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LYRICS 
 
 For Young and Old 
 
 BY 
 
 IRVING J. A. MILLER 
 
 (Author of "Fireside Poems" 
 
 and 
 
 "Twilight Thoughts" 
 
 Illustrations by 
 CHARLES H. KETCHUM 
 
 THE BLAKELY-OSWALD COMPANY 
 
 124 POLK STREET : CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 
 NINETEEN HUNDRED AND SIXTEEN 
 
V 
 
 ^^x,^ 
 
 i\^ tp 
 
 
 Copyright, 1916, by Irving J. A. Miller 
 
 
 
 AUG 30 1916 
 
 >CI.A437471 
 
IV 
 
 List of Illustrations 
 
 PAGE 
 
 God's Flowers 8 
 
 The Crookedy Man 16 
 
 The Skipper Boy 26 
 
 The Dentist Man 35 
 
 Grandpa 38 
 
 Blue-eyed Nellie 44 
 
 The Lookout 47 
 
 Dolly and Pudgy and Me 52 
 
 Wreck of the James E. Bayles .... 63 
 
 His Last Review Q6 
 
 When Sister Mary Loves 68 
 
 That Funny Doctor Man .... 73-74 
 
 Comrades 77 
 
 The Hero of Conemaugh 83 
 
 Goblins 88 
 
 The Little Renegade 101 
 
 Wished to Be Like Father 105 
 
 Daddy's Boy 108 
 
 Little Jim Showder 115 
 
 The Sun-Dog 116-117 
 
 No Tears for Us 121 
 
 Adieu, Fond Thoughts 124 
 
 Uncle Joe 132 
 
Contents 
 
 PAGE 
 
 God's Flowers 9 
 
 Song of the Optimist 10 
 
 Our Country's Flag 11 
 
 Friends 12 
 
 Chicago 13 
 
 A Phantasy 14 
 
 An Inspiration 15 
 
 The Crookedy Man 17 
 
 Johnny Johnson 18 
 
 In Nature's Realms 19 
 
 The Bride of Riverside 21 
 
 June Time 22 
 
 An Idle Thought 23 
 
 Poverty and Riches 24 
 
 The King of Kings 25 
 
 The Skipper Boy 27 
 
 The Doctor 28 
 
 The Iroquois Disaster 29 
 
 Sabbath Morn 31 
 
 A Summer Paean 32 
 
 Stick to Your Word 33 
 
 The Dentist Man 34 
 
 In the Great-No-Where 36 
 
 The Titanic 37 
 
 Grandpa 39 
 
 Lincoln Day Tribute 40 
 
 Bill Blodget 41 
 
 Blue-eyed Nellie 43 
 
 O Why? 46 
 
 The Lookout 47 
 
VI 
 
 Contents 
 
 PAGE 
 
 Autumn Time 48 
 
 Battle of Santiago 49 
 
 Dolly and Pudgy and Me 51 
 
 The Brook and the Owl 53 
 
 The Worker 54 
 
 Yo' Cannot Fool th' Lord 55 
 
 The Lone Stranger 57 
 
 Bill Jenkins 59 
 
 Wreck of the James E. Bayles 61 
 
 His Last Review 64 
 
 Dreams of Yesteryears 67 
 
 When Sister INIary Loves 69 
 
 A Boy's Life 70 
 
 Psalm of the River 71 
 
 That Funny Doctor Man 73 
 
 The Old and the New 76 
 
 Comrades 77 
 
 The Patriot 78 
 
 When the Parson Came to Call 79 
 
 Anxious Moments 81 
 
 The Hero of Conemaugh 82 
 
 They March Away 84 
 
 The Shylock's Prayer 85 
 
 A Modern Horatius 87 
 
 Vesper Voices 87 
 
 Goblins 89 
 
 For Shame! 90 
 
 Human Beings 91 
 
 Only a Rose 92 
 
 Queen of the Household 93 
 
 Prisoner and Bird 94 
 
Vll 
 
 Contents 
 
 PAGE 
 
 They Are Not Dead 95 
 
 Beautiful Thoughts 96 
 
 Love Talks 97 
 
 Preparedness 98 
 
 The Junction of Love 99 
 
 The Little Renegade 100 
 
 Youth's Prayer 102 
 
 Song of the Sailor Boy 104 
 
 Wished to Be Like Father 105 
 
 True Friendship 106 
 
 The Summer Girl 107 
 
 Daddy's Boy 109 
 
 Knights of ^Eolus HO 
 
 Old Bill Jones HI 
 
 So Shall It Be 113 
 
 Lost Confidence H^ 
 
 Little Jim Showder 115 
 
 The Sun-Dog 116 
 
 Duty and Obedience 118 
 
 No Tears for Us 119 
 
 Adieu, Fond Thoughts 123 
 
 Jim — The Engineer 125 
 
 Had I the Wings of an Eagle .... 127 
 
 The Ragged Lad 128 
 
 Love's Sequel 1^9 
 
 Swans of the Ocean 131 
 
 Uncle Joe 133 
 
 Value of Friendship 134 
 
 Marandy an' I 135 
 
 Had I a Thousand Sons 139 
 
 Weep Not For Me 140 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
God's Flowers 
 
GOD'S FLOWERS 
 
 The value of life — and its living — depends on our 
 
 diligent care 
 In molding the minds of our children — a pleasure we 
 
 joyfully share; 
 For they are the roses we gamer as onward we happily 
 
 plod, 
 These treasures, of earth and of heaven, we cull from 
 
 the Gardens of God. 
 
 In moments of grief and misfortune, they gladden our 
 
 hearts with delight ; 
 They hurry to us in the morning ; they whisper a loving 
 
 good-night. 
 It's ever a beautiful story — enacted by innocent tots 
 Who pilot us on through the darkness and share in our 
 
 innermost thoughts. 
 
 O little, soft hands that caress us; O pleading, bright 
 eyes of a child 
 
 With bonny, sweet lips of an angel — uplifted in merri- 
 ment wild; 
 
 A hug and a kiss for its Mother, then off to its Father 
 it darts; 
 
 Oh, such are the ways of the youngsters who carry the 
 keys to our hearts. 
 
10 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Through love and its deepest afFection — the greatest a 
 mortal can give — 
 
 They teach us a lesson of mercy; they teach us how 
 better to live. 
 
 Sweet hours of our earlier keeping; how often we gladly 
 recall 
 
 The numerous pleasures of childhood recorded in Mem- 
 ory's Hall. 
 
 •<^:y ''v:> <^ 
 
 SONG OF THE OPTIMIST 
 
 Lift up your head and be hopeful, 
 Lift up your head and be gay, 
 
 And the bells will ring 
 
 While the songsters sing 
 A beautiful roundelay. 
 
 Laugh with the rest and be buoyant. 
 Smile through your sorrows and tears, 
 You are sure to share 
 With the world — somewhere — 
 The pleasures of passing years. 
 
 Sing and the lorn will listen; 
 Whistle a jovial tune; 
 
 It may pave the way 
 
 For a brighter day — 
 A joyful and lasting June. 
 
Today and Yesterday 11 
 
 OUR COUNTRY'S FLAG 
 
 When Betsey Ross "Old Glory" made and gave it 
 
 heaven's bars, 
 She wove it Math the love of God and sprinkled it with 
 
 stars ; 
 And every star of old remains; far brighter still each 
 
 glows ! 
 While other stars have found a place within its sacred 
 
 rows; 
 And Friendship's chain encircles all and holds them 
 
 firm and tight; 
 The angels guard them through the day and watch o'er 
 
 them at night. 
 
 God bless the day the deed was done (all honor to her 
 
 name) 
 Which gave to us a priceless gem — unsullied yet by 
 
 shame. 
 She smoothed it with a gentle touch and kissed each 
 
 blessed fold 
 Her nimble fingers wrought with care — more precious 
 
 far than gold. 
 With happy heart she sent it forth — a mighty part to 
 
 play; 
 Unfurled it in the name of Love and sped it on its way. 
 
 Where camp-fires lit the darkest night, it carried hope 
 
 and cheer, 
 And weary soldiers doffed their caps in reverence most 
 
 dear. 
 
12 Today and Yesterday 
 
 It gave them strength to meet the foe and strive for 
 
 greater gains ; 
 It sent a wave of courage through their chilled and 
 
 aching veins; 
 It furnished inspiration to surmount the highest crag; 
 And patriots perceived, as one, the magic of that Flag! 
 
 Our Country's Flag — our joy and pride — long may it 
 
 proudly wave! 
 Triumphantly in peace or war — its mission e'er to save ! 
 Let not one vile, despotic hand its hallowed texture 
 
 stain ; 
 Who would pollute its sacred folds invokes our just 
 
 disdain! 
 A freeman's honor backs its course — whatever else 
 
 betide — 
 "Old Glory" of the older days — Flag of our fathers' 
 
 pride. 
 
 ■<^ 'Qv <3- 
 
 FRIENDS 
 
 Friends have we — both good and kind. 
 Friends deceased, or left behind; 
 Friends whose friendships we adore 
 For the happiness they bore. 
 
 There is this about it all: 
 Blissful hours we oft recall; 
 Though our friendships may not last, 
 We have sunshine from the past. 
 
Today and Yesterday 13 
 
 CHICAGO 
 
 Out of a field of ashes, here on a fire-swept strand, 
 Bravely our fathers — struggling — wisely and nobly 
 
 planned, 
 Builded a mighty city — one that will ever stand! 
 
 Into its folds they gathered people of every sphere 
 Flocking inside its borders — coming from far and near, 
 Drawn by a real enchantment only existing here. 
 
 Such was the power of forces reaching from sea to sea; 
 Such was the strength of action drawing on you and me, 
 Working like some great magnet, hidden — as that 
 might be. 
 
 Pierced by the rails of commerce, caught in a web of steel, 
 Steady and firm — unyielding, such was its wondrous zeal ; 
 Guided, in turn, by masters sharing the love we feel. 
 
 Northward and ever Westward, Southward it mines its 
 
 way; 
 Slowly its borders widen, stretching beyond the gray 
 Mists of the far-off distance — reaching for miles away. 
 
 City of wealth and splendor, Hub of the Western World ; 
 Pride of the rolling prairies, long be its flag unfurled 
 Here, where the smoke of wigwams — rising — once 
 softly curled. 
 
 Honor to those who builded, adding their mite, though 
 
 small ; 
 Magnate or Son of Labor — equal the honors fall; 
 Let us be ever grateful — thankful, indeed, to all. 
 
