H»«»«(«»aS!i»Sii PS 3531 094 S6 1900 Copy 1 LIBRARY OF CONGRESS, COPYRIGHT OFFICE. No registration of title of this book as a preliminary to copyright protec- tion has teen found, r '• -cw- "^ '^"l^^l Jf^^. y^,f^^ ^<^— t^, 1^0 2^ Forwarded to Order Division /vrR__Li903- _ (Date) e^:^ (Apr. 5, 1901—5,000.) Class Jj^SslfLL .Book. . (0 /H &6_ Gopyiight'N". 900 COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. Songs Along the Way Songs Along the Way BY EMILY BROWNE POWELL ' ' '\ BUFFALO : The Peter Paul Book Company 1900 TWO COPIES RECEiVEU, . ior^r^ of GoBgpogsy Office yf #feQ FEB 18 1900 U&slster of Copyright^ Copyright, 1899 by Emily Browne Powell Co mj) l)ttfi;banlr t|)i6 little booti i6 affecttonatelp inatvihtti Prelude As the faint perfume^ strangely sweet. Within the faded blossom lingers, As the low echoes still repeat A song when ended by the singers, So memories of happy days Long haunt the heart with lingering glory, And Fancy oft, in careless lays. Would fain embalm the pleasant story. Contents Page Prelude, v The Story of the Ages, i In the Saddle, 3 Tehuantepec, 5 Sweetheart, 6 Falling Asleep, 8 On All Souls' Eve, 9 Sweetest Rest, 12 Homesick, 14 Falling Leaves, 15 Vacation Song, 17 A Game of Consequence, 19 What the Wind Said, 21 A Vision, 23 A Mother's Answer, 24 Love's Messenger, 25 The Greatest of These is Charity, .... 26 Farewell, 28 Through the Sunset, 29 The Schoolhouse Flag, 30 John G. Whittier, 33 Returning, 34 A Modern Parable, 35 My Castle, 37 Afloat, 39 Miserable Sinners, 40 vii Vlll Contents At Twoscore, . Old Eyes and Young Hearts, The Lost Treasure, At Nightfall, . Faded, In Memoriam, . In War Times, . Dreams of Summer, The Vow, . Memories, There Remaineth a Rest for the People of God, Then and Now, Early Called, . Auf Wiedersehen, To an Absent One, "Feed My Lambs/ By the Sea, A Fruitless Quest, My Neighbor's Rose, Coming, . My Pet Name, . Too Late, . The Strange Horseman, At Commencement, The Linnet's Song, My Old Home, An Echo, . Page 43 45 46 48 49 51 52 54 55 57 58 59 62 63 65 66 68 69 71 74 75 76 77 79 80 81 83 Songs Along the Way Songs Along the Way The Story of the Ages A cry comes ringing down the ages vast : " Forget not, ye who on the earth abide, That we, the countless myriads of the past, Once lived, and loved, and wept, and toiled, and died. " Our works live after us; — ye see them yet, By that strange river where the lotus grows, In Grecian column, eastern minaret. And on the hills by which the Tiber flows. *'Our deeds yet live; — the world remembers still The spot where Sparta's brave three hundred lie,. And tales of Marathon the pulses thrill ! O day of glory ! thou canst never die ! '*We were the conquering legions of old Rome; We wore the knightly cross on Syria's plain : Age after age to you the records come — Always the same sad tale of strife and pain. 2 Songs Along the Way *' Ye are today as we were yesterday; Tomorrow, as it swiftly passes by, Shall write for you the same brief history : 'They lived, and toiled, and died, — and here they lie.' " O silent lips that speak ! O mighty dead ! Ye have not lived and toiled and died in vain ! Little by little, from the low-bowed head. Age after age helps lift the load of pain ! Little by little to our waiting eyes . Broadens the glorious light that makes us free ; Little by little our cramped souls arise. And grope toward their higher destiny ! Little by little sinks the strife of creeds, As in our path the stumblingblocks decrease ; The cross ye bore, of old, to bloody deeds. Now blossoms with the snowy flowers of peace. God speed the day for which the prophet yearned, The happy reign of love for earth in store. When all the swords to ploughshares shall be turned. And nations shall learn warfare nevermore ! Songs Along the Way In the Saddle Adown the street and through the town We cantered, near a score together, Then to the foothills, warm and brown, Amid the mellow summer weather. Tinted with gold and amethyst. Calmly the twilight skies bent over, While wandering cloudlets, drooping, kissed The mountain top, their gray old lover. Reluctant shadows, downward pressed, Thronged slowly from their far dominions, While through the gateway of the West The restless night wind trailed its pinions. On, gallant steeds ! time will not dwell; Hours long for pain are short for pleasure. List how the wild notes sink and swell. And young feet tread the dancers' measure. Oh happy hearts ! oh rest from care ! We left behind all thought of sorrow. Lulled in the soft and dreamy air. What reck we of the vague tomorrow? Songs Along the Way There, hush the music, dim the light. To horse once more; Time points a warning. Across the dusky verge of night We slowly ride into the morning. The low *' Good bye," the withering flowers. Life's changeless story are repeating. Float back into the past, bright hours, Like many another, fair but fleeting. But Memory, with tender hand. Gathering the scattered threads together. Weaves in her web a silver strand — That ride mid shadowy summer weather. Songs Along the Way Tehuantepec In coming days, when winds blow high, And white foam sweeps across the deck. Oft we'll recall a night gone by, The night we crossed Tehuantepec — The stranger friends, the silent skies. The dim cliffs rising from the sea, The youthful hearts, the beaming eyes. And voices ringing merrily. The voice may take a sadder strain, The fluttering locks be changed to gray, The hopes we bound with youth's bright chain In mocking beauty melt away, Yet be our hearts, where'er we roam, Mid youth's decay or fortune's wreck. As pure as when we watched the foam That crested wild Tehuantepec I Songs Along the Way Sweetheart A tiny songstress on a swaying bough, Joyous with hfe in the soft breath of May, Sang cheerily and clear, the morning through, A song I've heard her trilling many a day — *' Sweetheart ! Sweetheart ! ' ' Not only mid the warm and fragrant breeze Blowing across the roses of the spring, But while the fierce March stormwind shook the trees. With silvery notes unfaltering did she sing, '' Sweetheart ! Sweetheart ! ' ' Though oft I ask what Fortune doth provide, Or buildeth she her nest by cot or hall. She only turns her dainty head aside And sings, as if the one word answered all, '^ Sweetheart ! Sweetheart ! ' ' Thus ever sings my heart, thou clear-voiced bird. In unison with thee the whole day long ; Though the hushed lips may utter scarce a word, Yet with each pulse-beat thrills thy tender song, '' Sweetheart ! Sweetheart ! " Songs Along the Way 7 Amid these spring days of exceeding peace, And