Book \ flOO^i. Cop^Tighl N"_Z^ COF^RlCirr Dlil'OSIT. ^^ u i ^"^t ma f L. W. Raison, M.D. Ligkt of the Soul By L.W.RAISON. M.D. BROADWAY PUBLISHING COMPANY 835 Broadway, New York COPYRIGHT, 1913 BY L. W. RAISON, M. D. vOci,A361205 4m>/ This book is offered a.s an inspiration to lessen the sting and perplexities while passing through the journey of life. PREFACE I have no apologies to offer for the varied thoughts called into action while producing this volume of poems — they came as an inspiration "when life's duties and responsibilities pressed upon me during the day, yet these offsprings tra- vailed and were ofttimes given birth in the small hours of night. They could no more be suppressed than mortal could fathom the power of the Divine Master. These children of my mind are varied — some of them were forged from the home of thought with such generosity that it were impossible to retain all when my pen was taken in hand to transcribe them. They all sprang involuntarily and unbidden from the heart in its manifold moods. I lovingly dedicate them to my beloved parents, the noble father of whom I was deprived many years ago, and my dear aged mother who passed into the realms of bliss only a few short years agone. L. W. EAISON. All rights to verse or song poems reserved. CONTENTS Page p«»pfo^g ••■•••••••••••••«••• -^ I Sleep But isJiy Heart Awaketh 11 At the Lifting of the Veil 12 My Old Cottage Home 13 Love the Children While You May 14 God Help Her 15 'Tis Only A Bundle of Letters 15 The Silver Wedding 17 My Old Letters 1° The Violet's Grave 1^ To My Wife 20 Conquest of All Time 21 When Blessed with Woman's Heart 22 To An Ocean Wave 23 Daughter of the King 24 Estranged 25 Our Old School Days 26 Time Is Slipping Away 27 A Gold Engagement Ring 28 By His Side 29 May-Day ;;*;,', «? "Why Do They Point Their Fingers at Me?' 31 Faithless 32 The Mother's Priceless Treasure 33 When the Sun Is Shining 35 Died On the Battlefield 36 There's Rest for Thee in Heaven 37 Gather My Sheep In 38 The Story of the Grass 39 This Time Last Year 40 "Respectfully Declined" 41 Dreaming of the Past 42 A Circle of Gold 43 Sweet Were the Kisses That Followed 45 Beyond the Shores of Time 45 Good Night and Good-by 46 Who Will Care for Mother Now? 47 Parted 48 Live for Something 49 Memory 50 I iijustice 51 Our Lifeboats Are Moored on a Shadowy Lea 52 The Old Homestead 53 Too Soon — Too Soon 54 Day by Day New Hopes Are Rising 55 Longed for the Mountain Top 56 The Old Homestead Clock 57 Surely I'm a Child Again 58 Speak Them While I Live 59 To Hear the Angels Sing 60 White Wings of Love 61 Love Should Not Be a Slave 62 I Wish I Could Recall the Past 63 Eternity 64 Alway with Us 65 We Get So Tired 66 He Kissed Her as in Other Days 67 Sauntering 68 Asleep 71 A Hundred Years Ago 72 Where Beauty Never Dies 73 My Wife and 1 74 The Irish Maid's Warning 75 Happy Married Life Id The Chain We Hold So Dear 11 The Conductor's Change of Mind 78 Easter Day 79 In the Mansions of the Sky 80 A Wife's Appeal 81 What Lovers Are Wont To Say 82 Do I Love Thee? 83 Sing the Baby To Sleep 84 Where Dainty Damsels Dream of Days 85 Bless Thine Orphan Child 86 Link Not My Image with Regret 87 The Country Doctor 88 Soul's Affinity 89 A Cloud On the Brow 90 Drowned 91 Thinking of Thee 92 My Mother 93 Engaged 94 To Clarice 95 For a Lady's Album 96 Pity; Ah, Pity Me 97 The Warning Call 98 The Japanese Wedding Veil 99 The Female of the Human Species 100 And Her Arms Around Me Crept i^^ Babe of Bethlehem 102 Time Is Slipping Away 103 The Birth of a River 104 Labor's Soliloquy 105 Who Died for Motherland 106 Funeral of Garfield 107 My Temptation 108 The Missing Child 109 Mother's Old Hymn 110 Lawyer and Judge Ill The Secret Door 112 'Tis Autumn, Laura 1 13 Decorate the Graves '. . 114 Ere the Struggles of Life Are O'er 114 A Mother's Heritage 116 My Life's Prayer 117 The Unfortunate Maid 118 Put Off the Old and Put On the New 119 Not Knowing 119 Unavailing Grief 120 The Judiciary 121 Through the Golden Gate 122 My Nightmare 123 The Lovers' Parting 124 For the Holy Name of Mother 126 Another Casablanca 127 Everybody Stingeth Me 128 When Lips of Love Met Lips of Lust 129 That First Dainty Dream of Ours 130 The Rose Sips the Morning Dew 131 While Passing Through the Mystic Wood 132 In Our Dear Old Native State 133 Only Come To the Door and Knock 134 The Young Blood of June and the Frost of the Sear. 135 The Sweet Story of Old 136 Then I Will Answer Yes 137 My Old Kentucky Home 138 My Image Here Beside Me Lie s 139 Write Them a Letter To-day 140 Laugh of Our Baby Dear 141 LIGHT OF THE SOUL 1 SLEEP BUT MY HEART AWAKETH Tread lightly, love, when o'er my head, Beneath the daisies lying. And tenderly press the grassy bed, Where the fallen rose lies dying. Dreamless I sleep in the quiet ground, Save when your footfall hearing, My heart wakes to the old loved sound. And beats to the steps that's nearing. Bright shone the moon last eve when you came, Still dust for dust hath feeling — The willow roots whispered low the name Of him who weeps while kneeling. The lily-cup holds the falling tears. The tears you shed above me. And I know, through all these silent years, There's some one still to love me. Oh, softly sigh, for I hear the sound. And grieve o'er your sorrow. But leave a kiss on the myrtle mound, I'll give it back to-morrow. Whisper me love, as in moments fled. While I dream your hand mine taketh, For the stone speaks false that says I'm dead, I sleep but my heart awaketh. 11 LIGHT OF THE SOUL AT THE LIFTING OF THE VEIL WTien a face we love grows pallid, More pure and clear day by day, Till we see the spirit's lustre. Shining through the tent of clay, When the jewel leaves the casket. How our faces blanch and pale, At the angel's noiseless beckoning. On the lifting of the veil. Though we may not hear their footsteps, As they journey to and fro, Through the hidden shining chambers, Noiseless as the dropping snow — Though we may not see their vestments, Silvery pure as sunbeams pale. We shall meet them fair as morning, At the lifting of the veil. With his glorious works so mighty, And such splendors spread abroad. What must be the secret places, In this palace of our God. Not with anguish — not with weeping, But with raptures should we hail, Every beckoning of the angels. At the lifting of the veil. 1? LIGHT OF THE SOUL MY OLD COTTAGE HOME Once more I see the dear old cottage, That stands at the end of the lane, And now the feelings of my childhood Come back with that vision again. I'm dreaming alone in the twilight, A way 'mid the hills and the dells, For there's where I passed my childhood days, And where my soul in transport dwells. And my heart goes back to the old home. Of the home and treasures to share. As a child in the glim'ring starlight, Thrills to the touch of kindly care, No mansion could rival our cottage, No palace so happy and gay, Where odor of meadows were wafted Over the fields of new-mown hay. Once beneath the wide-spreading maples, Where robins and orioles sing. While I gather the moss and the ferns. As a token of joys to bring. I love the prayers that mother taught. And yet have heard them oft before. Softly toned in kind and loving words, From lips so sweet in days of yore. 13 LIGHT OF THE SOUL LOVE THE CHILDREN WHILE YOU MAY Children gather round the hearthstone, Baby voices soft and sweet, Hall and porch and stairway echo, To the tread of tiny feet. Children's warm and sunbright river, Leaps adown the shim-ring strand, Rich and fair the red wine gloweth, Held by beauty's lovely hand. Trial days your pathway filleth, When each tender lamb will stray, Time and death will pluck each blossom, Love the children while you may. Starry eyes grow dim and faded, Locks of gold turn ashen gray, Grant the children your affection, Give it warmly while you may. Quicksands quake beneath the pebbles. Teach them first to watch and pray. Guide them in their childish footsteps, Save the darlings while you may. While you may are words of warning, As they echo through the years, And take from us holy treasures, Leaving only dust and tears. U LIOET OF THE SOUL GOD HELP HER God help the wretch who nightly drags Her life along the dreary flags, Clothed in poverty's scornful rags; God help her when the bitter rain Beats on her like a shuttle vane, And almost washes out her stain. God help her, when with naked feet, She gropes along and bows to meet The cruel corner of the street ; God help her when, with tearless eye, She looks into the blackened sky And strikes her breast and prays to die. God help her, wandering to and fro, Without one Christian grace to throw A beam upon the sullied snow ; Oh, God help her in the Winter's chill. This poor child of misguided will. Help her she is a woman still. 'TIS ONLY A BUNDLE OF LETTERS *Tis only a bundle of letters, dear, Tied with a ribbon of blue, 15 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Yet around them lingers affection, For a heart that proved untrue. ^Tis many a day since they came, dear, This bundle of letters so old, And the words that were so loving — Are to me now silent and cold. Like one who gathers the leaves so sweet, Of a fragrant rose that is dead, And sighs as he sadly grieves, dear heart, At the life and beauty fled. So I from the buried past, dear, Call back in its bloom, a rose. And wonder if dreams that last, dear, Are the best that man e'er knows. And yet in this package of letters, dear, Is the pledge of her I love, And the vows we ne'er would be parted, Save by our ascent above. I will take this bundle of missives, dear. Tied with its ribbon of blue, And place for a motto upon them, *'I've always been faithful to you." For the trace of these words so loving, dear, Proved stronger, sweet friend, than you, So I write on this package of letters, *'I have always been true to you." 16 LIGHT OF THE SOUL In my heart lives only a dream, dear, And a ghost of the past that is dead, In mine eyes thy living eyes gleam, dear, But a voice of the shadow has fled. 4, 4. THE SILVER WEDDING A festive board with plenty crowned. By Providence to-day, Now, my girls and boys, gather round, In dutiful array. Ah ! five and twenty years agone, The triumph of my life Was compassed when I wooed and won Your mother for a wife. I well recall the blush of pride That lighted up her face. When at my humble ingleside I led her to her place. And how I told her land nor sea. Could such adornment bring. She was a very queen to me, I happier than a king. And when two dainty, fair-haired elves Stole into our wee nest, To share our love, we deemed ourselves IT LIGHT OF THE SOUL More, more than ever, blest ; And though succeeding seasons brought Fresh rosy cheeks to press, We ever found the bread we sought, And peace and happiness. MY OLD LETTERS My heart beat fast with a thrill of joy, When your sweet missives came, Yes, o'er and o'er I read them, dear, And then I kiss your name. Affection lingers round them all, From the first to the last. Even the ones that chide me most Are ones I hold most fast. How sweet the words of your loving heart, Scribed from a soul divine. Sing strange songs of sweet despair. That you ne'er can be mine, I never lose the wish to dream Of all those happy hours, So I never shall forget, dear. That dainty dream of ours. Letters old, some fragrant with perfume. Lend me sweet solace now, Yet fates that keep us parted, 18 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL Carve new lines on my brow. Forever sacred will I keep them, Tied with a ribbon blue, That you may know, my darling, I'm always true to you. THE VIOLET'S GRAVE The woodland ; and a golden wedge Of lightsome sunshine slipping through, And there beside a bit of hedge, Was a lone violet so blue. So tender was its flower, and So beautiful and sweet its air, I stooped and then withheld my hand — For I would pluck, and yet would spare. Now, which were best ; for Spring will pass, And all its vernal beauty fly — On maiden's breast or in the grass. Oh, where now, would you choose to die? It is the hour when all things rest. And look along the golden street, Where the sun sets in bannered West, And leads o'er ocean to his feet. 19 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL Sea birds with Summer on the wing, And one white star serenely high, Down the wide West are journeying, All through the purple of the sky. Oh, sky, and sea, and shore, and air, But twice the joy you are to see — ■ How tranquil are you now, and fair, If one that's dead companioned me. TO MY WIFE My wife, I bring thee flowers, My last, last sad gift to thee, Thus, as in happier hours. My offering now shall be. Sweet flowers they are, and pale, Sad Autumn's latest born. Their Summer sisters frail. Are in their brightness gone. No roses bright and gay Are in the sad bouquet ; No emblem of delight Shall deck thy couch to-day. The last of Flora's train, I bring thee gift of grief, 20 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL And wet with sorrow's rain, Is every fragrant leaf. My wife, thy brow is cold. Thins eyes shut wearily : Oh, never as of old Those eyes will beam on me, Kever will glow that cheek, As touched by magic power, Never those lips will speak To thank me for a flower. 