — illumines our soul With :i beauty resplendent, as we near the bright goal. AikI we sing as we near it, for our s^Dirits unbound Breathe in love's soft music from all Nature around. As the rose in its sweetness, each light zephyr baji- tizing,— So our souls' inspiration to Infinitude rising, — Till we love all of Nature, — every flower of the sod. Love infills us and lifts us to truth and to God. CHILDHOOD. Memory' s magic wand has touched me, Lifted back the veil of years. And again I sit 'mid childhood's Smiling joys and crystal tears. Joyous when my darling mother Kissed and placed me on her knee. Holy love beamed from her blue eyes. How it still iilows warm in me. 34 FroTii the great baptismal fountain Of God's love, my mother drew Forth its diamond, blissful essence, — Kept, yet poured, it on me, too. Then she told me wondrous legends, How the children — forty two — Told Elisha, "go up, bald-head," And the bears the children slew. Many other tales she told me, — ' ' Golden Fleece, " " Red Riding Hood, ' As with wondering eyes I listened, — Hoped I always would be good. When she kissed me, on my pillow, — Heard me say my little prayer, — Taught me God was ever present. How I tried to see him there. Till my childish fancy saw him, — A man so tall, with hair so white, Falling o'er majestic shoulders, And a face all shining bright. Round and round the varying seasons Brought their own peculiar joys ; Winter with its ice and sleighing, AVell enjoyed by girls and boys. Father, sometimes stern and silent. When mv brotlKM's asked to go — 35 — Sleighing, with myself and sisters, Smiling, could not answer no. As overhead the stars were twinkling, AVrapped within our largest sleigh Merry hearts and bells were ringing, As we swiftly sped away. AVhat though Boreas blew upon us, And the snow flakes thickly fell. AVarm our hearts and gay our voices. Merrily jingling with the bells. How I see the winter mornings. As we trudged along to school. Feeling sure we' d have our lessons. And obey the teacher's rule. When the match was up for si)elling. Choosing sides both one and all, If I chanced to be the "Captain," My first choice was William Hall. And we always won the victory. Watching all with anxious eyes. For there's more in just the winning Thiui is thouglit of in the pi'ize. AVilliam was just two years older, — Both our eyes were lively grey, — Neitlier could be called a })eauty. Still wp boi-e tilt' ])i-ize away. — 36 - A V lien liad nearly passed tlie season, And our school must shortly close, How we saddened as we thought of The last day, — oh ! day of woes. All our winter's sports and pleasures, — All the charms a school life lends,- Little quarrels, prizes, treasures The last day so sadly ends. Then the parents of the scholars Found us in our best attire. Praised our wondrous recitations, Filled our childish hearts with fire, Burning high with emulation, All were anxious to excel. Thinking which of all the prizes We should get for learning well. AVhen the lessons all are over And our serious master rose To address ns for the last time,— How his color comes and goes. Sad our hearts and grave our faces, Feeling under sorrow's spell. Soon the diamond tear drop traces Down our cheeks. — we sob fn re well. SONG. Revel, little roses, levei, you wei-e born to-day, Zephyrs kiss them, kiss them quickly, ere they fade away, Revel, little I'oses, revel, with the fairies play, Wreathe Cupid's bow in all your sweetness, nor let his arrow stray. Revel while light and love and music in the land hold sway, And your georgeous colors painting natures' s brow so gay, Let your incense rise like fountains, and mingle in its spray Your sweetest perfume to us mortals, for hriet too is our stay, Blend your fragrance in one treasure, let it live alway Tn oiii' hearts, our hopes, our pleasures to an endless day. How insignificant is the tomb Where onr loved dead lies. Compared to that immortality Wliicli tells us Avhere they live. 87 AN OLD WELL. How beautifully the emerald moss lives in the dripping well. Each little arrowy point is crowned with the diamond's sparkling sjiell, It spurns the broad, clear light of day, clings to its shady dell, And from all tumult hides away here peacefully to dwell. Its quiet haunt no one invades except his thirst to quell, Then fondly leans upon the curb to see a moss- grown well. DEDICATION OF MARTHA'S ALBUM. These pages like a rose-tree smiling stand. Budding with liojjes and promises of flowers By the bland zephyrs of affection fanned. The petals opening fair 'midst youtirs bright hours. All trace within them words of kindness, too, And adulation pours her honeyed tone ; 'Tis life's Eolian harp, each sound may woo, But charms when breathed on but by one alone, 38 SEEK AND FIND. How each day reveals new logic For the things it brings to light ; Like young birds unfledged and helpless, Gaining strength before their flight. So the mind of man advancing Step by step it upward tends ; Novel thoughts his soul entrancing, Love and wisdom with them blends. Many shadowy visions beckon Him to grasp them as they go ; Many are but deep delusions. Bringing to him naught but woe. Still the gems of earth are hidden, ■ /•; ^ Mixed with pebble, rock, and sand, Man must toil and search to find them, — Sort them with a master hand, — Grind them down to And their lustre, Polish every facet bright ; >:. ,; Then his jewels "will reward him p-'^y^ AVith their rich, reflecting liglit. ''i, ^ It is thus with gems of reason, Truths and logic, — pearls of thought, — Man must search, assay, and gather. — ...'.; Cast away what brings him naught. iii.T^ 39 P-. A1N"0THEK, BOUQUET. Tlioii comest here breathing so purely The sweetest of incense from heaven ; Thou comest and bringest so surely The tribute affection has given. On thy bright shining petals there lingers The kiss that a loved one bestowed, And the impress of that dear one' s fingers Still glows — from her beauty that glowed. Oh ! I feel such a thrill as I press thee In the spirit-like form of a kiss ; In my love for the giver I bless thee, And that blessing returns me a bliss. I will bind thee in memory's bright casket With the strong golden cords of my love And this joy shall retui-n when I ask it, Which thy giver, — she only, — can move. THE RIVER. Last night T slept near by a playful river, Whose merry voice sped music on its way, Soft angel sounds on its bright lips did quiver And others came ere these had died away. 40 -41 Our Afaiy came fioiii ITeaven to eaitli and l)f()iiu,ht her Entrancing har^) of nature here to phiy To (lancing wavelets of tlie gurgling water, Which murmur on so sweetly clay by clay. AVhen night's fair queen so brilliant shines at even, And holy slumbers all our senses koep, Tlie rippling waters make a dream of heaven. And angels whisper near us while we sleep. 0]^" THE DEATH OF A FRIEND'S CHILD. A bright star has set, — all hushed is the gladness. That cmce beamed with love on her sweet che- rub face ; The cold hand of death has now shrouded in sad- ness The circle made glad by her bright winning grace. Oh ! sorrow not, friends she is born into glory. — Lives immortal in beauty on that upper shore ; She is gathered in love and has gone to those man- sions That are free from eartli's mournings an.l cares ever more. 42 But she sees you, — e'en now with kisses slie lin- gers To dry the sad tears from her mother s i)ale cheek, Soothes her father's pained brow with her small viewless fingers, Clasps her brother and sister, — how gladly she'd speak. A new guardian angel to you is now given. To sooth you and bless you with angelic love ; Time's swift rolling cycles soon Avill speed you to heaven, AVhere you'll dwell with your loved ones for- ever above. JESSE. Are thy earthly shackles broken ? Dost thou see the heavenly light ? Give, oh ! give to us a token That thou knowest all w^e write. Tell us of those heavenly mansions. Whisper in our doubting ears, That we, too, shall soon be ransomed. Death's the end of sighs and tears. AVhen dark shadows hover o'er us — 43 — And we groxie life' s sombre way, Pring thy spirit lamp before us And restore the light of day. ON FINDING A RING. AVhat is thine history, thou circlet of gold ? Art thou a token of friendship or love I What crowds around thee in memories of old, — A love that is dead, — a heart that's grown cold. Or a prayer that was wafted above i Who once possessed tliee ^ Was she fair and young And brilliant and gifted and noble and true t Wert thou a memento of