through the far, dim length of coming years, Within my soul thy song shall never cease. But still ring on through joy or care or tears — "Sweetheart ! Sweetheart ! " Songs Along the Way- Falling Asleep Drifting away, drifting away, — Away from earth to the realms of sleep, The shadowy land that lies between The world of life and the world unseen, That land where weary ones cease to weep. Drifting away, drifting away, — Away from trouble and care and pain : Come, white angel of sleep, and shed Visions of beauty around my bed ; Fold thy light wings over my brain. Drifting away, drifting away: The world and its cares grow less and less; Swiftly the shadows around me glide — Faces and forms in a mingled tide, — Lulling me into forgetfulness. Songs Along the Way On All Souls' Eve Traveler, on All Souls' Eve beware Of roads that cross — the dead walk there ! — Old English Legend, Why walk SO late ? Why walk so slow? The stars are dim ; the wild winds blow; Darkly the rushing waters flow, On All Souls' Eve. The dead walk slow; the dead walk late! Where yon roads cross, whoe'er will wait Till midnight strikes the hour of fate On All Souls' Eve, And, waiting, call the dead most dear. Shall see the shrouded ones appear, Shall walk beside them without fear On All Souls' Eve. The dead most dear ! And can it be? O fair lost love, come back to me ! Oh for one earthly hour with thee On All Souls' Eve ! lo Songs Along the Way My love, my love, I see thy face ! Thou comest with the old slow grace ! Come thou once more to my embrace, On All Souls' Eve. Let me forget, sweet one so dear. The weary past, the future drear, In the short hour that thou art here On All Souls' Eve. O speak to me the words I crave, Since conquering Love e'en Death may brave,. And thus hath brought thee from thy grave On All Souls' Eve. My pleading is but idle breath : Thy tender mouth no fond word saith ; It keeps the mystery of death On All Souls' Eve. Thy peace my longing cannot harm ; Thy spirit feels the heavenly calm, While mine is full of earth's alarm On All Souls' Eve. We walk together, yet apart ; E'en standing almost heart to hearty As far from me as heaven thou art On All Souls' Eve. Songs Along the Way 1 1 Farewell, sweet love! Whate'er my pain, As the slow seasons wax and wane, I will not call thee back again On All Souls' Eve. 12 Songs Along the Way Sweetest Rest Press to my breast thy small, sweet face, O gentle babe of mine; Thy mother's love encircles thee Like the halo round a shrine, And never a waft of the life outside Troubles the calm of thine. Thou fair wee woman, kindly Fate Thy future may endow. And many a pillow soft as down Receive thy tired brow, Yet ne'er, till in thy last low bed, Thou' It rest as sweet as now. For thine can but be woman's lot Of love, and care, and pain, — To cherish tender flowers that pine For the sunshine and the rain, — To send fair ships across the sea That come not back again, — Songs Along the Way 13 To force unwilling eyes to smile When teardrops fain would start, — Perchance to yield thy treasures up For pottage in Life's mart, — Thankful for e'en the crumbs of love To feed a hungry heart. Softly above thy shining head The years will come and go ; Some day, to thee, the sweet old tale Be whispered soft and low ; But the love that shelters thee today Is the truest thou canst know. So sleep, my babe, my precious one, Sleep on, and take thy rest; The lambs are sheltered in the fold The birdlings in the nest. And thou today art safe from harm — Safe on thy mother's breast. 14 Songs Along the Way Homesick O far white cloud, slow floating o'er the plains Down to the bosom of the shining sea, Unloose my homesick spirit from its chains. And bid me in thy wanderings follow thee ! Fain would I follow to the sunset hills. Purple and misty in the changing glow, As down the west the lingering radiance thrills, While o'er the east the twilight shadows grow. Thou'lt spread thy pinions to the fresh'ning wind; The waves will chant to thee their low refrain — That old sweet song that ever seems to find In human hearts a vaguely answering strain. Should kindly eyes that mine were wont to greet Uplift to thee, slow floating to thy rest. This message from the absent one repeat : ' ' Old scenes are fairest ; old, tried friends are best. Songs Along the Way 15 Falling Leaves Fading, fluttering, flying. The last bright leaves drop down Springtime's verdant glory, Autumn's radiant crown, — To lie in wind-swept masses, Withered, sere, and brown. Bright was their twinkling beauty When summer mornings broke And in the drowsy coverts The feathered songsters woke, While from all haunts of nature Her myriad voices spoke. Or when, through hazy autumn, They wore their changing glow, In russet, gold, and crimson Flitting to earth below, To lie, at last, in silence Under a shroud of snow. 1 6 Songs Along the Way Life, thy beauty withers; Like the trees thou art : Fading, fluttering, flying, Summer hopes depart. And lo! the snow of winter Falls upon the heart. Songs Along the Way 17 Vacation Song Come, lads and lasses, A soft wind is blowing, Rustling the alders Beside the brook growing Summer has found us, And nature rejoices. ' Leave the dull schoolbooks ! " Cry all the glad voices. Down in the meadows Are buttercups shining; Bright in the hedges The wild roses twining; Butterflies everywhere, Bees in the clover ; Whiz goes the humming bird, Flame-throated rover. List how the linnet His sweet song is trying. And hark to the meadow lark Gaily replying. 1 8 Songs Along the Way- Bird song, and blossom, And sunshine together — Who would have lessons While June rules the weather ? Songs Along the Way 19 A Game of Consequence Young John went briskly out, one morn, To mend the fence. But man is weak when maids beguile ; A gossip found him on the stile Playing " Consequence " — Playing with Jess and Mollie and Jean, 'Neath the oak tree's shade, While the sun climbed high in the sky of morn And the cows that leaned toward the rustling corn The fence boards swayed. A lively game of " Consequence " They had that day — What ''he "and ''she" and "the world" said, Till pretty Jean grew rosy red And ran away. That eve young John met pretty Jean By the mended fence. He said — she said — she blushed again, But this time did not fly, — and then — The consequence ! 