14 Today and Yesterday 
 
 A PHANTASY 
 
 I chased a butterfly, it flew 
 
 Among the flowers of yesteryears; 
 It lit in fields of sparkling dew — 
 
 In childhood bowers of blissful cheers, 
 Where oft I played, where oft I trod — 
 
 My childish fancies to obey; 
 Amidst those flowery dales of God, 
 
 In hallowed realms of yesterday. 
 
 Sweet hours, sweet days of childhood's keep, 
 
 Unknown to bitter pains and cares 
 That ever o'er our future creep 
 
 And slowly seize us unawares. 
 The babbling brook with tuneful lay; — 
 
 I heard, again, its merry voice, 
 It called me from my cares away 
 
 To seek, of old, a lover's choice. 
 
 In other days, when Life was young — 
 
 Unfettered by the undertow — 
 I wandered o'er the hills, among 
 
 The fragrance of the long-ago. 
 'Mid hyacinths and roses wild 
 
 I roamed, again, with merry tots ; 
 Once more, once more a happy child! 
 
 Among the sweet forget-me-nots. 
 
Today and Yesterday 15 
 
 AN INSPIRATION 
 
 Come! paint me a picture, artist, a picture of priceless 
 
 worth 
 That beareth the marks of Genius — a picture of love 
 
 on earth. 
 
 make it a fine production as ever an artist made. 
 And mingle with Love's own passion both sorrow and 
 
 joy — a shade. 
 
 Remember to make it vivid — a beautiful thing at best, 
 And when it is finished, artist, I'll willingly grant thee 
 
 rest. 
 And such was the picture painted — the picture I now 
 
 recall. 
 It beareth the marks of Genius and hangeth on 
 
 Memory's wall. 
 
 1 see, by the light of heaven, an image suspended there, 
 A likeness that haunts me ever and fiUeth my soul with 
 
 prayer. 
 The features, while wan and weary, show sorrows and 
 
 joys of old; 
 I read in the eyes a message — a message of love untold 
 
 Methinks of the days departed, when oft as a child at 
 
 rest, 
 I pillowed my head when weary — asleep on her gentle 
 
 breast. 
 O thanks be to thee, kind artist, who painted so good 
 
 and well. 
 For thine was an inspiration that straight from the 
 
 heavens fell. 
 
His cat and his dog were a semblance of 7itm. 
 
Today and Yesterday 17 
 
 THE CROOKEDY MAN 
 
 Kind friend, have you heard of the Crookedy Man, 
 The crookedest, wabbhest one of his clan? 
 His legs were both bowed and his trousers nigh short, 
 His voice soimded squeaky whene'er he'd retort ; 
 He limped and he wabbled — like one out of joint, 
 But fairly and squarely he held to his point. 
 
 While crooked in form, he was morally straight; 
 Some called him "Old Wabbles" and laughed at his gait. 
 But little he cared, for the things they would say — 
 For pranks they oft did in their innocent play. 
 His creed was a mixture of Honor and Law — 
 A personal document free from a flaw. 
 
 The Crookedy Man, oh, the wabbledy man 
 (Whom children oft teased as they playfully ran 
 Away from his cudgel — in fear of his rod). 
 Found pleasure and comfort wherever he trod. 
 With saucer-like eyes he would look one right through ; 
 One's mind he could read and the things that one knew. 
 
 His house was all gables — o'erlooking the town, 
 While high in the center a turret looked down; 
 And there, all alone, as a hermit of old, 
 He lived like a monarch — both fearless and bold. 
 He courted not pleasure nor love of his clan — 
 The rickety, wabbledy, Crookedy Man. 
 
 Good people came far from the country, to see 
 The wonderful mansion they heard it to be. 
 His cat and his dog were a semblance of him, 
 Both crookedy, wabbledy, homely and slim, 
 
18 Today and Yesterday 
 
 But proud of their master — more grateful and true 
 Than ever a servant vk'^as faithful to you. 
 
 And there, all alone, with his crookedy cat, 
 His wabbledy dog — with the floor for a mat. 
 He shared in a pleasure quite foreign, indeed. 
 To others more thrifty and given to greed. 
 Think wisely, be better than he if you can, 
 The rickety, wabbledy, Crookedy Man. 
 
 <:::> <:> <:^ 
 
 JOHNNY JOHNSON 
 
 Johnny Johnson stubbed his toe. 
 
 He thought — he thought; 
 He didn't say just what he thought; 
 He didn't think just what he ought; 
 But homeward walked he on his way 
 With limping step (most silently) 
 
 And thought — and thought. 
 
 The way was long, the path was rough, 
 
 He thought — he thought; 
 His little toe began to swell, 
 The way it hurt, he thought — oh, well! 
 He thought of home, he thought of bed, 
 He thought one thing he never said. 
 
 And thought — and thought. 
 
Today and Yesterday 19 
 
 IN NATURE'S REALMS 
 
 the wind blows cool and the grass grows green 
 On the distant hill where the herdsman's seen, 
 And the sun sinks low in the burning West 
 
 As an infant lulled on its Mother's breast, 
 While the farmer plods on his homeward way 
 At the closing hour of a Summer's day. 
 
 As the twilight gently disappears. 
 With his heart enthralled by an hundred cheers, 
 "Te-o-wit-te-woo !" cries the bleak-eyed owl 
 From his lofty perch — with a cunning scowl; 
 And the firefly darts with the bat, on wings, 
 Where the bull-frog croaks and the June-bug sings. 
 
 Could a heart be sad where the bobolink — 
 Near his nestling — calls by the brooklet's brink? 
 Where the curlew utters its weird reply? 
 Where the laughing waters go rushing by. 
 Like the Rhone, speed on as they wind around 
 Till they disappear with a dying sound? 
 
 Could I break the spell, at a word's command, 
 
 And invoke the lyre of a master hand. 
 
 How my heart would leap and my thoughts be free 
 
 As the bird that flies o'er the surging sea; 
 
 And the gloomy shadow, enshrouding all, 
 
 Like a phantom pass and the sunlight fall. 
 
 From the early morn — through the whole night long- 
 
 1 have fondly list to the minstrel throng. 
 Where the magpie, cheerfully, loves to dwell 
 With the meadow lark in a sunny dell; 
 
20 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Where the rohins thrive and their anthems sing, 
 And the nightingale makes the midnight ring. 
 
 What a sight to see, in the month of June, 
 As we march along to the woodland's tune, 
 By a rural road — where the tourist's eye 
 Sees a million pearls 'neath a single sky; 
 Sees the hand of God where the field and fen 
 Bring a happy thought to the artist's pen. 
 
 Where the reaper sings and Aurora's V2cy 
 Gives a healthy tint to the new-mown hay; 
 Where the roses smile at the daisies, fair. 
 With their tresses stirred hy the balmy air; 
 I would beg you wander along with me, 
 In a thoughtful mood — in a reverie. 
 
 In the hai-vest time, with its golden grain. 
 Are the thrifty days of a farmer's gain; 
 When the trees bend low from the heavy growth 
 Of the mellow pears and the apples, both; 
 And the vineyards, too, have a good supply 
 Of the choicest fruit of a farmer's eye. 
 
 O yes, O yes! 'tis the best of all 
 
 To rambling go in the forests tall. 
 
 And rest, there, under the shady trees 
 
 And feel the touch of a balmy breeze 
 
 That brings to us — on its airy wings 
 
 The welcome song which the thresher sings. 
 
 When Fall is here and the earth has lost 
 Its Summer robe by the early frost; 
 From hazel bush to the acorn tall. 
 The countless leaves, in their silence, fall; 
 Ah! then we go to the realms sublime 
 To gather nuts for the Winter time. 
 
Today and Yesterday 21 
 
 When Winter comes and the fields are bare, 
 The snow is drifting everywhere; 
 The North wind roars in the chimney, tall. 
 And shakes tlie roof and the plastered wall. 
 Then we gather round, in a circling form. 
 Where the embers glow and the hearth is warm. 
 
 Soon, the days speed by and the bright New Year 
 In its gladness comes with its love and cheer; 
 While the Yule-logs, smoldering, smaller grow 
 As the fiddler bends on his magic bow; 
 But the new resolves which we make, forsooth, 
 Are as quickly lost as the day, in truth. 
 
 <:> -^^^ "^ 
 
 THE BRIDE OF RIVERSIDE 
 
 One night, as I strolled through a graveyard, drear, 
 In a lonely wood — near a crystal stream; 
 
 I saw, by her tomb, in the moonlight — near. 
 In her shroud the ghost of a former dream. 
 
 Around me were graves of the hundi*eds dead, 
 And a grewsome shadow crept over all; 
 
 My courage came back and I lost the dread 
 That encircled me, like a winding pall. 
 
 The owls cried aloud, and the moonlight danced 
 O'er her tomb as I gazed with a pensive eye; 
 
 The willows drooped low where the rabbits pranced, 
 And the whippoorwill uttered a last goodbye! 
 
22 Today and Yesterday 
 
 There, mute, in the silence and all alone — 
 In a mood of passion and wild despair, 
 
 I shouted with valor, in sullen tone: 
 
 "Well, away, O devil!" she still stood there. 
 
 And pointing, she said: "In yonder spheres — 
 In the distance where flashes the fiery Mars, 
 
 Come thither and journey for endless years. 
 In a glorified figure — beyond the stars." 
 
 <^ <:> <:;> 
 
 JUNE TIME 
 
 My boat floats idly down the stream 
 
 By oaken woods and banks of moss. 
 The world seems like a fairy dream 
 
 Where phantom shadows dance across. 
 The song-bird's trilling vesper breaks 
 
 The wind's vibrating monotone, 
 With rarest joy my heart awakes 
 
 While drifting peacefully alone. 
 
 The sunbeams flirting 'mong the trees 
 
 Come streaming through — across my way, 
 Dame Nature, smiling sweetly, sees 
 
 Them kiss the waters in their play. 
 The turtle perched on yonder log 
 
 Enjoys that rest for which we strive. 
 The croaking of the happy frog 
 
 Makes music where the lilies thrive. 
 
Today and Yesterday 23 
 
 The scent of blossoms fills the air, 
 
 Their sweet aroma naught can kill; 
 The clover fields impart their share 
 
 That friendly winds bring o'er the hill. 
 The roses now are all in bloom 
 
 For this is June — the month of flowers — 
 When Nature holds no dismal gloom 
 
 For those who share her queenly bowers. 
 
 O let me drift in perfect bliss — 
 
 My lofty purpose to attain, 
 Though others scorn Dame Nature's kiss 
 
 I will not spend my time in vain. 
 Such scenes; such grandeur everywhere 
 
 To charm the eyes — enthuse the heart; 
 Such glory as the blue-bells share 
 
 And of earth's beauty forms a part. 
 