ho]3es that had sprung Between two fond hearts that in earnestness hung O' er the vows that were plighted by you ? And these vows, — are they broken, forgotten, or dead i Or like some frail Howers that bloom soon to fade,— hi the morn of their life was their sweetness nil shed, — \iid ere tlie noon came their beauty had Hed To that li-rnve where sad memories ai'e laid ( 44 Or wert thou a gift but carelessly given On tlie impulse, as one gives a spray or a tlo\A^er, Forgotten perchance ere the stars of the even Sparkled brilliantly on the blue curtain of liea- ven, — Forgotten perchance in an hour. Thou art silent, — unmeaningly still dost thou shine, — No answer to all of my jDictures of thee ; All the griefs that are past, all the sunshines that twine Their bright rays around thee will never be mine. Little ring, thou art nothing to me. INFINITE LOYE. There's a love springs immortal in this spirit of ours. All blooming and fragrant with beautiful flowers. There pansies and roses and sweet lilies bloom Untouched by the world and unscathed by the tomb. This ego, this soul, is an atom of God ; I know, for it lifts me above the dark clod 45 Which encases my spirit and, tho' confined here, God-seeking I go to that radiant sphere. And, tho' I can't grasp that Infinite Soul, Can a drop in the ocean know what is the whole ? So God is in all things, from sand-dust to sun. This presence progresses them all as they run. When truth, love, and beauty are in our soul; blending, God's presence is felt in a love that's unending. JOSEPHINE. My life is a mine of bright gems Of beauty the purest and rarest • Or a rose-tree, its numerous stems Bearing flowers the sweetest and fairest My Phenie is one of a cluster Of roses and gems intertwining. The fount of all life gives the lustre To eyes that grow brighter with shining, My tree with its blossoms so new Will develop and change day by day ; Life's sun will drink up its dew, Life's storms fade its colors away. But they still are my gems :ind my roses 46 In the soil of my heart they all bloom, Where their aromal soul-light reposes, AVhere I breathe all their richest perfume. My life thus divided still treml)les Towards the wonderful source of its being It is twined by these close-clinging tendrils, Whom I guard with a mother's foreseeing. I know they' re but drops from His fountain, But sparks from His lustre divine ; I would lead them high up on life's mountain, In goodness and mercy to shine. I would make with the angels a compact To watch o'er my jewels so rare ; To impress them with thoughts that are holy, Baptized with their pure love and care ; To keep all their paths free from danger ; To lead them towards God and His love ; To meet me where life is eternal, In that beautiful home-lio;ht above. m BELOVED. All ! tliere have been days when adversity' s fangs Were crushing my spirit' s repose ; That the pain was unheeded, — unnoticed tlu pangs,— With thy friendship, unfelt were its throes. I could smile while the arrow was piercing my soul. With mA' eyes turning fondly on thee, Like the martyr whose body the Hames may con- trol Yet his spirit like mine is still free. MY MOTHER'S BRIDAL ROBE. This garment, sainted mother, did thy youthful form enshrine, "When vows of love were spoken by that low, sweet voice of thine. When the roses in thy blushes, and the love-light in thine eyes, Told how deep and true the feeling which received those sacred ties. 47 48 How thine inmost soul was shining with a, piireness all its own, How Ills love around thee twining made your lives and fortunes one. Thus its every fold was clinging to that giuceful form of thine, And thy thoughts were upward winging towards a happiness divine. Now I picture roses glowing, nestling closely to thy breast, And thy silken robe is Howing, twining thee in fond caress. And thy glad, true-hearted husband clasps with joy thy willing hand, — All his heart's deep love was given with that sacred wedlock l)and. LOVE. Thoughts of love are day-dream roses, Pei'f liming life with fragrant smiles ; Lifting care till hope reposes In the heart all sweet and mild. Then the soul looks out and wonders. What of care:! and what of strife? One corrodes, the other sunders All the symi^athies of life. Then adieu to care and sorrow, — Then adieu to all that mars All our joys,— for on each morrow Hope shall point l:)eyond tlie stars. COUPLET ON RECEIVING SOME ROSES. Spirit aroma ascending from these fragrant roses sweet, With our heart-throbs they are blending, — life To life in beauty meet. 49 TRANSITION. The finest tints of rainbow hues fade soon, The flower still dripping with the evening dews Shuts up its lovely petals ere 'tis noon, Abashed, it doth Sol's brightest gaze refuse. And yet amidst the angry storm there stand The oaks' huge branches which resist its x^ower, The rocks whose cliffs high raised above the land Defy the whirlwind in its maddening hour. The oak and cliff less beautiful, again Endure, nor pain nor pleasure do they give ; But Flora' s beauteous' many-tinted train Revives and thrills us, then they cease to live. Even so in life, our love is but a breath, — • A shade enchanting, which may fade away, — A flower, if breathed on by repulsive death, Or rudely handled, withers in a day. How strong the cord which binds the hearts that love. But when too harshly strained we snap the string, And, though affections may no farther rove. Accept the fate indifference may bring. 50 EVER NEAR THEE. My spirit steals softly beside thee at morn. And I waft the sweet slumbers away, That have wreathed thy loved brow with the smiles that adorn Those sonl-beaming- features today. My spirit steals softly beside thee at noon. When the wretched thy sympathy share, As they feel thou art gone from their presence too soon. — I join with thy spirit in prayer. When the gay and the lovely bright glances aiv throwing. As they gracefully move through the dance, So near thee my spirit its love is besowing. That their arrows must fall off askance. My spirit steals softly beside thee at even. When thy head on its pillow reclines, And I close down thy lids with warm kisses that Heaven Shall illume with bright visions thy mind. 51 MY MOTHER IN HEAVEN. My youth's brightest day-star, my mother, my own, — Ever since from the eartli thy loved spirit has flown, My sad heart weej^s lonely, no joy now appeal's, But soon is extinguished in sorrow and tears, — When to my young gaze the bright sunlight 1 see, — How much more than this light was my mother to me. If music enchanted my heart to rejoice How much more than its raptures to me was her voice. As around this lone eartli our wanderings are made, We find none like thee to bring light out of shade. So time fleet thy rounds, for when from earth riven We shall dwell with our mother forever in heaven. 52 MUSES. Calliope, goddess of epic art, From tliee all inspirations start. Olio, with history's open roll, Hath chained events and marked each goaL Euterpe, with her flute and lyre, Spreads widely love's poetic tire. Melpomene, with her tragic mask, Describes true art to all who ask. Terpsichore, with her song and dance, Most deftly throws love's dangerous lance„ Erato's invitations rare Are sought by many young and fair. Polymnia, muse of hymn sublime, Our sacred thoughts to thee incline. llrnnin, from the stai-ry heaven, H;is many lessons to us given. Thalia's light and merry laugh Bids care depart and pleasure quaff. Thus enraptured in turn by the tuneful nine We are charmed willi ;in influence almost divine. 