20 Songs Along the Way The cows stood near with wondering eyes: The cows were dumb ; But the farm boy, hidden behind the hay, Who represented '' the world " that day, Said, '* Yum ! yum! " Songs Along the Way 21 What the Wind Said The voice of the wind was soft and low, And this to my ear it seemed to say: *'0 come with me where the wild flowers grow, 'Over the hills and far away.' ''I know the path to the shadowy dell Where the violet opens its soft blue eyes; I know where the buds of the cowslip swell, And the dainty cups of the crocus rise. "I haste where my darling, the windflower frail. Is shyly awaiting my fond embrace ; I ruffle the pools in the sunny vale That mirror the fair narcissus' face. ''I go where the tinkling waters flow : I find the fern in each hidden nook ; I know where the silverleaf bends low To trail its fingers along the brook. * ' The snowdrop gleams from the springing grass ; The iris lures me with gentle wiles ; The daisy nods as I lightly pass ; And the heart's-ease lifts its face and smiles." 22 Songs Along the Way And ever seemed the refrain to be, As I hearkened the voice of the spring wind gay ; '* O hasten, O hasten, and come with me * Over the hills and far away ' ! " Songs Along the Way 23 A Vision A gray rock towering by the water side ; The low lap ! lap ! of the advancing tide ; A sun-browned child, dreamy and wistful-eyed. Along the ripples sea birds curve and dip ; From the blue distance comes a home-bound ship ; Out through the far-off mist-gates white sails slip. A fishing boat rocks idly to and fro ; Along the sands the fishers come and go ; — Hark ! on the wind, the sailors' '' Yo ! heave ho ! " O homesick shell, thy low imprisoned roar Brings back the sounding sea, the cliff-walled shore. And the dear home that I may see no more. 24 Songs Along the Way A Mother's Answer O mother of babies strong and fair, Tell, to one who has none, Which of your dainty darlings there — Golden or auburn or chestnut hair — To you is the loveliest one. "Ask the mother bird in her nest Up in the rocking tree Which of her birdlings to her looks best. Which of the nestlings under her breast She shelters most tenderly." Mother love answers readily, Mother love fond and true, " A miracle each are my birds to me, No matter what color their feathers may be Or how they may look to you." Songs Along the Way 25 Love's Messenger Bird with the breast of scarlet, The roses withering lie, And red leaves drearily shiver and fall As the restless winds sweep by. Thy flight thou 'It soon be winging To the Southland far away : Bear thou a sweet, sweet message To my soldier boy, I pray. Bird, I love him, I love him, But I did not tell him so ; My spirit is weary with longing, But that he does not know. The heartache and the heartbreak Of my loneliness and pain Perchance his faithful soul may feel In thy sweet, familiar strain. On the banks of Southern rivers. Along the Southern plain, The satin sheen of the snowy flowers Is dark with a crimson rain ; Low mounds are thick in the sunshine Where brave hearts lie at rest, And over one a bird keeps watch, A bird with a scarlet breast. 26 Songs Along the Way The Greatest of These is Charity Three women stood together as the chime Of distant bells rang in the Christmas time; And lo ! a vision radiant and fair, A Heavenly Presence, shone before them there. The dear Lord stood revealed ; he asked each one, '*In this bright year, for me what hast thou done?" The first said: *' Lord, thy voice seemed calling me To distant lands, thy messenger to be. To carry on thy work I have not failed ; In danger often, yet I have not quailed. Among the heathen I have cast my lot. To teach the faith to those who know thee not." The second said: ^' Lord, I have tried to be A faithful steward. With full hands and free I've given of my goods to feed the poor; Oft I've brought hope to those who hoped no more. Of pain and sorrow I have eased the smart, And taught to thank thee many a grateful heart. ' ' Songs Along the Way 27 The third stood humbly there, with downcast eyes. " I have no wealth to give, — I am not wise. Dear Lord, 'tis httle I have done for thee, But I have walked with all in charity. At others' sins, I, conscious of my own, Point no accusing finger, cast no stone." The Master smiled down on the drooping head. ** Whoe'er loves mine, loves also me," he said. *' Whoe'er shows mercy shows it unto me. She hath all graces who hath charity." 28 Song's Along the Way Farewell Summer and youth, farewell. The rose leaves fall with the rain ; Soon winter will come, and go, — The spring winds gather and blow, And the roses bloom again : But faded youth ne'er yet Revived at the touch of spring. And south winds never set Dead hopes a-blossoming. Farewell, farewell. To sunny isles afar Upon the silver main The swift-winged swallows go, But, after the sleet and snow. They will return again : The nestlings of the heart Come not at spring's behest; Forever, when they depart, Remaineth an empty nest. Farewell, farewell. Songs Along the Way 29 Through the Sunset Long shadows sweep across the sky, As day sinks slowly in the sea; We ride together, you and I, Along the hill-slopes silently. We ride together, as of old ; Through the soft haze the sun mists weave, Out of the sunset barred with gold, Into the starry, purple eve. Lulled by the rhythm of the tide, The silent strand before us lies, While gates of glory open wide Around the crest of Tamalpais. What is the charm the hill-slopes lack ? What brightness of the past is o'er? The smiles of friends who come not back, The hopes of days that are no more. Ghosts ride between us on our way ; Their shadowy steeds press ours apart ; Against my arm their bridles sway ; Their hoof-beats strike upon my heart. 30 Songs Along the Way The Schoolhouse Flag Above the children of the land Our country's banner floats today, And boy and girl, with earnest eyes. Gaze at it from their play. What read they in its shining folds, That on the summer breezes swell ? To them — the nation's hope and pride What stories does it tell ? We '' children of a larger growth " See visions, as its stripes unfold — The struggle of a nation's birth, New England's farmers bold. The icy Delaware, the huts Of Valley Forge, the reeling deck Of Perry's ship, the valiant men Who scaled Chapultepec ! Songs Along the Way 31 And later, darker years unroll — How vivid now the vision grows ! We hear the tramp of marching hosts, The strife of kindred foes ! The loved, the wept through weary years, From many a battlefield they throng, Wrapped in the faded coats of blue That have been their shrouds so long ! They glide before us, silent, calm, And the old grief breaks forth and cries, *'Why come ye back, O loved and lost. With the grave dust in your eyes ? ^' Think you the living can forget? Ah, no ! rest in the