P s 3505 93?^ leabes( from Vixq\nm*si journal yiJivQinia Corrp y 1/ Class T'S ^SOS COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT LEAVES FROM VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL LEAVES FROM VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL BY VIRGINIA CORRY RICHARD G. BADGER THE GORHAM PRESS . . . BOSTON Copyright, 1913, by Virginia Corry All Rights Reserved The Gorham Press, Boston, U. S. A. ©CLA351594 TO AN *• IDEAL FRIEND" WHO KNOWING MY IMPERFECTIONS, THINKS NONE THE LESS OF ME. LEAVES FROM VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL LEAVES FROM VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL The beauties of leisure are mani- fold, therefore, I reverence those who labor in the ^'Fields of Life." Frequently there is righteousness in anger. We were given it to ^'thunder" our displeasure in a just cause. To God alone can we yield humil- ity, for if we stoop, an ignorant and, therefore, a cruel brother may crush us. We cannot move mountains, but by faith we can climb over them and in doing so we may gather rare fruits, which will nourish us when we descend into the valley. 7 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL For many years I prayed for be- lief. Faith, like a rainbow, now arches my sky. If in despair, dwell with Nature — Nature who smiles and stretches her arms to us with the fruits of all sea- sons. Cultivate the divinity that dwells within you, and give heed to it lest you become dazed by conflicting be- liefs and famish in the midst of plenty. A cracked earthen vessel may often contain a wholesome berry. 8 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL In mounting the ladder of life, if a fellow creature is beneath you, give him a smile or a kind word; it will not take from your riches, it may add to them. Christ said men were made in his likeness — not those in the palaces merely, but also those in the huts. Take not too much pride in your earthly power O fools, who are blind! for those who stand upright to-day may be bent on the morrow. VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL There was one who lived purely and simply as a flower, taking but little thought from whence she came or whither bound, for her faith and trust were infinite. Cultivate your own fields, and when you can, give a hand to your neighbors. Alas ! The poor black man I The righteous must journey into your land to set up a cross for your redemp- tion. Are the dumb and blind for- gotten? Does not the same sun bring warmth to all? VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Doubtless the faith of the black man is simple — to be read in the clear streams and in the ripening corn. True they slay one another, but the white man meditates while he tests the life-destroying batteries to be used with fatal effect upon his brother. The fate of many a noble woman, alas! is that she loves too well, and in doing so gives with both hands. Friend, develop the divinity within you, and with a handful of chestnuts you may defy the world! II VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Bread without salt is tasteless, so life without love savorless. My friend is fair with the bright- ness of a flower, and, to me, her faults are but the dust of earth which is upon us all. If a man break faith with you, stand fast to your own lest his weak- ness impair your strength. The crippled in form we pity, while the deformed in spirit we con- demn. 12 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL The granaries of an unlettered man are frequently rich with the fruits from Elysian fields. It is like working in the sunshine to work for a kind and appreciative employer. Since labor we must, let us give thanks when we are not obliged to do so in the shadow. Knowledge is power, if we are to believe our copy books. A hen lays an egg in the morning and enjoys a leisurely afternoon. Why not take a lesson from her, overworked business man? The hen will scratch up the earth during her spare time, but you can play golf and so score even at nightfall. You might also culti- vate a rose garden. 13 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Oae cannot expect good to spring from the sowing of evil. The laws of life are immutable. There are evil results from over-eat- ing, over-drinking and over-reach- ing. One with a sense of humor must smile when they observe a mem- ber of a christian church, to protect himself against a daily annoyance, affix the sign ''No Peddlers Wanted" upon his premises. A comprehensive man is generally a just one. 14 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Sometimes the best of friends are a pest. Many men load themselves with unnecessary burdens; laboring to store up junk in a collection of boxes which they call home and humbler creatures regard as a mansion. The useless lumber must weary the col- lectors at times, but they consider the effect it has upon their neighbors and the respect it creates. Therefore, they continue to live in a style un- worthy of themselves. 