 <c> ■<^ <:> 
 
 AN IDLE THOUGHT 
 
 Were I its lord and master and keeper of this earth; 
 Had I the power to govern mortality and birth; 
 Then both should be as equal (the father and the son), 
 Each act a deed of valor — a truly noble one. 
 
 Their actions would be gentle and friendly as the birds', 
 And earth become a heaven of kindly deeds and words. 
 With Love the Grand Recorder (his code without a 
 
 flaw) ; 
 And Truth would ever triumph and Honesty be law. 
 
24 Today and Yesterday 
 
 All earth would be in union — a pleasure-ground ; indeed, 
 The savage beasts of forests might with the lambkins 
 
 feed; 
 All else be in accordance and keeping with my plan, 
 Were I its lord and master, and yet ! a common man. 
 
 <^ <:> <:;^ 
 
 POVERTY AND RICHES 
 
 Spoke Poverty to Riches thus: "Give me a helping 
 
 hand!" 
 Said Riches, then, to Poverty: "I do not understand." 
 And Poverty passed on his way without another word. 
 While others stood in silent thought — o'er what they 
 
 saw and heard. 
 
 Years after, at the market place, a beggar stood in 
 
 want; 
 His clothing ragged, on his face a look forlorn and 
 
 gaunt ; 
 And Poverty came sauntering, near by that very spot. 
 He recognized old Riches there but Riches knew him 
 
 not. 
 
 One look was all he needed, though, and Riches stood 
 
 aghast ; 
 He found in Poverty a friend whom, once in life, he 
 
 passed. 
 Said Riches, then, to Poverty: "Give me a helping 
 
 hand;" 
 Lo! Poverty shared of his love — the best at his 
 
 command. 
 
Today and Yesterday 25 
 
 THE KING OF KINGS 
 
 I want to be like Daddy and do the things he can; 
 I want to grow up quickly and be a great, big man; 
 And tell such funny stones, and do the funny things 
 That Daddy does, yes, Daddy! he is the King of Kings. 
 
 I want to own an auto — join every lodge in sight, 
 And then I'll have some reasons for staying out at 
 
 night ; 
 I guess I'll be a preacher, a doctor? No, not me! 
 I think I'll be a lawyer, he gets the largest fee. 
 
 No, no! a jolly plumber; a lucky man is he, 
 He fixes up our steam pipes, and my, O huUy-gee ! 
 Makes love to Cleopatra (she is the hired girl) 
 And Mother says: "He's gallant and nimble as a 
 squirrel." 
 
 Oh, just you wait, I'll tell you; when I'm a great, big 
 
 man 
 Like Daddy is, I'll manage things on a wiser plan; 
 I won't go 'way to meeting and pray like angels do 
 And then hike off a-fishing as soon as I am through. 
 
 I won't spend all my money a-running here and there — 
 A-gadding round the village; I'll keep a goodly share; 
 And if I have to lose it — to reap the greatest joy, 
 I'll take the whole, durn business and give it to my boy! 
 
Today and Yesterday 27 
 
 THE SKIPPER BOY 
 
 Tim was his Father's dearest joy — a Skipper Boy was 
 
 he— 
 Who raised his hand and touched his cap just Hke a salt 
 
 at sea. 
 "Some day I'll sail," he told his Pa, "a Skipper I 
 
 will be." 
 
 "Ho, ho! my boy," his Father laughed. "Stand straight, 
 
 salute!" he cried; 
 The boy obeyed his firm command. With eyes now 
 
 open — wide — 
 He stood three- foot in stocking feet — a parent's hope 
 
 and pride. 
 
 His Father smiled to see him there. "Attention, sir!" 
 
 he said; 
 "The enemy is near at hand — her ships not far ahead! 
 What be your wish?" The boy replied: "We'll fill 'em 
 
 full o' lead!" 
 
 "Indeed, my boy," his Father thought, "a Skipper you 
 
 shall be, 
 Ah ! greater still, a Commodore — to guard the open sea ; 
 My Country's Flag will e'er be safe, if left to men like 
 
 thee!" 
 
 A few short years found Skipper Tim within the fore- 
 most van 
 
 Where, true to childhood's noble thought, he carried out 
 his plan 
 
28 Today and Yesterday 
 
 And shipped aboard a JNIan-of-War — a sailor's life 
 began. 
 
 When Farragut unfurled his Flag and loaned it to the 
 
 breeze, 
 The Skipper Boy, in fervent prayer, fell on his bended 
 
 knees 
 And thanked his God that he was spared to guard the 
 
 open seas. 
 
 It was a solemn hour for Tim, where guns were belching 
 
 fire; 
 And courage stirred his manly soul, as thrilled his noble 
 
 sire; 
 Ah! many w^ere the maimed and dead who shared the 
 
 bloody mire. 
 
 A day of triumph for the Flag, but pierced by rifle 
 
 ball 
 Lay Skipper Tim whose dying words fond memories 
 
 recall : 
 "God save the Flag! for it I die and give my life — 
 
 my all!" 
 
 -O 'sb' <!> 
 
 THE DOCTOR 
 
 He never knows a minute's rest, he's always on the go; 
 He has no time to eat or sleep — the people need him so ; 
 No matter small the ache or pain, how far away he be, 
 He's always first to hear the news, the last to get his fee ! 
 
Today and Yesterday 29 
 
 THE IROQUOIS DISASTER. 
 
 Heavy hung the clouds of heaven o'er Chicago, hke 
 
 a pall, 
 And the drizzling rain, descending, fell in silence over 
 
 all; 
 Broke the surf on yonder lakeside, by the city's peaceful 
 
 shore, 
 Like a dirge, from out some cloister, that will echo 
 
 evermore. 
 Still, the world seemed full of gladness — bountiful the 
 
 people's joy 
 Which, alas! was doomed to perish with the fated 
 
 Iroquois. 
 
 Lovely maids and comely matrons filled the city's busy 
 marts 
 
 Where the rich and poor, together, mingled there with 
 joyful hearts. 
 
 For the holidays were on us — it was in the Christmas- 
 tide 
 
 And their thoughts were of those dear ones in whose 
 love they did confide. 
 
 Hark! "The Iroquois is burning!" passed the words 
 from tongue to tongue; 
 
 Women, backward, shrunk in terror — bitterly their 
 hands they wrung. 
 
 Stalwart men rushed forth to action, who had never 
 
 gone before, 
 From that hell of smoke and darkness, in their arms 
 
 the victims bore, 
 
30 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Till the walk was heaped with bodies, where the living 
 sought to pass, 
 
 Old and young were piled together in one great, un- 
 sightly mass. 
 
 Fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, lovers, sweethearts 
 — all were there. 
 
 Such a dreadful sight to witness — such an awful fate 
 to share. 
 
 Many were the scenes, pathetic, there enacted in that 
 
 hell; 
 Children clung to dying mothers — mothers bruised and 
 
 bleeding fell. 
 Under foot the weak were trampled; shouts of terror 
 
 rent the air 
 And the curses of the wicked found their counterpart 
 
 in prayer. 
 Fiery tongues of flames, like demons, with a vengeance 
 
 seized their prey; 
 Only those who lived (yet witnessed) know the story of 
 
 that day. 
 
 Grim and silent stood the people where the cortege 
 
 passed along; 
 Bitter were the tears of sorrow 'midst that sad and 
 
 sullen throng; 
 Hearts of stone were moved to pity; eyes that never 
 
 knew a tear, 
 Wept in earnest — paid their tribute in a measure truly 
 
 dear. 
 Those were moments fraught with anguish and the 
 
 bitterest of pain; 
 Come the questions, yet unanswered, and forever will 
 
 remain : 
 
Today and Yesterday 31 
 
 Who should answer for the fallen? Who, in action, 
 
 were to blame? 
 3Iust they go, on earth, unpunished for this ignominious 
 
 shame ? 
 Greed for gold — the curse of Mammon — on Chicago's 
 
 name a blot: 
 Human life 's worth less than money was the lesson that 
 
 was taught. 
 There are blessings for the heroes and the share they 
 
 nobly bore, 
 For the guilty desecrators there'll be loathing evermore. 
 
 O'er that spot's unsightly ruins, in the gloaming — over- 
 head. 
 
 They shall hover there, in silence, specters of the cher- 
 ished dead; 
 
 Till the world shall cease its motion and the winds shall 
 cease to blow; 
 
 Till the years are lost, forever, in the endless tidal-flow. 
 
 Time, relentless — everlasting, partial only unto Fame, 
 
 Leaves to broken hearts, repining, Love's memorial to 
 their name. 
 
 "^O ^o <^ 
 
 SABBATH MORN 
 
 'Tis Sabbath morn! — from Southland's sunny realms 
 The birds return to nest among the trees 
 
 Where drooping willows greet the slender elms 
 And swaying maples rustle in the breeze. 
 
 Awhile they toil, they garner in the best 
 
 Of tiny twigs — to build each downy nest. 
 
32 Today and Yesterday 
 
 The bells ring out with more than welcome sound; 
 They seem to have a sweeter, softer tone 
 
 Than when the wintry winds, so weird — profound- 
 Brought to our ears their muffled monotone. 
 
 The happy birds exclaim: "Behold the Spring! 
 
 The love of God and heaven do we bring! 
 
 "We come to you as messengers of love — 
 God's harbingers of peace and harmony, 
 
 Unequalled — save by seraphs, high above. 
 The guardians of earth's tranquillity." 
 
 O bless the birds, we must not do them wrong; 
 
 Earth would be sad without their mirth and song. 
 
 The tiny blades shoot upward from the sod 
 To greet the noonday sun's refulgent rays; 
 
 And bow their heads in reverence to God, 
 At eventide rise up to drink His praise. 
 
 All Nature seems inspired with hope as when, 
 
 In bygone days, the birds sang out; "Amen!" 
 
 •<;:>' <:> -<;^ 
 
 A SUMMER P^AN 
 
 A little bird in a tree-top sat 
 And poured out its soul in song; 
 It drank its fill of the dew-drops sweet — * 
 Like diamonds clustered about its feet. 
 While distant hills did its notes repeat 
 Through the valley — all day long. 
 
Today and Yesterday 33 
 
 A maiden list to its warbling voice 
 
 And whispered a sweet refrain; 
 The merry brook, as it rolled along, 
 Its music loaned to the bird's sweet song 
 Which stirred the souls of the minstrel throng 
 
 In the wilds of heaven's plane. 
 
