Class _J_2Li5XL COnffUGHT DEPOSm THE STAR OF GOLD ^^yz^yyyyyyyyyyyy^yyy^/^^^^^^ The Star of Gold And Other Poems By Eva Ashley Parslow THE STRATFORD COMPANY PUBLISHERS BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS SM^^WM^WWM^^X^WW^^^^^^^^^^M^^^^^^^^^pj& t^^^^^^^ >^^^ Copyright 1921 The STRATFORD CO., Publishers Boston, Mass. The Alpine Press, Boston, Mass., U. S. A. JUL 18 1S21 ^C!.A617744 / dedicate this book of verse to my sister, whose life has always been to me an in- spiration and joy. Contents The Star of Gold 1 Singing 3 Sojourners ...... 4 The Island of Cytherea . 5 The Parting of the Ways 7 In Mid May 8 Summer's Moods 9 Transformation 10 The Well-Springs of Life . 12 To Mother 14 In the Attic 16 Love-Chains ...... 19 In Memoriam 21 One Fateful Night .... 24 The Long Voyage .... 25 Reflections 26 My Prayer 29 Fortune 30 The Unsinkable Ship of Democracy 33 Facing the Future .... 35 From Pacific to Atlantic 37 After Many Years 40 Father's Day 42 A Bachelor's Song 43 Recollections 45 The Mohawk 47 Flag Day and the Mohawk Heroes 50 Utica's Pageant 52 Jamestown College .... 57 Pictures from College Hill . 58 Prairie Flowers 60 Life's Storms 61 The Star of Gold AS deep'ning shadows gathered in the east All eyes were turned to watch on-coming gloom, The din of battle sounded from afar, And hearts were strained to meet impending doom. Swift through the dark and all-encircling clouds, Insistent as a voice in troubled tones — Appealing to the very souls of men — There came faint echoes of those dying moans. We pictured stricken France and heroes, brave ; Hushed were we in deepest thought and reverie. We caught the look of anguish, the appeal To God to spare their lives if it might be ! The supplication grew, at last, more faint: ' ' Not my will but Thine, oh Thou my Guide. ' ' The echo died away — our heads were bowed ; Then came the echoing — ' ' Lord with me abide." [I] THE STAR OF GOLD The picture changed. Those crimson fields were kissed By sunset skies. Alas, the day was done. Night settled down upon that hero band — Some living, some their earthly course now run. Then, as our heads were lifted, we beheld Bright gleaming thru the distant, silent night, A golden star which seemed to speak this message : ' ' Be not dismayed. Trust on, all will be right. ' ' And now the stars all seemed to sing together — A chorus, like that sacred song of old ; "Peace comes at last. Weep not; your fallen hero Will lead you onward thru his Star of Gold." [2] AND OTHER POEMS Singing DID you ever note the singing Of the birds before the rain ? Hear the zephyrs waft the echo Of a plaintive soft refrain? There's a meaning deep and hidden In the voice before the storm, It is Prophecy and Promise Taking on a subtle form. We are told the lark's first song notes Were begun as notes of pain; So the singing may be sighing When it comes before the rain; But if sighing can be singing Why not every body sing ! Sing before the storm and after — And watch Discontent take wing ! [3] THE STAR OF GOLD Sojourners JUST a wave of the hand and a smile As we sojourn together to-day, Will, perhaps, cheer some heart for awhile Or may possibly brighten the way That seems dark to another — the while. Just a look that is kind, a bright smile That speaks straight to the soul of a fellow. May, perchance, a few sunbeams beguile Into ways that will soften and mellow Some heart hardened thru misery or trial. Just a word that is kind and a smile ! How much happier we would be — one and ail- As we journey together — awhile. And at last answer ' ' here ' ' to the Call That will claim us an infinite while. t4j AND OTHER POEMS The Island of Cytherea THERE 'S an Island of Cytherea, Earthly paradise we name it. 'Tis the home of many lovers Who are young and fancy-free ; Young and fair and filled with music From the tlute of one-Pied Piper, And the notes, revibrant ever, Are b.y myriad voices sung. Nor can we choose but follow For the music throws a glamour. And the cadence, all-pervading, Is like fragrance from the rose. Nor does it change, this island. Its enchantment thrills unceasing. And the river leading to it Swift, compelling, dancing flows. Happy they who have this journey Still before them — land of romance Who would not embark with pleasure To rehearse the echoing song ? [5] THE STAR OF GOLD If we could with youth's loved comrade Through yon halcyon groves now wander, We would linger by the river, Tarry there the whole day long. — Till some gondolier might sight us, Row us to that magic island 'er the spacious sea of ether Toward the gleaming of the light ; And beyond with mirth enraptured. Flinging to the clouds all sadness. We would reach empyreal borders Guided by our starlit sight. Cherished Island of Cytherea, I am with thee in my dream-world, And thy zephers waft a perfume Like the breath of bridal wreaths. Life now calls me to new duties But the melodies still cheer me. And thy memory, constant ever, Strength into my life-blood breathes ! [6] AND OTHER POEMS The Parting of the Ways MISS Spring comes joyously tripping along, Filling