15 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL In this life all is contrast; light and darkness, sunshine and shadow. The hardy, bold geranium, the flaunting dahlia and the golden sun- flower, whose seeds will always differ from those of the fair frail lily of the field, cousin to the lotus flower and the daffodil. There is no equality — I may be superior to some but I must recognize that I am inferior to many. In descending to another's level one passes out of one's own orbit and should not expect to be at ease, how- ever much one jmay love the one for whom one descends. i6 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL I am thrust into a strange country with a mosaic formed by my ances- tors. They are not dead, for they love, laugh and hate through me. Would that I were myself! — ^for — in being them I lack harmony. I may love to-day as dead Hugh loved, but as forgotten Anne I am capable of hating on the morrow. Mary was most careful of her pence, William could not keep a penny. May was pure, Phillip did not tread in her footsteps. Gertrude knew not com- passion, but Ralph did not lack sym- pathy. Therefore, my friend, pity the conflict which rages within me and turn not from me. Life is like a picnic, where some bring sugar and some lemons. 17 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Fate is a mighty sculptor whack- ing at our clay. Imperfections, humps and mars must be overcome, for we are to be appraised in a strange market. There are men like fat spiders, forever weaving nets to trap the un- wary, differing only from the spider in that they prey upon their own kind. An honest, industrious, upright human is a torch bearer to many. There was one who fought his battles in the arena of the world, for a worthy cause. Every day he went forth to combat, a hero without a laurel, a master without a slave. i8 T VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL We can create a kingdom for our- selves although we may dwell in the smallest village in the world. A bird in a cage has the courage to sing. Why should I not rejoice? Belief is a rare gift that comes at no one's bidding and frequently will not flower in a forcing house. Have we forgotten that Christ was born in a manger and that a carpen^^ ter abode with him? 19 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL A great general, and a great la- borer, one a leader of men and the other a helper of men. If we honor one we must respect the other. In the company of a fair tempting woman it is in the province of the wisest man to stumble, for beauty is a lure and woman a magnet. I have known darkness, therefore, I can appreciate light. To do well in the eyes of the world and offend Heaven is the act of a coward and a fool. 20 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Many a man who dwells in a pal- ace is poorer than the meanest serf who serves him. The immutable laws of one's neighbors may be respected, yet not accepted, for one is obliged to do one's own thinking occasionally. Without a stomach the world would lack in entertainment. One is never in doubt when gazing upon the moving picture, being quite sure vice will be vanquished, virtue rewarded and innocence protected. All for a nickle! It is simply amaz- ing! Oh, come with me — not to Fairyland — but to a moving picture- show, and you shall see justice. 21 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL If we would have butter for our bread we should not grumble at milking the cow occasionally. It is best at times not to unfurl a banner of righteousness lest it be spat upon. The weed which we cast forth in scorn frequently carries with it many golden blossoms which no one will praise because they bear the stigma of a despised name. 22 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL You must expect disappointment if you are looking for field flowers in the busy marts of the world. Come away, lest you dispute with a beggar over a crust in the gutter. Is knowledge kind or cruel? By its light I turn from that which I thought most true, and standing alone I totter like a young child over my broken toys. Lacking the cour- age of an Alexander, I must strive for the patience of the camel who, heavily burdened, crosses the dreary plains without complaint. 23 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL The mercy of men is past under- standing. With sound of fife and drum they slay one another, then summon those who wear the Red Cross to bind the broken limbs of the injured. An army equipped to slaughter and another prepared to minister to the wounded. — The drums are silent, step softly lest you disturb the sufferers. Oh, pitiful man! holding in one hand a life-de- stroying weapon and in another the Cross of Christ. I am constantly weeding in the garden of my soul, where the poison- ous weeds of evil thought and action grow among precious buds which are struggling to blossom. 24 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL At times the kinship of souls can be discerned at a glance and may prove stronger than any tie of blood. We all serve someone, and in serv- ing others we frequently serve God. Therefore, speak not contemptuously of the humblest servant. We see according to our own light, Many find their way difBcult be- cause their light is too dim to illu- minate their pathway. The recollections of the friends of my youth are many, although their dear faces are hidden by a mist of years. 25 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL A pig fed on strawberries is none the less a pig. If you are quite ambitious you might enter the exclusive set, if only to study the noses of the setters, quite an interesting occupation I assure you, but if you are wise you will guard your own nose well, while there lest it assume an upward angle. Some women are like the month of January, full of tears, and fate generally is most accommodating in giving them a reason for weeping. 