 It sang of earth and it sang of love — 
 
 Of flowers in the month of May; 
 The angels list to the joyful tune 
 Which died away with the silver-moon 
 And passed forever and aye — too soon — 
 
 As all pleasures pass away. " 
 
 <:> <:> <:> 
 
 STICK TO YOUR WORD 
 
 What you agree to do 
 (Be it a task to you) 
 Do with a will and might 
 And for the love of right! 
 Always the narrow path 
 Keeps one from sin and wrath; 
 Just be a little man — 
 Big as a giant can — 
 And stick to your word. 
 
 Never give up a fight 
 Wherein the cause is right. 
 Stand by that worthy friend 
 On whom you can depend. 
 Follow — if not you lead; 
 Careful each daily deed; 
 
34 Today and Yesterday 
 
 You will have no regret 
 If you but cease to fret 
 And stick to your word. 
 
 Time, time! alone, will tell 
 Just where the laurel fell. 
 Bad men may scorn your ways. 
 Good ones will sing your praise. 
 You will be happy then — 
 Honored by noble men; 
 All this and more for you 
 If you be just and true 
 And stick to your word. 
 
 <::^ -s:>- <;:> 
 
 THE DENTIST MAN 
 
 I like the Dentist Man, I do, 
 
 A jolly man is he; 
 He's always good and happy, too. 
 
 As funny as can be. 
 I happened in the other day 
 
 To see the things he did; 
 "Come in!" he called, "don't run away; 
 
 Come in! come in, my 'kid'!" 
 
 And in I tiptoed near his chair, 
 
 Afraid of him? — not I! 
 He squeezed my hand and smoothed my hair- 
 
 At me he winked his eye. 
 He told about his little boy — 
 
 The things he said and did; 
 But, most of all, I did enjoy 
 
 His calling me "my 'kid'." 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
 35 
 
 A great, big man got in the chair; 
 
 "Be careful. Doc!" said he; 
 "Be easy now, look out — take care! 
 
 0-oh, you're hurting me!" 
 
 He turned and said, "You're next!" I run. 
 
 Of course I laughed to see the fun — 
 
 The way he pulled, but when 
 He turned and said, "You're next!" I run, 
 
 I ain't been back since then. 
 
36 Today and Yesterday 
 
 IN THE GREAT-NO-WHERE 
 
 I launched my ship in the Azure Blue, 
 
 For a port I steered in the Whence-To-Be ; 
 
 With snow-white sails, o'er a world it flew, 
 As it swept along through a star-ht sea. 
 
 And straight away for the far-off Moon — 
 Through a sea of splendor its course I lay; 
 
 O'er mountains high and a wild typhoon. 
 In the brilHant path of the Milky Way. 
 
 Ah! countless vessels, of ages past, 
 
 Near the Isle of Hope, in a sea sublime, 
 
 I saw and spoke, — with their strong keels fast 
 On the fatal reefs of the Shoals of Time. 
 
 I gravely thought as I onward sped: 
 
 Of the battered hulks and their far-off goals; 
 
 Of shattered dreams of the millions dead. 
 Of the cargoes lost on the coral shoals. 
 
 My sturdy ship thrilled my heart with bliss 
 By its gentle toss in its onward glide 
 
 Past Alpine cliffs with their deep abyss, 
 As it rolling lunged in the seething tide. 
 
 Through foggy billows my vessel sailed 
 As it dashed o'er many a wicked snare; 
 
 I, hkewise, too, in my voyage failed 
 
 And my anchor dropped in the Great-No- Where. 
 
Today and Yesterday 37 
 
 THE TITANIC 
 
 Near the midnight hour, on a star-lit sea ; 
 
 On an ocean calm as a sea could be ; 
 
 While the lookout sat in the crow's nest, high, 
 
 As he deftly peered with a watchful eye ; 
 
 Through a field of ice, where the bergs swam low, 
 
 Swept a worthy ship with its lights aglow. 
 
 'Twas a glorious night of an April day, 
 'Neath the twinkling lights of a Milky Way, 
 While her dreamers dreamed in the precious hold 
 Of a fated ship, as it lightly rolled, 
 That the mighty craft, with a sudden turn, 
 Struck a berg which ripped from stem to stern. 
 
 Such an hour of fear! Such an hour of fright 
 For the helpless ones in their hasty flight ! 
 O the great, brave heroes gathered there 
 In the face of death — on their lips a prayer. 
 While their music, "Nearer My God To Thee," 
 Died away with them in a swirling sea. 
 
 And the stalwart heroes who smiling stood 
 By the rail that night on a ship so good. 
 By their cheering words in the hour of need. 
 By their valor showed, in each noble deed. 
 What a man can do if he only try ; 
 In the name of Love what it is to die ! 
 
 They are gone, brave hearts, from a world of care; 
 
 They have journeyed on but we know not where; 
 
 O thou restless sea with thy azure dome! 
 
 O thou cruel sea with thy fleecy foam! 
 
 In thy arms they rest! In thy great, blue deep 
 
 Do our heroes lie and our loved ones sleep. 
 
Gosh! I'm happy; ain't it fine? 
 Wish to goodness they were mine! 
 
Today and Yesterday 39 
 
 GRANDPA 
 
 When out walking, so it be, 
 All the children run for me, 
 Roughly grab me by the hands. 
 Yelling "Grandpa!" Hue! O lands! 
 It's enough to drive one wild — 
 Pleasing everybody's child; 
 But, I like it (so I do). 
 Keeps me feeling younger, too. 
 
 Just three-score and one; I wage 
 That's not such an awful age 
 When you come to think it o'er; 
 Lands! I feel hke twenty-four. 
 Shucks, a fellow's always young— 
 'Pends on those he lives among. 
 Love and happiness abound 
 Where the "kiddies" gather round. 
 
 "Grandpa, Grandpa !"— here they come, 
 Bag and baggage, doll and drum. 
 Gosh! I'm happy; ain't it fine? 
 Wish to goodness they were mine! 
 Up they clamber on my chair. 
 Pull my whiskers and my hair. 
 Ouch! you rascal; now, let go! 
 Sakes, I love the youngsters so. 
 
 They be keeping up a tune 
 Like a lot of bees in June 
 Buzzing round a sugar can. 
 
40 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Watch out! now, my little man, 
 Grandpa '11 get you by the nose. 
 Pinch your cheeks and pull your toes; 
 Whoop-a-lah, O whoop-a-lay! 
 Grandpa's feeling fine today. 
 
 -<o <:i> <;> 
 
 LINCOLN DAY TRIBUTE 
 
 Undaunted by the tidal-flow of years, 
 His noble spirit walks the selfsame paths 
 Immortals tread amidst the multitude. 
 
 The mighty hosts, who sacredly revere 
 
 His honored name — his kindly words and deeds, — 
 
 Find inspiration in exalted thoughts. 
 
 How glorious the mission he performed! 
 
 God gave him life and Nature strength and brawn, 
 
 While Opportunity espied the man 
 
 Amid the solitude of his retreat. 
 
 Who dare gainsay from out her woodlands came 
 
 (Proud Illinois) the foremost of her sons? 
 
 The glory of his past now lights the way — 
 More brilliant than the planets and the stars 
 In heaven's firmament. Posterity 
 Extols those virtues which endear his name: 
 His love of peace, of home, of fellowmen; — 
 Love for his God, his Country and his Flag! 
 
Today and Yesterday 41 
 
 Believing, as he did, in God on high. 
 Unflinching — true, steadfastly he upheld 
 The principles for which he firmly stood; 
 Proclaiming to the world a sacred truth: 
 This Government he would perpetuate 
 By every means most honorable and just 
 That evermore its people might be free. 
 
 Immortalized by all, both high and low, 
 His memory is fast within our minds — 
 Beloved, secure. Through all the passing years 
 His strength hath grown apace until, today, 
 His great, immortal presence rests with all 
 As sturdy and unshaken as a rock 
 Unbroken by the waves and sands of Time. 
 
 <:i^ <:> <:> 
 
 BILL BLODGET 
 
 Bill Blodget swore by the good old Book that had 
 
 served his youth so well, 
 "God grant me breath and a worthy steed, I can lead 
 
 them all through hell — 
 Across the gap that the foemen holds by the force of 
 
 shot and shell." 
 
 The Major blushed when he heard his words. "You're 
 
 a fool, indeed!" said he, 
 "No band of men could expect to charge and survive 
 
 that fiery sea; 
 A crazy man might attempt the act but the deed is not 
 
 for me!" 
 
42 Today and Yesterday 
 
 "Aside, aside!" rang the Captain's voice, as it swelled 
 
 above the din; 
 "Give me that horse for a moment, sir, and I'll show 
 
 you how to win! 
 No better steed could I wish to ride to my death for 
 
 Flag and kin!" 
 
 The Major stepped from his saddle down, to the 
 
 Captain turned it o'er; 
 Bill Blodget leaped to the honored seat that of late a 
 
 coward bore; 
 And wheeling 'bout, to his men he cried in a voice like 
 
 thunder's roar: 
 
 "To yonder side is our only hope! It is death to here 
 
 remain ! 
 What chance have we — save the one we take — if the 
 
 whole of us are slain? 
 Then, follow me!" cried the hero brave, "It is liberty 
 
 we gain!" 
 
 "Aye, sir! aye, sir!!" were the answers bold; from a 
 hundred throats they came, 
 
 And safely 'cross, to a man they went, be the honor to 
 his name; 
 
 He won his spurs by that gallant charge which pro- 
 claimed a Major's shame. 
 
 So much, so good for the hero bold — for the lesson that 
 
 he taught: 
 Be brave, be quick! the reward is sure, though the end 
 
 be dearly bought; 
 For the coward's act, there is no praise; for his share, it 
 
 matters not. 
 
Today and Yesterday 43 
 
 BLUE-EYED NELLIE 
 
 Only a bashful country girl, 
 Blue-eyed Nellie, with teeth of pearl, 
 Happy hearted and full of life. 
 Ever longing for city strife; 
 Fair and winsome — the story goes. 
 Sweeter far than a blushing rose. 
 
 Older maidens, with jealous hearts, 
 Aimed at her with their cruel darts; 
 Saying various things unkind — 
 Ugly sayings they had in mind; 
 Telling stories, both good and bad: 
 Things that happened, yet, never had. 
 
 Deeply grieving, she went her way — 
 Wished herself as a child at play, 
 Chasing butterflies, here and there; 
 Twining curls in her golden hair. 
 