the earth with laughter and song. Her raiment is bright, artistic and new, All sparkling with jewels and glittering with dew. She casts furtive glances toward her late swain ; How Winter regrets this fair maiden 's disdain ! Jack lingered at length in his cold, austere mood And on Miss Spring's time seemed inclined to intrude. But no doubt she will show her admirer yet She's quite independent — like a true suffragette; She will win the whole world by her mild, gentle ways And hobnob with Summer, through the coming bright days. [7] THE STAR OF GOLD In Mid May WITH magical splendor and mystical charm All Nature proclaims May her Queen ; Then decks her with garlands — bright-jewelled and rare, And grey-veils the beauteous scene. We tread on her carpet — so verdant and soft, All cares disappear as we sing. We sip the sweet nectar from chalice of bloom. And welcome the glad smile of Spring. We turn to the byways with clover o'er-grown, Kecalling the Mays of our youth, And tho' a faint perfume regales us again, Still, something seems lacking — forsooth ! Perhaps 'tis an Absence that cannot be filled ; Then breezes blow gently and cry : "Remembrance shall lose neither magic nor charm Tho' the springtime of youth has passed by." [8] AND OTHER POEMS Summer's Moods IN the plumage of her sister, With assurance of her own, Summer leaves Miss Spring, rejoicing. Northward she proceeds alone. Unlike spring, whose gentle zephyrs Were as welcome as her May, She will rage and storm unbridled. Soon her mother earth she'll sway. But without her tear-bathed landscapes How could summer's roses bloom? Ah ! there 's brightness back of darkness, Radiance follows after gloom! Summer's moods are like our fancies. Now we weave with threads of gold. Then again we weave the shadows — Both but help our lives unfold. [9] THE STAR OF GOLD Transformation O, beauteous morn, with every tree and shrub Bedecked with brightest crystals — ^beau- teous snow ! Which man hath tried in vain to imitate By artist's brush or alchemist's wondrous art, But which compared to nature 's matchless skill Fails to inspire the thought or thrill the heart With rapturous joy, such as those proudly know Who look upon a glistening, gladdening scene Some Winter's morn, with every branch white- capped, Resplendent with the touch of master stroke. And ask, Whence cometh this? Prom out yon space Illumined, darkened both in needful turn? Just as our life by sun and shower expands, By joys and sorrows crystalizing power We are evolved into a nobler life. And now we ask, where goeth all too soon These panoramic pictures — varying forms ? Are they forever lost when changed, and live [10] AND OTHER POEMS But in the memory? No. Though they're transformed, Else eyes would grow bedimmed and lusterless, For naught remains untouched by magic wand. Aye — mountain peak and ocean's wave-washed shores, Earth, star-lit sky — all speak of marvelous change. Without it, ah ! without transforming force, As we are but a part of one great whole. Monotony would reign in place of growth, There 'd be no evolution op the Soul. [II] THE STAR OF GOLD The Well-Springs of Life HOPE'S beacon leadeth on from day to day, anon ■ — Through all the changing scenes of life her brightness gleams. If Hope should disappear from Earth's broad realms, we fear This great Humanity would fail and cease to be. When disappointments come, or one, perchance, has some Misfortune he must bear; when sorely tried with care, And when the world seems cold, Hope comes with joys untold ! Before her shrine we '11 pay our homage — day by day. But when clouds intervene, or shadows steal between Man and fond Hope, Love sits near with radiant light, to cheer [12] AND OTHER POEMS The heart, which seems congealed by sorrow, un- revealed To other eyes, perhaps, when grief the life- blood saps. Love, thou art a boon to all mankind ; for soon Life's dusk would deepen into night without thee ; tho ' thy light At times seems but to lure, 'twill brighten, re- assure. Lead on and help us meet both victory and defeat. '3 THE STAR OF GOLD To Mother OF b.ygone days I'm thinking And a tender glowing light Centers around a hearthstone, Like clustering stars of night, And reflects my mother's figure In her old accustomed place. I can feel her gentle presence As though we were face to face. She seems to be reading a letter From some one who is dear, For, falling upon the paper Is a sympathetic tear. Yes, the missive is from a loved one Who tells of a grief all her own ; And mother's quick thought sends answer, "Dear child, you are not alone; Let me help you bear the burden As I 've done many times before. ' ' And rising, she enters her chamber, Then softly closes the door. In my reverie I enter with her, [14] AND OTHER POEMS And stand by her sacred chair. But I cannot describe the pathos In the voice of mother's prayer! I steal away in silence For the place is holy ground ; But my heart is a thousand times lighter And somehow peace is found. Ah ! when memory turns to mother The pathway is always bright. For her eyes reflect a radiance, 