4, e|, 4. CONQUEST FOR ALL TIME How move the tide of great events, Through which the nation's ebb and flow, Crumbling stones of old battlements, Memory's veil of years ago. No more the battle's swelling beat, No more the clash of sword and lance, We watch the onset and retreat, We see our glorious cause advance. Comrades, oh, comrades, seek the right. Make light the burden of the fray, Hail the dawn of the nation's light. On the morn of a new-born day. Never a banner yet unfurled, 21 LI GET OF THE SOUL In cause so holy and sublime, We'll fight the battle of the world. And make the conquest for all time. So staunch and brave, so firm and true, Our haven of rest still appears. Unscathed by treason's cry and hue, Or royal tempests of the years, Disdaining to e'er surrender. Labor's right for earthly dower, Craving but for equal splendor, By peaceful conquest of the hour. e|» ^ ^ WHEN BLESSED WITH WOMAN'S HEART Seek ye a treasure which shall be Beyond the sumless worth Of all entombed within the sea Or glit'ring on the earth. Look not where diamond-waters fall. Or India's golden mart, He finds a prize behind them all. Who wins a woman's heart. The heaviest loss is better braved While such a prize we hold, If from the wreck there be but saved, W^e're rich without the gold. 22 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Although far away we're driven, From home and hearth we part, Love will make our exile heaven, When blessed with woman's htart. If poor, let foolish men deride, His joy they cannot win, He wears against their scorn and pride A talisman within. If those whom kindred ties should chain, In hate or anger part, One faithful friend will yet remain. Enshrined in woman's heart. If fortune smile, then let her be The sharer of your wealth, An earthly angel is not she, In sickness or in health? Time flies with sunshine on his wings, Oh, thus should time depart. Though we may lose all other things, Are blessed with woman's heart. TO AN OCEAN WAVE Dost thou seek a star with thy swelling crest, Oh, wave that leaves thy mother's breast ; Dost thou leap from thy prisoned depths below, In scorn of their calm and constant flow ; 23 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL Or art thou seeking some distant land, To die in murmurs upon the strand. Hast thou tales to tell of pearl-lit deep, Where the wave-whelmed mariner rocks in sleep. Canst thou speak of navies that sunk in pride, Ere the roll of their thunder in echoes died? What trophies, what banners, are floating free In the shadowy depths of that silent sea? It were in vain to ask, as thou roUest afar, Of banner, or mariner, ship or star. It were in vain to seek in thy stormy face, Some tale of the sorrowful past to trace. Thou art swelling high, thou art flashing free, How vain are the questions we ask of thee. I, too, am a wave on a stormy sea, I, too, am a wanderer driven like thee, I, too, am seeking a distant land. Out in the sea with its coral strand, The land I seek is a waveless shore, And they who reach it shall wander no more. e^ «^ DAUGHTER OF THE KING Wearied arm and broken sword. Wage in vain the desperate fight, 24 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL Roirnd Mm press a countless horde, He is but a single knight. Hark ! a cry of triumph shrill, Through the wilderness resounds. As with twenty bleeding wounds, Sinks the warrior, fighting still. Now fchey heap the fatal pyre, And the torch of death they light, Ah ! 'tis hard to die of fire, Who w^ill shield the captive knight? Round the stake with fiendish cry, Wheel and dance the savage crowd, Cold the victim's mien, and proud, And his breast is bared to die. iWho will shield the fearless heart, Who avert the murderous blade? From the throng, with sudden start, See, there springs an Indian maid. I^uick she stands before the knight, Loose the chain, unbind the ring, I'm a daughter of the king. And I claim the Indian right. ^ ^ ^ ESTRANGED My dear, there is a thought in my mind, A questioning at my heart, 25 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Why are we, who were always so near, Drifting wearily apart? Why should there be doubt or soil of faith, Lingering in a silent thought? Why should a dim vision of some wrong Be cause for some view unsought? Why estranged when kindness yet abide, Why has the gray changed to green? When we no pleasures have been denied, AVhat broodeth our souls between? Is this silent ebb of affection, A link of chain that's broken, A wave of illusive bitterness From some words yet unspoken? Why, dear, both our wants are deep within, Yet we shrink and we conceal Our affection again to bestow, As a something sweet and real, Thither let us fly to mortal ease. And each share a common strife, Thence whirl into our illusive fate. And thus lose ourselves in life. e^ ^9 i^» OUR OLD SCHOOL DAYS I'm thinking of the schoolhouse, Ned, Where, sitting side by side, 26 LIGHT OF THE SOUL We studied Webster's spelling book, And laughed o'er Gilpin's ride, And traded jack-knives now and tken, Wlien not engaged in play, And got our jackets nicely warmed — How often I'll not say. I'm tbinking of tbe roadside green, Of every tree and nook — And bow, in sultry bours of noon, We swam in Little's brook. And wben upon tbe casement came Tbe ruler's tattoo loud, How eacb of us, in passing in. Took off bis bat and bowed. I'm tbinking of tbe bencbes rude, And desk so broad and steep. On wbicb we left our autograpbs, In letters wide and deep. And of my first new writing book, Witbout a stain or spot. So soon adorned on every page, Witb eacb untidy blot. TIME IS SLIPPING AWAY rbey are slipping away— these swift years, Like a leaf on tbe current cast, 27 LIOHT OF THE SOUL With never a break in their silent flow, We watch as one by one they go Quickly into the beautiful past. Silent and swift as a weaver's thread, Or an arrow's swift flying gleam, As soft as the langorous breezes hid. That lift the bud's long golden lid, And ripple the glassy flowing stream. As light as the breath of thistle down, And as fond as a lover's dream, Yet pure as the flush of seashell's throat. Sweet as the wood-bird's wooing note, And so tender, pure and sweet they seem. One and then another we see them pass. And go down the dim-lighted stair. We hear the sound of their heavy tread. In the steps of years long since dead. Which were as beautiful and as fair. A GOLD ENGAGEMENT RING I keep for you the brightest hope. That sweetens all my life, The hope that builds the happy home Where you should reign my wife. 28 LIGHT OF THE SOUL And if you choose to dwell with me, Tlieii, darling, we shall see That my hoping shall naught but be A sweet reality. For you I keep the kindest words, That lips have learned to say, And with your name in all my thoughts I link them every day. Share my hope and words with me, dear. And happy thoughts I bring. Then upon your hand let me place A gold engagement ring. And with all choose as true a love, As lives in mortal breast. For if you do I then will know You take them for the best. Oh, will you share them, little girl. And speak them back to me? Then all your sweetness will be mine Without another plea. ^ 4, ^ BY HIS SIDE She hovers round the failing form, Devoting all love's tender care; What to the outside calm or storm, Her heart such weight of sorrows bear. 29 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL iNo thouglit of the illustrious life, And pageantry's grand procession, Forgotten now the war's stern strife, And glory with fame's accession. Not now the fond and faithful heart, Would the gloricus past recall; The present, her sorrowful part, The present, her sad world, her all. Not her own, other lives there are; And they seem safely yet her own ; But this is gliding past her care. And anguish more than death to mourn. Oh, could affection's glow brighten That dark dreary chamber of gloom, Could one's sympathy words lighten That sorrowful march to the tomb. MAY-DAY It is May, it is May, And all the earth is gay, For at last old Winter is quite away; He lingered awihle in his coat of snow To see tlie delicate primrose blow, He saw it and made no longer stay. And now it is May, it is May. 30 LIQET OF THE SOUL [t is May, it is May, AlUcI the flowers obey riie beams which alone are more bright than they A.iid up they spring at the touch of the sun, A.nd opening their sweet eyes one by one, Yet in their beauty they seem to say, [t is May, 'tis beautiful May. It is May, it is May, A-nd yet delights that lay Chilled and enchained beneath the Winter's sway Again break forth over the kindling soul To soften and soothe and bless it whole, 1 r, i thoughts more tender than words convey Sigh out it is May, it is May. ^9 M9 ^« "WHY DO THEY POINT THEIR FINGERS AT ME?" How she mocked me when at first I came To fling a brave young heart at her feet, And she spurned me because of a shame That Avas done ere my pulses had beat. For her birth, so she said, be re no stains, She was one of a noble old line, And the blood that flowed pure in her veins, Could not mingle with current like mine. 31 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL That a sin is not buried, they say, Though the sexton dig deep as he can, And no doubt the fault were mine that day, For she mocked as an ill-born man. Bo her path to the grave was soon trod, In scorn she waived my offer to flee, But why now do the gossips all nod, And then point their fingers at me? iWith a heart of love I craved her grace. Yet in anger she cast me away, And I never more have seen her face. Since our meeting on that fatal day. Bhe is gone and they say for her fame, It was barely in time that she died, Her grieved heart could not endure the shame, Or linger with the parting of pride. ^ 4* ^ FAITHLESS Let this be our last faithless day, And no more our lives while away, Let's forget the tricks of deceit. And every mood that tends to cheat. Just let us be ourselves again. And free of vices that would stain; Let ajl our words be pure and true, As true as speech that once we knew. 32 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL Now let us be ourselves once more, Lest we forget the grief in store, Nor seek for that we cannot give, While thus so faithless we now live. It's not too late to change our play, So let us toss our faults away, They have so changed our very hearts That we ourselves are but the parts. THE MOTHER'S PRICELESS TREASURE You ask to-night my daughter's hand. As you'd request a toy; Do you know the weight of your demand On a mother's heart, my boy? You say you love her wildly. Well, Will it last to the end of time, Or will the ring of the wedding bell Resound its dying chime? The heart you crave is a holy thing — So tender, trusting and true. Can you to her devotion bring As warm as hers to you? Will you love her through the changing years As tenderly as now? When ills shall pale, or sorrow's tears Becloud her sunny brow? 33 LWHT OF THE SOUL Her life is like an open book, And its pages are fair and white, She is as fresh and pure as the sparkling brook Upon the upland bright. My boy, will you lead her by love's willing shield Through life's refining fires. As she walks with you through thorny fields, O'er life's rugged mires? When age shall bow her graceful head, And bleach her jetty hair. Will you protect her through each dread. And shelter her from care? When time shall dim her sparkling eye, And Winter's furrows show, Will your love be the last to die? If not, I will answer no. But if your love will live and burn. And bless her future years, If you will give her in return. The trust that life endears, If you will guard her destiny. And shield her from distress. Will always care for her lovingly, Then I will answer, yes. 34 LIGHT OF THE SOUL WHEN THE SUN IS SHINING Are you pouting, my darling, because it rains, And the flowers droop wlien the drops are fall- ing, When the crystals are blurring the window panes, And a moaning wind through the lane is call- ing? Are you crying, and wishing the sky was clear, And roses again on the lattice twining? Ah, well, you must remember, my foolish dear, 'Tis easy to laugh when the sun is shining. But, darling, this is the time the heart to test. When Winter is here and the storms are howl- ing. And when the earth from under her frozen breast Looks up at the sad blue sky, mute and scowl- Then the brave little spirit should rise to meet The dark season's gloom and the day's repin- ing; And now this is the time to be glad : for, sweet, 'Tis easy to laugh when the sun is shining. Ah, 'tis when the world is bright and fair and gay, And the glad birds sing in the fair June weather, And when the Summer is gathering, night and day, 35 LIGHT OF THE SOUL All her golden clialice of sweets together. And when the blue seas answer the sky above, Where the bright stars follow the day's declin-' iiig, Why, then there's no merit in smiling, my love, Tis easy to laugh when the sun is shining. DIED ON THE BATTLEFIELD Oh, comrade, bend down lower, My strength is now going fast, I've only one more message, The bitterest and the last. There's a blue-eyed girl waiting, Far away, for my return — Oh, God, when I think of her, My brain begins to burn. Alone I've been on picket. In the rainy, stormy night, I've led the men to battle. In wild anti desperate fight. When I've laid me down at night On the wet and cheerless ground, Her face always hovered near me, The only joy I found. 36 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Take tMs basket from my side, Close to where the red blood drips, And oh, tell her that I died With her name on my lips. She put this prize round my neck, When we tarried side by side, A spot of blood is on it, That's spreading far and wide. THERE'S REST FOR THEE IN HEAVEN Oil, should sorrow o'er thy way, All its darkest shadows fling. And the hopes that cheer the day, Now die in their early spring; Or should pleasures at its birth. Fade like the hours of even ; Turn thou now away from earth. There's rest for thee in Heaven. And if ever life shall seem Troubling in a toilsome way, And gladness then cease to beam, Upon its cold clouded day. Or if, like the wearied dove, O'er shoreless ocean driven, Oh, raise thou thine eyes above. There's rest for thee in Heaven. 