 Oft she stood by the river's side, 
 Tossing twigs in the ebbing tide; 
 Saw them caught, with a mighty whirl 
 Disappear in the eddy's swirl. 
 Little thinking, some day, that she 
 Might be struggling in such a sea. 
 
 Life to her was a round of cares — 
 Little changed by her daily prayers. 
 Weak in body and grieved in heart, 
 Nellie stood where the pathways part; 
 
44 
 
 Today and Yesterday 
 
 One of goodness and joys untold, 
 One of evil and tainted gold. 
 
 Nellie stood where the pathways part. 
 
 She was weary and made her choice; 
 Hunger spoke with a telhng voice: 
 Bread is bread to a soul in need. 
 Lambs will play and the wolves must feed. 
 
Today and Yesterday 45 
 
 Making happy her youthful days, 
 NeHie borrowed the city's ways ; 
 Learned too early the fate they share — 
 They who covet the tempter's snare. 
 
 ^ep by step, in her giddy flight, 
 Passed she onward from day to night; 
 Quickly onward to her repose, 
 Lost to life, like a withered rose. 
 
 Pity her, as you would your own, 
 Far away — in a field — alone; 
 Drifting on with the city's tide 
 Quickly by in her downward glide; 
 Just as she, in her childhood, saw 
 Twigs go swirling like bits of straw. 
 
 City life has its ups and downs 
 Just the same as the country towns. 
 There is sorrow and fun galore; 
 Evil guardeth the good man's door, 
 Ever ready to grasp and lure 
 Those who traverse the pathways pure. 
 
 Leave, O leave! to the city's kin. 
 All its glitter and worldly sin. 
 Life is freer and sweeter, best. 
 Far away where the bluebirds nest; 
 Far away — by the ebbing tide — 
 Safe at home, by the country-side. 
 
46 Today and Yesterday 
 
 O WHY? 
 
 O why should the soul be yearning 
 
 And pining while we wait? 
 O why should we seek for learning 
 
 In coming books of Fate? 
 O why should we seek the glory 
 
 That follows earthly ties? 
 O why should we read the story 
 
 Emblazoned in the skies? 
 
 O why should we grieve and sorrow 
 
 Because this day is lost? 
 O why should we wait the morrow 
 
 To come and pay the cost? 
 O why should we cry while others 
 
 Are laughing hours away? 
 O why not do as our brothers 
 
 Who hourly hope and pray? 
 
 O why should our hands be violent 
 
 While others need our care? 
 O why should the voice be silent 
 
 When there is need for prayer? 
 O why should a hand, uplifted, 
 
 In angry moments fly? 
 O why should a heart, once rifted. 
 
 With grief be left to die? 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
 47 
 
 THE LOOKOUT 
 
 The Lookout paces to and fro; across the restless main 
 
 he peers! 
 A guardian of Hfe is he, who deals in hopes and graver 
 
 fears ; 
 He has a duty to perform 
 As watchman of the lake and storm. 
 
 No keener eyes might thus observe! What braver 
 
 feeling thrills the heart 
 Than keeps this hero well alert and bids him do a noble 
 
 part? 
 For nothing must escape his sight, 
 Through twilight or the blackest night. 
 
48 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Beneath the rampart where he stalks, there rest the 
 
 hravest of the braves 
 Who hourly wait the signal bell — a hero's challenge to 
 
 the waves! 
 It peals, it rings; they outward glide; 
 For life or death they quickly ride! 
 
 When homeward blows the raging winds and angry 
 waters lash the shore; 
 
 When pleasure craft and ships alike, are doomed, per- 
 haps, forevermore; 
 
 May heaven's angels hover nigh 
 
 And guard our heroes — lest they die. 
 
 "v^ <:> <::i>- 
 
 AUTUMN TIME 
 
 Softly, gently fall the leaves 
 On the housetops — in the eaves, 
 Every shape and every hue, 
 Silently as falls the dew; 
 Dainty leaves from treetops tall. 
 Early messengers of Fall. 
 
 Birds are chanting merrily, 
 Each its hallowed, parting lay. 
 Getting ready with delight 
 For their weary Southern flight; 
 Thus, they warn us — one and all — 
 Of the coming of the Fall. 
 
Today and Yesterday 49 
 
 BATTLE OF SANTIAGO 
 
 Across the rolling ocean, the great armada came — 
 Huge battleships, all armored, and some of smaller 
 
 frame ; 
 It was a sight imposing where sky and waters meet, 
 As sails a snow-white swan with ease, so came the 
 
 Spanish fleet. 
 
 Beneath the guns of Moro they crept in single file, 
 In Santiago Harbor lay — full upwards of a milel 
 So came the great armada across the surging main 
 And in a death-trap passed they all — the flower and 
 pride of Spain. 
 
 From Oriental waters — where Dewey held the bay, 
 Around the Horn, the Oregon came plowing on its way. 
 In stormy seas and billows, it cut a pathway through; 
 It seemed to realize the work — the task it must pursue. 
 
 The sun was lightly peering o'er Moro's frowning crest. 
 The awe-inspiring vultures had wearied of their rest; 
 And far out o'er the waters they soared and hovered 
 
 nigh. 
 As if expectant of some prey where human beings die. 
 
 With decks all cleared for action, in waiting lay our 
 
 fleet, 
 Great war-hounds of the ocean, that never knew defeat. 
 As panthers in a forest, or lions crouching low. 
 With eager eyes seek out their prey, so watched they 
 
 for the foe. 
 
50 Today and Yesterday 
 
 While sentries on our vessels peered forth with watchful 
 
 eyes, 
 Up — out the blinded channel, gray vapors seemed to 
 
 rise. 
 One look! — up went the signal that heralded the fray 
 As one by one the Spanish ships sped through the 
 
 narrow way. 
 
 O such a thrilling moment as quickly closed they in; 
 O such an hour of peril amid a battle's din. 
 With greatest of precision, our gunners aimed that day, 
 For every shell found well its mark and tore their hulks 
 away. 
 
 Oh, talk about the heroes of those and other days. 
 Of Farragut — the mighty, of Perry and his ways; 
 Amid the heat of battle (where death was ever nigh) 
 There! on the Brooklyn's bridge he stood, our grand 
 commander, Schley. 
 
 The enemy was powerless to check our raking fire, 
 And flames burst forth and over — alike a funeral pyre ; 
 Huge vessels reeled and shuddered ; it was an awful fate 
 That overtook the Spanish fleet — a vengeance full of 
 hate. 
 
 Then came a race for freedom — where speed must win 
 
 the day; 
 The Colon, in its fury, dashed madly on its way. 
 The New York and the Oregon took up the challenge — 
 
 chase, 
 For miles the Colon held the lead ere it gave up the race. 
 
 Such was an hour of triumph that crowned a victor's 
 siege. 
 
Today and Yesterday 51 
 
 That humbled well the Spaniard — his haughty lord and 
 
 liege; 
 And broadside after broadside, our gunners gave them 
 
 shell 
 Till decks were strewn with mangled dead within a 
 
 seething hell. 
 
 AVhen clears the smoke of battle! When rolls the cloud 
 
 away ! 
 The strongest of the strongest must bare his head and 
 
 say: 
 God save us from such ruin; let world-wide peace 
 
 abide ! — 
 The kind of peace that heaven knows and only shares 
 
 inside. 
 
 -Qi^ <:> <:> 
 
 DOLLY AND PUDGY AND ME 
 
 I'm only a mite of a youngster — a very young maiden — 
 
 ah, me! 
 While scarcely as high as Ma's shoulder, I'm taller than 
 
 Daddy's right knee; 
 I've got such a beautiful dolly (I love her and hug her 
 
 so tight) , 
 I dress her up every morning and put her to bed every 
 
 night. 
 
 She's always contented and happy. She never once 
 
 whimpers or cries. 
 Suppose that her hair is all tangled and over her pretty, 
 
 blue eyes? 
 
52 
 
 Today and Yesterday 
 
 I love her the more for her dimples, her dear, little, 
 
 snowy white hands; 
 Just look at the rings on her fingers — the tiniest bits 
 
 of gold bands. 
 
 He hops on the bed in the morning. 
 
 And Pudgy! O, yes, he's my doggy. No doggy was 
 
 ever more true! 
 He hops on the bed in the morning and says to us both, 
 
 "Howd'y' do?" 
 And when we go out for an airing, he barks at the birds 
 
 in the trees. 
 At autos, and horses, and wagons, and everything else 
 
 that he sees. 
 
 He's ever a-coming and going and chasing about in 
 
 his play, 
 A-laughing but never a-growling because he is made to 
 
 obey. 
 
Today and Yesterday 53 
 
 I'm sure we are happy together — as ever three play- 
 mates can be; 
 
 I wish all my friends could be happy as Dolly, and 
 Pudgy, and me. 
 
 <:> ^^ ''^ 
 
 THE BROOK AND THE OWL 
 
 The babbling brook to a big owl said: 
 "O hush your noise in the trees o'erhead; 
 Your ugly voice brings a pain to me, 
 I'd rather chum with the honey-bee!" 
 
 The cunning owl to the brook replied: 
 "You make me sad in your onward glide; 
 Your voice is sweet to the saints who prowl 
 But never so to a lonely owl." 
 
 "Indeed, indeed'' said the happy brook, 
 "It is on me whom the lovers look! 
 O what have you to enhance their joys 
 Save a dismal voice which the soul annoys?" 
 
 The big owl gazed with a scornful look 
 And pensive eyes at the babbling brook; 
 "Thou art a friend, to be sure," said he. 
 And downward flew from a big oak tree. 
 
 The brooklet laughed as it onward sped 
 'Twixt banks of moss — o'er its rocky bed, 
 "Come! drink with me or ye surely die!" 
 Was all it said as it rippled by. 
 
54 Today and Yesterday 
 
 THE WORKER 
 
 Do our best — if all in vain — 
 Ever striving as we may, 
 
 Howe'er little be the gain, 
 Let it add from day to day; 
 
 Make Life's total one of worth, 
 
 One of credit to this earth. 
 
 "Life is ever on the wane," 
 
 So the noble sages say; 
 Let us striving not complain 
 
 As we journey on our way, 
 Having nothing to conceal 
 But the love our hearts reveal. 
 
 Hunger not for riches great, 
 Shirk you not from honest toil; 
 
 They, who daily hibernate. 
 Seldom profit from the soil. 
 
 Cut Life's furrow broad and deep. 
 
 Plow while other beings sleep. 
 
 Sow your seed with master care. 
 Labor early, long and late; 
 
 Neither brain nor muscle spare. 
 Of your losses cease to prate. 
 