26 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL There are two roles which will al- ways be played upon this round stage, that of the deceiver and the de- ceived. Father and daughter, lover and lass, husband and wife will be playing them until time rolls into eternity. Many a fair maiden is crucified upon a cross of gold. Despair oft times wears the cloak of patience and is masked by indif- ference. 27 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Bitter sweet must flourish in your garden and the Star of Bethlehem, then shall the daffodil reign over all in sweet contentment, although be- side it dwells the bluebell. Looking down from a great height those beneath one must seem less mighty. Even the honorable Miss So-and-so, train bearer to the queen, might assume the proportions of a bug. 28 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Not to be able to think as others do frequently compels one to live apart from one's kind, and where thought and communion of spirit are con- cerned one is like a stranger in a re- mote country, unable to speak the language although mingling with the crowd. Some may have gilt on their gin- gerbread, but there may be satisfac- tion in it unadorned. Those whom the Lord intends us to help will come into our lives, for such work is generally prepared for us, and there may be a sentry to note how well that work is performed. 29 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL A humane man had plenty of this country's gold; therefore, he was mighty, but although he stood highly he took great care that his shadow fell on no man. There are those with perfect eyes and ears who can neither see nor hear, so far as the beauty of the earth is concerned. I often wonder if the fish observe the beauties which are to be found in their world. Doubt- less they are too busy looking for worms to fatten upon. Father! mother! remember that many a foul thing is bred in dark- ness! Therefore, let what sunlight you can play upon your children. Do not grieve if your feet are ill- clad and your coat affords you but scant protection. You must regard 30 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL such a condition as your molting sea- son, feeling assured that if you are patient it will soon pass and Time will reward you with finer and more comfortable raiment. I stood within my open door and felt the chill of the gray dawn, but I looked to the east resolutely and presently the sun arose. Its warm rays were about me, resting upon the vines where the berries were ripen- ing, flooding the fruit trees in my garden, finding the figs to perfect them where they were hidden under the fig tree's broad leaves which were like emerald hued fans un- furled in the sunlight. These things I had planted in the rich brown earth, which has served mankind so faithfully, depending upon the rain and the sun to ripen them, and soon 31 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL I shall have fruit for myself and some to spare for my neighbor. Therefore, I would say to one who lacks courage when the day and the way is dark, '^Do not despair! Keep your life clean and if your work is a worthy one attend to it faithfully and you may depend upon a rich harvest as you look for the sun to come over the mountains." Fate's methods are not unlike those of a gardener who prunes a tree that it may reach perfection. We are many times wounded by Fate but may not our suffering and poverty serve to enrich us in time? We should not envy the man who rests upon his laurels after having performed brave and good deeds on the Field of Endeavor. 32 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL I have met many religious people, but I have seen few christians. Do not allow your soul to shrivel up so that God Himself cannot find it. There is much in this world which is beyond our comprehension, but doubtless night-owls would under- stand many things better could they see in the daylight, and our day is not unlike theirs in some respects. Frequently it is difficult to under- stand how he who is on the road to Somewhere and she who is on the road to Nowhere ever met and mar- ried. 33 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL There is joy at times in the mere sense of living if we have eyes to see. About us there is beauty every- where ; in the day and in the night — the day for the hum of life, the night for silence and meditation. It is then we have time to look upward at the stars, God's open casements, gleaming brightly in the immeasur- able, ethereal fabric of Heaven, like the lamps of home which a traveler sees in the distance. If it were not for our sub-conscious self we would stumble into many a pitfall, for our mind will play the truant occasionally. 34 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL There are days when I am like a veritable pirate upon the high seas, but I shall not record them, never having kept a log book. We are all traders more or less. The haughtiest lady in the land ex- changes her gold for adornment, yet she may look askance at the man from whom she buys her provisions. Nothing is so false as some of the so-called truths which have been thrust upon mankind for centuries. In this School of Life one would think that many were preparing to become serpents, birds of prey and ground hogs in a future existence. 