peaceful grave ! Stout hearts and loyal guard today The flag you died to save." Fling out the flag ! O happy child. Born in these later years of peace. When war a vision only seems. And wealth and ease increase, 32 Songs Along the Way Look proudly on each shining star That gleams on yon fair field of blue Learn reverence for each fluttering fold That brought such joy to you ! O child, be worthy of such sires ! The blood of heroes is your dower Be ready when your duty calls, When God shall strike the hour, — Ready to follow, if need be, " Old Glory " through the battle grim,. But never let its fair folds trail, Nor one bright star grow dim ! Songs Along the Way 33, John G. Whittier Softly the eddying leaves flit down^ From trees with autumn tints aflame^ Upon a new-made grave where lies A Friend — it is a fitting name. Friend of the people, close to thine The strong heart of the nation beat : Its wrongs awoke thy clarion cry; Its joys, thy folk-songs soft and sweet. New England claims thine honored dust, But not to her alone belongs The glory of thy deathless fame, Sweet singer of a people's songs ! From North and South, from East and West,. Above thy grave the pilgrims bend; Their falling tears awake thee not. A nation mourns for thee, O Friend ! 34 Songs Along the Way Returning In weariness and pain And longing, as when thou wast all to me, To make thy breast my refuge from alarms, To rest once more within thy sheltering arms, Mother, I come to thee. Out in the wide, wide world I've wandered many a dreary mile alone. Its thorny pathways pierced my aching feet; Cold on my head its pit' less tempests beat; — Take back thy weary one. Distrustful, proud, and sad. Far different lessons from thy precepts mild I've gathered since our life paths swept apart. I bring not back the childish, trusting heart, — But 'tis thy child. O face of womanhood ! Deeply the outer world has stamped its chill, But, gentle mother, in the saddened eyes That old-time likeness to thine own yet lies; — Thou'lt love thine own child still. Songs Along the Way 35 A Modern Parable Footsore and dusty from the world's highway, A woman with clear eyes and earnest face Came and complained in bitter words, one day, To Justice, seated in the market place. " O Justice, on your hill a temple stands. Whose treasures, rich and rare, my coming wait; But, as I entrance seek with eager hands. My brother thrusts me back and bars the gate." The fair, stern goddess calmly answered : "Nay ! First right the wrong that shadows thine own soul ; Thy weaker sister, fallen by the way. Clings to thy skirts and keeps thee from the goal. "Thy conscious powers her feebleness deride. And bid her dazzled vision seek the light ; But she, with want and suffering at her side, — What eye hath she for glories on the height ? "Lift thou thy sister ! Make thy presence sweet ! Thy strong, protecting arms around her twine ; Shield her with love until her stumbling feet Grow firm, and eager to keep step with thine. 36 Songs Along the Way "Then, as you turn your faces to the day, And dimb the height, unfaltering and free, Who shall withstand you on your upward way ? What gate can bar you from your destiny ? Songs Along the Way 37 My Castle I owned a wonderful castle: The banner thereof was Truth; Its hangings were golden fancies; Its curtains, the visions of youth. I locked the door of my castle, And hid away the key. Vowing, for fear of intruders, That locked it should ever be. But there came to the door of my castle, One eve, in the twilight thin, A beautiful boyish stranger. Crying, " Pray, let me in ! " His hair was of twisted sunbeams. His eyes like the bluebird's wing. And his voice as sweet as the music Of bells which the fairies ring. For a while I refused to listen. But he only pleaded the more. Until, at last, I relented, And opened my castle door. 38 Songs Along the Way But, having once gained an entrance, The boy determined to stay, — Assumed control of my castle. And snatched my scepter away. Since then he has reigned in my castle; He holds it whether or no ; But his presence is like the sunlight, And I would not have him go. O Love, my beautiful stranger. Thou and I shall never part, But thou shalt reign forever In the castle of my heart. Songs Along the Way 39 Afloat Drift softly on the silent tide, My boat, my boat; the wind is still. By wood-fringed banks we slowly glide, Borne onward at the current's will. From azure heights a sent'nel star Upon our rippling track looks down, While, one by one, the lamps afar Begin to Hght the distant town. At times the twilight hush is stirred By cry of some wild forest thing, Or soft note of a sleepy bird That lifts its head from 'neath its wing. Drift slowly on, my boat, my boat; A lotus breath is in the air. What happiness with thee to float ! Why should I seek the world and care ? Vague yesterday is of the past ; E'en half forgotten is today; Tonight is mine, — so calm, so vast; Tomorrow ? — put the thought away ! 40 Songs Along the Way Miserable Sinners The Lenten sunshine, softened and subdued, Touched with its tender radiance, many-hued. The throng that knelt, the stately church within, In genteel penitence for genteel sin. ^' Miserable sinners!" murmured many a one, With comfortable sense of duty done. A wan-faced woman crept into the room, And sought a corner hidden in the gloom. No dainty sinner she: Shame's burning hand Had stamped upon her brow his cruel brand ; Remorse and Want and Pain for many a day Had walked beside her on her weary way. Down on her knees she sank, while tears like rain Rolled o'er her hollow cheeks. She moaned in pain. And beat her breast, and grovelled on the floor. And, agonizing, whispered o'er and o'er, ''A miserable sinner, yet I look to thee! Have mercy. Lord, have mercy upon me! " Songs Along the Way 41 Again the organ's swelling notes were heard; A sweet old-fashioned hymn the soft air stirred: It spoke to many a heart of childhood's days, Of mother love, of household prayer and praise. The woman, listening, crouched upon the floor, Hushed her wild prayers, and sobbed and moaned no more. The sermon, smooth with many a well-turned phrase. Led well-bred penitents through flowery ways ; But in its rounded periods, I fear, Souls sick and tortured found but little cheer. At length, the graceful benediction o'er. The throng moved slowly toward the outer door. A halt — a bustle — '' What was that you said ? The woman yonder dead?" "Yes, look! stone dead!" The Pharisees their rich robes drew away As if pollution dwelt in that poor clay, And coldly wondered, as they hurried by. Why such as she chose such a place to die. A man came down the aisle, with bearing calm, His fair young wife leaning upon his arm. He started as his gaze fell on the dead, And all the color from his proud face fled. His fond wife saw him blanch, and felt the start. And thought, ''The sight has touched his tender heart." 