37 LIQET OF THE SOUL And when sickness pales thy clieek, Or grows dim thy lustrous eye, And pulse become low and weak, ^Vould tell of a time to die ; Thy sweet hope shall whisper then. Though thou from earth be riven, There's a bliss beyond thy ken, There's rest for tliee in Heaven. GATHER MY SHEEP IN The good master of the sheep-fold rare, Who guards the sheep and the sheep-fold bin. Looks on the gloomering meadows there, Filled with bleating and clamorous din, Calls for his flock in the shepherd's care, Where are my sheep; are they all come in? Ob, says the kind Mreling shepherd man. Some of them are shorn and some are thin, I have all thy sheep save those which ran With some poor starvlings of bone and skin And they are among the sheep-fold ban, But the rest are all brought in, brought in. The good master of the sheep-fold rare, Who tempers the frost for shorn and thin, 2S LIGHT OF THE SOUL Goes to the sheep in the hireling's care, Filled with bleating and clamorous din, kind lays down the bars of sheep-fold there, And calling softly, come in, come in. From the dark and dismal meadows bare, Where grass for the flock was short and thin, From out the starving world everywhere. Filled with bleating and clamorous din, The poor lost sheep in the father's care. All came gathering in, came gathering in. THE STORY OF THE GRASS With clover white and clover red. With its tender secret keeping, It hides the stain where heroes bled, And spreads its mantle where the dead All in peaceful rest are sleeping. It finds the graves of the Blue and Gray, And with violets and daisies. As it comes on Decoration Day, It keeps dear memories green each day, While the wild birds sing their praises. Down the calm vale where waters run, The grass looks up to greet the sun, 39 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Is liappy in shining weather; A million joyous blades, like one — In the light rejoice together. The s"tory of the grass is true, Its flowers of red, white and blue, Are, when called by winds to rally, Like the hosts of Roderick Dhu — Spring they all from hill to valley. THIS TIME LAST YEAR This time last year — ^this time last year, Many a gentle face was near. All smiling round a festive board. All rivals for the kindest word, That might the happy stranger greet. And make him feel his welcome sweet. For other scenes are they that now With care and sadress cloud my brow, In vain through sorrows gloom I trace. For that dear happy looked-for place. Where, side by side, each day more near, Heart clung to heart, this time last year. Those sunny moments now are past, Were too heavenly bright to last. The smile — the angel voice I woke, To sing love's music when it spoke — All, all have fled, and left me here To mourn in vain this time last year. 40 LIGHT OF THE SOUL JUST A THOUGHT Oh, where does the moon and the sky Sail in their happy passing by? Oft is she hid from mortal eye Or dimly seen, But when the clouds asunder fly How bright her mien. How strange that we — a f roward race, Thousands, though rich in fortune's grace, With cherished suUenness of pace, Their way pursue, And ingrates who wear smileless face, The whole year through. If kindred humors e'er would make My spirit droop for drooping sake. And fancy follow in the wake, Bright ship of grace, A counter impulse let me take, And win the race. "KESPECTFULLY DECLINED" Desiring once in early youth To gain renown and fame, And wishing very much, in truth, 41 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL To see in print my name, I wrote a poem (common thing For silly boys to do), Selecting for my subject, "Spring," A theme I thought was new. And sent it to the Blank Gazette — I deemed the favor kind, Nor thought for answer I should get "Respectfully declined." The whole next week — ^how long it seemed- I could not work nor play. But, hidden in the hay-mow, dreamed The tedious hours away. How proud I thought my folks would be, The neighbors, too, indeed. When the next Gazette they should see, And my first poem read. Ah, often now those happy days Do I recall to mind. When I knew nothing of that phrase, "Eespectfully declined." DREAMS OF THE PAST Alone I watch the dying day, T see its tints of orange paling ; And just beyond the ruffled bay, 42 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Gray mists tlie purple hills are veiling; Upon the roof weird fingers play, And all the winds are full of wailing. Life's open book before me lies, And as I turn its leaves back faintly. The pictures of the past arise; Strange forms go by appareled quaintly, Sweet voices whisper, and dear eyes Shine as of old, divine and saintly. Once more I hear the gentle rhyme, Where falling leaves still waters dimple, The woods' low murmur, and the c^ime Of silvery streamlets as they wimple — And live again the golden time Of childhood's joys, so pure and simple. What pretty pebbles pave the creek. Dear old creek by mulberries shaded ; There the shy frogs played hide and seek Through lilies — with sweet spices laded ; And our wee shadows seemed to speak From whispering wavelets as we waded. A CIRCLE OF GOLD Tho' 'tis only a small circle of gold, Placed on my finger by you, 43 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Yet on it lingers affection, dear, For a heart that proved untrue. 'Tis many years since you gave to me This pretty, sweet emblem of gold, And the ever-loving words you then said — • To me, are now silent and cold. Like one who gathers the leaves so sweet, Of a fragrant rose that is dead, And sighs as she sadly grieves, dear heart, As the life and beauty fled. So I from the long-buried past. Call back in its bloom, a rose, And wonder now if dreams that last Are the best that woman knows. And yet in this small circle of gold, dear. Is the name of him I love. And the vows that we ne'er would be parted, Save by our ascent above. So I will take this gift of happy days, Placed on my finger by you. And add now for a motto upon it — "I've always been true to you." But this emblem of sweet recollection. Proves stronger, sweet friend, than you. Yet I keep it upon my finger, dear. As a trust of love that's known by few. In my heart lives only a dream, dear. And a ghost of the past that is dead, In mine eyes your living eyes gleam, dear, But a voice of the shadow has fled. 44 LWET Oy THE SOUL SWEET WERE THE KISSES THAT FOLLOWED Her eyes were as the morning dew, And his as the light of day, While tokens of love roved in each, As bright as the sunbeam's ray. On a mission of midnight love, And on stolen raptures bent, Sweet were the kisses that followed. While the evening hours were spent. Spent in a role of erstwhile joys, Soothing as the moon's pale light, They garnered the harvest of trust, In the latest hours of night. With the sweetest of dreams they slept. Slept pillowed upon their arms^ While lips of love each other pressed, Proved a scene of many charms. BEYOm) THE SHORES OP TIME And while they stand a moment half ajar. Gleams from the inner glory, Stream brightly through the azure vault afar, A.nd half reveal the story. 45 LIGHT OF THE SOUL O land unknown; O land of love divine: Father all wise, eternal, Guide, please guide these wandering feet of mine Into those pastures vernal. Away down the coast, when the daylight fails, A small ray gleams on the sky, For sixty miles or more it gleams and pales, And dies out, then flashes by. Here on the margin of the sea, I watch that ray with keen desire. And something sad comes over me When fogs have screened its gleaming fire. So luminous its message shows. Across the waters of the dark, The ship that comes, the ship that goes Finds Providence in that red spark. GOOD NIGHT AND GOOD-BY When the gold and red of the setting sun Grows pale and fades at the close of day, When the wond'ring splendor is o'er and done, And night draws on and covers its way ; We do not hope its return in vain, For we know the morrow will come again. This is good night. 46 LIGHT OF THE SOUL When we part witli a clasping hand at night From the friend we love, we feel regret, And the soulful warm heart takes with the night, And joy of our household; and yet, This regret is not a hopeless pain, For we know that the friend will come again ; This is good night. When we leave the shore that has known our birth. When we turn, our longing sight to fill — Our hearts with mem'ries of sorrow and mirth, The throes of expectation are still And night draws on while we strain our oyes For a last look back in our paradise, This is good-by. WHO WILL CAEE FOR MOTHER NOW? Why am I so weak and weary? See how faint my heated breath; All around to me seems darkness: Tell me, dear friends, is this death? Ah, how well I know your answer, To my fate I meekly bow, If you'll only tell me truly — Who will care for mother now? 47 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Who will comfort her in sorrow? Who will dry the falling tear? — ■ Gently smooth the wrinkled forehead, Who will whisper words of cheer? Even now I think I see her With shining light o'er her brow, Will you only tell me truly Who will care for mother now? Lift the blinds and ope the window. Let my gaze be on the sky; For I alone fight this battle, And will like a Christian die. Soon with angels I'll be marching. With bright laurels on my brow, I've been faithful to his promise, God will care for mother now. PARTED We met, 'twas on an Autunm night. Darkness fell o'er hill and dale ; But in this valley there was light. For angels lingered near the vale. And notes of gladness came to my heart, Like songs of the birds in Spring, Or golden rays of light that dart From an angel's jeweled wing. 48 LIGHT OF THE SOUL The clouds tliat liuiig like wreaths above The rugged mouutaiu crest, lad lost their golden tints of love, And were sinking in the West. The ebbing tide was whispering low, In murmurs that breathed of love. The morning zephyrs told of woe, In tones of sadness like the dove. Ah, who thought that cruel schemes, Or venomed tongue so soon would blast The visions of those happy hours, And o'er them utter darkness cast. •i' ^ 4* LIVE FOE SOMETHING Live for something, be not idle. Look about thee for employ ; Sit not down to idle dreaming, Labor is the sweetest joy. Folded hands are ever weary, Selfish hearts are never gay ; Life for thee hath many duties — Then active be, while you may. Scatter blessings in thy pathway; Gentle words and cheering smiles. Are better than gold or silver LIGHT OF THE SOUL With their grief-dispelling wiles. AlS the pleasant sunshine falleth Ever on the grateful earth, So let sympathy and kindness Gladden well the darkened hearth. Hearts that are oppressed and weary, Drop the tear of sympathy, Whisper words of home and comfort; Give, and thy reward shall be Joy unto thy soul returning, From the perfect fountain head; Freely, as thou freely giveth. Shall the grateful light be shed. MEMOEY When the leagues of nectar wooed the bees, To buckwheat hills or dales of clover, When twittering birds on blooming trees, Cooed tenderly and played the lover ; While time with odorous breath of ease, Told the delicious story over. We reckoned then each year, then again ; Now they are counted with our losses ; Sharp thorns and thistles now give us pain. Where then we trod Spring's velvet mossesr^ 50 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Then, of our flowery garlands vain, And now, a-weary of our crosses. I gathered wild flowers yesterday, But someliow they have lost their sweetness, Some quail was started — and even they Now seem to have lost their discreetness, And they only hopped beside the way, As if they had no need of fleetness. I'm happy now when the children meet ' With flowers from their plays returning, Nor care trampled by the heedless feet. Their trustful souls all shadow spurning, Jheir hearts all wild with impatient beat. And Hope's bright fires within them burning. INJUSTICE A Convict's Kebukb Freedom ; a stranger to me. Monstrous venom-headed snake, Thou court of iniquity, You slew man for money's sake. Thou serpent in human guise, Unloose thy slimy coils. That bear naught but noxious ties, A.nd seal chains of galling toils. 51 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL Thy soul like a pest of shame Apes the world like one in sleep, And sullied the honored name Of the one you caused to weep. Like a darksome thief at night, 'Monj^ the money-changing stands, Thou putrid and loathesome blight, Hast man's blood upon thy hands. Perjury, thou art his friend. And a faithful lure art thou. Till his reign for lucre end, In a stain of scarlet brow. Oh, thou fiend of courtly call, Hear adage of long ago. The writing upon the wall Words of retribution show. OUR LIFEBOATS ARE MOORED ON A SHADOWY LEA Over the hills, the beautiful far-away hills, Where rest the cloudless sky and tropical rills. With its sweet rippling waters in tuneful rhyme. There lies a mystical isle called Olden Time. Where voices are heard as gentle as trusting love, O'er the valley of time in its echoes above, As it greets its mate in the shadow and sheen. On this mystical isle in vestal of green. 52 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL Softly and sweetly over tlie beautiful Mils, Are sung faultless melodies of musical thrills, Floating from silvern skore as the zephyrs blow, From over the hills so silent and slow. As our lifeboats are moored on a shadowy lea, Where the airy mists are pale as a crystal sea, And ever restless waves are rocked on the deep. Now lie silent on the lulling stream to sleep. Over the hills, the beautiful hills, far away, We can hear the notes of an angel on the bay, Where so sweetly they blend above and below, There lies the mj^stical isle of Long Ago. And in the dreamy silence of the twilight pale, When sometime the tide is low or is in a gale, Or where gently they lilt with a lilting sway. We'll slip our mystic moorings and sail away. THE OLD HOMESTEAD There stands the two old elm trees That grew before the door, In which the birds are singing Their sunny songs of yore. And o'er the shaded pathway. The rows of lilac meet, And long grass is waving now. Where trod the children's feet. 53 LIGHT OF THE SOUL And troops of cliirping swallows Are circling overhead, Above where stood the homestead, With walls of brown and red. Babbling brooks in the orchard. Still sing the same old song, As they leap in the snnshine O'er the stones all day long. TOO SOON— TOO SOON When childhood eyes are dim with tears That should delay for many years, And sorrow like a shameless thief Robs yonth of joy to canse it grief; It comes, alas, its way though brief. Too soon — too soon. When fiery youth impatient wait. To find what is in store from fate. And proudly boasts of future power. Of greatness which should be their dower, Yet comes the burden of that hour — Too soon — too soon. When friends long parted meet once more. And fondly speak of days of yore. Then eager questions, quick replies 54 LIGHT OF THE SOUL From tender lips so sweet arise, And time, to such, resentless flies. Too soon — too soon. When comes that last sad parting hour, O'er which we lose our boasted power ; When fails the last proud earthly stay, And crumbles 'neath our feet away. Forbid that we must trembling say Too soon — too soon. DAY BY DAY NEW HOPES ARE RISING Day by day old sorrows leave us. Leave us while new sorrows come ; Come like evening shadows, lengthening. Lengthening round the spirit's home. Day by day new hopes are rising, Rising, gilded all with bliss; Bliss that never reaches mortals. Mortals in a world like this. Day by day friendship's flowers — Flowers that flourished in the past — Past, oh, past, once bright and glowing, Glowing once but dimmed at last. Day by day comes wondrous changes. Changes pluming mighty thought — 55 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Thought that wings its way far onward, Onward, unto the scenes unsought. Last to fade of all is fancy — Fancy ever young and gay, Gay as when young love was dreaming, Dreaming, dreaming, day by day. This vain world — how false and fleeting; Fleeting as the sunset ray — Kay that says to man thou art dying — Dying, dying, day by day. LONGED FOR THE MOUNTAIN TOP Down in the valley : he thought, how grand To stand on the mountain peak, To feel the four winds of Heaven, And see the daylight break. The flowery grass of the meadow lands, The wealth of the waving crop, And he knew them safe, and rich, and fair, Yet longed for the mountain top. What mystic shadows and depths were