 Keep the fires of anger low. 
 
 Make each strike a telling blow. 
 
Today and Yesterday 55 
 
 YO' CANNOT FOOL TH' LORD 
 
 We've not as much o' this world's goods as other folks 
 
 I know. 
 Who ride aroun' in horseless rigs — a-makin' lots o 
 
 show; 
 But, then, I reck'n we're as rich in other things that 
 
 count : 
 In honesty, good manners, well! we've got th' proper 
 'mount. 
 
 An' when we stroll along th' street, our consciences are 
 
 clear; 
 An' when we lay us down ter sleep, we have no Godly 
 
 fear. 
 No wretched thoughts to haunt our minds— o' smful 
 
 deeds an' such. 
 If robbin' widows brings th' gold— thank God! we 
 
 hav'n't much. 
 
 An' when we go ter meetin', too (like decent people 
 
 should). 
 It ain't ter show our clothin', ner appear like Simon 
 
 Good ; 
 We've got th' f eelin' in our hearts, that many can recall, 
 Though others fail ter see us there, th' Master sees us 
 
 all. 
 I've seen some mighty sinners there a-kneehn' in th' 
 
 pews, 
 I'd hate ter tackle heaven with a budget o' their views; 
 Th' Lord may hsten ter their words, an' grant 'em 
 
 penance due, 
 I reck'n, when we say our prayers, th' angels listen, too. 
 
56 Today and Yesterday 
 
 An' when it comes ter singin', well, ours may not be 
 
 th' best, 
 Our voices may be out o' tune somewhat — a-like th' 
 
 rest; 
 But when th' basket comes aroun', we never die o' fright, 
 With kindly hearts (in reverence) we add our humble 
 
 mite. 
 
 Unlike th' deacon, once I knew (who acted rather 
 
 strange), 
 He dropped a dollar in th' dish an' gathered out his 
 
 change ; 
 His neighbors smiled ter hear th' ring — th' tinglin' 
 
 soun' — an' then, 
 Some good ol' soul — way back in church — sent up a 
 
 loud "Amen!" 
 
 Th' preacher straightened up a bit — on hearin' o' th' 
 
 soun' ; 
 Lo! when th' dish got up ter him, no dollar could be 
 
 foun'. 
 I've got a premonition that (some day, when all is o'er) 
 Th' man who gave that dollar will get stuck at heaven's 
 
 door. 
 
 Ours may be crude religion — need some boilin' in a pot 
 (Th' singein' flames can't hurt it, if th' fire he over-hot) ; 
 Yo' boil it down completely, skim th' top an' yo' will 
 
 find 
 Th' devil has no mortgage on th' dross that's left behind. 
 
 Jest how yo' 'pear in public, is a thing th' wise one 
 
 guards ; 
 Th' game of life is furious — whatever be yo'r cards; 
 An' be yo'r motto what it may, in this we must accord: 
 Although th' devil yo' may fool — yo' cannot fool th' 
 
 Lord. 
 
Today and Yesterday 57 
 
 THE LONE STRANGER 
 
 The minister read from the Book of God— a wonderful 
 
 text read he; 
 Then, squinting askance, with a knowing look, as far 
 
 as his eyes could see, 
 And shaking his fist at the trembling throng, he shouted 
 
 and loudly cried: 
 "The devil is ^\ith us, today! (in heart) the fullness of 
 
 God denied. 
 
 "Let all of those rise whose hearts are pure and clean 
 
 as the driven snow; 
 As free from sin as the ebbing tide of waters in Jordan 
 
 flow;" 
 And all, save one, of that blessed throng arose with a 
 
 knowing air. 
 The preacher gasped for his failing breath — while 
 
 noting them standing there. 
 
 The lawyer arose by the banker's side, the debtor beside 
 
 the judge; 
 The coroner, too (like a big obelisk), but blinked at the 
 
 doctor's nudge. 
 The preacher smiled as he bade them sit, while handing 
 
 them shot and shell ; 
 He dwelt at length on "the evil path that leadeth men 
 
 on to hell." 
 
 Then, turning his eyes to the humble one, who failed to 
 
 arise, he said: 
 "Dear brother, pray why did you keep your seat?" (The 
 
 stranger bowed low his head. ) 
 
58 Today and Yesterday 
 
 "I know I am wicked, indeed, kind sir!" he said to his 
 
 preacher friend, 
 "But, sir, if it pleaseth you, I might add, 'It's never 
 
 too late to mend'. 
 
 " 'Twas only a step from the good to bad; from the 
 
 bad to worse, with me; 
 It's many a year since I took the step that has made me 
 
 the wretch you see. 
 While I'm not as fine as some other folks who appear 
 
 in their tailored clothes, 
 I am honest, sir, and I wouldn't lie for the sake of my 
 
 soul — God knows. 
 
 "There is nothing as pure as the driven snow — save the 
 
 heart of a new-born child; 
 Or as free from sin as the Son of God!" (and the 
 
 minister blandly smiled 
 While the "good folks" blinked as they twitched about, 
 
 when he spoke of his daily bread) ; 
 "For the Lord despiseth a hypocrite!" were the words 
 
 that he dolefully said. 
 
 "How truthful, indeed!" cried the preacher-man (with 
 
 accusing voice he spoke) ; 
 "Let sinners, who willfully lie, take care — beware of the 
 
 evil yoke! 
 Let those now arise who are free in mind, as the river 
 
 of Jordan flows!" 
 And, lo! at his bidding ('mid silence deep) the stranger, 
 
 alone, arose. 
 
Today and Yesterday 59 
 
 BILL JENKINS 
 
 Bill Jenkins said (and he told it well, 
 As truthfully as a tongue could tell) : 
 "A man may work with his hands or head 
 And slave away till he's nearly dead; 
 The world cares not for his pains or joys, 
 He's only one of its human toys. 
 Today, he's first! but the morrow shows 
 He's second place — as the story goes." 
 
 Bill Jenkins knew, by the hardy toil 
 He did for years in the rugged soil. 
 How hard it is for an honest man 
 To hold his own in the human van. 
 His heart was big and his eyes were keen 
 And little passed he had never seen ; 
 But, try his best and a trifle more. 
 He found it hard to increase his store. 
 
 Bill Jenkins learned, to his own regret, 
 How high we pay for the things we get ; 
 How false is Love to the bitter end; 
 How Trust is held by a fickle friend; 
 How little, too, and how slow the speed 
 Of Charity to a soul in need; 
 How Evil tempts, but the telling blow 
 That Sin receives — when a man says no! 
 
 Bill Jenkins stood by his homely plow 
 And scratched his head while he reasoned how 
 Some men could live and their duty shirk 
 Year in — year over — and never work. 
 
60 Today and Yesterday 
 
 While he had scarcely an hour to spare 
 That did not carry some human care. 
 He longed to solve, to his heart's relief, 
 A system — strange to his own belief. 
 
 Bill Jenkins thought, as he plodded on — 
 With kindly words bid his team be gone: 
 "What better right, any man, than I?" 
 (He asked himself with a tender sigh) 
 *'To share the glories and sweets of life — 
 Along with children and loving wife? 
 What right have others to idle be 
 Who never tasted of poverty?" 
 
 Bill Jenkins lived as a martyr could 
 And daily strove as a good man should; 
 He loved his neighbor with all his heart 
 And gladly shared, what he had, in part. 
 No man went hungry a-past his door; 
 Who asked for httle — he gave him more! 
 And everybody, in Jenkin's days, 
 Loved "Honest Bill" for his Christian ways. 
 
 Bill Jenkins died with a broken heart; 
 Ill-luck had followed him from the start. 
 He bore no grudge for the Shylock's greed; 
 In Love's own bible is found his creed. 
 By goodly deeds — in a homely scrawl 
 He left a message on Honor's wall. 
 No tongue could picture (howe'er it tried) 
 How Jenkins lived, or the way he died. 
 
Today and Yesterday 61 
 
 WRECK OF THE JAMES E. BAYLES 
 
 The good ship sailed from Tuspan, the schooner, James 
 
 E. Bayles; 
 There, in the sunny Southland, she spread her homeward 
 
 sails, 
 And, heading for the Northland, she braved a hurricane 
 That tore her sails to atoms and wrecked her on the 
 
 main. 
 
 She shuddered, pitched and faltered; she creaked from 
 
 stem to stern; 
 While fore and aft and broadside, she caught the waves 
 
 in turn; 
 Her sturdy masts were riddled and stripped of every 
 
 sail, 
 And thus the schooner foundered — there in a Southern 
 
 gale. 
 
 The sea rolled high and o'er them; nine helpless souls 
 
 were they; 
 What must have been their anguish? What terror filled 
 
 their clay? 
 No human tongue could answer — with all its power of 
 
 breath. 
 And one of them a woman — all face to face with death. 
 
 The pumps were kept in motion; no braver men obey 
 Than those who fought the tempest that cold and 
 
 gloomy day. 
 Alas ! their work was useless ; the pumps refused to ply ; 
 The waters filled the cabin and drove them forth to die. 
 
62 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Lashed to the wheel and railing, benumbed and chilled 
 
 they lay 
 With icy coats about them — naught else to do but pray. 
 The piercing gale bore to them a woman's feeble moan, 
 Throughout the night they drifted, their pilot — God 
 
 alone. 
 
 The passing ships were heedless of those who fought 
 
 despair ; 
 The wife, once brave — courageous, a frozen corpse sank 
 
 there. 
 The foam of angry billows fell where she calmly lay, 
 And, like a sparkling fountain, sprayed o'er her lifeless 
 
 clay. 
 
 Alone sat Captain Darling whose words were full of 
 
 cheer 
 As he caressed his loved one and drew her gently near. 
 Her eyes were closed in slumber that yields eternal 
 
 rest ; 
 He kissed her icy features and pressed her to his breast. 
 
 On learning of his sorrow, they left him to his pain, 
 And, faithful to his promise, the Captain did remain; 
 And on his manly bosom he pillowed, there, her head 
 And in his lonely silence, kept vigil o'er his dead. 
 
 'Twas sunrise in the morning; at last their savior came — 
 Mount Hope, a sister schooner — long live her noble 
 
 name; 
 Praise for her worthy captain and his heroic braves 
 Who saved from death and peril the victims of the 
 
 waves. 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
 63 
 
 Theirs not to cheat them wholly of all their ghastly 
 
 prey 
 And strong men, weeping, gathered there on the deck 
 
 that day. 
 
 He Tcissed her icy features and pressed her to his breast. 
 
 A short, impressive service, "Amen!" the captain said 
 As, with a rush and splatter, the sea closed o'er its dead. 
 