53 A ROSE TREE. I had a rose-tree once, "tvvas fair, 'twas beautiful, Its tlowers of creamy white liun<^ their rich fra- grance O'er the ambient air, as by its parent stem erect It stood with face unturned to lieaven. Above bright angels spread their glittering pinions, And it partook of their ethereal lustre. I Ivuelt l^eside it, watered it with tears from rich Affection s deepest, holiest fount; When I saw angels loved also its blossoms fresh- ened ])y the Diamond drops of heaven's own sympathy, How deep, how pure, how holy was my worship. A fell destroyer's ruthless act cut down the parent stock, — My lovely rose-tree now began to wither and di-ooj) its Sweet young head. — mourning the ])arent stem which had Supported it and sci'eened it from The wind's rude caresses. Bereft and lonely, my care I then renewed. Fain to supply the loss by kindly fostering. U.OW I invoked the weeping spirits of the (clouds 54 --55 — To shed tlieir dewy tears on my fair rose ; — Prayed the God of nature would with strength invigorate And cause it once again to raise ts blossoms bright to heaven. ON THE DEATH OF MY FIRST GRAND- CHILD. Little gem of purest beauty Briefly to our fond hearts given, — Brightest angels saw and set thee Shining on the brow of heaven. In that future our beholding Shall l)e dazzled by thy power, For tlie gift of tliy unfolding Is to all the s})irit's dower. Could we lift our mind's dark curtain And behold thy sj^irit charms. How enraptured we'd enfold thee, Sweetest chernl), in our arms. TO A YOUNG FRIEND WEEPING. We learn from bitter years of yearning That happiness is not of earth. ' Tis from our spirits' deep discerning The power from God which gives it liirth. Where is that mortal free from sorrow, Though blessed with wealth and earthly power ? Fate's book may turn a leaf to-morrow, Which brings a sad and darkened hour. Life cannot be (what youth would have it, — All joy), with glittering baubles spread. All bright, with music, song, and wit, All flowery i^aths for duty' s tread. Then face the clouds. Watch for the lining, Their silvery side you soon may see ; Their golden glorious colors twining The shadow round, which saddened thee. 56 THE BROOK. By the gurgling brook I'm sitting, Seated on its mossy side ; Beauteous birds are near me flitting, Singing vespers at eventide. O'er the west a cloud of silver Softly veils the setting sun. And its golden fringes quiver On the glowing horizon. When my feet are softly i3ressing Nature' s emernld carpet fine, When cool zephyrs are caressing, — Kissing me with lips divine, — When above in the blue ether. Gemmed with stars, the queen of night Blandly beams on all beneath her, With her diadem's pale light, — When around, above, below me Is God's wisdom and his power, I am happy, for they show me Love is but the spirit's dower. 57 TO MY SPIRIT FRIENDS. Oil ! while I wait in darkness here, Insphered in mortal coil 'mid tears, My dear ones, who have gone before, Who stand upon that upper shore, Bend down your listening ears. Oh ! let me tell how oft I see The wonders of celestial skies, Their glorious brightness so refined, Too dazzling for the mortal mind. Too pure for mortal eyes. And yet methinks beneath this shell • There is an eyesight not of life, An inner sense that feels and knows, — The spirit reaching, as it grows Awaj^ from earthly strife. Oh ! is it this that makes me feel And see the loved ones from that land, AVhere they have journeyed long ago, .Vnd God's high x>nrpose rightly know, — A happy si)irit band ? I would not hasten his decree ; Would live the years that are my store But joys immortal I can see 58 Encased iu dust; though chained I be, I mount to tliat bright upper shore. ESTELLA. Yes, my daughter, sweet Estella, Did I net those bhie eyes fringe? Did I not those lips of coral AVith their sweetness also tinge I Like the purest alabaster, Thy light form spread o'er and o'er With a milk-white, soft envelope, Breathing life at every i^ore. Then thy beauteous brow with golden, AVavy tresses loosely spread. Like a fairy of llie olden. With tlie suidight on her head. When the angels saw my brilliant In its casket shining set, Came and with a heavenly radiance Looked and smiled a fond regret — Tliat they here awhile must leave her To develop, to unfold, l^ut Iheir guardian care they give her As tilt' angels did of old. SOUL LOVE. Love not, love not the j)erisliing niortnl ; Love ye the spirit, love ye the mind. Life's fmil form to earth's dim port;il, Though beautiful, must be consigned. Life enshrined in this weak casket Will prove fading, must decay. Ask not love. Why should ye ask it i When so soon "twill fade :i\v;iy. Selfish love twines in its lightness. With egotism around one shrine, Nor covering (as it should) witli brightness Earth's lone ones 'neatli its sheltering vine. Deep, earnest love from souls ascending- Lights up the Avay from earth to heaven, Where with blest spirits ever bleiidiug We reap the joys God's love has given. 60 THE HO^rK OF MY CHILDHOOD. There's a spot in lliis wovld, 'tis the home of my cliildliood, More saci-cd. more piii'e tlian on earth can be found. How bright was its verdure, liow various its wihl- wood. Wliere lieudoclv and maple and cedar al)ound. The c)ak, too, s^jread out his In'oad arms to the weather. Inviting the contiict "twixt him and the storm ; By conquest emboldened, he combats to gather Xew strength from the winds as tliey sway Iris huge form. With Nature's own music tlie green boughs were ringing, Each songster, self-taught, sweetly Joins in tlie lays. From their lovc-uotcs of joy their melodies spring- ing, They tunefully trill in the anthem of i^raise. Willi beauty (piiic silent — yet speaking — the flowers. With their fiices uptui'ued to the god of the sky, CI m Look tlieir liyniiis of devotion witli eloquent 2)Ower, — Xo i)rinre of the earth with tlieir glory may vie. ( )li ! how can I paint that bright season of gladness, When Spring with her Horal train Aei'dantly gleams I The white lambs were skipping, and the held where they gamboled SX^i'ead its soft emerald cai-pet to the verge of the streams. Those bright, rij^pling waters in tlieir ])rogress meandering Along that loved green which our cottage en- closed, And when laid on my pillow at night its soft gur- gling Lulled my senses to taste of the sweets of repose. How lovely the lawn and how verdant the mea- dows, Where the cattle were feeding. And, ah I the grass newly mown, — As evening approached, how the tall giant shadows Fell across the new hay, as 'twas (carefully strown. — 68 — On the liillside the orchards stood fruitful and glowing With apples and peaches, — red, russet, and white, — The plums that were crimson, the ground they were strowing, — To , childhood' s bright fancy how enchanting the sight. How placidly beamed the mild brow of my father, As he cheerfully supped when the day's toil was o'er. Contented, his smiles told, with peace he would rather Enjoy his loved home than all earth's golden store. Although burdened with care, the sweet face of my mother Shone radiant with smiles, and her blue, lus- trous eyes Told the love and the care could be felt by no other Save her who watched o'er ns like one from the skies. Time has sped on his car and througli luany years wandered, The world's jitful sunshine ;ind storm Imvebeen mine. — 04 — TliH pathway of life with its caivs I've mraiuh-ied. Yet no liome of my cliildhood slicd its l)l('ssiii^- divine. Long, long since, my i)iii'«iits, I've felt thy protec- tion ; Long, long since tliy counsel and love I liave known ; Yet wlien bright hopes lie withered {on blest retro- spection), My menior}^ dwells fondly on days that have Hown. ON KP^CEIVING A EOSE FROM A LITTLE STRANGER. A noble boy, his black eyes shining. Gave me this lovely, fragrant rose. 'I'lie dark brown curls his fair brow tAvining Are tossed by zei)liyrs as he goes. And all unconscious of his beauty. Which beams from out his soul-lit eye, lie skips and plays, never once heeding Admiring looks from i)assers-by, — Go Unconscious as tlie rcxse lie gave nie, He only feels his own glad heart, Which revels in an unknown feelino- o That of this life he forms a X)art. Sweet boy, may angels guard and guide thee. Lead thee where peace forever flows, -^^1^^ joy in brightness twine around thee And keei> thee pure, like thine oavu rose. SOXNET. I wonder if she ever thinks Of those bright roseate bowers, Where we have sat together oft And passed the golden hours. I wonder if she ever thinks Of her ringing laugh of glee. Which echoes on the harp of time And brings her back to me. r wonder if she ever thinks TIow from her ;izure eye My spii'it drank its light of love Till it's gHin-likc foiiiif was dry — f)6 — I wonder if slie ever thinks How love's x:)ersistent llanie Absorbed my every tlionght and wisli In her one worshipped name. I wonder if she ever thinks How inuch she was to bhime, To tnrn from me and all my love And wed to wealth and fame. A PLEA FOR PEACE. Oh, angel of peace ! thy long abseni^e deploring, We sigh the retnrn of thy presence once more. We will give a glad welcome to thy smiles, restoring Thine own gentle light to our war-d;irkened shore. Oh, come ! our fair land lies bleeding, and keeping Our homes and our loved ones l)y sonow })owed down, Our widows are mourning, our orphans are weep- And darkness obscures all the i-ays from thy crown. Oh, Peace! art thou crushed, as witli white drooj)- ing pinions 67- Tlioii watcliest the dread