there. What glory of color oiight. He knew that his heart would never rest, Till his feet had reached the height ; 56 LIGHT OF THE SOUL With painful care and a beating breast, He climbed the dangerous ground, And stood at last on the mountain top, Naught but sky his gaze to bound. But the clouds were still as far above, And alas, the stony peak Had never a flower, blade, or grass — It was cold, barren, and bleak. And far below \v'as the valley sweet, With its fields of waving corn. With its orchard, trees, and garden place, And the house where he was born. 4, ^ 4, THE OLD HOMESTEAD CLOCK I hear it through the nights so long, Out on the stairway nigh. Tick off, with measured beat and strong. The moments as they die. A mentor, telling through the years, As if some household ghost Of joy and grief, of hopes and fears, Of living and the lost. In its old home, on guard it stood, A century or more, 57 LIGHT OF THE SOUL And saw brave deeds by field and flood, And booted guests at door. Knew births and deaths, and tears and song, And children's prattle sweet, And maidens coy, and lovers strong, And dainty, dancing feet. The stolen kiss, the wedding gay. The bride in bow'r and hall, And then red war, in wild array. Cast sad thoughts over all. SURELY I'M A CHILD AGAIN Of my ascended mother dreaming, Angel hosts enviroa me : I see their snowy cohorts gleaming, As above the crystal sea. I seem to feel her softly breathing, And her kisses' sweet refrain, Her raven hair my shoulders wreathing. Surely I'm a child again. Bo I not see her sweetly smiling, Bowing o'er her baby boy? My sorrows as of yore beguiling, With a mother's fervid joy. 58 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Are not her graceful fingers moving, Stroking back my locks of gold? I know I feel her arms so loving, Tenderly around me fold. SPEAK THEM WHILE I LIVE Carve not upon a stone when I am dead, The praises which remorseful mourners give, To women's graves — a tardy recompense — But speak them while I live. Heap not the heavy marble on my head. To shut away the sunshine and the dew, Let small blooms grow there, and let grasses wave, And raindrops filter through. Thou wilt meet many fairer and more gay. Than I, but trust me, thou canst never find One who will love and serve thee night and day, With a more staple mind. Forget me when I die ; the violets Above my head will blossom just as blue, Nor miss thy tears ; e'en nature's self forgets ; But while I live be true. 59 LIGHT OF THE 80 TL TO HEAR THE ANGELS SING It came upo3?. tba iiiidniglit clear, Tliat mystic song of old, From angels bending near the earth, To touch their harps of gold. Still through the open skies they come, With peaceful wings unfurled, And still their sweetest music floats O'er all the weary world. To all men a life's message came, From Heaven's gracious King, The world in solemn silence lay To hear the angels sing. A Sa^-ior born in lowly state, That all to Him may cling, On earth he came to save who will To hear the angels sing. With all the woes of sin and strife, The world has suffered long. Beneath the angel strain have rolled Two thousand years of wrong. Above its high and lowly plains, They bend on glowing wing, And ever o'er its babel sounds, The blessed angels sing. 60 UGET OF THE SOUL WHITE WINGS OF LOVE IIo, dear little west winds, come over the lea, I pray you speed quickly to baby and me, Coma, croon your sweet lullabys softly and low, Tlie rustling of young leaves, tlie brook's rippling flow. The lush of the waves as they break on the shore,- Now dreamily mimic old ocean's deep roar, The bees drowsy tune set to murmuring rhyme. The fairylike music wee lily-bells chime. Come, sing to my nestling the songs you have sung, This eve to the birdlings in the leafy nest swung. Whose green swaying cradles high up 'mid the trees, Bespond to the touch of each gay flitting breeze. The birds and the flowers are hushed all to rest, Now lull my bright darling to sleep on my breast. While God's holy angels from Heaven above. O'er shadow my darling with white wings of love. 61 LIGHT OF THE SOUL LOVE SHOULD NOT BE A SLAVE Make no vows of constancy, my dear one, To love me thougli I die, thy whole life long, And love no other till thy days are done, Nay, it were rash and wrong. If thou canst love another ; be it so ; I would not reach out of my quiet grave. To bind thy heart, if it should choose to go ; Love should not be a slave. My placid ghost, I trust, will walk serene, In clearer light than gilds those earthly morns, Above the jealousies and envies keen Which sow this life with storms. Thou wouldst not feel my shadowy caress. If, after death, my soul would linger here ; Men's hearts crave tangible, close tenderness, Love's presence, warm and near. It would not make me sleep more peacefully, That thou wert wasting all thy life in woe. For my poor sake ; what love thou hast for me, Bestow it before I go. 62 LIGHT OF THE SOUL I WISH I COULD KECALL THE PAST 1 wish I were a child once more, And dwelling in the dear old cot, Where twining vines o'erhung the door, And beauty marked the sacred spot. How pleasant are the thoughts of youth, When all our hopes are bright and new, To travel back in very truth, And laugh and sing as children do. How oft hath music with its spell, Enchanted me in rustic search, How oft that sweet-toned village iDell Hath tolled my youthful steps to church. I wish I could recall the past. Live o'er again my childhood days, And barter old age chilling blast For childhood's bright and sunny rays. What bliss the joys I tasted then, When every sweet familiar face, Glowed kindly in the village glen. And greeted me with loving grace. What pleasant rambles by the brook, Would then be mine again to share, What joy on its green banks to look, Ajid cull the flow^ers blooming there. 63 LWET OF THE SOUL ETERNITY Through all the day and night My soul and thine are friends, And there's naught to affright, When pure love truly blends. All things keep tryst with me, And all things share my joy, Heaven, earth, man, and sea, I create, I destroy. Sin, curse, nor creed I know, That darkens faiths that shine; Time and space are but show, And all that was, is mine. Deathless I'm centered fast, Uncreated and free. One not born of the past. All that is, is of me. From large to smallest part, And greater than the whole, I'm one divided heart, And universal souL Fear or bliss, hope or woe. Shadows flit o'er the sod. And life and death I know. For truly I am God. ' 64 LIGHT OF THE 80UL ALWAY WITH US Alway with us, before our door, Tlie long procession of tlie poor, Unceasingly, tke livelong day. Is passing on its devious way, And through the night we hear their feet — Echoing in the lonely street. Among the throng many we see. Who scorn the robe of poverty ; To their reluctant limbs it clings, And clogs their steps, and burns and stings, Beneath some gaudy cloak of pride. They still wander on side by side. Many have trailed that hallowed dress, Through pools of mire and filthiness ; And some in cowardly dismay Drop prone and groveling by the way ; And others grope in dark disgrace. The hunted outlaws of the race. Some wear the garb without a stain. That marks the brotherhood of pain ; We recognize the mien erect — The tongues of flame that crown each brow, To them we reverently bow. 65 LIOHT OF THE SOUL WE GET SO TIRED Of all thy promises, O Christ, This sometimes seems the best: ''Come to me ye that labor, And I will give you rest.'^ We get so tired, we cannot care For many things, we creep Like weary children near to thee, And only pray to sleep. We have been strong to dare and do ; We have gone forth to fight ; With force that led to victory Have striven for the right; Where thou hast called us we have gone. With gladsome steps and free ; But what can worn hearts and hands Avail to do for thee? We have gone forth to work among Thy busy servants. Lord ; Oh, pleasant were their merry songs We sang with sweet accord ; But night comes after the long day, And we by care oppressed. Come to thee, Master, in the dark. And ask for leave to rest. 66 LIGHT OF THE SOUL HE KISSED HER AS IN OTHER DAYS Take me back to your heart once more, And your love let me share, Let me know that your doubts are o'er, Keep me, dear, in your care. Light was my fault, I did not seek To tease your jealous whim, It w^as a prank, a girlish freak, That made me dance with him. Her words like the moon's soothing rays, To him gave peace and rest. He kissed her as in other days, And caught her to his breast. A smile of joy that ever crept Amid her happ}'^ tears. Proved they with care the compact kept Through all the after years. But since till alter led you're free No folly to resign, Mthough such sport should torture me, I know the fault were mine. Alone blame me how could I dare. Your blithe caprice to chide, "V^Tien life and love beyond compare Will soon become my bride. 67 LIGHT OF THE SOUL SAUNTERINa Wherever I and Agnes go, We always saunter to and fro, And see so much, to talk about, When she and I go walking out. Agnes, dear, is petite and small, And no trouble to me at all, When her head on my bosom rests, She and I are the only guests. There are others who seem to be On very friendly terms with me, From them I keep my secret thoughts, And give them nice forget-me-nots. But to Agnes, I give my heart. In lieu for little Cupid's dart. As we walk near a fountain stream, We think of love — as lovers dream. I often think how nice it is That Agnes's love is simply bliss, It must be nice for her, too. To be so loving kind and true. I notice one particular thing. That puzzles me like everything, It's when my dear and I are out, We see so mucli to talk about. 68 LIGHT OF THE SOUL The song of birds in plumage gay, We hear and see when on our way, To find where little birdies go, To lay their eggs as white as snow. The spears of grass and leaves of trees. Just sparkle in the sunlight breeze, As we walk and talk, and think and see, I find it quite bewilders me. Then the park, with fragrant flowers. Lies beyond the vine-clad bowers, Filled with roses of every hue. That please the eye of me and you. And the fountains of dancing mist. Are sparkling in their native gist. When we're sauntering on our way, From place to place and day to day. The grain with stalks both low and tall, Are the most goodly sights of all, W^hen they give to us abundant yield. Of the golden seeds from the field. And when the corn is in the silk, 'Tis then the grain is filled with milk. Within its cony covered green. Lies the kernels all white and clean. On the level and on the steep. There abide the goats and the sheep, 69 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Nipping tlie grass on glen or liill, Coming and going as they will. We see tlie horses and the cows, While feeding on the tender boughs, And wiitcli them as they slowly eat. The boughs and leaves so rich and sweet. In the meadows of new-mown hay Are heaped the hillocks day by day, In the rays of the noontime sun, They are placed in rows one by one. Every creation that we find. Teaches us of the master's mind, And eternity everywhere. Both on the earth and in the air. On that mountain of rock and rills, O'ershadowing the glen and hills, Where the moon and stars are shining, Rests the cloud of silver lining. It reminds us of heights to climb, To reach abode of the sublime, And meet the dear friends left on earth, To greet them at our second birth. We saunter along to the zoo. To see the apes, and gibbons, too, And wonder if men of to-day, Originate from such as they. 70 LIGHT OF THE SOUL For, just to simply tell the truth, They look like the men in their youth, Who started from the glacial age, Before the waters were assuaged. That old, old house near the lane, Still shows the broken window pane, Where an urchin of long ago. Was wont to try his arrow bow. The dismal house is vacant now, For all the folks with ancient brow, Have passed away to other climes. And left the place to modern times. ASLEEP Can'st thou tell us, little sleeper. Whiter than the snow, Of the glory that surrounds thee? We would know. Tell us of the holy city, With its streets of gold, Wliere his lambs the shepherd gathers In the fold. For the gates seem widely open Where thou dwellest now, 71 LIGHT OF THE SOUL A.iid we see the pure light shining On thy brow. Fare thee well, dear little sleeper, Hear our last good-night; Thou hast conquered in the battle; We must fight. M!ay we live, that, when the summons Comes for us to die, We may meet thee in the cloud land, Bye and by. A HUm)RED YEARS AGO Have you seen the old, old houses Of a hundred years ago? Where floors had never a carpet, But were clean and white as snow. Where the windows, small and narrow, Framed no beauty, only when Cherub faces dimpled through them — Little women, little men. Have you seen the old, old settees Standing by the chimney side. So broad and deep, hard and whittled, Where the carver's skill was tried ; 72 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Crossed witli letters queer and mystic- P's and M's and clumsy K's, Grandpa's black and worn initials, Children's crosses, lines and stars ; And of the old men and women Of a hundred years ago, iWho were not ashamed of wrinkles, Or of locks as white as snow. .§. 4. 4, WHERE BEAUTY NEVER DIES Beyond these chilling vrinds and glowing skies, Beyond death's solemn portal, There is a land where beauty never dies. And love becomes immortal. A land whose light is never dimmed by shade, Whose fields are ever vernal. Where nothing beautiful can ever fade, But bloom for age eternal. We may not know how sweet the balmy air, How bright and fair its flowers. We may not hear the songs that echo there, Through those enchanted bowers. That city's shining light we may not see With eyes of earthly vision, 73 LIGHT OF THE SOUL For death, tlie silent warden keeps the key That opes those gates clysian. But sometime when adowu the western sky, The fiery sunset lingers. And golden gates swing inward noiselessly, Unlocked by silent fingers. MY WIFE AND I Come, wife, sit here, and we'll rest awhile, Till the merry dance is o'er; Our silver wedding has made me feel As if youth were mine once more. I've quite forgotten my fifty years, Dear wife, can it now be true That we are nearing the age of seers, With our old love crowned as new? Our daughter there, — may God bless the child; She carries her mother's face : Just as you looked when you won my heart With innocent girlish grace. Oh, how fair she is : — ^what, bless my 80ul ! Why, wife, what is that you say? 74 LIOHT OF THE SOUL Our little girl lias given her heart To that rascal — ^young John Grey? Coaxed mother to tell me, did she, eh? Well, wife, it can never be ; I'll never consent, — do you hear, wife? You just tell her that for me. WTiat is it you ask : If, long ago. Your father had answered nay, What would I have done? H'm ! well, I think I'd married you anyway. THE IRISH MAID'S WARNING The pay that you offer, ma'am, is fair, And the looks of you rather suits me, But then, I can't enter your service Unless I know that we can agree. And now, to start with, is your kitchen A great big one, mth plenty of light? Will you keep a lot of cold \ittles For the friends that I'm like to invite? And have you the least of objections To the men dropping in when they choose? I've got a lot of friends and cousins. And they frequently bring me the news. 75 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL Yon must give them a drop when they call, For I give you fair warning, ma'am, now, If your front door be closed against them, Then you'll hear me commencing a row. These matters agreed on between us, I'd try you for a week, so I would, For in time I think I would like you, And would try to please you if I could. But mind, if I come for a week, ma'am, I will come for that time and no less. And now, then, supposing you want me. You must give me your name and address. 