'Tis the glow of mother-love light. [15] THE STAR OF GOLD In the Attic LET us softly open the attic door, And tiptoe across the room, For the ghosts of other years are there — The old spinning wheel, the loom — And hundred and one odd heirlooms, rare; Dust-laden, perhaps, and passe. But they speak a language we understand And echo the far away. Let us open once more the old cedar chest With its treasures quaint, untold; With its relics of by-gone happj^ years And its stories a century old. We fondly kneel by the time-honored trunk, And with gentle, loving hands. We lift the cover, as ancestors did. For reverence this chest commands. : We peep here and there in the close packed tills. With their lavender scent long gone, [i6] AND OTHER POEMS Untying ribbons long ago faded, Around parcels, one by one. Here a bit of lace from a wedding gown, Creamy by reason of age, And here a package of letters, we find, Shall we read them page by page? Ah ! somehow they seem far too sacred, Let them keep their secrets, old ! We can read enough of the story From this box with its relics of gold. Some one placed them here — mute reminders • — When love cherished every one ; A broken bracelet, an earring, a brooch, With its once glistening gem long gone. Then we find tiny shoes and wee dresses. Here a sprig of mignonnette ; There are photos, books and dear old songs. We can hear the melody yet ! ' ' But why should we keep these longer ? " we ask, Then a cadent note reproves. We re-tie, refold and re-place them. Though the voice but a phantom proves. 'Tis Remembrance hovering around them still, Keeping vigil through the years, [17] THE STAR OF GOLD Guarding these keepsakes another may prize, And turning mirth into tears. We reverently close the cover and leave, Breathing a prayer that some day This vigil will still watch over, with care, The treasures we lay away. [181 AND OTHER POEMS Love-Chains FOND memory wakes, bringing to view The scenes of bygone days; The pictures gleam with love-chains Varied as sunset rays. Parental love entwined each heart With links of purest gold, Tried by the test of effort, brave, Unsung, unknown, untold! And Brother love, like Sister love. Untiring, smoothed the path; It bore us above the rugged steeps And replete is the aftermath. Then Friendship links, like coral reefs. Taking on many forms. Brightened our days, as the moon the night, Or sustained us through life's storms. And the Sweetheart chain, with its links of song And story we love so well ; How we followed Cupid where'er he led, Though the destiny none could tell. [19] THE STAR OF GOLD We soared away to happy realms, And we found the paths of Dream ; But wherever the way, the Mother-love Followed on — like a silvery stream. Yes, it gladdened our hearts in childhood, And soothed us when we were distressed ; It watched us through the devious ways, Ah ! the Mother-love knows no rest. Maternal love is undying love, Thrice blest that adorable gift! 'Tis a chain that grows strong through sacrifice. Its strength is its power to uplift. [20] AND OTHER POEMS In Memoriam Lines mi the sinking of the "Titantic" April fourteenth, Nineteen hxmdred and twelve THOUGrH warning came of drifting floes of ice, Majestically the great '* Titanic" hurried on. The day had passed — niglit settled o 'er the sea, The very stars kept vigil 'long the way, Lest on her maiden voyage some danger lurked Unseen and unexpected. Icebergs, vast, Perchance might cross her path and cripple her ; But no, this could not be, for she was staunch, Like a leviathan, and built indeed To battle with the elements and sea. •» * * Thus thought the Captain, brave, whose heart now thrilled With expectation mingled with regret. For this, he said, must be the last great ship He would command ; this his last trip ! For forty years he'd sailed the mighty sea Unharmed, and thereby won applause of men, [21] THE STAR OF GOLD But soon he must heroically retire For age was creeping on and he must rest. 'Twas thus his reverie ran. Remembrance woke, But while he planned — Fate wrought her stern decree ; His Queen was wounded mortally that night. A monstrous berg, gigantic and undreamed, Pierced with its hidden fangs this ship of steel All laden with its precious human freight And bent her bow into the waters dread. The scenes that followed pen cannot depict. The Captain, passengers, and sturdy crew Appalled, with but a single thought well knew The craft was doomed and they by anguish torn Waited their fate. Could they dare hope for life ? The angry sea about them filled with ice And not another ship to reach, perhaps ! Women and men — twenty-three hundred souls — Now prayed as they had never prayed before For help and strength to meet approaching doom. * * * Swift through the air their signal of distress Sped on its way, to be caught up, thank God, By the "Carpathia"! In quick response She sent a message back ; then turned at once To rescue and to save — if save she could. [22] AND OTHER POEMS Meantime the lifeboats lowered from the fated ship. The impulse known as the divine in man Came