35 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL One may lose a leg but his remain- ing leg may develop unusual apti- tude and his hands perform won- ders of which he never dreamed; therefore, he is poor in some respects but enriched in others. So it is with our lives; we may lack gold but we may be given the intelligence to real- ize that we really need but little to be comfortable and a few hours a day devoted to work will supply us with the means to live simply. A mariner is not in danger of being lost if he carries a compass, and a landsman would do well to take a les- son from him, and with fair intelli- gence to guide him direct his course to a serene and glorious port. 36 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL With few exceptions we are all bullies. We bully our children and those dependent upon us; in fact, anything which is in our power, but children and dumb animals are the greatest sufferers from our tyranny. Why can't we cultivate a more merci- ful spirit? Are we never to be en- lightened? Some people's smiles have a more unpleasant effect upon one than their frowns. The descendants of nobles wearing their laurels, should be noble in char- acter; otherwise, they are harlicans to whom fools make obeisance on ac- count of their liveries. 37 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Many say contemptuously in refer- ring to another: ''Oh, she is a but- terfly!" The frail beautiful butter- fly, the friend of the flowers! I see nothing to condemn in it, for I have no desire to make of it a practical housewife. They who deprecate it may be mighty creatures, but God made the lion and the butterfly, and it ill becomes one to scorn the other. 38 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL When I open my eyes in the morn- ing Habit is sitting by my bedside with a commanding aspect and an upraised finger and I feel that I must stand in his treadmill and submit to his yoke. But some day I will defy him, leave my bedchamber in my nightrobe, walk with bare feet upon the dewy lawn and pass my day in a variety of pleasant ways, suffering no longer from the tyranny of custom, and doubtless end by being restrained in a madhouse. 39 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL If I have been the means of hope entering into a cheerless life, if I have lightened the burden placed upon young shoulders, succored the aged and shown the way to the unbeliev- ing, I shall feel that my life has not been altogether a failure, however meagre and somber it may appear to others. 40 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Life throws many a spell upon us. How often the moonlight and the shadows, cast by the whispering leaves outside my window, have danced upon my floor, playing upon the pipes of fancy and whispering to the soul strange delicious conceits that my tongue could not utter. And so for many hours I have reclined upon my bed, with wide, open eyes, dreaming of a fair strange country not down on the maps of anywhere. You too, my friend, may have sighted this country when love and hope have been aglow within you, or you have lain upon a bed of leaves with naught but the heavens above you, on some wondrous, starlit, summer night, and yielded to the magic of the soft gloom as it enfolded you. 41 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL _ With conscience as a guide, we must all find the way to our own sal- vation. If we awoke in the morning in a strange place and saw beside us food and water, we would feel that some- one was caring for us. Therefore, when we enter this fair country and see the breadfruit, the wild berries, the fig and the date trees and the clear streams of running water, can we doubt that we are in a great Lord's care? 42 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL We may be robed in satin and fine laces, or in the simplest gown, many may greet us with an appearance of afifection, which we are wont to ac- cept graciously, but ho\v seldom are the best of us truly loved! The wish to be beautiful is but the wish to please turned inside out. Many a woman paints her face, and for doing so is spoken of contemptu- ously, when she but turns to art in the hope of rendering herself beau- tiful that she may win the love and admiration of others. The motive which causes her to try to enhance her charms is not unworthy of the best of us and should be regarded but as a mistaken policy in the pursuit of beauty. 43 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL However small your income, try to live within it, even if you are obliged to eat dried apples and drink water in so doing. We are wise for many, while often we lack wisdom for ourselves. Whatever else you be, do not be a beggar at the Court of Love. For Love is a despot, who seldom heeds the plea of a trembling supplicant. We may win many a battle with a smile, when a volley of remarks would make no impression upon the armor of our combatant. 