4, 4, 4, HAPPY MAKRIED LIFE You say, my dear, you wish to lead A happy married life And so you strive to shut love in. And cast out care and strife; A loving bride, you never mean To contradict your spouse — "Tell me," you say, "the easiest way To govern well the house." You tell me while your sweet blue eyes Are full of happy tears, How safely you have sheltered love 76 LWHT OF THE SOUL Against uncertain fears, That so often go passing by, And lie, content and true. Will never have a wish to fly From hearth and home and you. Be careful now, oh, bonny bride. That love, who is so fair. So glad to nestle in your arms. Dies not of too much care. If you would have him gain in strength, And never change in form. Know, while he sings, his downy wings Must sometimes breast the storm. «^ 4* *l* THE CHAIN WE HOLD SO DEAR And taking once — ^he keeps them, what I gave Is mine no longer — it is past recall, The love, the self-surrender, and the faith, The life allegiance — ^he had them all. He has them still, although he walks not now In visible presence these poor shore's time. The words that bound me once can never more Be jingled over like some foolish rhyme. Written for idle children's play at love, Nay; as a sacrament of life and death, 77 LWET OF THE SOUL As a pure wife, and fearless, I shall look To meet the welcome of my true love's breath. Think you that I could greet him if my lips Had felt the stain of later kisses here? Breaks he not in heaven, nor I on earth, One link of all the chain we hold so dear. SOj friend of mine, remain my friend indeed, Help me to walk unfaltering through my life — Forget that other dream — and think of me As a true sister — and another's wife. THE CONDUCTOR'S CHANGE OF MIND Say, con, there's a girl a-cryin' out there, She looks like a city-fled lass. With a couple of kids lookin' quite bare, And she hain't no ticket or pass. She says she is from the city of flames, That they call the Queen of the West, And she looks like one of your high-born dames, If she is so seedily dressed. You gtifc oat of here with your maudlin trash, And tell her to stay off my train. If she wants to ride she must pay the cash, And don't you bother me again. 78 LIGHT OF THE SOUL But stop, stay, till I think a bit deeper Of my girl, who is now away. Just take her and the kids to the sleeper, And I'll pay their fare home to-day. I half believe that she's a lady bred, And a-tellin' the gospel truth, She says to tell you bhe's mighty nigh dead For to see the home of her youth. I told her I thought you would take her througl Though 'twasn't in the regular way, If you w on't, there's no guessin' what she'll do, For she ain't got a cent to pay. ^ ^ ^ EASTER DAY That day when away from the grave were hidden From human sight some dead hope lies, The stone is rolled, and the dead is bidden, Out of its slumber to wake and rise. WTien over the selfish wishes thronging Our pathway the heart is lifted high. Into a real and imperious longing. For heights that reach the upper sky. The day when a soul is loosed from prison — For souls wear shackles as well as hands — 79 LIQET OF THE SOUL Wlien hate is buried and love is risen, And life is waiting her sweet commands. Though never a bell be rung, and never We lift our voices or kneel or pray, Still do we know that forever and forever This is our life's glad Easter Day. IN THE MANSIONS OF THE SKY When earth's dim shades fade away, Known faces to us appear, And loving hearts warm the day, Yor our Savior who is near. New wonders will grow apace, While the clouds in tumult fly. We'll see beauties of his face. In the mansions of the sky. Oh, we'll gaze over the clouds, Just beyond the line of blue, Where the sun in glory shrouds Angelic hosts from our view. 80 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Basking in Ms golden rays, In the glory of his grace, A.S liis shining light displays. We shall see him face to face. A WIFE'S APPEAL You took me, husband, when a girl, Into your home and heart, To bear in all your after-fate, A fond and faithful part. Now tell me, have I ever tried That duty to forego, Or pined there was not joy for me When you were sunk in woe? No ; I would rather share your grief Than other people's glee. For though you're nothing to the world, You're all the world to me. You make a palace of my shed, This rough-hewed bench, a throne, There's sunlight for me in your smile, And music in your tone. I look upon you when you sleep. My eyes with tears grow dim, I cry; oh, parent of the poor, 81 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Look from Heaven on him. Behold him toil from day to day, Exhausting strength and soul, Look thou down in mercy on him, For thou canst make him whole. And at last sweet relieving sleep Has on my eyelids smiled, How oft are they forbid to close. In slumber by my child. I take the little murmurer That spoils my span of rest. And hush all its baby callings. Upon my wearied breast. WHAT LOVERS ARE WONT TO SAY I love to see the rose in bud and bloom, And the humming-bird with its wondrous plume, Swinging, swaying, from flower to flower. Sipping sweetness from the mystic bower, I'd love to know where little cupid dwells, And wonder if only in whispering dells, Around the castles of the rich and gay. To hear what lover's there are wont to say. That well remembered dainty dream of ours, That cast its magic spell round in showers, 82 LIGHT OF THE SOUL And leaves its brightest light where dream lands meet, In our sunshine of love so pure and sweet. I love music of song birds in the trees, Fraught with merry cheer in the summer breeze, Where curling leaves around the birdling's nest Entwine above the lover's lingering zest. I love the lillies of the meadow lands, In their blooming beauty and coral strands. Where we our usual trystiug place besought. For joy and hope were then our only thought. Filled with youthful visions most pure and sweet. We could not keep our ever-restless feet. From dancing with pleasure through the flowers, Of that heaven-born dainty dream of ours. DO I LOVE THEE? Love thee, canst thou ask me still If in truth I love thee? A-sk the breezes if you will, Ask the stars above thee ; Nightly, daily, on the air, Passing now before me, 83 LIQET OF THE SOUL I breathe thy name in prayer To the heavens o'er me. Naught but breezes fond could tell, Naught but stars give token Of those words they know so well, Ne'er to mortal spoken. Walking, dreaming, near or far, Gay, or when I'm lonely, Of but one my dreamings are, Thee and of thee, only. SING THE BABY TO SLEEP. Baby mine, my little bo-peep. Close your eyes and go fast to sleep, Mother is watching while you rest. Like a wee birdie in its nesc, Baby is swinging now, swinging now, !With mother's hand upon your brow. And like the quiet ocean deep, You are going to sleep, sleep, sleep. Now you've gone to sleep, baby dear, There's not a noise that you can hear, Sleeping, sleeping, are eyes of blue, IWith mother's voice cooing to you, Bleep soundly, sleep sweetly, dearie, 84 LIGHT OF THE SOUL For you are so tired and weary, And in Ms hands for safe keeping, Wkile you're sleeping, sleeping, sleeping. Softly sighing, sweetly dreaming, You see angel eyes a-gleaming, While in a restful quiet sleep, I pray the Lord your soul to keep, Through all the years that you may live, He will forgive, forgive, forgive, Baby mine, my little bo-peep. In the land of dreams you now sleep. WHERE DAINTY DAMSELS DREAM OF DAYS. As the tiny tapered fingers, Swam swiftly o'er the music strain, Then cupid's bow of crimson lips Sang those old melodies again. The lays that stays the pearly drops. From leaping out the limpid eyes, •Jhe songs which right the wrongs of all Who drink the sunlight from the skies. Where spring showers fill the flowers, With drink from the brink of the brook, Slieltered by the bonny bowers, S3 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Twirling and curling o'er tlie nook. Where dainty damsels dream of days, Drawing nearer and nearer nigh, Where they yearn and learn love-light rays That sprinkle in the sparkling eye. Where love's fashion in a passion, Ever flows o'er the fullest fount, And the heartsome strain of sweet song, Is still heard on that sacred mount. Where truth and love were born above, And yet burns in the heart of all. To hear again the old loved strain, That leaves a longing for recall. 4* 4r BLESS THINE ORPHAN CHILD. Majestic cones of holly peeping. From the low-land's summer glow, Inlaid with coral berries keeping, Changeless through the winter snow. Divine the drowsy breezes bringing, Nature's music down the rills ; And song from chestnut highlands ringing, Bound and echo through the hills. It seems I'm with thee mother, strolling. Watching streamlets, "Neath the tree, 86 LIGHT OF THE SOUL And under dipping laurels, rolling Laughing waters to the sea. Xay from the grave," 'tis fancy flying, Living o'er the days of yore; But sadder things thy child is trying ; Dost thou love him as before. Upon thy grave the stars are gleaming, Like the glorified at rest, When shall this light on mine be streaming Ever shall thy child be blest? While at thy grave, I'm praying, sighing Where nature once o'er thee smiled O bless me, till I'm with thee lying. Mother, bless thine orphan child. LINK NOT MY IMAGE WITH REGRET. Oh, wear for me no sable hue. No garb of blazoned grief when I Shall bid this gladsome earth adieu. And fling my spirit's garment by. Nor mark the spot with urn or stone. Where worthless dust unconscious lies ; Within your loving heart alone. The monument I ask should rise. 87 LIGHT OF THE SOUL A.nd shed for me no bitter tear, Nor breathe my name in mournful tone; Your smiles were mine to waken here, And I would think them still my own. Nor link my image with regret A pleasant memory I would be, To consecrate and brighten yet The scenes that once were dear to me. Then weep not for the loved one fled, To realms more pure a home more fair; And call not the departed, dead, He lives, he loves, he waits you there. THE COUNTRY DOCTOR. Of all the professions in the land. The country doctor takes the cake, For he physics, pukes and plays the band, And often ply's the garden rake. His hands are horny from building fence, And his clothes have a horsey smell. For he collects all the stable scents, And takes them in the house to dwell. He treats everything that comes his way, From animals to beast and bird, 88 LIGHT OF THE SOUL And lie never fears to drive a dray, Or preach a sermon from the word, For he's the oracle of the place, And is Jack of many trades, For he meets the men with honest face. And loves the children and the maids. He finds the babies in hollow stumps. And take them to the mothers brave. Who tells him about the children's bumps, And thanks him for the comfort gave. He does not always get ready cash. But takes his pay in corn and oats, For the cure of boils and nettle rash, He'll gladly take a pair of shoats. But to give the Doc a good square deal, For his handicraft in fine art. He's entitled to a good square meal. For unselfishness and kind heart. For he's a mighty good all-round mutt. And fills a gap that's useful too. But just figure to what trouble put, To get that little balance due. 4. «§• 4 SOUL'S AFFINITY. Precious ones of spirit light, In realms of mystic space, 89 LIOHT OF THE SOUL Are waiting souls robed in -vvhite, To greet tliee face to face. On the resurrection morn, When earth gives up its dead, Souls shall then be newly born, And ours again shall wed. Balmy winds of wavelet sky. Your aureole brings Back to me your presence nigh, Where true love ever clings. Parted souls shall meet again, With earthly trials o'er, Faithful ones will e^er remain In portals of the door. Changeable mortals will awake, In twinkling of an eye, All believers shall partake Of precious gifts on high. Where spirits in glory sing, A new song shall be thine, When justice will mercy bring Your soul to join with mine. A CLOUD ON THE BROW. The sky may be clear. And full of good cheer, 90 LIGHT OF THE SOUL And the landscape look bright, When over the scene Comes an ominous cloud, The prospect serene In deep darkness to shroud. But the clouds that appear In the world out of doors. Though the storm be severe And a tempest downpours, Will do us less harm Everyone will allow. And cause less alarm Than a cloud on the brow. A cloud on the face Of a friend that we love, Will hide every trace Of the sunshine above, Fill the heart with its gloom, And the atmosphere chill, Like the shadows of doom The forebodings of ill. DKOWNED. How the reeds and rushes quiver, By the low banks of the river, Where the leaning willows shiver 91 LWHT OF THE SOUL In a strange and deep affright ; How the water moans and murmurs As it eddies round the lillies, Like a human soul in sorrow, Or the w^eird lonesome wind at night. How the shadows hunt the edges, Among and around the sedges To the listening lillies whisper Of a dire and awful deed. How the sunshine, timid, frightened, Dares not touch the spot it brightened Yesterday among the shadows Of lonely lillies 'mong the reed. What is that which floats and shimmers Where the water gleams and glimmers, In and out among the rushes Where growing thick and tall and green ; Something like a strand of sunshine. Something long, and fair, and silken, Like a woman's loosened tresses With a faded flower between. THIJSTKING OF THEE. Came a presence strange to me, Never to be banished; 92 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Brighter as it grew to be While all others vanished. Many footsteps round me fall One alone I'm learning j Many voices to me call One alone discerning. Many eyes there are, I own, Shedding true love throrgh them; Strange, but just one pair alone Draw my own unto them. Many lips unto me speak, Friendship's faith repeating ; Lips of one alone I seek, With their gentle greeting. 