forth to glorify the tragic hour, For men gave place to women, martyr-like ! * ' Entreat me not to leave thee, ' ' Love now cried, '' Whitherso-ever thou goest I will go !" * m * Could anj^ tongue describe that agony — As hundreds of the weak were bravely launched ? That parting from their loved ones — stout hearts rung In cruel grief and anguish all their own — Some to be rescued, some to meet their doom With the old Captain and his Queen of Ships. One thousand and six hundred souls went down When this proud Titan plunged into the deep, Wealth clasped the hand of Poverty, and Death Beckoned them on into their watery tomb ! # * * And as the morning light broke o 'er the scene — The world, bowed with its grief and dread despair, Asked of the silent deep : "What can it mean. Is this the ransom fate demands of Speed?" And from her depths a sighing echo came: "Let Prudence and fair Science lead thee forth !" [23] THE STAR OF GOLD One Fateful Night* E'ER Nineteen Twelve had passed From spring to summertime. Her history was carved in letters fast — A page sublime ! For though disaster dread and unsurpassed, A sheath of sorrow over two worlds spread, And darkness cast — Still shone there through it all, A wondrous light ! Above the tragedy and funeral pall, Transcending bright — A torch, held by the strong, In their last earthly fight. Proclaimed their chivalry. Appeased their wrong, One fateful night. *This poem was written with the sinking of the Titanic in mind, and the chivalry of the men who gave place to women. [24] AND OTHER POEMS The Long Voyage* TESTED and tried by life's receding care I lay me down to rest — all unaware Of where I shall awake ; but this I know Peace pilots me and leads wher'er I go. Peace, bending low, repeats with accent clear A glad refrain into my list 'ning ear, The words are these : ' ' You 've tried to do your best. Fear not. I 'm with you now. Be not distress 'd. ' ' Peace bids me come. Let no one challenge me ! As I embark upon the untried sea I '11 say farewell with neither sigh nor moan, Knowing: full well Peace fears not the Unknown. *This was published on the death of Mayor Gaynor of New York, wb ) died at aea, 1913. [25] THE STAR OF GOLD Reflections O, the mystery of life ! Like the gathering, deep'ning dusk of night It veils our sight; o'erwhelms us and becomes The deeper still as earth unfolds her marvels. The finite mind can comprehend so little Of the revolving orbs or Infinite, That we're compelled to say: "We do not know." 'Twere futile to attempt by human means To even explain a cell, or whence it came. Yet, somehow in the heart of every one There lives the hope, that he may understand The mystery of Life and Death and all That forms the Universe — so great, so vast That our intensest thought is subt'ly dulled When we attempt to solve it in our way. # # ^ It seems unknowable; but as there's born Within us apprehension of our fate, We spend long hours in wond'ring, striving In vain, to know ; for, all unseen, there comes [26] AND OTHER POEMS To interpose between onr mind 's dim eye And the Great Cause, oblivion's mystic veil, As tho' to teach anew our limitations. * * « But there's eiiough that we may know full well: To live for others not alone for ours, Would make this world a better place for man ; That there is scarcely any deed one does But that its influence acts and then reacts Upon some other brain — like dew absorbed And then dispensed again ; and thus it is That a kind action travels on and on Through boundless Time ; no one would dare attempt To measure or compute the good resulting From it ; but, likewise, none can know The harm or grief which follows in the train Of a wrong action ; and although the one Who did it, may, perchance, repent, 'tis done And on its way is sent through countless days To leave its imprint on the minds of men. Should we not then learn well the patent fact : That as we live aright, we live to be Immortal in our good ; if wrong, alas ! Immortal in the influence of those deeds. [27] THE STAR OF GOLD And if the soul reflects the inner-self, And lives to make or mar our lives and others, Should we not early learn to follow Christ? Not for ourselves alone, but all mankind. For thus the spirit can evolve and grow Until it find itself at one with God. \28\ AND OTHER POEMS My Prayer OH constant source of Truth and Light di- vine, Direct thy rays into this heart of mine ; Search in its deep recesses, keep it pure. And there shall follow blessings rich and sure. Oh Light within my soul, direct my life ; Keep me from malice in this world of strife. Oh Light of Justice, guard this heart of mine ; Teach me thy law is purest love divine. If adverse winds should turn my course from Thee, Let not my bark be lost on sorrow's sea; Take Thou the helm. Oh Father, pilot me. Oh Star of Hope, guide Thou my destiny ! [29] THE STAR OF GOLD Fortune REPUTATION watched with Virtue for their fortune To change into a new and brighter day ; They had hoped, and longed, and waited for the turning. Until they 'd grown despondent 'long the way. There were times