44 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL The duties of parents are manifold. We should have infinite compassion for those who have inherited our im- perfections and help them to bear the spiritual burdens we have thrust upon them, for many a poor child is crip- pled ere it is born. Some sunless lives are like the drooping fuchsia, which grows in the shadow. The poor, beautiful fuch- sia, fated to always hang its head so sadly, like many a desolate human. There are many scavengers in dis- guise. They call at numerous houses, only to carry away the nox- ious things they find there, and every- one they meet is given a whiff of the uncovered matter. 45 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL What is a woman's hat intended for? To protect her head from the weather or a museum for defunct birds? You, with the outspread wings of a gull perched on high, and an owl's eye fastened above your brow, causing the beholder to encoun- ter three eyes where he expected to see but two, — you would make an emotionless woman from the remotest district of China smile. You are a living sermon on the use and abuse of money. But such adornment may be but an outburst and protest against civilization. If so, the cause is good ; therefore Fair One continue to deck yourself with the plumage of your wild kindred. 46 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Untried friends are the best friends. It is two o'clock in the day. Many men of aflfairs have partaken of a goodly meal, and that is well. But I wonder if they have loosened the check- rein a trifle to-day on those who are dependent upon them and who have, by their labor, enabled them to sit at an ample board. 47 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL There are people who cannot be happy unless the band plays. They must be forever in the midst of strife and the sound of gaiety, never weary- ing of the devil's tattoo. Even the aged you will find in the noisy cafes where an orchestra adds to the din. They dare not take refuge in them- selves. They might not recover from the shock. It is a mighty man to whom one dare reveal the truth. Generally one is obliged to patch it up with sophis- tries before offering it to the hum- blest, for most of us lack the courage to confront the naked truth. 48 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Many a mother will indulge her offspring in all kinds of folly, and consider herself generous and unself- ish in so doing, when frequently it is merely the brute instinct, to pro- vide for her own, that controls her. Her hand and eye are sacred to her for they are her own flesh, but will she concern herself to assist the help- less and unprotected about her? There is the test of her unselfishness! It is a joy to indulge our loved ones and generally requires but a small effort on our part. Therefore, it is more of a selfish pleasure than other- wise. 49 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL It is natural that we should doubt God's mercy at times. We who tie a faithful dog in a lonely place day after day, or drive a brave horse with a cruel bit and shoot innocent harm- less things for mere sport. Ere the dusk falls look inward. 50 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Where are the pewter mugs of our ancestors? Give me one, and a delft plate with my entire meal upon it. And, if you please, serve it upon a white pine board where I can look without and see a bit of green and a patch of sky. My good friend, you must join me, foregoing your cut glass, dainty china and fine linen for to-day, and be simple and rude if need be, feeling assured that I will not betray you and shock Emily, Ruth and Alice, the tyrant, she who cannot enjoy a meal without a but- ler at her back observing each mor- sel of food which enters her capacious mouth. She, I feel confident, would be shocked beyond measure that a lady of her acquaintance could par- take of food under such circum- stances. But we shall call the dog SI VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL and he will sit upon his hind legs, rivaling Alice's butler in his respect- ful attitude, for he is a well behaved dog whose barks are not many. I may write of my wish, my friend, but I really lack the courage to ask one as refined as yourself to assume the mode of your forefathers. 52 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL I have dozed in a hammock, which was hung under a sheltering tree, on a warm day in summer, with the hills in the distance and the sound of a running brook near by acting as a lullaby, and have awoke and slumbered, while watching the sunlight play upon the fig leaves and listening to the sparrows calling one another, doubtless informing their companions that a gadding hen had escaped from her confines and in- vaded the meadow. ^What a phe- nomenon !" they say. And so between sleeping and waking I have felt my- self the superior of a king. For a king might just at this moment be called to a council chamber to pre- side over a number of wiseacres, who know but little, or they would take a turn at living simply and so find 53 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL the happiness which we are all seek- ing and which may be waiting near by for us, if we will only look in the right direction. Half the time of the average woman of the present day, is occu- pied by dress. I should think that many of the weary slaves of fashion would envy the lady-bug, who gives no thought to her appearance, and yet has a beautiful, bright red coat which displays her form to perfec- tion, and which she is not obliged to doff at night nor assume in the morn- ing. 54 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL There are occasions when exces- sive refinement irritates me. Its ef- fect upon me is similar to that pro- duced by someone near by with a weak voice constantly endeavoring to reach high C. At such times I long to fly to the woods, sling a black pot over a bed of coals, hear wild things calling to one another, smell the damp earth and, throwing my- self full length beside a sparkling stream, form a cup of my hands and thrusting them into the clear water, drink deeply at the heart of nature. 