42 Songs Along the Way That night the outcast, colder than the stone Her resting place, lay in the morgue alone. Of sin and shame, from her still youthful face, Death's pitying fingers had removed all trace. Perchance the Master, at her soul's release, Said: '^ I condemn thee not. Go thou in peace.' Backward and forward in a shadowy room, A man paced ceaselessly amid the gloom. From fierce remorse seeking reHef in vain, Writhing like one in purgatorial pain. Crying, '* On me, most vile and self-abhorred — Miserable sinner ! — O have mercy. Lord ! " Songs Along the Way 45 At Twoscore The ball is over ; the hour is late ; But I sit by the fire in this quiet room, Watching the flames in the glowing grate And the shadows that dance in the corner's gloom. Across in the mirror my face I see : There are silver threads in the dusky hair; Eyes saddened by years look out at me ; And along the forehead are lines of care. My fair young daughter, dreaming, smiles; Her bright hair gleams on her pillow white. A waking dream my heart beguiles; I saw a ghost at the ball tonight. Mid the music's swell and the mellow light, As the dancers' restless feet flew fast. In a pair of young eyes, brown and bright, I saw a ghost from my far-off past. The lights grew dim and the music faint, And far away, it seemed to me, I stood again in a garden quaint, And just beyond was the shining sea. 44 Songs Along the Way The breath of the white magnolia flower, Heavy and sweet, was in the air ; The moonlight fell in a silver shower; Youth seemed eternal, and life was fair. Long, long ago that summer fled ; Its glory passed from our changing lives. Its hopes, like its flowers, have long been dead, And Memory's ghost alone survives. But still, in that garden far away. Flowers just as sweet perfume the air. And, watching my daughter's face, I say, ''Youth is eternal, and life is fair." Songs Along the Way 45 Old Eyes and Young Hearts Fair Lillian sits by the casement vines, Her bright hair touched by the sunlight's sheen^ Her fingers toying amid the leaves — As sweet a picture as ever was seen. Young OHver, gazing with heart in his eyes, Thinks her an angel in mortal guise. Her mother knits in a corner near, And says, "Young people were not inclined To squander their time when I was young"; So she gives them a tangled skein to wind. The young man smiles, and says to himself, "That was Cupid's suggestion, the cunning elf ! " Bending low o'er the twisted strands, Golden ringlets touch sunbrowned cheek. Didst learn, O mother, when thou wast young. The wondrous language bright eyes speak ? The good dame's needles falter and cease, And she rests in dreams of untroubled peace. Waking at length, in mute dismay She stares at the picture before her eyes ; The young man's arms round the maid are twined^ And her shining head on his bosom lies, While the skein to the floor has been left to fall, And the kitten plays with the half-wound ball. 46 Songs Along the Way The Lost Treasure Sweet Hope, why turn thy weary eyes Thus westward to the sea? Dost think the signals on the wind Have aught of joy for thee? Still dreaming of thy treasure ship ? Alas ! dost thou not know That the ship of Hope, with silken sails, Outweathered not the wintry gales, But foundered long ago ? Her snowy pennant on the breeze No longer proudly waves ; No signal hail can reach her crew. Low in the coral caves; Her shapely hull and cargo fair Lie under the sweeping sea. Wildly the mermaids revel there, And mid their unbound, floating hair Twine gems that were for me. Songs Along the Way 47 We waited long, sweet Hope and I, For tidings from afar; Some relic of our treasure lost, A rope or drifting spar. Then came the unwelcome ship of Care : Alone she reached the shore. She brought us weary, toilsome years. We took the load with falling tears For the bright dream that was o'er. Songs Along the Way At Nightfall As twilight shadows gathered o'er the land, A little child came slowly from her play, A bunch of flowers, half withered, in her hand, Plucked from the dusty herbage of the way. Around my neck one tiny arm she twined. And laid the faded gift upon my knees. ' The path was steep, the flowers were hard to find ; I tried to bring you better ones than these." Where paths are toilsome and where flowers are few^ Through the long day we older children roam ; But, with our faded blossoms, mid the dew Of gathering twilight, we come slowly home. Father, when, at the setting of life's sun, Our poor, imperfect work thine eyes review. Thou wilt not judge us by the little done, — Thou wilt remember what we tried to do. Songs Along the Way 49 Faded She took the starry, blue-eyed flowers From her own shining hair. Sir knight of mine," she gaily said, *' Thy lady's colors wear ; Faithful 'tis as my love for thee. The language that they bear." She fastened them upon my breast. Praising their azure hue, While I, assenting, only saw Her eyes of sunny blue. Wilt keep them well ?" O'er hand and flower I vowed, a knight most true. 'Twas years ago. I oped, by chance, A casket old today. O'er which the dust of years forgot Had gathered deep and gray. Within, a spray of withered flowers Was fondly laid away. 50 Songs Along the Way Her token ! I had kept them well, Though lack of sun and showers Had dimmed the brightness that they wore In those lost summer hours — Fit emblem of her love, alas ! That faded with the flowers. I saw her yester eve — the one So fair in memory. Deceit dwelt in the brilliant eyes That stole my heart from me. And hard lines marred the sunny mouth I loved when twenty-three. I saw her mid the pomp and wealth That gild her false life o'er. One glance, and with a sigh I turned Back to my books once more. Thankful that love of twenty-three Sleeps well at forty-four. Songs Along the Way 51 In Memoriam "My name is Life," a radiant angel said; I bring the sacred bliss of motherhood," Then turned to go his heavenward way, when, lo ! Another angel on the threshold stood ! Before the awful glory of that face The bright first-comer bowed his shining head. ''The smiles that welcome me must melt in tears. Since thou art here, O brother Death," he said. Mid twilight's gathering gloom Death entered there ; Whispered, "The Master calls thee; come up