when life seemed scarcely worth the living; When ambition, faith and hope seemed to de- part ; But hope was first to cheer them by returning, And the load was slowly lifted from the heart. Then they pondered on the outlook for the future ; There was but a ray of light to lead them on ; But, 'twas that one ray alone which helped them venture Up the craggy, rugged road they'd started on. [30] AND OTHER POEMS Reputation said, "Don't lose me, 0, my sister, If you miss me for a moment I am lost. Keep me near you ; don 't desert me, best of sisters, Wliile upon the Sea of Life our barks are tossed. "I know pleasure, fame and wealth are well worth winning, In the race upon this ball we call the earth ; But these things are a mere hindrance, if the gaining Means a sacrifice of honor or of worth. "We'll strive ever to live nobly, and, hence- forward, To aid others who are weary or depressed ; 'To be true to one's own self — Ah! that's the secret, Which gives to life its sparkle and its zest. ' ' Virtue said, ' ' Yes, that alone repays the striving, For a pleasure shared becomes, at once, twice dear; What would our cosmos be if, along the byways. We should fail to carry friendliness or cheer ? ' ' [31] THE STAR OF GOLD Thus good fortune is assured, for, with right living. Comes a wealth of peace which truly is sublime ; And kind effort finds no limit, but, like sunshine, It radiates and spreads through endless Time. 13^1 AND OTHER POEMS The Unsinkable Ship of Democracy SAIL on, thou Unsinkable Ship, With America 's torch at thy bow ; Go, visit the war-stricken nations of earth And herald democracy's vow. Ye Waters, your perils are past. And though storms still continue to rage, Less toll shall ye gather of human life To be written on history's page. Ye sub-marines, cease your attacks; 'Twere futile to spend and be spent. No missile ye send on its mission of death Can now harm. Turn back and relent. Take thought of the anguish you've left in your train, The piteous moans of the dying; The waves of the ocean still echo their cry, And the earth resounds with their sighing. Blood-stained are the waters you've ploughed, Heartsore are the nations today, [33] THE STAR OF GOLD Because of your ruthless, unspeakable guilt, You have tilled the whole world with dismay. Let your conscience awake, like the morn After the storm-tossed night. Be strong ; Awake to the voice of Peace on Earth And atone for your wanton wrong. Go weep with the mothers and wives. The fathers and sisters and friends ; Go bind up the wounds of the war-stricken world Where death lurks and danger attends. Go search in the fathomless sea For the fairest of youth ye have slain ; Go search for our seamen and sons, Let us look on their faces again. Go search in the tombs and the corners of earth The far-stretching field and the fen. Go carry a message to souls in despair And strengthen the world-weary men. Is the task too impossible? Speak, Sub-marine, Let the world hear your answer today; Restitution may gain her rightful toll. Dare you face it ? There 's no other way ! The Unsinkable Ship sails the seas And meets you at death 's cruel zone ; [34] AND OTHER POEMS Democracy sits at the helm and speaks clear As she crosses your pathway alone. Dread darkness now spreads rounds the earth, But Right will prevail — give praise ! For the light in the bow of the ship Shall encircle the world with her rays ! Facing the Future LET us not strive for pleasure's chase alone, Nor let us worship at the shrine of ease ; But may we work with this one aim : To please The Master Mind ; and for misdeeds atone. [35] AND OTHER POEMS From Pacific to Atlantic* FROM Pacific to Atlantic Votes for women we shall see. Woman's rights have long existed, Woman 's rights there '11 always be. Slie has had a right to struggle, She has had a right to pray ; She will gain the right of sutfrage Thru her own efficient way. She has battled for her children, She has made a noble fight; She has taught proud sons to love her, Taught them only Right is might. Now she asks them to reward her With the right to vote for right. And to help them in their efforts Toward an upward onward flight. She has shared the world's great burdens; In past years she 's tilled the soil ; *This poem was written in 1914, and published the same year in a suffrage paper when the state convention met at Binghamton, N. Y. [37] THE STAR OF GOLD She has worked in field and factory, Home and office know her toil. Now she asks the right of franchise But this protest loud we hear : "Women's rights are at the hearthstone There to minister and cheer. ' ' That we hold is truth unquestioned; This appeal from sea to sea Is for fairer law and justice For unborn posterity. Thru long years she 's rocked the cradle Of the nation, faithfully; Now she asks that her fair daughters And her sons share equally. From Pacific to Atlantic She is shaping destiny For a better, broader, brighter And more righteous liberty. She has won full many a battle, She has reared our Washingtons ; In the cause of glorious freedom She has sacrificed her