storm of battles array '. Slia.ll the wars tlmnder on, and hate's dark domin- ions Claim our nation's best life-ljlood and waste it away? Dost thou not see tlie parting of loved (dies \vlio lan- guish, With fear and despair for their warriors so dear % Dost thou mark on the brow of our country the anguish Of liope long deferred, which thou oidy canst cheer ? Tlien come to the hearthstones from whence t^iou wert banished. And bless with thy presence this grief-stricken land, liring the "good will to men" which from us had vanished, And reach forth the olive branch in thy fair hand. IMPROMPTU. My friends, I bid ye all adieu. Smiles of fortune be with you, Kindly faces ever meet you, Loving arms reach forth to greet you, Friendship's silken cords e'er bind you, Love's gold arrows ever fmd you, — Praise from lips that love to si)eak it, — Money come where ye don' t seek it. Life's I'ough waves for you be even And anchor safe at last in heaven. LIFE. Our life is like a rapid stream meandering on its way ; For, if awake, in sleep, or drtnims, 'lis always night or day. Alternately eacli comes and goes nor checks Ihe rapid ilow Of suiiles and fi'owns, of joys and woes. All make up life below. r,8 TTIY GUARDIAN ANGEL. From supernal bowers, Wliere immortal llowers Bloom in their sweetness, Comes an angel bright. In her robes of white, Basking in the light Of her heaven' s completeness. Garlanded with truth, The beauty of yonth Lights her brow with love celestial. Around her willowy form Glows a halo bright and warm, — 'Twould illumine every storm Of the globe terrestrial. Her oAvn jmre mother love. From that holy world above, Clasps her son in fond caresses. And when sleep his senses seals (And worldly thoughts in vain apjieal). To his inmost soul reveals How that future life can l)less us. Think, through all this weary life, l-'illcfl with S01T0W, ])aiii. and sti'ife, CD 70 — That lliy mother calls thee higher, - Tells thee of her heavenly home, AVhere joys immortal ever bloom, AY here she waits her son to come To join her in God's angel choir. LONG AGO. Memories of the long ago, — Ba( k thro' many a winter s snow, Back to childhood's hai)py hour, When a light heart was my dower, Back thro' years that since have tied ; A'olumes lived, yet will be read, Wh-en tlie heart recalls the dead. The dear, lost long ago. In that long ago I trace Many a sweet and smiling face, :\rany a brilliant, noble mind, Many a form by grace entwined. In my childhood' s picture there View I one with mind so rare, — One who meteor-like thro' the air Passed me long ago. 71 — Little knew I wliy 'twais given, — Just a beauteous flash from heaven, llow in the years that come and go Thy truth should only brightness know^ ; So, when drifting down life's tide, — Many a rough wave forced to ride, — How happy to be dashed beside The friend of long ago. Long ago is past — and yet — Passed witli many a vain regret; Gone with many a snule and tear, Varied with each passing year. Ah ! the symi^athetio Avord From thy heart so soon is stirred. Only tones so mild are heard From thy voice of long ago. Blessings on thy kindly face. Filled with eloquence and grace, Lighted by tlij^ soulful eyes, Welcome as the starry skies. Hai)py is the day we met, — Happy we could ne'er forget Our first meeting lingering yet In the sweet, the dear old long ago. ETERNAL LIGHT. There is a land of light above, Where joy marks every hearth ; Where God's eternal, heavenly love Dispels tlie cares of Earth. There is a land of love and flowers, All brilliant in their bloom ; That land, poor pilgrim, too, is ours, Through that dark door, — the tomb. That land no sun nor moon rellects, As on this earthly ball ; Prom God a beauteous sunlight streams Direct through every soul. There worldly passions enter not That blest abode of light ; We nothing take from sorrow' s cup To mar a world so bright. We live, and never mark the hours, Nor count the flight of time, For earthly hopes are blooming there, In fragrance all divine. 72 TO MRS. S. OIS^ CLAIMING TO BE MY SEVENTH DAUGHTER. Fate when not an infant brought lier Here, to claim her phice with me. — Here, to be my seventli daughter. Seventh daughter slie shall l)e. Consanguinity not always Gives a symj^athy of mind ; But by soul to soul related,— Thus our love is intertwined. And througli life our spiral pathway, As it nears the fount of love, Sliall groAv stronger, shall grow brighter, Till we live in heaven above. REMEMBERED. I never, never can forget Thy soul's deep looks of love; They're beaming on my spirit yet. Like angel lights above. I never, never can forget Thy soft and thrilling tones ; j-J^, 73 m x---^ 74 Their luuisic haiiislies regret . And soothes my sorrowing moans. 'I'hougli fate the darl^ened die lias cast O' er all our future lives, And thy dear presence cannot last, Its memory still survives. Alone deep in my inmost heart Thy cherished image fills So much of life, — its sweeter part From thee its joy distills. A })eacon star of heavenly light Above life's stormy sea Is what I find whene'er I turn To memories of thee. ON IVIY VERSES COPIED BY ONE OF MY CHILDREN. The few pictures I have written You have copied, dear child, here. They will cheer you if you hit on Their philosophy ; 'tis near, — Near to teach you love and wisdom And forbearance towards the world ; t^tJT'i^ — 75 — Near to tell }'oii that in x>i*ogress The soul" s banners are unf nrled. Be ye calm, mild, and collected ; Learn to govern tirst your mind ; Tlien your sweet face, when reflected. Will impart its influence kind On those dear ones. You, like roses, Beauty's sweetness give and take. In this art the truth reposes, If your liapi)iness j^ou'd make. THE CLOSING LIFE.* How I sit above the shadows Of life's swiftly i)assing years, Viewing from this height the springtime Of my childhood's joj's and fears. Seeing, too, the summer's flowers. As I breathed their fragrance bright. When m}' life was in its fulness. When my strength was in its might. Further on I trace life's journey, Wlien the autumn fruit was ripe ; Supposed to have breii written shortly before lier deatl 76- Golden rays of sunset gleaming, — Of my life how sweet a type. Now 'neatli winter's leafless bowers I am resting. Cold and bare Are the branches I have cherished, — Grone to meet and greet me there. Dear ones, see me reaching towards you, Mother, husband, loved ones all ! See ! the night of age is i)assing, Youth will come at morning' s call. How I view the long procession Of my loved and lost of yore, Straining my dim eyes to see them. As Tm pressing to that shore. Soon this soul will break its casket. Soon on wings I' 11 soar away, Soon the border-land of heaven Will turn my night to endless day. Soon I'll drop this age- worn mantle, — Clothed in spirit robes so bright. Freed from every earthly shackle, Bursting forth to glorious light. Sweet friends, draw aside the curtain, Meet me at the open door, Clasp my hands and bear me over Where the lisjht shines evermore. Welcome, death ! I do not fear thee ; For it is but by thy love I shall gain a life eternal In that land of peace above. I shall find one of those mansions, Which hath been prepared for me ; I shall feel at home in heaven, And all its wondrous glory see. But I'll not forsake my children, Even in all that bliss above ; Daily I shall breathe unto them : " Love each other,"" " God is love ! " PRIDE. Pride has its uses, — one of bitter cost: To check our friendship when its labor s lost ; To raise us when 'neath stern injustice' frown, And would-be greatness tries to ynt us down. Pride should the servant, not the master, be (Far more becoming is humility); But sometimes in it is our best defence,— AVhen impudence mates up with lack of sense 78- When those we've loved doth meet us with a frown And cast the gem of friendship from their (n-own ; When your warm greeting s cruslied l)y stiffened lip, And hearty hand-shake met by linger-tip ; Wlien eyes of love meet stony eyes that stare ; When your frank look sees eyes that gaze on air ; When every act unto you plainly states Friendship's dissolved, and in the dregs lies hate. " Tis then our jpride with dignity combined Will bid us smile on fate, and be resigned. ROSES. These are but the seeming fair Of the roses everywhere ; !N"ature smiles from field and grove, Thrills our souls witli God' s own love How we worship beauty' s dower, When its grace adorns this flower. Each soft fragrance charms tlie soul, As their petals bright unroll. What a