 Who dares to sail the ocean must many perils brave; 
 The tie 'twixt love and duty may be a sailor's grave. 
 
64 Today and Yesterday 
 
 From out the blinding darkness a spirit one I see, 
 Who whispers to her Captain: "The will of God, it be." 
 
 Ye, men who know not sorrow — such as the Captain's 
 
 share. 
 May yet be called to witness, God grant it won't be 
 
 there ; 
 But, be it, wheresoever (God's ways are ever just), 
 Be brave! and like the Captain, be faithful to your 
 
 trust. 
 
 <::> ^c>- <;:> 
 
 HIS LAST REVIEW 
 
 From toddling days, henceforth, through bygone years. 
 By youthful paths that lead to Manhood's door ; 
 Enabled by his precious memory 
 Man thinks, and walks once more Life's varied course. 
 
 His childhood days come back to him. Again 
 He feels the warmth of kind, paternal love — 
 A Mother's loving kiss, her fond caress. 
 He hears, once more, a Father's parting M^ords; 
 He sees now gathered round the old fireside. 
 The happy band, of which he was a part. 
 
 Alike a dream, the scene now shifts about. 
 And, bowed by age, in silence doth he sit 
 Absorbed in thought. Unmindful of the hour, 
 He fights Life's battle o'er, from first to last, 
 A willing subject in his last review. 
 Life's panorama crashing through his brain. 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
 65 
 
 Forgetting, for the while, his hoary age, 
 He sees himself a youngster — in his 'teens. 
 Behind the plow he walks with sturdy step; 
 His feet sink in the furrow that he turns; 
 
 Life nigh complete — his harvest doubly poor. 
 
 He hears the meadow-lark, the whippoorwill, 
 The quacking of the geese that Northward fly ; 
 He notes the budding trees across the way; 
 His nostrils breathe once more the morning air 
 Now redolent with perfume of the rose. 
 
 Beside a cooling spring, he stoops to quaff 
 The sparkling nectar from earth's natural urn, 
 
66 Today and Yesterday 
 
 And, thus refreshed, resumes his hardy toil. 
 At even-tide, he homeward wends his way 
 Across the fields — contented with his lot. 
 The chores once done, the love of God invoked. 
 Then to his rest he goes in perfect peace, 
 Naught else to do but 'wait the rising sun. 
 
 So went his youth; but, finally, there came 
 
 A sudden change as Manhood's hour approached. 
 
 He heard the call of an enchanting voice 
 
 Which lured him from his ever sweet abode. 
 
 He felt the touch of some magnetic power 
 
 That seemed to draw him thither — far away. 
 
 He listened — thought — obeyed the unseen hand 
 
 And to the city went in search of lore. 
 
 His was a royal battle to the end. 
 
 He found a way, the victory was his, 
 
 And Fortune crowned his efforts with success. 
 
 But money is not all that makes life dear ; 
 He needed most, some kind, consoling friend. 
 Some one to trust — in whom he might confide; 
 Some one to love — to love him in return; 
 In short, a wife — a helpmeet true as steel. 
 All this he found — enjoyed with all his heart. 
 And proudly, too, their offspring bore his name; 
 But Fate — grim Fate — most cruel and unkind, 
 Seemed bound to overtake him on his way. 
 
 A few short years, the tide of Fortune changed; 
 Ill-health o'ertook him and his loving band 
 And one by one he laid them all at rest. 
 Today he sits, decrepit and forlorn. 
 More destitute than one without a cent; 
 Life nigh complete — his harvest doubly poor. 
 
Today and Yesterday 67 
 
 DREAMS OF YESTERYEARS 
 
 The days wax long, as the years roll by, 
 But childhood memories never die; 
 And back through mists of the years, it seems, 
 I walk the paths of my boyhood dreams. 
 
 The warbling birds, in the tree-tops, say: 
 "Come back! come back!! — for another day." 
 The laughing rivulets flirt with me 
 And join in tune with the honey-bee. 
 
 A feast of love and a world of flowers 
 I share again in my childhood hours. 
 My heart beats ever with joy supreme 
 That only lives in a boyhood dream. 
 
 I dreamed of a time that never came, 
 When, rich as a lord and great in name, 
 I'd wield in life such a mighty power; 
 It all turned out like a withered flower. 
 
 I dreamed in the night and I dreamed by day, 
 I dreamed as I tossed in the new-mown hay; 
 Alas! for those days with their fancied themes, 
 The dreams in my youth and their sweet sunbeams. 
 
 I dreamed of the day when I should wed, 
 Of a mansion great and a big homestead. 
 Of a Father's pride and a ^M other's joy, 
 
 Of a daughter's love and a blue-eyed boy. 
 
 But the years have passed and the time has flown 
 While far into manhood I have grown; 
 
 1 see, as I travel Life's downward slope. 
 The end of my dreams in the Vale of Hope. 
 
We climhed out of our beds and peeped. 
 
Today and Yesterday 69 
 
 WHEN SISTER MARY LOVES 
 
 When sister Mary loves, us kids have got to quiet be, 
 For fear we might disturb her beau and make him mad 
 
 — oh, gee I 
 But we don't care for her or him, nor what they say — 
 
 a lick. 
 It's lots of fun to watch them love, but, oh, they make 
 
 us sick. 
 Last night, she hustled us to bed (we hardly dared to 
 
 stir). 
 Her beau was coming and we watched to see what 
 
 would occur. 
 Well, pretty soon the door-bell rang; without the 
 
 slightest sound 
 We climbed out of our beds and peeped, and this is 
 
 what we found: 
 
 The sitting room was almost dark, the light was 
 
 a-w-f-u-1 low, 
 And she was sitting close to him — a-Hst'ning to her 
 
 beau; 
 And then they sat in Granny's chair: it squeaked, and 
 
 s-q-u-e-a-k-e-d, and squeaked! 
 We caught her sitting on his lap, when through the 
 
 door we peeked. 
 
 You bet! when I grow up {some day) and go my girl 
 
 to see, 
 I'll fix it so the younger ones don't get the laugh on me ; 
 And, if the furniture is old— the rocker getting weak, 
 I'll take along a can of oil and stop its s-q-u-e-a-k-y 
 
 squeak. 
 
70 Today and Yesterday 
 
 A BOY'S LIFE 
 
 A rollicking life, an easy one, 
 
 Is that of the average boy 
 Who equally shares, 'twixt love and fun, 
 
 His happiest days of joy; 
 With never a thought of work to mar 
 
 His moments of childish ease; 
 Each castle, he builds, a guiding star — 
 
 With only himself to please. 
 
 O lucky is he, who has no keep — 
 
 No burden from day to day. 
 With nothing to do but eat and sleep, 
 
 Aye, nothing to do but play; 
 Yes, nothing to do but play, perhaps 
 
 An errand or two for Ma; 
 When evening comes, betwixt his naps, 
 
 The slippers to bring to Pa. 
 
 The factory wheels are ever still 
 
 So far as he knows or cares 
 While lounging around a pasture hill 
 
 In search of the squirrel he snares; 
 Some tackle, a pole, a can of bait, 
 
 A lunch and he asks no more 
 Till homeward he comes, both tired and late. 
 
 And enters the family door. 
 
 It's always an easy life he knows — 
 
 Devoid of a single care, 
 As free as the Summer wind that blows, 
 
 As fresh as the Autumn air: 
 
Today and Yesterday 71 
 
 But such is a youngster's life alway 
 
 (The future he cannot shirk) 
 And out of the path of childish play 
 
 He comes to the field of work. 
 
 <:> ■<z> <:> 
 
 PSALM OF THE RIVER 
 
 Some stop to rest but I go on forever on my way, 
 The streamlets are my children who come to me in play ; 
 The ocean is my palace, its coral reefs I know; 
 I mingle with the mermaids in its wondrous depths, 
 below. 
 
 The passing ships and vessels, I carry on my back; 
 Beneath man's iron arches my speed I never slack. 
 It's ever on and onward! — my destiny the sea, 
 And many human wretches find a resting place with me. 
 
 Through flowery woods I wander, o'er beds of rock and 
 
 moss; 
 By meadows green and wheat fields, sometimes I cut 
 
 across. 
 The weeping clouds of heaven that o'er me swiftly fly, 
 Shed tears of sorrow and of love to quench my thirst 
 
 when dry. 
 
 Let all beware who loiter, or linger in my path. 
 When rages high the tempest that fills me full of wrath ; 
 I know not love nor mercy! let once my anger rise, 
 My strength is like a Samson's strength and blinded 
 are my eyes. 
 
72 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Then ! like a monster demon, I grasp for everything ; 
 I carry all before me and death and sorrow bring. 
 Once in my awful clutches (my treachery is sure), 
 With superhuman power I hold my victims most secure. 
 
 By me (a silent witness who comes but always goes), 
 The maiden and her lover find rest and sweet repose. 
 The tired and weary hunter quaffs of my cooling well, 
 And children gather by my side to swing and stories 
 tell. 
 
 Of all my friends — the many I garner in my flight. 
 By daylight and by moonlight — throughout the blackest 
 
 night. 
 The muskrat and the otter I treasure most of all; 
 The birds come to me in the Spring but leave me in the 
 
 Fall. 
 
 Where sounds the coyote's warning — most pitiful its 
 
 cry, 
 The she-wolf scouts the prairie beneath a moon-lit sky; 
 The night-hawk joins the melee while searching for its 
 
 prey; 
 The campfire of the fisherman lights up my lonely way. 
 
 It's onward, ever onward! — I seek the ocean deep. 
 Through mountains, hills and valleys — while others rest 
 
 and sleep; 
 I have no time to loiter or tarry on my way, 
 I am the servant of thy God — His will I must obey. 
 
 Without my help to aid them, great industries would 
 
 die; 
 I keep their wheels in action while I am passing by; 
 I am a means of commerce for inland places, too ; 
 If I should ever stop to rest! what would the people do? 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
 73 
 
 THAT FUNNY DOCTOR MAN 
 
 When Doctor called the other night, they made me go 
 
 to bed; 
 I didn't want to go a bit and miss the things he said; 
 
 "Gee! What was that?" I axed myself — 
 
 But off to bed I had to go as cheerful as could be, 
 What else could such a body do — a little girl like me? 
 
 You bet, I never slept a wink — I list with all my might; 
 I heard the Doctor say to Pa: "I knew 'twould be all 
 right;" 
 
Daddy took him in his arms — 
 
Today and Yesterday 75 
 
 And then I sort of fell asleep — just kinda shut one eye, 
 They couldn't fool me longer when I heard a baby cry. 
 