sons. From Pacific to Atlantic Men have praised her loyally, [38] AND OTHER POEMS Though they've oft forgotten precepts Which she taught them at her knee ; But, like bread upon the waters After many, many days. They'll reward her thru allegiance To her right and righteous ways. [39] THE STAR OF GOLD After Many Years FROM Atlantic to Pacific Prohibition we shall see. It has been a hope long cherished And an old-time prophecy. Women's tears have swelled the current Of the slow on-coming tide, But there's brightness after darkness And the rays spread far and wide. From Atlantic to Pacific There's a death knell sounding clear, King Barleycorn is summoned And his cohorts crouch in fear; For the voice of Prohibition Sounds the message of her soul And it echoes and re-echoes As it spreads from pole to pole. From Atlantic to Pacific Mothers' hearts are beating light. For their sons will not be hampered • — [40] AND OTHER POEMS As they battle for the right — By the curse of many ages Which has held them captives, slaves ; Prohibition comes with Progress, And she plauneth halcyon days. 41 THE STAR OF GOLD Father's Day* WHILE the vogue is here for the special day, Let us dedicate one to Father, pray ! Bring to him laurels his efforts have won ; Full commendation for work he has done. Give him a part in the frolic and fun ; Yes, why not a Father's day! Thoughtless of self in the bread winning fray, How he has toiled through the long weary day, Why not reward him with flowers and song ? Why not forget any long-cherished wrong? Why not sound praises, withheld, all too long. And welcome a Father's day? There were many hardships along the way, Father's heart was not always light and gay. Think of the burdens he carried alone With never complaint nor sigh nor moan ! For our neglect let us rightly atone And unite in a Father 's day ! *This poem first appeared in a publication devoted entirely to Father. The editor contends that Father has been left out of poetry and prose altogether too long. We now have Mother's Day. When may we hope to hear a word of praise for Father? [42] AND OTHER POEMS A Bachelor's Song LONG gone are the years when the men wore wigs And ribbons and ruffles and velvet coats — And sat around polished tables Telling strange anecdotes; Smoking their long-stem, old-time pipes And drinking old-time wine, Ah ! those were the days of chivalry Recounted in rhythm and rhyme. But the times have changed, in these latter days There are women and maidens — all fair, With ribbons and ruffles and fancy coats And wonderful, wonderful hair ! And they sit 'round polished tables, Though the long-stem pipe is not there. The cigarette and punch-bowl Adorn the tables bare. 0, where is the old-time maiden, Sans powder and paint so fair; The pride of the town in her modest gown [43] THE STAR OF GOLD And simple girlish hair? Why, she would be laughed at, they tell me, In this twentieth century whirl — But, nonsense, I say, I shall wait for the day I can marry an old-fashioned girl. 144 AND OTHER POEMS Recollections YE Hills of Wayne, historic Hills of Wayne, Oft we recall thy vales and villages Bright 'ning- the landscape of our famed New York And bringing joy and gladness to the heart Of all thy children — fond and faithful heirs. We turn with growing pride and veneration To native fields where spring life's richest blessings. In memory we make a pilgrimage To towering hills and to our sacred shrine, For there, perchance, some loved ones long since gone To that "far country" sanctify that hallowed place. Again we linger there in cheerful faith Recalling childhood scenes — like fleeting clouds Now vaguely gleaming — then they seem so close We feel their presence, hear familiar voices. Some friend now clasps our hand, soul speaks to soul, [45] THE STAR OF GOLD And in that moment lofty thoughts are born. We vow anew allegiance to this soil ; To Hills of Wayne and Walworth, we confess No spot on earth is dearer — none more blest. l46] AND OTHER POEMS The Mohawk* IN the dreamy Mohawk valley There's a river running through, Reflecting skies, as silver. Blending opaline with blue ; And the gray-veiled hills beyond it Watch with wonder, for they see This romantic Indian river Change, in no uncertainty. Yes, the hand of commerce threatens To make straight its winding ways And to broaden it and deepen! Never more the quiet days, Wrapped in Nature's magic silence Shall we dream all undisturbed By the shallow, babbling waters. Soothing to the mind perturbed. Now we wander through this valley By the Mohawk quaint and calm. *This was written when the great Barge Canal was being built thru New York State changing the River Mohawk. [47] THE STAR OF GOLD And a peace pervades the stillness, To the weary, 'tis a balm! Reminiscently we tarry Where the Mohawks once did roam And we cry to commerce, begging She will spare their one-time home. Here the brave, but conquered redman Lived and loved his light canoe. And the river echoes gently, "To his memory keep me true!" Commerce answers; 'tis decisive, "Change must come to hill and dale." And