higher"; Closed to all earthly things the earnest eyes; And set his seal upon the lips of fire. "She is not dead, but sleeping," saith the Lord, But tears are falling like the summer rain For her, who, wearing woman's crown of love, Sank 'neath the weight of woman's cross of pain. 52 Songs Along the Way In War Times Breeze of the summer morning, While the house is hushed in sleep, I hear thy rustling pinions Over my garden sweep. A moment pause in flitting Along the silent sea; A boon of love and pity I pray thee grant to me. On the burning shore of Cuba, Kindly but stranger eyes Watch by a couch of suffering, Where a brave young soldier lies. Parched are his lips with fever, And he sighs, as his senses roam, For the cool pine-perfumed breezes That haunt his northern home. Go, SAveet breeze of the mountains. And shed from thy healing wings The cool breath of the forest, To calm his murmurings. Songs Along the Way 53 Lift the dark locks, whose masses Over his forehead stray, And touch his eyelids like kisses From soft lips far away. Though he be at death's threshold, Weary and faint with pain, Thy sweet old-time caresses Shall win him to health again. 54 Songs Along the Way Dreams of Summer A song of summer, beautiful summer, Sweet with its voices, sing thou to me — The plash of waters, the quiver of leaflets. The trill of a bird in a whispering tree. A vision of summer, beautiful summer. Fair as its roses, bring thou to me — The gleam of dewdrops, the glory of sunlight. The brightness of old upon valley and sea. O haunting summer, beautiful summer, Only a phantom thou comest today; Thy birds are silent, thy roses are faded. And faded the dreams that were fairer than they! Songs Along the Way 55 The Vow Thou shy and laughing maiden^ Why are thy cheeks so bright ? Whose footsteps lingered at the gate With thine so long tonight? — So long Beside the gate tonight ? ** Young Roland lingered at the gate; He would not let me go. He vows he'll love me fond and true Till stars shall cease to glow — So true Till stars shall cease to glow. ■ 'Twas sweet to listen, but, as yet. To wed I'm not inclined. I tell him with averted head, I don't quite know my mind — As yet, I don't quite know my mind." 56 Songs Along the Way Thou sad-eyed, silent maiden, Why now thy cheeks so pale ? And where is he who loves but thee Though every star should fail ? — Still true. Though every star should fail ? " His vow was false ! the stars burn on ; His love was as the wind ; But, now, when knowledge is but pain. Too well I know my mind — Alas! Too well I know my mind ! " Songs Along the Way 57 Memories A robin's carol, for a moment heard, To faithful memory brings back again The saucy chirrup of a vagrant bird Balancing hghtly, by the soft wind stirred. Upon an elm bough near a schoolhouse pane. A listening child forgets her spelling book; The bright-eyed bird is calling her to go Across the meadows to the sunny nook Where, on the margin of a silver brook, The fair blue iris and the catkins grow. The distant, drowsy murmur of the bees Paints pictures that nor time nor tears can dim, Of sweet old gardens amid blossoming trees, Of lazy cattle, standing to the knees In buttercups along a river's rim. Sometimes I catch a far-off sea bird's cry; Again the surges beat a stormy strand ; In sodden heaps the leaves of autumn lie ; And through my curtained casement comes the sigh Of weary winds across a lonesome land. 58 Songs Along the Way- There Remaineth a Rest for the People of God A little longer, yet a little longer, O weary hands that slacken and fall down, Bear up the cross; for ''him who overcometh" Waiteth the crown. A little longer, yet a little longer, O aching heart, with care and sorrow sore. Bear thou the pain; soon, in God's peace eternal, Thou'lt ache no more. A little longer, yet a little longer, O tired feet that fain would cease to roam. E'en though the way be rough and tempests lowering. The path leads home. A little longer, yet a little longer. Look up, O Faith ! why waver and grow pale ? Soon shalt thou see, with raptured eye and tearless, Beyond the veil ! Songs Along the Way 59 Then and Now 1861— 1891 Once more from all our soldier graves Sweet wafts of fragrance rise, Like holy incense softly shed O'er altars of sacrifice. Once more the fair flowers droop their heads Our martyred ones above. To show that mightier than death Reigneth our deathless love. Called by the music's swelling notes, What thronging memories come Of days when ranks of comrades true Marched to the fife and drum, Of camp and scout and midnight watch, Of many a hard -fought fray When men who wore the loyal blue Faced men who wore the gray ! Peacefully now their low green banks The Southern rivers lave. In peace o'er many a bloody field The tasseled corn rows wave. Sweet Peace and Plenty rule the land Again from North to South, And the timid wild bird builds her nest In the silent cannon's mouth. 6o Songs Along the Way What though a note of war's alarm Be flung across the sea? What though a foreign monarch cry, ''Answer for this to me ! " ? At the threat that fires the Northern blood The South wheels into place: Who menaces ''Old Glory" now A mighty foe must face. •'Keep back your throngs ! " we make reply; Our freedom cost too dear To peril it that all earth's scum May find a refuge here. Still may the honest and the true, Whate'er their creed or race. Within our ample borders find A peaceful dwelling place; But for the idle and the vile, The dregs of other lands. The drones who seek to share the wealth Hard-earned by honest hands, — For the assassin, blood-begrimed, Fleeing a righteous doom, — Beneath the folds of yonder flag There never will be room ! Songs Along the Way 6i Sleep on, O soldiers, 'neath the flowers Dewed with a nation's tears. While o'er the land ye died to save Peacefully roll the years ! Of foes without, of foes within. What fear have we today, When, shoulder to shoulder with the blue, Stand the men who wore the gray ! 