4, 4. ^ MY MOTHER. T have always cared for mother. Ever since sorrow seamed her brow, And she said I did it gently And no one else shall do it now. I have always smoothed her pillow, AiK^ gently drawn the curtain fold; So I" i not forget thee, mother, When now thy limbs are all so cold. 93 LiaHT OF THE SOUL The J shall not soil thy robes, mother, With the damp earthy mould below, Nor lay thee beside none other Save thy husband of long ago. See, I've plucked wild flowers, mother, And I'll now strew them o'er thy breast, So the buds shall fall so gently As a token of peaceful rest. I'd bring thee bright flowers, mother. But the roses have fled with June, And the daisies and anemones. Went with the ever-changing moon. ENGAGED. Where we met on that autumn night, Darkness fell o'er the hill and dale; But in the valley there was light. For angels lingered in this vale. Notes of gladness came to my heart, Like mystic song of birds in spring. Or golden rays of light that dart From an angel's bright-jeweled wing. The clouds that hung like wreathes above The lonely rugged mountain crest, 94 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Still wove their golden tints of love In tMs dear valley of the West. On her breast I placed a flower, And all enchanted round us seems Where evening zephyrs wooed the bower To whisper back our loving dreams. TO CLARICE. Ah, love, I know by my wasted form, And the sweat on my furrowed brow. By the cold that is not of the winter kind, That my strength and life are ebbing low, By the flitting shadows in their shapeless forms, Between me and the June day skies By the fitful lights in the noontime hour, Are hiding you dear, from my eyes. Come nearer, Clarice, and let me place My cold hands in thy gentle clasp ; They are wan and bloodless, and soon shall be still. In the power of a mightier grasp. Bend near me, my Clarice, for I'm growing weak, The strength of my voice is no more, I crave for a boon from thy love, dear one, Ere the struggles of life are o'er. 95 LWHT OF THE SOUL For my body shall rest in the tomb, When the throbbing pulses are still, Yet I dread not to think my body must sleep, Where it is all so dreary and chill. My last wishes to thee, the ending of strife. Is brought back by this evening's breeze. Oh, lay me to rest where the sunlight falls Through the leaves of shadowy trees. Oh, remember the days that are gone. Where the longing its tracing weaves, And the "?v4nd less fickle than human resolves, Will sigh a dirge mid flowering leaves. Where the moonbeams shall steal with a kindlier ray, And tears of remembrance shall flow. When your eyes weep o'er my loss for awhile, Then lighten with a happier glow. *^ ^ ^ FOR A LADY'S ALBUM. Pure as the tintless snow of heaven, Fair owner, may these pages be ; Calm as the stilly breath of even. When the light breeze flits o'er the sea. And yet soft as Cyntha's mildest ray, Or balmy Zepher's gentle play; Holy as tears to pity given. Guileless as the just in heaven. 96 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL Fit emblem of thine own pure heart May each bright page true joy impart, May iiope's bright dream and peace divine And love and bliss be ever thine. PITY; AH, PITY ME. Slowly she turned and met his gaze. With neither anger or surprise. And slowly then she said, Why should I wish to live, oh, priest, When all the joy of life has ceased, When love, life's life is dead. You know not, how should you know, "V^Hiat makes the glory and the glow, The light of man's brief day; You know not, you, how should you know, The desolation, darkness, woe. When that light fades away. How can I speak to you of this, You who must never feel the bliss. The rapture love can give ; You swore within this convent bound To wear away your life's poor round. Pity; ah, pity me. Oh, monk, you pity me, and I Whose future only is to die, 97 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL Oil, how I pity you; For in my memory lives an hour, Crowned with languid passion flower ; An hour you never knew. THE WARNING CALL. 'Tis but a step, nay, hardly so far, From yon proud hall with its gilded bar. Where the landlord clothed in raiment line, Deals out to his guests the poisoned wine, 'Tis but a step, aye, that leadeth down From manhood's pride to the felon's gown. 'Tis but a step, ah, young man, beware, Yon gilded walls have many a snare. To turn you from virtue's paths of right, And then land thee in eternal night, 'Tis but a step, aye, a little more, From gilded hall to a prison door. Aye, another step, it leadeth well Beyond the gallows and prison cell. Ah, the road is broad, and what is more It leadeth straight to the poorhouse door, 'Tis but a step, aye, now mark it well. It leadeth down to a drunkard's hell. 'Tis but a step, do not enter now, Where avarice breeds her drunken row, 98 LWET OF THE SOUL And wliere drunkards like demons rave, Surely sends their victims to the grave, Aye, 'tis but a step, the road is free, That leadeth out to the gallows tree. «^ e^ e^ THE JAPANESE WEDDING VEIL. Weave ye the veil, oh, sing and weave. With not a waver of the eye. And no finger shall dare to leave One small flaw in the dainty ply ; The airy web must not receive A changeful staining of the dye. Weave ye the veil, sing soft and low. That all your strains may echo here, Twine the thread, and the weft let go, That it may last full many year ; While the robe with its graceful flow, May ever grace the bridal peer. Weave ye the veil, oh, weave and sing. And sweetest strains of music play, And chant the hymenial ring, With merry song of tuneful lay ; All hail the sacred woven thing. With flawless tints of royal ray. Weave ye the veil, or, holy love. That it may cast its tender spell 99 LIGHT OF THE SOUL While passing to that home above, Where faithful souls all love to dwell ; Oh, weave for two hearts that can prove A ringing anthem's wedding bell. Sing of the lover, proud and free, And of the folds which first he sees, In tinted graceful witchery. On the evening's caressing breeze; Like moonbeams in their purity. Just peeping through the leafy trees. THE FEMALE OF THE HUMAN SPECIES. Shrouded in the veil of ages man breathed the breath of life. Woman, from his slumbering body was made to be his wife. From atoms, cell, or word, both matured by the Master's hand. Ah, but from where, or how, or when, no man can understand. The female of our species is more cunning than the male, A serpent's warping head marked the destiny of her trail. And left a dark subtile shadow to overcast the way Of all the human species in the early natal day. 100 LIGHT OF THE SOUL In tlie impulse of the female to propagate her race, There is an inborn emotion created by his grace, And an instinct more strong and subtle in each passing hour. That she yields to her mission of love's caressing power. For in the fawning of the woman was the man's mission tried, It was a judgement for her sin that her species lived and died. So from the male of her species let the woman choose her mate. She is the master of her blood and the harbinger of her fate. AXD HER ARMS AROUND ME CREPT. I saw her blush a lovely flush, As she put her hand in mine, My heart sank low with bitter woe, When she made no other sign, O dear, I cried, there's none beside, Knows the grief my heart within. Come to my side and be my bride, No one else my love can win. 101 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL Upon my breast her head was pressed, And her arms around me crept, Handsome, neat, was the burden sweet, While in truth I thought 8he slept. Your sleep is vain I said again, Come to me and be my bride, Wakened, she, with a gaze of glee, Unclasp her arms, I ne'er tried. Her sparkling eyes as bright as skies, Seemed to me so pure and fair, With merry grace and smiling face. She said, oh, how do you dare. Hark, ye, she cried, come to my side, And pray tell me what you mean, For love and life I'll be your wife, If your words are true and clean. BABE OF BETHLEHEM. Sweetly dreaming, softly sighing, Perfect candor love's knot tying. Heart's affection of the mother, And trusting faith in each other. Precious gift of the lord and king. May our love to the Master bring, Darling child Heaven gave to them, This holy babe of Bethlehem. 102 LIGHT OF THE SOUL The Prince of peace and Lord of all, Hear our prayers at every call, Righteous lamb of heavenly fame, Crown our mind with Thy blessed name. Kingdom of Heaven's dwelling place, Ri^h in Thy divinity's grace, Let us but touch the garment hem Of this dear babe of Bethlehem. Gracious spirit of nameless love. Remember Thy child from above, Imperfect beings in the flesh. Capture, Lord, in Thy web and mesh. Sinful transgressions, Lord, forgive, Immortal Spirit let us live, To grace the throne of perfect men, With Thine own babe of Bethlehem. TIME IS SLIPPING AWAY. They are slipping away, these swift years, Like a leaf on the current cast, With never a break in their silent flow. We Avatch as one by one they go Quickly into the beautiful past. Silent and swift as a weaver's thread. Or an arrow's swift flying gleam. As soft as the langorous breezes hid, 103 LWHT OF THE SOUL That lift the bud's long golden lid, And ripple the glassy flowing stream. As light as the breath of thistle down, And as fond as a lover's dream, Yet pure as the flush of seashell's throat, Sweet as the woodbird's wooing note. And so tender pure and sweet they seem. One then another we see them pass, And go down the dim-lighted stair. We hear the sound of their heavy tread, In the steps of years long since dead, Which were as beautiful and as fair. THE BIRTH OF A RIVER. In the cold border of Kentucky hills, Midst lonely lakelets and unnoted rills, Thou hast thy birth, sweet river of the vale, Of fountains purest, clear, that never fail. My fancy paints thee on thy march begun, Thy infant river's first essay to run* A sturdy brooklet gathering the springs, And giving promise of much greater things. So from bright genius, from a lowly birth. Goes with God-gifts to rejoice on earth, On glides the stream, and with increasing length. Receives in trust its volume and its strength. 104 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Here by wild mountain shagg'd with piney hair, Al brook comes tumbling down its rocky stair, Leaps to thy bosom with a shout of joy, Like some delighted journey-promised boy. There, more like maiden sweet, composed and still, Steals from the plain the tributary rill. ^9 ^9 ew« LABOR'S SOLILOQUY. Wealth is not for such as I to share. My labor goes for the rich man's keep, And all I own is the light and air. And upon a bed of straw I sleep. Yet 'tis I who form and shape and build The mansions of wood, steel and stone, 'Tis I who hammer and paint and gild. But I dare not reap the half I've sown. 'Tis I who build the palace and cottage. The engines, cars and ribbons of steel, 'Tis I who live on milk and pottage, As a gift of brain and brawny weal. I build all the vessels of the sea, Train the guns upon my master's foe, And guard them by electricity, Through every war of relentless woe. I but seldom see the wild rose twine About the trees on the hill and dale, 105 LIGHT OF THE SOUL No beautiful scene of nature mine, NotMng but poverty seeks my trail. All the shelves I have for books are bare, And no time have I the skies to read, But now by these tokens I declare, 'Tis meet that labor sow fruitful seed. WHO DIED FOR MOTHERLAND. Bee fierce men and mad horses dash, Where pale battalions melt like snow. Through blinding tears, by cannon flash. We see some steadfast face we know. Thank God since all must die, their fight With suffering is now past. Through all of darkness into light, Hero of Shiloh's to the last. Turn out the guard, united hosts, Whose armies crossed the red right hand. Boom for the brace, ye martial ghosts. Dear dead, who died for motherland. Mourn, nation mourn, and yet rejoice, That such as he was son of thine, Elis cannon's roar was freedom's voice, And he made victory divine. 106 LIOET OF TEE SOUL Warm southern hearts, now wholly ours, Generous as you hosts were brave, Bid every May descend in flowers, Upon the kindliest victor's grave. Unchanging bronze, hewn granite, give Your thousand columns to the sky, Teaching the humblest what to love, The bravest how to die. What matter where, to dust so great, A sepulcher, for time, be lent. In freedom's soul he lies in state, A nation in his monument. 