before her we are silent. Our request will not avail. Then a soundless-voice reproves us. Chides us for our narrow view And we grasp the marvelous meaning As we bid a fond "adieu!" If we care not for these conquests Backward, backward we must go ; For her march is ever onward Through the valley winding low — Or, through mountain ranges piercing. Rock and river know her hand, [48] AND OTHER POEMS It is mighty, and the sculptor Is the Sculptor of our Land. Stay it not, O, dreamer, lover Of the ancient, olden days, For it is the Hand of Progress And it planneth well its ways. r49] THE STAR OF GOLD Flag Day and the Mohawk Heroes* LET us honor the Star Spangled Banner, Forgetting its history never; Nor the men who stood firm for freedom's flag; Who fought with heroic endeavor ; And let us remember the brave women's part Who, not only gave those they loved best But, gave them the flag to sustain unto death ! And endured, like heroines, that test. We reverence the red for the blood of the brave And the white for the women and wives Who in purity wrought the stars in the blue. Let us emulate proudly those lives ! Our flag grandly floats from myriad staffs, Speaking colors distinctive and true; Long may it wave while millions of men Vow allegiance to the red, white and blue! *The above poem was published August 6, 1914, when the D. A. R. laid tablets niarkine the line of march of General Herkimer and his men, from Herkimer, New York, to Oriskany, where the Oriskany Monument now stands. This marks the battle-ground of the Revolutionary period, and a turning point in the war. [50] AND OTHER POEMS We welcome this day with a two-fold pride As the Mohawk is famed far and near, It gave us the bravest of warriors Who faced carnage and death without fear. We cherish the time General Herkimer Summoned his men from their near rendez- vous To Oriskany's fields where, August sixth, They fought for the red, white and blue. Long gone are the years since that clarion call Bade them march to the fife and drum, But gratitude keeps it fresh to-day, And with homage the D. A. R. come To mark the path of those valiant men. With tablets and praise for deeds done, Which gave to our Nation — the home of the free — Old Glory — so gloriously won! [51] THE STAR OF GOLD Utica's Pageant A Review hy One of the Participants. NOW when the pageant is ended, When the scenes of Old Home Week are o'er, And we 're back in our own quiet quarters, And seated at leisure once more ; We recall, with a smile reminiscent. Our friends in their make-up so quaint. Transformed by their old-fashioned costumes. Their wigs or their gew-gaws and paint. We dance with the Queen of the Forest, The Spirit of Waters and Trees, The nymphs and the sprites and the red-men — Long, long we'll remember all these! And now the Five Nations are gathered; Hiawatha, the peacemaker, comes, Behold, we then see Minnehaha, And hear once again the tom-toms. [52] AND OTHER POEMS As we look, there appears Father Jogues, Uplifting the cross as of old, And the Indians gather around him, While the sweetest of stories is told. Look again and we see Peter Schuyler, And the Palatine Germans — so blonde ; We listen to songs of Thanksgiving, Uniting in one common bond. Now a shrill note of cavalry music — Oriskany's battle is heard! The Mohawk resounds with the echo, And the souls of her children are stirred — As Herkimer falls from his saddle, And carnage and death claim the field. Brave indeed are those troops in the conflict, As the horrors of war are revealed ! The wierd cry of ' ' Oonah ! " is sounded ■ — History here takes an epochal turn ; Soon, fewer and fewer the camp-fires Of the tribes of the Iroquois burn ! We linger with pride at Fort Schuyler ■ — The Post Tavern life buoys us up ; We welcome the time-honored stage-coach, And with Baron Steuben we now sup. [53] THE STAR OF GOLD Old Hamilton College is founded, While the populace gathers around, And memory wakes from her slumbers, As we hallow this sacred ground ! A city of fame is evolving — The chorus swells loud in its praise Of old Utica's rich, classic splendor, As the picture presents ' ' Ancient Days. ' A dance of the Orient follows, With its mystical measures so old; Now the Spirit of Ancient Religion And tableaux before us unfold. With thunder of hoofs in the distance. The Arabs sweep up the ravine. And startle the dwellers, who vanish' — As New Utica comes on the scene ! Welsh music is heard through the forest. And lovers appear with their friends ; A wedding is solemnized quaintly — We applaud as the episode ends. The years roll along, and distinguished. Brave LaFayette stirs all our hearts ; Judge Williams and others now toast him. And amid great applause he departs. [54] AND OTHER POEMS History's Muse hurries on with precision' — "Abolition Days" follows this scene: Susan Anthony, Smith and Fred Douglas, Rev. May and the good Brother Green, With others, attempt a convention. But a mob interferes with their plan ; Ma}' or Grove, as the people grew frantic, To the aid of Miss Anthony ran. They disperse with wild jeering