world of work they do : Teacliing- lovers how to woo, Garlanding tlie wedding feast, — Types of purity and j^eace. Triumphant wreathe the victor s brow (Joyous shouts will greet them now), In the chambers of the ill, Still their mission they fulfill ; Silent, watching by the bier, Drooping towards the dead so dear ; Making with their perfume sweet Such a beauteous winding sheet. Pointing with their speaking eyes The grief-stricken to the skies ; Showing how His love has given Flowers to strew the path to heaven. THE SPIDER. With Nature's voice to guard and guide her, How great a miracle' s a spider ; Her silken cord forever weaving. As from this place to that she's leavinp; Who taught this curious insect tiny, To build a home so light and shiny ; So skilled in geometric measure. — 80 — So lormed for use as well as pleasure ? Proudly she shows her pretty home, Inviting wandering flies to come, And from her parlor view the sky. And her luxurious hammock try. Oh, insect wily ! Fie ! for shame ! To make your guest your hunted game. COROLINN. Today, my dear Linnie, your sj^irit comes home, And clasps me in gladness as it used to of yore ; I feel your soft breath and sweet lips as you come, And again kiss my darling so many times o'er. The old times come back when my wee baby prize Attracted us all by her dimples and smile, And her azure eyes shone with a questioning sur- prise. Saying, "What are you doing to baby the while I " ' Your brother and sisters all hastened to greet you With kisses of love and child-wondering eyes ; Impatiently asked, "Oh ! where did you get her? Did she come from the earth or direct from the skies I ' ' 81 Tlie years have i)assed swiftly and ])i-()iiglit with them changes, A woman, a matron, my Linnie is now ; But absence, nor time, nor distance estranges The love of thy mother,— God's seal on thy brow. RAIN. Hf)w musical the rain-drops, As they pearl their way along ; All conscious of their gladness. They sing a joyous song. The pillow of the sleeper By enchantment is made sweet, As half in dreams he listens To the rain-drops' imttering feet. Welcome, sweet sound Of rain, come bound, Come softly fall And soothe us all To Morj^heus' embrace. Oh ! give us dreams And brightest gleams Of trutirs pure dianumd face. ^,^7^^. 8:? I wonder if in sleep profound Our inmost spirit is unbound. And, while this form unconscious lies, Our spirits rise unto the skies. CUPIDON. Xo matter how wise, how ]^^)retty, or stu[)id, Each person in turns gets worried l)y Cupid. Xew friendships and absence applied to the heart AVill banisli the mischief and he will depart. THE aOLDEX RULE. Do unto others as ye would that thny should do to yon, Is the Golden Rule our Saviour taught to Gentile and to Jew ; He taught that love, unselfisli love, should in our hearts hold sway For friends and enemies alike; <"iii we the rule obey i 88 Can we ol)ey it in the world where we jostle in the throng, And meet tlie various forms of life, — the ricli, tlip weak, the strong '. ( 'an WH reach our hands with loving grasp and raise UX> those who fall, And dry the tears from mourners" eves, and aid and comfort all \ Can we lielp the weak, and helj) the strong (for we can sliow our care And sympathy with those who strive for worldly honors here) \ Can feel no envy, malice, hate, e'en for our worst of foes, — Witli patience l)id sweet Pity's eyes all on their faults unclose \ We must brace our hearts, if they gi-ow weak, by saying "God is Love"; Tlien count the blessings He has given, around. below, above. Must tliink what we ourselves would like, when doubtful thoughts arise : Tlieii will our judgments suit the words descended from the skies. ( )h I may we s^^rive with earnestness and every force of will — 84 — To let the precepts given here thro' all our lives instil. Oh ! may we bless the time, the place that hroiio-ht this rule so olden To guide the way our feet should tread, by its own light so golden. THE GIFT OF A RING. About the sayings and doings of others I care not, Since my long absent friend has sent me a garnet • 'Tis a brilliant, a beauty, a gem of a thing And a tyx)e of true love is my bright little ring. I will keej) it and wear it and think of the past, — A memento of that which forever shall last. May no mark of unkindness it from me e'er sever. But remain the true circle of friendship forever. JANUARY 1ST, 1862. Hail! All Hail, New Year! Welcome, thou infant link of time ! How comest thou "i Are thine eyes l^right, Undimmed bv tears of sorrow ^ 85- (yoiiiHst thou witli rosy lijjs of love, Thrilling with the kiss of affection for all Eartli's children 'i For thou comest to all, — The high, the low, the rich, the poor. The bond, the free, the wise, the ignorant. The joyful, and the sorrowful all hail thy coming. To them thou art the beacon light of hope, Eacli praying thou mayest ])ring the dawn of peace : Each praying thou mayest X)our oil on the troTibled waters Now dashing on our storm-tossed Ship of State, Almost wrecked on the rocks of dissension and di-<- union. Oh, Spirits of the departed heroes of the Revolu- tion ! Come to us on this Xew Years day ! Come and bring the holy influences of peace that Surround you on the upper sliores of Eternity Impress our leaders Avith your wise, sti-ife-healing influences. Give them a love for unity and 2)ea('e, — That unity which characterized tlie councils of our forefathers, luring, oil, our departed fathers ! tlie Balm of peace to this dear land of ours. THOUGHTS AT NIAGARA.* Far behind the sheet of lucid pearls Of snowy, foaming, crystal water, Grew this emerald hair Upon the head of that huge rock-giant Who has stood still e'er since creation's morn, As if to listen to the music of Niagara. Entranced, he smiles forever, As he beholds on bended knee The mighty torrents worshi^J ; 'Twould seem that this inanimate Must feel the glow of animation AVhen the bright and beauteous sunlight, Flashing 'midst the million diamonds Which bind with fairy wreath His stern, majestic forehead, crowns him With more than conqueror's diadem. * Suggested by a piece of moss I gathered fnjiu a rock, beliiiid the great sheet of water at Niagara Falls 86 MY SPIRIT BIRTH. \Mien I am an angel, Shed no tear of sorrow ; Lay this earthly casket Early on the morrow In earth' s loving bosom, To become a part Of external Nature, Thro])bing in her heart. When I am an angel, Do not think me dead. For this happy spirit. From the body fled. Lives in light and beauty, Clasps forevermore The dear ones gone before me To that blissful shore. Let no weeds of mourning- Mar the happy day, When you lay this body In the earth away ; Smile that I am happy ; Smile that you will come To these spheres of beauty, To our spirit home. 87 MY CHILDREN. Were all the gems of all the earth, Crown-brilliants to me given, One gem immortal from its birth Is worth them all, — and seven Are more than wealth, or power, or ""ame, The Indies, East and W-st, Or richest mines with diamond tiame Or flashing jewel's crest. What thongh I'm poor in worldly wealth, I will not be repining, My every jewel of itself Immortal is,— in shining; And time can never change or mar These brilliants God has given ; Their light to me a radiant star. May prove a snn in heaven. S8 NATURE. 1 love the first roses of summer, Before their bright petals unfold. I love the first gushes of sweetness, Which burst from buds crimson and gold. I love the first glimpses of morning, As tlie day-dawn streaks o'er the grey sky, Growing golden and purple each moment, As the day-god' s glad presence draws nigh. I love tlie hrst lone star of evening, As it glitters on night's sombre brow, — A herald that millions of others Will follow and sparkle as now. I love the young moon as its crescent. Like an infant, lies cradled in white ; All the stars seem so happy in watching To see its pure face gleam with white. 'Tis only a simjile flower, only a simple flower, But the magical spell of its beauty is held In each chalice, with wonderful power. 