55 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL There are many afflictions in life, and one of the greatest is the burn- ing wish to be something other than you are. Seeing a young negress upon the street, my heart went out to her in infinite compassion, for her dark handsome face was covered with the white powder of her fairer sisters. While taking a walk I paused be- side some toil-worn laborers at work in a ditch, and breathed an inaudible prayer for their well being, feeling, as I stood there, like a miser hugging my leisure. 56 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL There is the busy bee and the snail in nature, the industrious human and the gentle dreamer. We cannot all be alike. Therefore, restless one, cease disparaging the indolent. They will not jig to any tune, but play the part allotted to them tran- quilly, for such is the decree of Providence. When some people take one to task they play upon a harp of a thou- sand strings. 57 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL How much more one can enjoy a rainy day if they can sit by a win- dow and watch others getting drenched. Such discomfort gener- ally adds to the onlooker's sense of warmth, for one can better appre- ciate their own blessings when they see others without them. 58 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL I frequently hear physicians al- luded to as though they were a special providence, whose fiat is irrevocable. Medical men, some years ago, bled us for the simplest ailment; now their knives go into the vitals of the patient. Doubtless, twenty years from now their methods will change. Therefore, let us take courage, and if we can manage to live next door to them for that length of time, they may feed us on mother's milk, de- claring that it will cure us of the worst form of disease. A charming woman is the woman who feels that she is admired. 59 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL I am of a deplorable romantic tem- perament, over fond of music, poetry and song, and enjoy reading of the times when satin doublet and silken hose were worn by dauntless men, and fair maidens mounted palfries. But life, alas, has simply bombarded me with the common-place. I am like a wooden clothes-pin, constantly in touch with the practical. If lost in a most delightful day dream, I am likely to be aroused by some worthy person wishing to know what will relieve ingrowing toe nails, or, can I recommend something which will remove grease spots? Such infor- mation is sought of me, because Na- ture, who is somlb^hat of a jester, has seen fit to cast memn a commonplace mold. NeverthelM^ intend to plant roses among raSBkbbages. VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Some ministers, with Hell to con- jure with, make many converts. It is wise to examine the core of your friut before partaking of it, if you would avoid swallowing a bitter mouthful. 6i VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL The professional money-getter is like the bee, intent on extracting. The bee is an unconscious thief and the ruthless money-getter an exalted pickpocket — or, he might be re- garded as a saviour of mankind, for the possession of too much gold causes the downfall of many worthy people. One may take from the money-getter his gains and give them to a more deserving brother, but the magician soon renews his wealth, for he has as many devices for abstract- ing money as a centipede has legs. Although he is generally tainted with madness, he serves a wise purpose, Doubtless his mission on earth is for the benefit of the masses, preventing, as it does, an injurious over-indul- gence among them. 62 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL It is possible that the evil we send forth may return as vultures to tear at our hearts. If we judge harshly, we may some day ask for mercy for ourselves in vain. Should we wreck another's happiness, our own can be destroyed, and if we cripple a slave by climbing upon his back to see a passing pageant, we may have a grievous fall from his shoulders. This is not all theory, for many a one at the end of his life is broken and sore from running the gauntlet of his sins. When I behold a haughty individ- ual I am immensely amused, for such a Tom Thumb reminds me of a toad with indigestion. 63 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL The world must ever reverence the poet, the painter, the sculptor and the composer of divine melodies, for their gifts are godlike, holding beauty forever before us. We must not look beyond their genius if wq would not be disappointed, since many of them are a bit lawless. But, can we expect such marvelous crea- tures to live by our standards? They belong to another world and our laws will not bind them. Nay! — they are our beloved masters and under their spell the veriest slave of Time becomes a reckless truant. 