4, 4, ^ FUNERAL OF GARFIELD. The land is draped with mourning, The nation weeps aloud. For the president who lies Cold in his bloody shroud. The flags at half mast drooping. And from the churches rise Songs and prayer everywhere. How fleeting are our glories, 'Tis but an age ago, Since bonfires of election 107 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Sent up their stirring glow ; Bells were rung and music crashed, And every heart beat high, In our nation's history, While great results seemed nigh. But soon the cries of sorrow, For Garfield rent the air, A better or a wiser Ne'er filled the vacant chair, This day the bells toll to tell Our stricken city's woe, Along our streets has passed A sad procession slow. MY TEMPTATION. Niow fly his track or a death may pursue The hissing reptile who on me made war, His faulty heart keep in my steady view, Strike one fell blow that all his joints shall jar. Now beneath my stroke shall the reptile die. In mangled death he can no longer hurt; With conscious strength the dastard I defy, And leave the wretch live in his filth and dirt. And solemn elm with mystic misteltoe, And chestnut, butternut, beach and brier, 108 LIOHT OF TEE SOUL A.nd buckeye blossoms flaunt their gorgeous show, Tlie red bud gayly sports its spring attire. In every distant part and late discovered nook, The universe has ever some surprise, Why not a little higher deign to look, And why should we not loftier cast our eyea. ^ 4. c^ THE MISSING CHILD. No one knows the sadness of a parent's soul. When a child is taken to a prison goal, No one knows of the grief ere it comes to themy When they are forsaken by a precious gem. No one knows the sorrow of a sleepless night. When their child is missing and gone from their sight, No one knows how they long for the child so bright. So used to their kissing in the morning light. No one hears the prayer or the weeping moan, But one who daily bear their hearts at the throne. No one knows the anguish to which they are proue, 109 LIGHT OF THE SOUL For one imprisoned there for seeds they liad sown. No one knows tlie horror in the eyes so wild, While gazing through the bars at the wistful child, No one knows the wishful looking at the stars. But the parents of a child caged in iron bars. MOTHER'S OLD HYMN. Through the trembling folds of the twlight dim, I can hear the strain of that grand old hymn. Which mother, whose heart is now still and cold, Sang amidst her cares in the days of old. There was something about it undefined, That charmed into quiet the troubled mind. O'er the bleak hearts breathed with spirit bland. Like a warm south wind o'er a frozen land. The song of the singers that fame was crowned, In the flood of the years is lost and drowned. But mother's old hymn, every pause and tone. With the growth of time has the sweeter grown. And it seems not out of the past to come And echo only of lips that are dumb 110 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL But down from the home of the glorified, It has always come since the day she died. We know not the music that spirits hear, As the earth recedes and Heaven draws near, But treading death's valley of shadows dim, I ask but to hear my mother's old hymn. LAWYER AND JUDGE. If I had not known of perjured men, Who sent their victims to prison pen, If I had not heard the anguished cry, Of innocent men condemned to die, If I had not known lives sold for gold, I doubtless would censure thieves so bold, Who steal from houses in broad daylight, And seek for vengeance both day and night. If I had not talked with men who wept. And heard the midnight moans while they slept, Had I not known what poverty means, And trick of judges behind the scenes. If I had not seen the blood-stained back, And horrible tortures of the rack, I would love the rules of prison pen, And might loathe to censure perjured men. If I had not known a judge to lie, With ideas of justice all awry, 111 LiaHT OF THE SOUL Send a guiltless man to a prison cell, I might adore such villains in hell, There's men on earth just as wicked now, As satan himself of ancient brow, Lawyer and judge are the worst, I ween That Heaven or hell have ever seen. THE SECRET DOOR. Within my body a spirit dwells, Where love to-day may enter there, And all I possess I freely give. Except one thought of cultured care. At a time in life it came to stay. And yet remains to burn and glow, As the day the spark was lit to flame, It still abides as waters flow. That one mirrored thought I cannot ^ve. It now lurks alone in its tomb, Where not even you have full control, Of the thoughts in that curtained room. Never try to enter this abode, Nor hush the thought that serves my will, An effort vain would be your regret. For love then sought is with me still. 112 LIGHT OF THE SOUL All the rest to you I freely give, Save one blest image in that store, Shall always reign supreme in this world, Tor I have locked the secret door. ^ 4* 'TIS AUTUMN, LAUKA When April's tears had melted down Into the bosom of the earth, And woke the snowdrop on the hill. And give the yellow crocus birth, T came dear Laura, half afraid. And sat me down close by your side; We talked of love, and then I asked If you would be my darling bride. You dropped your head a moment then And laid your little hand in mine. Then locked into my eyes, and said , When autumn come, I will be thine. Oh, how my life grew into light, And the light seemed to turn to wine. When in the golden autumn days. You gladly promised to be mine. 113 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL DECORATE THE GRAVES. Thank God we are not called to-day, To bid our loved ones go, Yet if they went forth to the fray, To meet some warlike foe, God grant that they might go as these Went forty years ago. Whose memory may every breeze Fan into brighter glow. May the flowers that grow for them, Be fairest of all flowers. Weave cross and harp and diadem, And turn their graves to bowers, Ah, sainted dead, where fife nor drum Nor cannon wake thee more. And grant that we may also come, To yonder shining shore. ERE THE STRUGGLES OF LIFE ARE O'ER. Now I know by my wasted farm, And the cold sweat upon my brow. And by the limpness of my limbs. That strength and life are ebbing now, For by the flit of the shadows, Between me and the June day skies, 114 LIGHT OF THE SOUL That the fitful lights around me Are now hiding you from my eyes. Come nearer now and let me place My cold hands in thy gentle clasp, For they are wan and bloodless, dear, Held in a more powerful grasp. Bend nearer to me my sweetheart, The strength of my voice is no more, I crave for a boon from thy love, Ere the struggles of life are o'er. My body shall rest in the tomb. When the throbbing pulses are still, I fear not to be placed to sleep. By the call of my Master's will. My last request, sweetheart, to thee. Is brought back by this evening's breeze, Lay me to rest where sunlight falls Through the leaves of shadowy trees. Remember the days that are gone. Where the longing its tracing weaves, Less fickle than human resolves, Will sigh a dirge mid flowering leaves, \Mien the moonbeams shall steal away, And tears of remembrance shall flow, When your eyes shall weep o'er my loss. Then light up with a happier glow. 115 LIGHT OF THE SOUL A MOTHER'S HERITAGE. Her face shown with the glory of the blest. When the wondrous eyes gazed into her own, And the sun lingered a moment to rest, Upon the fruitage of a spirit known. Her eyes gleamed with the fire of anxious love, When the perfected form came to her view, Kow mated with a spirit from above, Endowed with enternity's care of you. She reck'd not a moment of life or death, When her pulse ran or leaped in joy or pain. Ere the changeless soul again drew its breath. To mate with a mortal body again. Then you breathed the breath of a life renewed. For unveiled and afar the early star, "^spied again the spirit unsubdued, Yet fettered by a mortal's body bar. Perhaps a million of ages agone, A soul's wisdom lived in the zephers here, From body to body as t'were a pawn. Moved in unison from body to bier. A spirit formed in the dawn of reason, And imbued with its creative dower, Shall return again in its due season. To the Master Hand who gave it power. 116 LIGHT OF THE SOUL MY LIFE'S PKAYEE. When among the unfriendly, Through deserts vast and drear, When tempests dark and lowering. Lord, be Thou ever near. When wearied with long labor. Our souls would slumbering lie, And though the foe be near us, Would dream unheedingly. Lord, keep us ever watching, To save, be ever nigh, When peril us approaches. Lord, hear our fainting cry. When day's hard toil is over, And night draws close her veil, Lord, guard our helpless slumber, From all who would assail. Lord, save us while were waking, And guard our sleep from harm, With Thee while vigil keeping, We rest, hold by Thine hand. 117 LIGHT OF THE SOUL THE UNFORTUNATE MAID. Tall and graceful she stood in tlie morning liglit, Like a goddess of liberty robed in white, With heart as good and pure as the crystal snow, That's drifting out to the unknown realms below. Where the north winds are chilling the gloomy days, And maiden's virtue is wrecked in cruel ways, Beware of gifts from the men, her mother cried. And let woes of other maidens be your guide. Daughter, stray not away from your loving friends. Where desolation and sorrow never ends. Mother, don't worry, the maiden said, for me. For I'm able to care for myself, you'll see. But, oh, she never thought tVas the ruddy wine. Imbibed in secret that caused her eyes to shine, And yet in spite of her mother's warning cry, She looked on the sparkling wine with wistful eye. Until virtue on the saddened wings of flight. Flew away into the woeful realms of night. Where she now forever hopeless and forlorn. Has cursed the weird fatal day that she was born. 118 LIGHT OF THE SOUL PUT OFF THE OLD AND PUT ON THE NEW. Old year, your time has come to die, Your liands have mingled smiles and tears, And reared like all kindred years, Stones by graves where all dead hopes lie. Good-by, old year, the wind's low wail Is like a last long dying breath. The earth seems face to face with death, And shudders, frightened, sad and pale. Hark, through the frosty air is heard, A silvery peal and every cloud Throws off its semblance of a shroud, And sweet with music's joy is stirred. Oh, new year, welcome, it may be Your hands are full of gifts to crown Our hearts with gladness, and to drown The voice of yearning memory. God grant it, but come good or ill, The joys we ask, or bitter fate, We know God is compassionate, And we will trust his goodness still. NOT KNOWING. Oh, restful, blissful ignorance, Yet 'tis blessed not to know, 119 LIOHT OF THE SOUL For it keeps me still in those arms, Which will never let me go, And hushes now my soul to rest, In the heart that loved me so. So I go on, never knowing. And I would not if I could, Rather walk with God in the dark, Than go alone in the light; Rather walking with him by faith, Than to walk alone by sight. My heart shrinks back from the trials. Which the future may disclose, Yet I never had a sorrow, Only what the good Lord chose; So I send back the coming tears, With the whispered words, "He knows." UNAVAILII^G GRIEF. Goodbye, my darling, we shall never meet again, Never more on this hostile shore my eyes shall see. Thy loving form amid this checkered world of pain, Nor can thy friendly counsel ever visit me. 120 LIGHT OF THE SOUL No more solace 'mid tlie gloom of this weary scene, Nor can thy wisdom aid me from thy present sphere, I seek with unavailing grief behind this screen, Nor can find consolation in my urging tear. Thy dear presence once sooth'd me as flowers in spring, But past return are the Joys of thy friendship true, For thou art enriched with anthems that angels sing. Beyond eternal skies where no regrets pursue. For thy joys now are beyond the concept of mind, Evermore has the Master crown'd thee with his love, By the majesty of his grace thou wert assigned. For everlasting pleasures in his home above. THE JUDICIARY. Clothed in the raiment of a judgeship's faith. And goaded with victories of his spoil, Gliding around him a fellowship wraith. For deep in his soul is a filthy soil. A putrid scion of a graceless race, A prostitute of shameless legal fame, 121 LWET OF THE SOUL Who dares not meet the victims face to face That his cowardly sentence put to shame. A forethought of treason ever in mind, Besmeared with the moil of a legal sound, A boughten petard of villainous kind, Whose brother ilks in every zone abound. Enthroned on a pedestal of power, Abortive whelps for bribing money's sake, As fatal a menace wields every hour As the venom stroke of a vicious snake. For money his sentence sounded the knell I Of many victims in a wall of stone, iWhere forced on a voyage that leads to hell. Will meet the Judge when he comes to his own. May the summer winds scorch his puny soul. May the winter blasts freeze his poisoned blood, ^ ' Ah, may his subtle mind lose its control, Beneath the waves of a fiery flood. THROUGH THE GOLDEN GATE. Far out in the dim dark of the waves. That have gone through the golden gate. Chanting a requiem over the graves 122 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Of men wlio sleep in coral caves, When all sad thoughts are wafted by fate, Wafted out through the golden gate. Far over the rolling ocean hill, O'er the hill where white ships go, [ see the barks that are rolling, still, My thoughts go out far o'er the hill. And while my poor heart is aching so, For great white ships that come and go. A.11 around is very fair, and oh, WTiile there is much in life to love. Yet, strange that my dreams should wander so Over the hills where white ships "x^o, Oh, tell me sweet dreams why do they rove, Ah, thou truantvS that ever rove. 4. <^ MY NIGHTMARE. A cense of sleep stole o'er me, So I laid me down to rest, And spectres in fiendish glee Heaped the stones upon my breast. Then they clutched me by the throat. With fingers like burning flame, And pierced my eyes in their gloat. And called me a fearful name. 123 LIOHT OF THE SOUL Down the glowing pit I gazed, VVTiere the burning sulphur fume, And my brain with horror dazed, To see the imp's fearful doom; The odor of singeing flesh, Rose around my blackish bier, Where I was in ghoulish mesh, And couldn't shed a single tear. T'was in vain I called for aid. And struggled to crawl away, Dev'lish elfs they closer staid. Until early dawn of day ; And my breath in feeble strain. Coursed my breast from side to side. While my senses left my brain, I then slowly gasped — and died. I saw the undertakers. Put me in a box of black, And watched the nightly wakera. While lying upon my back, A sense of rest stole o'er me, When the earth upon me piled, The noisy spade awoke me. And I smiled, and smiled, and smiled. THE LOVERS' PARTING Sweetheart, goodbye, the fluttering sail Is spread to waft me far from thee, 124 LIGHT OF THE SOUL And 80011 before the favorite gale My ship shall bound the open sea; Perchance all desolate and forlorn These eyes shall miss thee, and a sigh Of unforgotten charms be born, Saying sweetheart, goodbye, goodbye. Ofif to the war dear, I must go To fight for my country and you. Hark, the bugle's sounding below, Calling brave men to dare and do. When 'mid the campfires shot and shell I'll think of thee, oh, sweetheart mine, When in our homes to safely dwell, I'll return to thee and be thine. Goodbye, sweetheart, one last embrace, Cruel fate true hearts to sever. Yet in my heart's most sacred place Thou alone shall dwell forever. And still shall recollection trace In fancy's mirror thou are near, Each smile, each tear, the eyes, the face Brings to memory bright and clear. Sweetheart, goodbye, though never more The w^ave may bear me back to thee, Though I'm throvrn on some distant shore, By angry wind and surging sea My constant heart will still recall Your soft black hair and sparkling eyes, So, my darling, remember all, I'll seek to find my noble prize. 