89 MELODIA. Deep within tlie holy temple Of my inmost heart of hearts, Shrined thy form is and my worship Is from all the world apart. There in true devotion kneeling, With exalted thoughts and mind, In one sigh of purest feeling- All my soul to thee' s inclined. Now I hear melodious music, ' Tis thy sweet entrancing tone, Spell-bound as I sit and listen, All life' s day to me is shown. Morning, noonday, twilight' s vanished ; Evening shadows find me still In the earth form, waiting, watching For the bidding of His Avill. Watching for these worn out shackles, Soon to break and set me free ; Bring me strength and youth and hetiven. Bring me once again to thee. 90 FANCIES. As brilliant fancies come and go, So beauteous in their seeming;. They're heralds to this world of woe That noiG we're only dreaming. We raise great temples to the skies, Which vanish ere completed, The airy mists from which they rise Take varying forms repeated. Hope shines on all, — and all aglow With wondrous colors blending. They fade, — and show this world below Shall sometime have an endino-. TO A GRIEVING FRIEND. Why is dark sorrow on thj^ brow \ Why bid me wait in dread the history, Uncertain what grief records now. Whether 'tis death or doom, — a mystery. If death, she is not dead, AYho in thy infancy hath jDillowed thy young head. Who, ever faithful to her trust and care. First taught thy infant knee to bend in prayer,— 91 02 First fondly watched tlie genius that entwined Bright gems of thought around thy yonthful nnnd ; , Saw Reason s jewels, ^ — Truth's i^eaii-droiis hence "^ Take forms of life in thine own eloquence. She is not dead ! but lives in heaven and earth ; She knows the causes of thy grief and mirth, r And when dim night has shaded thy repose Her angel form conies near thine eyes to close ; ^ And when calm sleep has closed thine outward mind She takes thy sx)irit with her own entwined And buoys thee upward to the gates of heaven ; Shows thee the joys which death to her has given ; Then with oblivion's coil thy mind engirths And takes thee back to dwell awhile on earth, If near thee ever thou couldst feel at will The softening influence of her presence still, — Vice vainly temj^ts thee with volui^tuous 2:)ower, Or pleasure's siren weave for thee a bower ; Vain are their wiles, if, deep within thy breast, Thy mother's image still shall be impressed ; The virtues which by jn-ayer to her were given Shall light thee here, and guide thee safe to Heaven. m MY LOADED OXES. Sweet guardian spirits, ever be AVitli those I love and liold most dear. And as my loved ones go from me Avert all danger, every fear. Imbue their minds with truth and love ; Send none l)ut i)leasure\s purest rays ; Attract their thoughts to worlds above. And fill their hearts with grateful praise. Oh ! make them feel thy presence, too, And know tliy care and love extends From heavenly spheres the wdde world throiigh, Where'er the fates their footsteps send. Ill calmness may they Jndge the power, AMiich guides them through this mortal life ; Guard well tlie bright immortal llower, AVhose 2^<^rfume soothes 'mid earns and strife. 93 OUR ESTELLKS BIRTHDAY. The golden sun beamed brightly, As he kissed the rosy morn, And my heart was filled with gladness. When my little Stelle was born. No roses in the spring time Had in early l)eauty blown, But our cherub came and blessed us, With a sweetness all her own. Her blue eyes were tilled with love-light, On her ruby lips a smile, And we thanked our heavenly Father For the gift of such a child. We caressed our little spring-liower, And watched her life unfold ; E'en the poet-angels blessed her. As the prophets used of old ; For they wreathed her brow with genius. And they touched her lix)s with fire, Till the sweet, wild tones of x>oesy Breathe from her dulcet lyre. 94 FORBEAR. If faults you see, so mildly chide, So soft your words of counsel tell, In friendship' s breast your trust to hide, Like diamonds dropping in a well. Its glassy surface mirrors all That' s on its bosom brightly thrown. And the pure brilliants, as they fall, Sink shining heart-drops of its own. MY BIRTHDAY. Welcome this day, which to the number gives One more to those of my departed years. Chained to the past, its only record lives To swell the number I am prisoned here. Prisoned, for who bound to a clog of earth Is free to mount on wings of hope and tij- Through the vast universe where worlds have birrli Or read the wondrous pages of the sky t Darkly we see its sx)angled cover here. Awed with the sight, we long to read its pag View its great Author in His heavenly sphere, And taste those joys immortal minds engage. 95 — 96 — Yet we this chrysalis, grovelling state must })ear,— Must feel tliis earthh', clogging weight of clny Till dissolution l)ursts the bonds we wear ; Then, spirit-freed, we'll soar to realms of day. THE DIFFERENCE. Blame from a friend is like a searing coal, Whose scorching fires burn deeply in the soul. 'Tis to the spirit like a poisoned dart, Dipped in the morbid gangrene of the heart, — A demon spell it over friendshij:* sways, Corrodes our hopes, and darkens all our ways. Praise from a friend is like a bauble fair. Borne by the wayward current of the air. \Ve love the beauties of its golden cup, And gladly of its dewy nectar suj). It thrills our life-blood with delusive power, Then bursts, — the shining meteor of an hour. But counsel from a friend is life's bright star, AVhich shines, if near ns, and which guides afai-. Its beams will find us when, by sorrow's pall. The sad, lone heart, despairing, gives up all ; 'Twill cheer us onward by its brilliant rays, And shed a halo round our darkest days. THE AGE. Tliis is an age of wonders (Though some are mad and some are rash,) An age Avlien ancient bhmders Are fast resolving into trasli. 'Twas once tlioiiglit friends were absent, AVhen away 'mid distant scenes, But now they talk by lightning From New York to New Orleans, And once the use of steam was To machinery confined, But in this age of dreaming It leaves that far behind. Ill tills age the politicians, Tiilldng grave, and looking graver, Turn their eyes and their ambitions On the funds of ijublic favor. Tlie lawyer must, to win his suit. Use his intellect and reason ; He soon learns that by })eing cute Is what depend his fees on. Tile new school, Hyriieneopathy^ Is giving health and growing bright ^^'ll]•]e the old one, looking wrathy, Plends old errors ;is its i-ight. i)7 — 98 — The bif^ot hurls defiance At new theories of niind, And with a olub strikes Science In her eyes to make her blind. But Science, not depending On her eyes to see at all, Knows at this battle's ending The enemy must fall. "PERFECT LOVE CASTETH OUT FEAR.'^ Was it a fancy of thy youthful heart, Which thy fond impulse into life could start I Or was it really love with rosy brow, Which crept within thy heart, and rests there now If love, no jealousy thy mind could move ; Its steady fire will its existence prove. Pure love is faith, and cannot, will not doubt Its source, if in this mortal sphere or out. AI^ THE WRAA^E OF DOUGLAS. If the genius, the patriot, the statesman were 7/rre All hearts in deej) sorrow, in bitter desi)aii'. 99 ^Vould sol) out their grief in the blackness of woe. That Freedom's great chamj^ion had fallen so low. No ! here lies the casket which once held the X)earl : So dazzling and brilliant it blazed o'er the world, And attracted by beauty, attracted by force Its millions on millions in its light upward course. True homage for freedom, true worship of soul Illumined his pathway as he neared the bright goal ; The nation' s great heart in its pulses beat strong, As the name Our Douglas attracted the throng. And the wildness of joy in loud shouts could ])p heard, As his bright jiresence cheered or his eloquence stirred The deep fountain of love for our country's great cause, To l)attle for Union, Constitution, and Laws. All party strife's buried, let no patriot heed them. But all raise their voices for Union and Freedom. Oh, Freemen ! now rally with concentrated miglit. For our cause shall be blessed by the God of the rioht. ON SEEING A SICK INFANT SLEEPING. Little Cherub ! sleeping, shrinking From earth's sorrows and its cares ; Fell disease, thy life-blood drinking. Soon shall free thee from life's snares Like the beauteous rosebud blighted By the early chilling frost, So thy loveliness, though i;)liglited To thy friends, to them is lost. All the joy thy coming gave them. All thy beauty's opening bloom All their love can never save thee From the lonely, darksome Umih. Parents, weep not when 'tis riven. From thy fondest earthly love ; His cherub spirit soon in heaven Shall chant the song that " God is love." LIFE'S PICTURES. I saw a mirror of capacious size, — How beauteous 'twas its imaged forms to view, Aerial colors floating on the skies Looked in and smiled to see eacn gorgeous huf 100 — 101 — All infant lovely as e'er a poet's dream, With eyes of wonder opened up so wide, Hastened with toddling steps to reach tlie scene That brought companionship to babj^' s side. A bright young girl in dreamy, mystic white, With sunny brow and careless, flowing hair, Passed languidly before its surface bright, Then paused to view herself reflected there. A youth whose willowy motions would remind Of slender saplings out to breast the storm, — A noble youth, — one moment stopped to find If he was gaining manhood's stalwart form. A matron' s stately form and easy grace. With flowing robes that followed in her wake. With thoughtful look consults the mirror's face And marked how swiftly Time his inroads make. An aged man, l)ending beneath the snow Of winters numbering full three score and ten, Looked, also followed back the How Of years whose brightness ne'er could come again. So on and off the various forms repeat. And keep the pictures moving o'er the glass ; •s-?