62 Songs Along the Way Early Called The tender Shepherd gently said, As he watched where the happy children played "My earthly pastures are passing fair, But wolves and pitfalls are many there. Often the paths are white with heat ; Often the driving tempests beat; The flowers are thorny; the winds are cold: Come, sinless lambs, to my heavenly fold." "Come," he said to the fair-haired child, And she lifted her sunny face and smiled. The dark-eyed boy the summons heard. And bent his head at the whispered word. Hark ! the rustle of unseen wings, — A far, faint strain that an angel sings, — And lo ! they have passed away in a breath. Through the shadowy gate that men call death. Songs Along the Way 63 Auf Wiedersehen The paths that first our footsteps pressed Linger in dreams, though years are long, And haunting voices from the past Croon to us like a cradle song. We long for those familiar ways, The lotus land of childhood's days. They call to us across the plains, They signal us along the seas, — Are other skies as fair as this? Are other flowers as sweet as these? O come to us, and find once more The fairy realm of days of yore." But when we seek that cherished spot, Lo ! from the land we leave behind Stretch hands that will not be denied. And voices cry upon the wind. Come back ! love's roots are in the heart ! You may not tear such bonds apart ! ' ' 64 Songs Along the Way Sweet friend, together we have walked On Life's broad highway many a year. The duties wrought, the burdens borne, Make us to one another dear. Your joys were ours when you were glad ; Your griefs were ours when you were sad. Good bye ! — the clinging hands unclasp - But, gentle friend, where'er you rove, You cannot wander from our hearts, You cannot go beyond our love ! *' No sweeter woman e'er drew breath ! " Come back to us, Elizabeth ! Songs Along the Way 65 To an Absent One Good night, my love, this last night of the year ! The hourglass tells its swiftly wasting sands. Soon will a stranger at the gates appear With harbingers of joy in his young hands. Yet will a sigh our greeting smile displace. For the dead Past in shrouds upon his bier; No fair young presence ever can efface The tender memories of this dear Old Year. Deeper and darker grow the shadows gray; Around my heart they gather like a pall. Would that my hands in thy strong clasping lay ! Then would the future wear no gloom at all. Good night ! " I whisper through the midnight calm. Thy spirit listens my low words to hear. God keep thee, best beloved, this night from harm^ And bless to thee the coming glad New Year ! 66 Songs Along the Way " Feed My Lambs " Written on a Friend's Ordination. Dear Lord, with patient face, And sad eyes ever gazing tenderly. Why standest thou so steadfast at my door, Asking the same low question o'er and o'er — ''Son, lovest thou me?"? Thou knowest I love thee, Lord ! Am I not leaving all to follow thee? Have I not torn each idol from its seat And cast it down, all shattered, at thy feet? What is it that thou may'st not ask of me? Thy face is still so grave ! Have I so grieved thee by my stubborn pride? I know my many stumblings hurt thee sore : Help me, I pray, to turn and sin no more ! O draw my footsteps closer to thy side ! Thou askest still the same ! How shall I prove the love and faith I hold ? "Thy lambs," dear Lord? And lies therein thy need? Thy cherished lambs thou wishest me to feed? To seek the lost ones straying from thy fold? Songs Along the Way 67 The way is dark and drear, And often must be cHmbed with aching feet ! How will they hear or heed my trembling voice, If at thine own they turn not nor rejoice — Thy voice with tender pity always sweet? Dear Lord, thy will be done ! Help me to know no other wish than thine ! Thy love can light the path, though dark and long ; Thy power can make the faltering footsteps strong, And speak through feeble lips with voice divine ! 68 Songs Along the Way By the Sea The young leaves spring and violets wake, As the soft wind brings the rain. The wild bird chirps to her mate in the tree ; She knows not care or pain ; Her heart rejoices with nature's heart, That the spring has come again. The ships sail out and the ships sail in As the welcome breezes blow; The sailors are singing the same old songs, With swaying rhythm slow, As when, a child upon the shore, I listened long ago. The clouds look down from far-off heights At their faces in the sea; The brown rocks lean to the swinging tides That lap them ceaselessly ; The free salt wind, as it fans my cheek, Brings back my youth to me. Again with eager eyes I scan The far horizon line. Though many a laden ship comes in Across the restless brine. Though long I wait, thou comest not, O treasure ship of mine. Songs Along the Way 69 A Fruitless Quest A pair of innocent childish eyes Shaded by ripples of shining hair, A face with a shadow of grave surprise, Upturned to mine with a questioning air. 'You know, Mamma, the story books say — You've read to me from them hours and hours— That fairies love in the night to play, But sleep all day in the hearts of flowers. •'So I thought, this drowsy afternoon. When even the birds forget to peep. Rocked by the soft, sweet winds of June, I could find a fairy fast asleep. '' From hawthorne hedge to jasmine bower, I've hunted the whole wide garden through. I've sought in the heart of every flower For glittering wings of silver hue. "I startled the humming bird from the rose; The bluebells shook out the honey bee; The butterflies glanced where the foxglove grows, But nowhere a fairy could I see. 70 Songs Along the Way ' 'Tis told in many a tale you've read That they sleep in flowers and drink the dew ; But now," and the earnest face grew sad, ''I think, Mamma, it isn't true." I kiss the dear little doubting maid, And send her, comforted, back to play. But I think, ''Alas! what dreams must fade Ere that shining head grows silver gray ! " Songs Along the Way 71 My Neighbor's Rose Fair roses from far countries Around my portals twine; Bright on their radiant faces Caressing sunbeams shine; But my neighbor, over yonder, Has a fairer rose than mine. I see his pretty cottage Beyond my garden bowers ; High o'er it, tall and stately, My shadowing mansion towers; But my neighbor's Rose of roses Is sweeter than my flowers. 