64 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Many proud and heartless hu- mans can only be awakened from their indifference by a grievous loss. They are brought low by a great grief that they may arise and become worthier, and more in sympathy with struggling humanity, since they have suffered with them. 65 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL I often envy the small, feathered creatures who have no knowledge of death, and who seems to be so happy with their tribe. How merrily they chirrup in the trees at daybreak, put- ting me to shame with my weary spirit and my lagging body. But what can a poor mortal know, small ones, of your simple joy in life and fellowship with your kind? Still I am thankful that your Glee Club meets in my tree tops, and although I am but a crude and clumsy mortal, I shall never molest one of your num- ber. Therefore, I trust you will continue to abide near me, as my her- alds of the day. 66 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL In the old time it was well when a great lord was content to seek re- pose upon a rude bed of lion skins, in a vast, lofty chamber, where a fire of great logs threw a ruddy glow over the sinewy, recumbent forms of his faithful retainers, who were scat- tered about him and who, if need be, were eager to forfeit their lives in the service of their lord. There- fore, he slumbered peacefully, among tried men and true, dearer to him than his chests of gold, although they wore no medals, save upon their leather jackets the stains of blood which they had shed in defense of their master. Thus they dwelt to- gether *'one heart, one hearth and one household." I doubt if a man of the present day, with mere wealth at his command, can surround him- 67 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL self with as many brave and loyal subjects. Some find an oasis in this life, while others who are worn with toil, and weak from hunger, must jour- ney far into a remote country, ere they can rest amidst plenty. But their harvest may be richer for their waiting. It is better to be a shepherd upon a mountain side than a mole in a great city. 68 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Do not light the lamp, my friend; we will sit in the firelight, while I speak of the Shadow people. Doubt- less, you have met a certain tribe of them, if you have partaken too freely of the juice of the grape, — satire, dwarf and impish specter. But I wish to speak of quite another tribe: the good Samaritans belonging to the Possible family. If you have known intense grief or illness, very likely you have seen these mystic people, for Nature sends them to divert an overtaxed spirit. How well I re- member the childish interest I took in them when last* they beguiled me. The dear care-free people! Pain had left me all but lifeless. My tired body refused to obey my weak- ened will, and my weary eyelids drooped over my burning eyes, when Lo! the Shadow people were before 69 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL me, transporting me to their realm. Oh, the beauty of its glades! The earth might envy their tender, match- less green. And the people with noiseless steps seemed to move in moonbeams; a gracious tranquil peo- ple, with a faint radiance upon their pale straight brows. Even the jester among them wore a grave air as he stepped aside to allow a troop of white clad youths to pass, whose golden locks tossed in the breeze, as they held aloft pale waving torches, in whose light one I knew to be Folly danced down a flower strewn path, her rosy limbs clad in white gossa- mer like draperies. With streaming hair and radiant face, turned side- ways, she seemed to draw all men to her by the magic of the web she spun. A stalwart troup of bearded 70 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL foresters, with the gleaming, tawny eyes of lions, and great axes upon their shoulders, turned aside to fol- low in her wake, joined by a beau- tiful youth, whose silver vestments gleamed in the torchlight. After him ran wood sprites, waving wands of willow which were reflected in a pool where wondrous lilies grew. Upon the hillside ... A gentle step at my door, and my dream people have disappeared. Fetch a light dear and read to me the news of the day. 71 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL There are times when unavoidable dependence upon another is like be- ing weighted with a ball and chain, under which the spirit droops and life becomes tainted with a profound melancholy. But some of the no- blest must serve their time as galley- slaves to fate, and prove their cour- age by mute lips and bodies held erect, although naught but their ach- ing eyes are free to seek a fair hori- zon. It is of small matter how finely wrought the dish is if when famished we find it empty. 72 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL We have a number of exclusive sets; some not voluntarily so, as, for instance: the set in the insane asy- lum, and the State's Prison, but the richly garmented exclusive set are as free as those at the home of the blind. If one is successful according to the world's standard of success, there are many vv^ho would shoot one down as carrion. 