^^;:^rc^^.-..^;. 102 Sunshine and shadows, with their Hying feet, Alarking life's moments as they swiftly pass. Oh 1 mirror thou art typical of life, Youth sees on thy bright surface only joy, But stern experience, cares, and bitter strife Reflect the dross which doth the gold alloy. But, ])right or dark reflections though we make, We soon shall fade. Oh ! leave the surface clear, And memories of good deeds and kindness take To shine back on us from the heavenly sphere. MORE CLEARLY I BEHOLD TllEM NOW THAN THOSE THAT NEVER DIET)." How thy form, my angel Mary, Ever near my spirit glides, In the laughing joys of springtime, In life' s fitful surging tides. When the rosy brow of morning ^; ,. Scintillates with burnished gold, 'j^'ii Thy bright face the scene adorning Comes with love and bliss of old. 103 Wlieii tlie noonday is redundant Witli 11 full set jewelled crown, Then tliy clear brow shines resplendent 'Neath its wavy tresses brown. When the stars above us sparkle In heaven s brilliant dome of l)lue, Gazing down in transports holy, Are thy soul-lit eyes so true. Thus all through life's fitful changes, Struggling onward as I I'ove, Thou shalt from thy heaven of beauty Draw me upward with thy love. 1859. This year has tied with all its joys and sorrows, Gone from the present, joined unto the past ; The hours Avhich made its dark or bright tomorrows Are fixed, unchanged, — forever now they last. Its record lives with other bygone years, A tale passed back unto creation s morn. Days bright Avith love, days dark with grief and tears, Davs mino'led witli life's sunshine and its storm. — 104 — This year now gone, forms one more step in ages, Which nnmber eighteen hnndrecl fifty nine ; No deep philosophy nor earth' s great sages Can change its name, renew its place, — its time. A step it stands, held fast in numbered cycles, A step that lifts ns farther on our way Toward the bright glowing of immortal beauties That wait our usliering to an endless day. UNRECOGNIZED GENIUS. The deep sympathy my spirit bears to thine Sees thee so lonely, thy aching head on thy frail hand recline. Feels that despair' s dull mist thy mind has ci'ossed. Thy hope' s bright gems in life' s dark ocean lost. Yes, 'tis my spirit hears and feels and knows Each gloomy thought that robs thee of repose, Sees thy heart's crater's black extinguished fire. (Which once burned brightly) all too soon expire. Awake thee. Son of genius, know 'tis not of earth ; Thv power's from God, — is gemmed with heaven's high birth. Arouse thee. Should tempests rage and lower Around thv head, and dreary storms down pour,— Firm on tlie rock of trutli tliy feet sliall stand, Tlie threatening waves will not submerge the land. Now lift thy soul from its dull, tearful gloom. One spirit's ever with thee in thy lonely room. Joy, crowned with hope, sliall twine thy clear, x)al« brow. Would I could make thee feel its j^resence now. Would I could lift from off tliy life its gloom. Immure thy sadness in oblivion's tomb. Would I could light with happiness thine eye, And see thy soul's bright sunshine in its azure sky. ON RECEIVING A GOLD PENCIL, PRE- SENTED BY MY CLASS. Receive my thanks for this, your friendly token. Language cannot my pleasure all unbind ; True poetry of feeling is not sj^oken. But lies too deep the surface soon to find. Your time has passed at truth's bright shrine ador- ing, Nor shall your worship) e'er prove false and vain, The useful x^earls of knowledge ye are storing- Shall shine on earth and live in heaven aaain. ion As time's swift car tlirougli future years is lilidin In retrosx)ection I sliall see you still, — Still feel the gratitude my sxiirit's chiding To flow in w^ords, but cannot flow at will. AVliether my voyage in life be rough or even, May you share every blessing earth can give Its various joys be found again in heaven, And God' s own impress on your beings live. SPIRIT POWER. Great j^ower of the universe, — Positive Mind, — Our Father and Mother forever combined ; Thy laws which are Love attract us to Thee, We feel Thy great presence, too brilliant to see. Encased in this form. Oh ! helx^ us to find Thy essence in nature, thy jjresence in mind ; Thy x)Ower thro' creation, in x^lanets and suns. In their bright orbits moving, their starry course runs. The xwwer of Thy wisdom in beauty unfurled In diamond light sx^arkling, each joy sx^angled world Shines on through Thy love and radiatt\s light To guide us and cheer us and keep ns aright. Tliv love-liorhted worlds on the soft azure skies -107 — Tpack us in triin worship wlie]i our own spirit's eves Look upward in love to the source of its birth. (Xo creed, priest, or layman is its herakl on eartli. ) Tlie deep, hi:^ " Take a glimpse of earth-life, dear ; \ "~^A Then we'll lly to worlds away, Live in the light of endless day, For of such as thou 'tis given ; To make up the perfect Heaven ' ' i , ^ 122 SONNET. I wish I were the orb of day. Which wakes the bhishing morn, I'd clasp thee witli my brightest rav And melt to light thy angel form. I wish I were the deep blue sea, rd bear thee fondly on my breast, My costliest pearls I'd give to thee To keep thee in my fond caress. I wish I were night's silvery queen, I then would greet thy sunlit eyes With love's soft, silent, soulful beams, From out the lucid, azure skies. I wish I were the breath of flowers, Pd mingle with thine very own. Till, lost in Eden's roseate bowers. Our beings both were joined in one. 128 fe FALSE FRIENDSHIP. Where'er thine ivy'tl friendshii3 tv/ines, World vain and false and frail and fair, Like the cleft bark 'neath creeping vines, It scathes the brow with sorrow there. No joy on earth but bends to grief And worships at a shrine of woe ; No smiles but what are rendered brief By crystal tear-drops as they How. No love but seeks in vain to lind Reflected in its idol's eyes, The image of itself enshrined, To bless alike with smiles and sight., Then when by keenest tortures rent, The bursting heart itself corrodes, Some new barbed arrow then is sent By one whose word the spirit goads. Oil ! Avhat is friendship worth that frowns On woes it cannot feel or know ; What, but to weigh the spirit down And mark the course for tears to flow i 124 ^. "THE LORD IS IN HIS HOLY TEMPLE. " The Lord is in His holy temple," That temple in the skies, Where the diamond tread of sparkling worlds In their Hashing brilliants rise. AVhere the moon in smiling beauty Looks through her fleecy veil, And with her silvery shadows Tints mountain, hill, and dale ; How the earth in loving brightness Clasps this image to her breast ; And the ocean in its grandeur Wears her smile and jewelled crest. "The Lord is in His holy temple," And that tenij^le is the air, Filled witli forms of tiny millions. Pilled with floating music fair ; Pilled with life and golden sunshine, Giving out to each a share Of the glorious worlds created To S2:)read beauty everywhere. 12: ETOLA. Reason, that soul-star o'er our x^athway lifted, To guide in j)eace and liarmony our love. Shines with a radiance on the nobly gifted, And lode-star-like attracts our thoughts above. May this bright star shine ever o'er the temple, Where all thy loves like sweetest roses bloom, — Shine down beneath thy feet, then wilt thou trample All selfish j^assions to oblivion's tomb. Thy life will then on earth begin its heaven, Thine eyes no more be dimmed by sorrow's tears ; Thy soul to jjeace, thy heart to love, be given. And hope's bright star shine ever radiant here. GUARDIAN ANGELS. Oh ! our angel friends above us, Come illume our darkened sphere, Let us know that still you love us, Let us feel your presence here. As through earthly scenes we wander Filled with selfish views and cares. Let us feel — above us — yonder, Ye are bent o'er us in prayer, 126 121 If our morning's sky is darkened Shadowed o' er with deei^ despair, Let us know that ye have hearkened, And our troubles kindly share. As Aurora, smiling, blushing, Gilds the roseate morning sky, Let us see the light that's gushing From immortal dear ones nis-h. TO MY HUSBAND. Dost see our angel mothers near us, Beckoning us from earth away ? Oh ! how their loving smiles endear us, '•, Pointing to realms of endless day. Husband, from by-gone days thy casket .