125 LIGHT OF THE SOUL FOR THE HOLY NAME OF MOTHER. There are words that speak of a quenchless love, Which burns in the hearts we cherish, And accents that tell of a friendship proved, That will never blight or perish. There are soft words murmured by dear, dear lips, Far richer than any other, But the sweetest word that the ear hath heard Is the sacred name of mother. And the dearest name that will ever pass From the lips that love to speak it. Will not melt away from the trusting hearts. That would ever break to keep it. There was never a name that lived like thine, Nor will ever be another, Where angels have reared in Heaven a shrine, For the holy name of mother. There's a sacred tie in a mother's love. Every ill is made to strengthen, In palace or cottage its light will shine. As the days of life shall lengthen. From the fond heart's alter the flames arise, And will glow in each loving eye. Where incense of our lives will reach the skies, And mcther's love will never die. 126 LIGHT OF THE SOUL ANOTHER CASABIANCA The boy held on to the greasy deck, Whence all but him had fled, The lamp threw light on the last red check. And he hadn't another red. Yet beautiful and bright he sat, As born to win or lose, With the ace of trumps hid under his hat. And a bower or two in his shoes. The game went on but he could not go, Without his father's word, That father drunk on the floor below, His voice no longer heard. He called aloud, say father, say Hadn't I better go it alone, He knew that the chieftain lay Unconscious of his son. Oh, speak father, once again he cried, I'll play best for even. And — but the voice on the other side Ordered up on the seven. His eye fell when his ear caught that, But it wasn't time to grieve, He played him an ace from under his hat, And the right bower out of his sleeve. (The lamp flickered up and flickered down. And out like a rocket. The man at his side who hailed from town 127 LIOHT OF THE SOUL Slipped the stakes in his pocket. Then with a burst of thunder sound, Upset table and chairs, And clearing the dooi- at a single bound. He slid right down the banister stairs. EVEKYBODY STINGETH ME. You may think and talk as you please, And pluck your money from the trees. Or sail the nation's deep blue seas, But I am not as one of these. jYou may get all that's promised you, And every friend prove good and true, A friendship that I never knew, And it matters not what I do. They prate of harps in other lands. Of music sweet in silent hands, How happy they all seem to be. Yet everybody stingeth me. Oft you've heard the story of old. Of being rich without the gold. And of this land of liberty. But everybody stingeth me. They tell you tales of many kinds, Of many men of many minds, 128 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL And things that were and things to be, Everybody stingeth me. They say this world's in better shape, That long ago you were an ape, But where can all this tangle be, Such change of things I cannot see. WHEN LIPS OF LOVE MET LIPS OF LUST. There came a man from Bringham's town, Maiden, oh, maiden. To meet a maid with silken gown, Maiden, oh, maiden. To meet a maid with silken gown. And left at night with Jennie Brown, The man who sought your jeweled crown, Maiden, oh, maiden. Too late she mourned her rueful plight, Man, oh, man. And lived to hate the wooing night, jMan, oh, man, Wlien lips of love met lips of lust, Her heart was won by simple trust. And grieved in vain as some maids must, Man, oh, man. There came a maid at early dawn, Maiden, oh, maiden. 129 LIGHT OF THE SOUL A-S fair as ever sun shone on, Maiden, oh, maiden, As fair as ever sun shone on, Her kindly heart was stole and won, And cast aside as men have done, Maiden, oh, maiden. THAT FIRST DAINTY DREAM OF OURS The lirst young love is forever sweet. That Heaven-born dainty dream of ours, When we could not keep our restless feet From dancing through the flowers. And all youth visions moat pure and dear. Are like a sweet mystic spell of rhyme. While the sun shines in a sky so clear, Our hearts ne'er forget the time. And they say that cupid loves to dwell Amid castles of the rich and gay. But, dear, it is rustic spots as well, Where song birds sing all the day, And like music in a whisp'ring dell. Casts mystic sounds around in showers, And where long ago we used to tell That first dainty dream of ours. Young love was the purest and the best, And joy and hope were thy only thought, 130 LIQHT OF THE SOUL That bound the lover's lingering zest, To the trysting place they sought. And it came as the soft south winds blow, To waft in zephyrs o'er dreamlands sweet. Like burning embers are made to glow. When again old lovers meet. THE ROSE SIPS THE MORNING DEW. Ease the heart that yearns for you my dear, If you knew how all pleasures flee, E\^ery day that you are away, I'm sure you would quickly come to me. If the world were mine without you near. Sad and lonely would be my stay. For you alone can ease my mind dear, Oh, won't you come and set me free. For as the rose sips the morning dew. And seeks the warmth of the rising sun. My soul is now waiting for you To place a seal on the heart you won. Life to me seems such a helpless thing, I pray you come to me and stay, For no one else can with love light bring Words that would rule my heart to-daj. Come I pray you to my arms dear heart, And rest secure in the love I bear, 131 LIGHT OF THE SOUL All the world sliall not make us part, Or yield ourselves to a greater care. How sweet are tlie words of hope divine, Fondly wrote in your note to me, What joy then to me when you are mine, Ever mine to eternity. WHILE PASSING THROUGH THE MYSTIC WOOD. We started out in the early dawn To take a stroll among the trees. Where other young folks had often gone, To drink the early morning breeze. Where brooks were rippling in low refrain To the tuneful chime of the rills. And whisp'ring for us to come again. To sate the water from the hills. From the eastern sky the sun peeped out. To view the pretty landscape there, Peeped in and peeped out and all about. To greet the happy loving pair, When linked arm in arm we strolled along, With thoughts akin to every good, Where lovers are wont to sing a song. While passing through the mystic wood. 132 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL iWe sauntered through the leafy bowers, Where low trailing vines kissed the ground, As we passed the early morning hours, Beside a rare old Indian mound. 'A mound where many braves were resting, , After battles of long ago, Where on the trees the birds were nesting. With murmured twitters sweet and low. IN OUR DEAR OLD NATIVE STATE. As the sun is creeping o'er the hill tops, In the latter days of June, iBrighter grey each gleam of the rising orb, , And all nature was in tune. [With heart-felt joy we climbed the mountain sidej And peered deeply down each dell, |While resounding among the stones and hills, We can hear the village bell. How dear to our hearts is the old mill stream As it flashes in the light, And great was our sport with the finny tribe. As we lured them on to bite. How pweet is the song of the wildwood bird, And clear the note of its mate. As it goes trilling o'er the hills and dale. In our dear old native state. 133 LWHT OF TEE SOUL How sweet the odor of tlie meadow lands, And balmy the breezes blow, While the fields of grain with their waving heads, Are kissing each sunny glow. Where the dandelions are peeping through, To live in the light of day. Where along the hedges the roses bloom. And all nature fair and gay. ONLY COME TO THE DOOR AND KNOCK trhe time seems so long and dreary, Since you left our cottage door. And we so lonely and weary, Wait to greet you as of yore. Come back dear heart, come home to stay, We have all been seeking you Since the day that you went away, Our every heart has been true. Then our arms will around you fold. As in the days of your childhood, Where in view of the cottage wold, Grows the sumach and the wildwood. Let void be the years flown and past, When you were the pride of our flock, L\^t not this day renew the last, Only come to the door and knock. 134 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Come back dear heart and sliare your part, Of the home that's waiting you, And let not one day pass away, From trusting hearts ever true. Let not our prayers be in vain, Let not tears of silent care Be void to greet you once again, Or your sorrows help to bear. THE YOUKG BLOOD OF JUNE AND THE FROST OF THE SEAR. They both were in love before either knew it. As they fondly mingled the drop of each tear, The spark was made flame for each of them blew it, The young blood of June and the frost of the sear. If souls should a lesson in paradise take. When both knew the phantoms of trouble and fear, Surely one would the other never forsake. The young blood of June and the frost of the sear. And fair was the day that brought them together, For happily she came to cheer his lone life, 135 LIGHT OF TEE SOUL He of many winters she of June weather, When the words of a deacon made her his wife. For each had passed through both sorrow and pleasure, And one was happy when the other was near, For their cup was filled to flowing full measure, The young blood of June and the frost of the sear. THE SWEET STORY OF OLD. Out in a grove near a mountain stream, They sat and talked on a loving theme. There 'neath the soft shady sunlight gleam, Hand in hand they dreamed as lovers dream. The hours swiftly passed as minutes go, W^hile they leisurely walked to and fro. Where the maples, elms and beech trees grow, And where birds were singing sweet and low. Where the rippling brook glides swiftly by, And the lovers cast a wistful eye, Where the limpid weeping willows sigh. In the balmy breeze of the sky, 'Tis there where all dross is turned to gold. And is heard the sweet story of old. And 'tis where love's dainty dream is told, By the magic voice of knight so bold. 136 LIGHT OF THE SOUL It was there he made the leafy crown, To circle around her hair of brown, A.nd a cross of twigs placed up and down, Prom her pearly throat to hem of gown, And 'twas there he took her little hand, And placed upon it a golden band, To be her emblem of motif grand. Long as life may last upon this land. THEN I WILL ANSWER YES. You ask to-night my heart and hand. As you'd request a toy, Know you the weight of your demand Upon my heart, dear, boy. My life is like an open book, With pages fair and white, And as pure as the babbling brook, Upon the hillside bright. If your love will but live and bum And bless my future years, If you will give me in return The trust that life endears. If you will guard my destiny, And shield me from distress. Care always for me lovingly. Then I will answer yes. 137 LIGHT OF THE SOUL When age shall bow your graceful head, And bleach your jetty hair, I will protect you through each dread, And shelter you from care. When time shall dim your sparkling eye, And winter's furrows show, My love will be the last to die, E'en should you answer no. MY OLD KENTUCKY HOME. Let me go once more to my native heath, To the home that I love the best, Where the seasons in circles like a wreath. Come and go to their natures rest. Where the spring weather brings the April rains And the winter brings ice and snow, Where the summer leaves spring forth livinj veins, And the redbird and bobolink go. For my dear old Kentucky home I crave, Where o'er the hills the sunlight falls. And the hearts of men are both true and brave Whose courage never, never palls. There's where ties of friendship never perish. And glad eyes turn to Heaven's dome, 138 LIGHT OF THE SOUL For the grandest place I ever cherish. Is my dear old Kentucky home. 'Tis where the hearts of the cultured maiden Are as pure as heavenly words, Where the hilltops are with treasure laden, And woods are full of singing birds. While in the breey woods in autumn's hue, Maples blush through their trembling leaves And where friends are loyal, tender and true, The mind and heart in parting grieves. MY IMAGE HERE BESIDE ME LIES. Something new is near me lying, Like a warm and vital spark, Close beside me I hear sighing, Something moving in the dark. And seeking lips against my breast. So moist, soothing, soft and sweet And little fingers on me pressed. While I feel its tiny feet. My image here beside me lies, A favor of his design, Eternal soul, a royal prize, Is this little babe of mine. 139 LIGHT OF THE SOUL Through the grace of his kindly care, Came to me a living form, On a mission its own to share, Perils of life pain and storm. May Heaven bless this hour of grace, With my hopes and fears at rest, While I gaze at my baby's face I know I'm divinely blest. WEITE THEM A LETTER TO-DAY. Don't go out this eve to a dance or ball. But stay in your room to-night. Deny yourself to the friends who call, And a good long letter write. Write to the dear old folks at home, Who sit when the day is done With folded hands and downcast eyes And think of the absent one. Do not forget that young and giddy friends Who make all your pastime gay, Have not half the anxious thoughts for you, That the old folks have to-day. For as they sit in the cottage, With their locks fast turning gray. Are longing to hear from the absent one, Oh, write them, write them a letter to-day. UO LiaRT OF THE BOUL Don't selfishly scribble, excuse my haste, I've scarcely the time to write, Lest their brooding thoughts go wand'ring back To many a by-gone night, When they lost needed sleep and rest, And made every breath a prayer, That God would leave their tender babe To their ever-loving care. LAUGH OF QUE BABY DEAS. Let all of Heaven's sweetest sounds Be heard in melodious strain. And children round the homing grounds, Where happy smiles and laughter reign; And all the sweetest notes of bird Or softest tones l' music near. There yet is none that men have heard. Sweet as the laugh of baby dear. Of all the sounds upon the earth, WTiere childish voices soft and light. Echoes their laughing lilting mirth, That reaches to the Heaven's bright ; Or where cupid with jeweled dart, And babbling brooks with ripplings clear, There is save none that charms the heart As the laugh of our baby dear. 141 DEC 17 1313 LIGHT OF THE SOUL While the thrills of impatience wait, And longing hearts in fondness dwells, The light comes through the golden gate, To mingle with the anthem bells, In heights above and depths below, In silence like a melting tear. No lips can bring the eyes to glow, As the laugh of our baby dear. * 4* * Ufi BROADWAY PUBLISHING CO'S NEWEST BOOKS All Bound in Silk Cloth and Gilt. Many Illustrated Fiction The Eyes at the Window (beautifully bound, with embossed jacket) — Olivia Smith Cornelius. . . .$l .50 Next-Night Stories — C. J. Messer i .25 Arthur St. Clair of Old Fort Recovery— S. A. D. Whipple 1 . 50 Barnegat Yarns — F. A. Lucas i . 00 Jean Carroll, with six illustrations — John H. 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