'Tis Rose, his winsome daughter. Blooming in that tiny place, A simple wildwood floweret. With unaffected grace. While the brightness of all roses Seems shining in her face. 72 Songs Along the Way I watch her from my casement As her hght step comes and goes ; I Hsten to the music That from her young lips flows; And I covet from my neighbor His peerless, priceless Rose. I wonder if, transplanted From her simple home to mine, Would she thrive, the same sweet blossom, O'er my lonely life to shine. Or, like wildwood flower transplanted, In my shadow droop and pine. I have another neighbor, A lady proud as fair; Her eyes outshine the jewels That light her dusky hair. And of many broad green acres She is the only heir. All highborn gifts and graces In her fair self combine; She is courted in the ballroom And toasted at the wine; Yet, methinks, her smile is gracious When her soft hand touches- mine. Songs Along the Way 73 I wonder, should I seek her, Could I woo her to my side ? O'er my table at the banquet Like a queen she would preside, And the world would nod approval Should I win her for my bride : But her cold, calm smile reminds me Of moonlight upon snow; A tall and glittering iceberg She moves, so proud and slow, 1 fear my heart would wither Within the icy glow. This eve I'll go a-wooing. When soft the shadows fall, — Not my lady cold and haughty In her ancestral hall. But my neighbor's Rose of roses. Beyond the garden wall. 74 Songs Along the Way Coming The long, bright summer days are almost here, The summer bringing promised joy to me. Her sweet forerunners one by one appear; Her misty banners sweep the silver sea. The wild bee revels in the rose's heart, The bright-eyed daisies gem their grassy bed ; The wandering south wind stirs the leaves apart, And lifts the lily's meekly drooping head. A song of joy the heart of nature thrills ; A song of joy sing all the happy birds; And my own heart the same low music fills ; A tender love song all too sweet for words. Haste thee, O summer, to my Northern home ! Haste thee, O ship, across the shining sea ! Rock lightly, azure billows touched with foam ! Blow gently, winds that waft my love to me Songs Along the Way 75 My Pet Name You call me by the sweet old name To youth and memory dear; The years roll backward like a dream, Once more a laughing girl I seem, When that loved name I hear. Its sound recalls the gentle one Who first that pet name gave, And, hearing it, I half forget That the dear lips which hallowed it Are silent in the grave. Friends tried and true, now far away — Ah me ! the world is wide ! — Oft uttered it with voices light. When hearts were young and hopes were bright, And the future all untried. Much doth the changeless past now hold Of the future of our trust. And many a hope that gave it grace. And many a fair and friendly face. Have crumbled into dust. 76 Songs Along the Way Too Late Love waits without. I hear his pleading tones: **I am aweary; let me rest with thee! 'Tis Love who at thy door thus knocks and moans, — Love cold and faint: wilt thou not shelter me?" '*Nay, Love, thou may'st not enter! Go thy way! The hour is late ; there is no longer room. Thou shouldst have tarried when I bade thee stay, Amid the sunshine and the morning bloom. ** Gladly I hastened, then, to let thee in, And dried thy dew-wet wings upon my breast ; Now I must sit beside the hearth and spin — No longer have I time for such a guest. '' This morn thou wast a god — all earthly joy. E'en life itself, seemed of thy gift divine; Now thou art but an idle, teasing boy — Go, Love, knock at some other door than mine ! ' ' Songs Along the Way 77 The Strange Horseman ''What seekest thou, grim horseman, pray. In this goodly company?" ''Here in your midst I may not stay; For a strange, far land I start today — And who will go with me?" He turned to a passer bent and old. But the old man shrank away. "I love my lands and I love my gold; I hope to increase them many fold; I cannot go today! " His beckoning made a strong man quail. ' ' Come thou and ride with me ! ' ' "Nay now, nay now, O horseman pale. My wife would weep, my children wail, If I should go with thee ! " A maiden shuddered and stepped apart As she caught the stranger's eye: "My lover's image is on my heart; My lover is warm, and cold thou art : I pray thee pass me by ! " LofC. 78 Songs Along the Way A waif uplifted her small white face And her young eyes sad to see. **0 horseman grave, I ask thy grace: This world to me is a weary place ; I'll gladly go with thee." He lifted her up to his saddle bow For the strange and silent ride. The pale steed faded to mist, and, lo ! Instead of the horseman with cheek of snow, An angel glorified ! Songs Along the Way 79 At Commencement O valiant knight, thy spurs are won ; Thy shoulder hath the accolade ; Before thee lies the world's broad field : Go forth to conflict, undismayed ! The times have need of souls like thine. For thou wilt make no truce with wrong. Among the false thou wilt be true, Among the weak thou wilt be strong. The trumpet sounds and banners wave ! '' Forward ! " the order rings for thee. From lips that bless and hands that cling. Go forth to noble destiny. 8o Songs Along the Way The Linnet's Soni Under an apple tree white with bloom, A youth and a maiden meet. High in the branches a linnet sings, "Sweet! sweet! sweet!" The youth looks down at the maid's fair face, And his smiling eyes repeat The story told in the linnet's song, *' Sweet! sweet! sweet!" He stoops and kisses the rosy mouth, Mid blushes shy and fleet ; While the bird on the apple bough trills with glee, '* Sweet ! sweet ! sweet ! " Songs Along the Way 8i My Old Home I watch yon ship on her inbound track, With the sunlight on her sails, And my thoughts go fondly wandering back To the far land whence she hails. Swifter they fly than the roving wind To the Northland broad and free ; To the dear old home that I left behind By the shore of another sea. Do sunbeams fall on its sentinel trees As brightly as of yore, And light boughs quivering in the breeze Throw shadows across the floor? On woodbine twining about the eaves Do tints of autumn glow, And wild birds under the latticed leaves Flit softly to and fro ? I know there are girlish steps still heard In and out of each well-known room, And a light voice sings like a happy bird In the twilight's gathering gloom ; 82 Songs Along the Way- Yet come the tears into gentle eyes At the sound along hall and stair, As thoughts of the wandering one arise Whose voice was once heard there? O childhood's friends, O childhood's home, Far over the sounding sea, Though many a mile of ocean's foam Separate you and me, Yet love recks nothing of change or space, And here on a distant strand. My spirit holds in its fond embrace The loved of that northern land ! Songs Along the Way 83 An Echo Please God you find one face there You loved when all was young. —Charles Kingsley. Sweetheart of mine, ''when all the world is old," And we have wearied of life's pretty toys. When radiant hope is but a phantom cold. And cold the grave where lie our perished joys, When all the gleam has whitened in my hair. And all the luster faded from your eyes, When all the past seems incomplete and bare. And the dark river close before us lies, — I think, if I may hold your hand in mine, I shall not fear the daylight's growing gray, Nor at the irrevocable past repine. Knowing that you have loved me all the way. 39 i £o/v, S'?^; Ss ooa