^^ :; Of memory brings its sacred pearls, ::^" , They'll twine thy brow, if ye but ask it. With gems immortal in this world. --•-; For is not memory here immortal, ^ v; The living, deathless soul of thoughts ^3 The light that radiates thro' death's portal, 'rl^ The crown from God by angels sought i Now all so pure, so bright, so chastened. Our mothers bring their guardian love. 128 Too soon, too soon from us tliey hastened To join tlie heavenly choir above. Oh I dou])t not that our angel mothers Can see our many griefs and cares, And know their cause, and, with the other, Each their turn in patience bears. Dearest, holiest, guardian spirits, Fill onr hearts with love and bliss ; Let us feel that we inherit Heaven, before our leaving this. Q,J>fe ,>^i^S^ ^ AURORA. Aurora's warm blushes Shine through the grey morn, And the zephyr's breath Inishes, As each rosebud is born, The dewdrop still nestling So sweet in its cui). So pearly and gemlike, Till the sun drinks it up. The sun is an archer, With millions of bows. And speeds his gold arrows, As onward he goes,— The Cupid of nature, His love-given darts Stick close in the worship Of millions of hearts. Hearts rose-like, hearts gem-like, Hearts beautifully true. Hearts from this gold fountain Their pure essence drew. That gives back prime sweetness To nature around, Retlects every image And reciprocates sound, 129 — 130 — Until tlirougli all nature In harmony play The Great Author's music, — Each lyric a lay, Each rosebud a harpstring, Each zephyr a sound. Which the musical forest Re-echoes around. And the hoarse voice of ocean. In its murmuring roar, Beats time with its surges, As they dash on the shore. ' Tis the base in the concert, And its full, dreamy voice Tells that ever a presence Is singing rejoice. m ^•.^s^^^ A PORTRAIT. Tills brings tliy presence near, As when Love nx)on us smiled ; I hear thy voice so clear, In tones so soft and mild. That intellectual brow Enclosed thy thoughts serene ; All ! how it speaks e' en now, — It tells of a joy that's been. The music of the past Is lingering near me yet. Where' er my lot be cast, I never ciin forget. Fate forged the iron ]>nrs. Which shut me from thy side ; I tell unto the stars, — Love from the world I hide. We ne'er again shall meet. And yet I feel that never Shall distance, worldly joys, or years. Our fond remembrance sever. 131 FASCINATED. Of all the crowd I saw but one Whose bright, bewitching glance Fastened my gaze on her alone And left my soul entranced. Her head was classic, and her hair A softly golden hue, Her form was symmetry so I'are, Her eyes a heavenly blue. Oh ! could she know how deep enshrined Her image in this heart. She would not, could not, ever find ^j'}^ The power to say : we X)ivi't. MABEL'S BIRTHDAY. This morning is as sparkling As one some years now gone, When an angel, from his cherubs, Brought our newest, sweetest one. And so our little Mabel Came with the birds and flowers. When summer wore its golden crown And lengthened out the hours, — 132 v^ ;i-^ n 133 — When tlie lightest, daintiest zephyrs Kissed her round and rosy face, -^^ ■ f And the bluest skies smiled down upon £-); Her budding, baby grace. - Her tiny rose-tipjoed fingers Reached out to catch the light, And her lovely blue eyes followed All, wondering at the sight. 4^^;; Time has sped with magic swiftness, .: Caring naught for hopes and fears, "v - It finds our bud a l^lossom '. "- ' Neath the light of sixteen years. Many lofty thoughts inspire her i\^ To reach knowledge's shining goal, — High resolves and high ambitions Find her name on honor s roll, ,^0 i& May the light that now is burning \"^' In her heart prove strong and true, 'z^; May her feet march on securely Seeking grace and wisdom, too. May this happy, joyous birthday Be repeated o'er and o'er. And the fiowers of love be twining Round her life forevermore. . ■- •: ELOQUENCE. That magic power coirmienced its reign in Eden, Luring our parents from their Paradise, Filling their senses with its potent bearing, Till naught else there could charm their wistful eyes. Hail, mighty Eloquence ! To thee 'tis given To govern with a despot' s iron will. To bind to earth, overturn the laws, of heaven. Then gild thy fetters witli a magic skill. By thee are kings and kingdoms made or riven. Whole states and empires set to rise and fall In senate halls, — e'en God's own temples given To thee, thou art so sure to govern all. Yet two-faced, thou : one shows thee pure and holy, Letting the oppressed of earth thy mercy share, Keaching thine arms to raise the poor and lowly, Guiding the weak with all a brother's care. Thine other face is dark and evil-minded, With eyes that watch to snare unwary feet, Thou stealest into hearts all unprotected, The young and innocent thou striv'st to meet. The good and evil thou ; these w^ondrous powers Are battling with, each other for the might ; Evil shall die, and good shall reign triumphant, For God is ever, ever with the right. vt-; 134 p^K^ h^^i^mnQ EVA'S FOURTH BIRTHDAY. Oh ! sun with golden beams, 111 amine all her day dreams ; Make the sweetest roses blow ; Make the laughing waters tlow ; Make the starry worlds arise In glittering grandeur o'er her skies. Make her see the silent power That opens every bud and flower ; And grace her brow with the lovely gem Of truth' s most precious diadem. A PETITION. Oh ! sweet angel friends above us, Come and light our darkened s^Dhere, Let us know that still you love us, Let us feel your jDresence here. As Aurora, smiling, blushing, Lights the roseate morning sky, Let us see the light that' s gushing From blest spirits ever nigh. If our noonday sky is darkened By the clouds of sorrow here, 135 m Si^iili^* 8r~-:^-^s^3^5ij ■r^-:;-^v:=-ii=->?i^"-vi 13(3 ' V ■ ■ I^et us know that you have harkened r - To our sobs of deej) despair. : ' As on earth so dark we wander, Filled with selfish views and cares, Let us feel above us, yonder, You are listenint^ to our prayers. u--.r i UNFORGOTTEN. Memory with her tablets gold And familiar smiles of old. Bears thy image ever on, Though tlie years have come and gone. In my souF s deep starry light Glows our cherished love so bright. Friends may fail and fortunes fall ; It shall shine above them all. -: IMonth to month aiid year to year. Thy remembrance ever dear Keeps anew within my breast C\ii4 Hapi^y hours when we were blest. p-H jiov' Wide our paths in life diverge, '^ ■ ' Where Ave shall at last emerge lo' Is not given ns to know, As the years cloth onward flow. Still we never shall forget Until life's bright sun is set, Then our mutual love shall rise Brighter still in heavenly skies. "LOYE NOT." Bid me not love ! Go tell the sun To stop the golden hours, ]N"or mark the sands of life that run, N^or kiss the dew from flowers. Bid me not love ! Go tell the stars To hide their holy light. Leave eartli in gloom, and man in wars, Wrax)ped in absorbing night. Bid me not love ! Go tell the moon Her silvery course is run. That breathless I^ature in a swoon Lies gasping — life is done. Bid me not love, — my soul is hid In sorrow' s darkest pall. « -138 a- 4:^^ Hope shuts on eartli a coffin lid, -^^f: And darkness covers all. "i^ Oil ! bid me love, — for God is love, {^ And worlds His love lias wrought, -'^ Filled them Avith liffht from heaven above, And peopled life with thought. ;S|,1 Oh ! bid me love, — 'tis life's best boon, To light our path beyond the tomb, And raise our thoughts to heaven. ST. HELENA. St. Helena! thou outcast from all the green eartli. With thy rocks piled amidst the lone wave, 'i'hy laurels are wreathed, and the i)lace of thy birth Ne'er shall be hid in oblivion's grave. Thou hast pillowed that head, once radiant with power, That form by the world held in awe. Those eyes 'neatli whose glances earth's princes did cower. And whose mandate •'•ave nations a law. '^v.;.,".^^., #»»iirr'/ ' uT) /•r-c=VT",-.,-™.'