and uproar; "Bill" Dunn now appears with the mail, And two negroes, concealed 'mongst the pouches, Jump out, just as in the old tale ; To the "Underground Railroad" they're hur- ried — The Civil War follows, and then, After years of hard struggle, our soldiers Return to their loved ones again. Prosperity follows our city — In beauty the pageant portrays The chief episodes of her history. And recalls all those soul-stirring days. [55] THE STAR OF GOLD The sun spreads its beams o 'er the hillside — The finale includes the whole east, And before it and through it, tho' soundless. Miss Eager 's voice rings to the last ! fS6] AND OTHER POEMS Jamestown College Far, far away have our alumni gone To China and the distant Philippines, To far-off India's plains and mountain peaks Our youth have found their mission fields ; Like followers of the Master they have gone Where'er the call of duty beckoned them And when the great war called, our sons re- sponded. Four Stars of Gold have we mid scores of blue. These men went forth with J. C. loyal spirit ; Some answered to Life's last faint bugle call And lie in Flanders fields. But some returned And to their Alma Mater brought their trophies. All honor to the ones who bravely died, And honor to the ones who bravely live To "carry on" the work of Peace on Earth, Long may this college sound her clarion note Long may her sons and daughters sound her praises, And with the coming years, God grant To those who toiled to make the college great, A joy which overshadows all the pain That follows in the train of sacrifice. [57] THE STAR OF GOLD Pictures From College Hill Morning AND still the silver moon is shining, Brightly it gleams with Jupiter close fol- lowing. Aurora paints the eastern skies deep golden With gorgeous, pristine tones and radiant hues Which are reflected from a thousand windows In the river valley just below our campus. Slowly the curling smoke from many chimneys Blends with the misty, hazy atmosphere. And like low-hanging clouds obscure the distant view. The gray -veiled hills beyond now dimly clear And catch the early morning's glist'ning rays Which scintillate across the wakening city. The day begins. And we with one accord Unite our voices in a common song Of gratitude for all life 's varied blessings. Evening The western sky reflects the brightest coloring. Matchless the artist of this vivid picture ! [S8] AND OTHER POEMS Nor all the Avorld could boast a scene more brilliant. The city lights below begin their vigil, Like misplaced stars they vie with those above ; And to the weary heart or troubled mind They prove a benediction, even more, An inspiration, guiding, leading on — All doubt and fear and loneliness dispelling. And we again give fervent, silent praise ; For scenes like these will ever live in memory. Go where we will to mountain peaks or plains, To distant shores of ocean or Cathay, No landscape there, no skies however bright Could match the brightness of our college days. 591 THE STAR OF GOLD Prairie Flowers THERE'S a love in my heart for the furry- like crocus* Which comes to us out of the snows; As the sun after rain it brightens and cheers And is loved like the prairie rose. There's a love in my heart for the deep purple iris Which blooms in the early spring days ; With profound adoration I make my obeisance To the Goddess of Flowers and Mays ! There's a song in my heart for the pink wild rose Which blossoms on hillside or plain, Flora chose June for the time of the year When this queen of the prairie shall reign. There's a love in my heart for the unnamed flowers Which greet us wherever we go; And tho ' winds of Dakota blow eerie or strong They scatter the seeds, you know. * The local name "crocus" is given to the Pasque flower, which is the first spring blossom. There are many beautiful and interesting Indian legends in regard to the Pasque flower. [60] AND OTHER POEMS Life's Storms BLOW, ye winds, blow from south, north, east or west, Eerie or fierce, low-sighing or distressed ; Blow, ye winds, blow, thy voice speaks forth thy sorrow. But rest will come on wing of some tomorrow, Blow, ye winds, blow ! Blow, ye winds, blow! but bring me some rare blossom. Or fill the air with perfume as ye go ; Bring to my heart the spirit of endurance And leave me with some warmth of after-glow. Blow, ye winds, blow ! I '11 sigh with thee, then turn my sigh to singing, Just as the lark 's first song began in pain ; Blow, ye winds, blow, to me thou art but bringing Strength to sustain me when sorrow comes again. Blow, ye winds, blow ! [6i] THE STAR OF GOLD Blow, ye winds, blow, but keep the graces near me; Keep safe the homes of Faith and Hope and Love. Let no debris becloud their sacred windows. But may God's sunshine pierce the clouds above. Blow, ye winds, blow. Though storms may rage, keep friendship 's bark still sailing Upon the Sea of Destiny, oh Time, And may she bring me treasures I shall cherish ; Through God's eternal grace and love sublime, Blow, all ye winds ! [62] LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 018 407 344 4^