73 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL I have heard of a worthy man liv- ing under a sheltering tree, with a bit of cloth attached to it to serve as a wind-break. But if I wish to be eminently respectable, I must have a room to sleep in, one where I make my toilet, one for meditation, one for reading, one for the reception of guests, one sacred to music, one de- voted to smoking, another where my food is prepared, still another to breakfast in and one to dine in. If the rooms are to serve their purposes, I must rush from room to room as I am seized by different desires. Alas! I must desert my sunny ve- randa and hie me to my study when I am about to think, but where, O where is my swear room! 74 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL I entered a spacious store where many weary looking women were in attendance. But the poor foolish owner of the shop had my compas- sion, for he had ensconced himself in a small, steel cage, which was digni- fied by the name of ''Office" and had ''No Admittance" above its door. There the pale stern looking man spent his days, with no ventilation and a glaring electric light above the desk where he sat, although it was a beautiful bright day without. Had his government sentenced him to a like fate for a grave crime, fair minded citizens would very likely have risen in his defense, but he had condemned himself to such an ex- istence through lack of comprehen- sion. I notice many people groan- ing under useless burdens, or volun- tarily assuming yokes which are 75 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL needless. The deaf and blind are protected but Heaven help the unen- lightened! If we would ^'do unto others as we would have them do unto us," our taxes would be lighter, for we would not be obliged to maintain so many law courts and prisons, nor journey far to assemble at a peace confer- ence. Scientists tell us that love is a myth, but the youths and the maidens do not believe them, although their elders may admit with a sigh the truth of the assertion. 76 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL I have missed a beautiful after- noon by remaining indoors with my journal. In this respect I am not unlike the ground worm, which stays in the earth when it might come forth and bask in the sunshine. 77 / VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL There is something at times un- canny in the rebound of evil. I speak from experience, as well as ob- servation, having paid in full for all my misdeeds. I once heard a fond mother speak unjustly of a struggling youth to his employer. It was most unkind as the boy was the main sup- port of an aged parent. Sometime afterward her own son was dis- charged from a lucrative position and was unable to secure another; consequently his mother was obliged to curtail her expenses, and spent most of her time upbraiding fate which had served her so unjustly, through no fault of her own she de- clared, for she had failed to read the writing on the wall. 78 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL Many consider themselves wise and so does a child who has mastered the alphabet. The wisest among us cannot create the simplest flower, nor make a needle such as a bee car- ries for defense, nor weave a web like the spider, and yet we prate of wisdom. Do not demean yourself by hold- ing the whip while another cowers. 79 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL I am rejoiced to see the children returning from school. The dear children, who were meant to gamble like kittens, lambs and young colts and are obliged to sit at desks un- complainingly the best hours of the day acquiring wisdom, holding their bodies erect in accordance with the almost military discipline exacted of them, not even a smile being per- mitted among those who see in the simplest episode something to pro- voke their mirth. If our lives are constrained, we cannot complain when we have such cheerful, brave little soldiers in our midst. 80 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL It ill becomes one, born in the pur- ple, to assume a superior air when in the presence of one whom Chance has not favored in like respect. Ar- rogance is not compatible with a Christian spirit; it is a cheap form of pride belonging to the peacock, who spreads his tail feathers in order to conceal his ugly feet. 8i VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL If one has not all one desires, such a condition will not retard one from reaching perfection. There are beautiful grasses and mosses growing in crevices as fair as those to be found in the garden of a pal- ace. A swan does not need a neck- lace of pearls to render it beautiful, and a collar of gold will not conceal the identity of a fox. Revenge and bitterness breed a poison which destroys happiness. You may smile at many of my statements, my Ideal Friend, but if you can stride, please allow me to toddle after you. 82 VIRGINIA'S JOURNAL We can talk of civilization when we have open air factories and work- shops. Pity the poor descendant of slaves and help him to rise. Had our an- cestors been shackled for ages, we might not be such a dominant race. The Great Master's palette is laden with many hues. Shall we condemn his work because He has given us the fairest coloring? The old form of salutation "Peace Be With You," contained an abun- dance of good will, for we can only obtain peace by being in harmony with the good, the true and the beau- tiful. Therefore, "Peace Be With You." 83 SEP 8 1913