 "Gee! What was that?" I axed myself and sat straight 
 
 up in bed, 
 Just as the front door softly closed. "Good-night!" 
 
 the Doctor said. 
 "Oh, dear," I thought, "it's all a dream, there is no baby 
 
 here; 
 Besides, the Doctor came alone; oh, pshaw, it's awful 
 
 queer!" 
 
 Next morning, good and early, too, I hustled out of bed ; 
 When Papa met me at the door, he kissed me and he 
 
 said: 
 "Sh — sh! be quiet, pet," and touched his lips j-u-s-t so; 
 I wondered what' twas all about, I did so want to know. 
 
 And straight to Mamma's room we went. Not so? I 
 
 guess I know! 
 For Daddy took him in his arms and raised him up, 
 
 but oh — 
 They laughed at me so funny like, I nearly had a fit ; 
 I couldn't help it, n-o I c-o-u-l-d-n't — because I cried 
 
 a bit. 
 
 I'd like to know, i-n-d-e-e-d I w-o-u-l-d, how Doctor 
 
 brought him there. 
 Oh, yes ! he had him in that grip he sat down on a chair. 
 If he should come around your house, just watch him — 
 
 if you can; 
 He might be playing tricks on y-o-u — that Funny 
 
 D-o-c-t-o-r Man. 
 
76 Today and Yesterday 
 
 THE OLD AND THE NEW 
 
 The hour is late; the night-wind, softly sighing, 
 Brings to fond hearts kind thoughts of cheer 
 En rapport with the passing year. 
 
 Look up, have hope! the Old Year now is dying. 
 
 Bring on the punch! make merry while we're waiting; 
 
 Turn o'er the log and let us dine 
 
 On rarest meats and sweetest wine; 
 Let hearts be glad as birds' are glad when mating. 
 
 Tune up the harp! bring on the magic fiddle; 
 
 Sing of the Old, sing of the New ; 
 
 It is the Old Year's last review 
 Of living things that make Life's pleasing riddle. 
 
 The joy of life is Love's own sweetest story 
 
 In days of old, when Age was young 
 
 In Youth, of which the poets sung 
 And hallowed with their precious wreaths of glory. 
 
 O pleasant hours, when embers softly glowing 
 
 Shone brightly, then, amid the past 
 
 As o'er each gathering they cast 
 A sombre light — the love of God bestowing. 
 
 The hour is up ! and hushed the voices singing. 
 
 Reluctantly, Time draws aside 
 
 The sable curtains; far and wide 
 The New Year bells and chimes re-echo — ringing. 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
 <&''.^..4„| V \ 
 
 
 
 COMRADES 
 
 Nobody shares with a Httle girl— a homely girl like 
 
 me — • 
 With freckled face and a crooked nose as red as red 
 
 can be; 
 None other pities me, that I know, since Mother passed 
 
 away ; 
 Nobody cares for this little self except my dear old 
 Tray. 
 
78 Today and Yesterday 
 
 You little maidens, with Mothers kind to pet and love 
 
 j^ou so, 
 With ruby lips and a fairer skin — as clear as heaven's 
 
 snow. 
 Who skip about, like a lot of lambs, a happy flock 
 
 may be; 
 But what am I, to the least of you, an ugly girl like me? 
 
 Oh, I don't care if my nose is red, my face all freckled, 
 
 too, 
 I'm just as sweet as a sugar-plum that's dipped in 
 
 honey-dew ; 
 You may be good and you may be bad — go finely 
 
 dressed all day. 
 But love is love and you might not suit the style of dear 
 
 old Tray. 
 
 '"Cy <;:> ^^ 
 
 THE PATRIOT 
 
 Who shares the blunt of battle his Country's name to 
 
 shield ; 
 Who bares his breast to meet the foe — his noble blood 
 
 to yield; 
 Lends to our Flag its glory ; to Freedom's torch a flame ; 
 Adds to his Country's precious wealth and honor to his 
 
 name. 
 
 One Country and one Banner; one people and one sod; 
 One common cause for all to share; one Nation and one 
 
 God; 
 Such be our motto ever, most sacred be that trust 
 Till every human soul of earth is mingled with the dust. 
 
Today and Yesterday 79 
 
 WHEN THE PARSON CAME TO CALL 
 
 Mother told us to behave when the Parson came to call; 
 We should all be very good — show our manners, that 
 
 was all; 
 Show we knew the proper things that were wanting in 
 
 our day; 
 Be polite and listen to what the Parson had to say; 
 Not make eyes and carry on like as though we had no 
 
 sense. 
 "Show your bringing up," said she (in a manner rather 
 
 tense). 
 
 Lots of other things she said — had us nearly scared to 
 
 death ! 
 When the Parson came to call, all of us were short of 
 
 breath 
 As we tiptoed here and there — every one of us — that 
 
 day, 
 Like a lot of little mice — hearing what he had to say. 
 I can see him smiling yet, in a manner most profound. 
 As he sat in Father's chair, with us (angels) gathered 
 
 round. 
 
 Everything was going well — passing oiF in reg'lar style, 
 When the Parson's chair gave way, hke a rotten 
 
 kindling pile. 
 And his legs flew in the air (he just looked! he never 
 
 swore), 
 I can see him, to this day, lying sprawled upon the floor. 
 Such a sorry sight he was; such a funny thing was he. 
 And the patches on his pants were as large as large 
 
 could be. 
 
80 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Did we laugh? Well, hardly, then, 'cause we had to all 
 
 be good. 
 Father helped him on his feet, just as any Christian 
 
 should. 
 And the Parson 'lowed that he was not hurt the least, 
 
 wee bit, 
 But us youngsters thought he lied 'cause we saw the 
 
 way he hit. 
 And he limped a bit — just so, claimed it was rheumatic 
 
 pain, 
 But rheumatics seldom stop where the Parson scratched 
 
 in vain. 
 
 Dinner ready, with a will all us youngsters gathered 
 round. 
 
 Ne'er a smile came o'er our faces, from our puckered 
 lips no sound. 
 
 Every eye was on the sugar and our hearts were full of 
 mirth 
 
 While the Parson said a blessing that went jingling 
 round the earth; 
 
 Blessed our home and blessed the table — with its boun- 
 tiful supply. 
 
 But, when Mother passed the sugar, gee! I thought 
 we'd surely die. 
 
 Now, you see, my sister, Nellie, had a part she had to 
 
 play, 
 'Twa'n't so bad as it was awful but it happened in this 
 
 way: 
 Mother sent her for the sugar and therein was found 
 
 the fault. 
 By mistake or other reason, she got in the sack of salt. 
 Mother never once mistrusted; Father found it out too 
 
 late; 
 
Today and Yesterday 81 
 
 But the Parson took his fodder hke a royal king of 
 state. 
 
 Well, the Parson drank his coffee (rather slowly, too, 
 
 I 'low) 
 As he looked us youngsters, over with a frowning of his 
 
 brow, 
 But, at last, he broke the silence as he just remarked 
 
 to say 
 That "The sweetest things of heaven are the salt of 
 
 earth, today." 
 Then he spoke of "imps of Satan," other characters, a 
 
 few; 
 He just drank one cup of coffee and he didn't ask for 
 
 two. 
 
 -Q^ -<c>- <::> 
 
 ANXIOUS MOMENTS 
 
 When you call to see your sweetheart — find another 
 
 fellow there 
 With a smile of real contentment, seated in your cozy 
 
 chair ; 
 In his eye a knowing twinkle — most perplexing to 
 
 behold, 
 That's a moment when a fellow seldom lingers to be 
 
 told. 
 
 When the question has been settled and the hour is close 
 
 at hand. 
 And the minister is waiting to bestow the golden band; 
 
82 Today and Yesterday 
 
 And your knees begin to wabble to the tune of true 
 
 delight, 
 That's another anxious moment that is passing out of 
 
 sight. 
 
 When you first enjoy the pleasure of a Father's loving 
 
 heart 
 With its quick and glad pulsation striking inward like 
 
 a dart, 
 While the blissful love of heaven settles gently over all ; 
 That's another anxious moment — when the baby comes 
 
 to call. 
 
 When the grocery man is kicking and the tailor bills 
 
 are due; 
 When the coal man sends a warning, as the doctor 's 
 
 likely to; 
 When the landlord, loudly snorting, comes a-howling 
 
 for his rent ; 
 Those are mighty anxious moments if you hav'n't got a 
 
 cent. 
 
 <:> •<^> <:> 
 
 THE HERO OF CONEMAUGH 
 
 Down through a valley of love and repose, 
 
 Where the roses grow wild and the Conemaugh flows; 
 
 O'er hillock and crevice — o'er dyke, bridge and stone. 
 
 Inspired by his duty and trav'ling alone. 
 
 Rode a hero, unknown, with his warning to all, 
 
 But the number who barkened and listened was small. 
 
 Came the rushing of waters — their thundering roar 
 As they hastened, with fury, to pillage and gore. 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
 83 
 
 And the trees and the houses gave way, like a straw, 
 In the hurricane tide of the wild Conemaugh. 
 
 On, on! with that courage a patriot thrills, 
 Shouting: "Run for your lives! Run for the hills!" 
 
 Eun for your lives! Bu7i for the Mils!" 
 
 He dashed like a war-maddened Chippewa brave. 
 
 For his was a duty to rescue and save; 
 
 Nor looked he about for the demon behind. 
 
 Pursuing his trail like a hurricane wind; 
 
 But loudly and clear (for he knew not despair) 
 
 His summons rang out on the evening air 
 
 As the perilous waves grasped their forms, like a straw, 
 
 In the hurricane tide of the wild Conemaugh. 
 
84 Today and Yesterday 
 
 O God, it was fearful, for so it is said: 
 
 When the water receded and gave up its dead, 
 
 'Mid the thousands of bodies that lay on the ground 
 
 Not a trace of the steed or its rider was found; 
 
 For a stranger he was, but his heroic deed 
 
 Finds a place in the minds of the sufferers freed. 
 
 In the years to come and the time to be. 
 
 Like a phantom 'twill pass through our memory. 
 
 And we'll see, like a ghost of the buried past. 
 
 On his steed the courier riding fast. 
 
 And we'll hear, like an echo, his warning cry 
 
 Where the Conemaugh dashed, in its fury, by. 
 
 <::> "sr^ "Ci- 
 
 THEY MARCH AWAY 
 
 They march away to the fields of dead 
 With buoyant step and a stately tread. 
 To fight, yes, fight! but they know not whj'^ 
 They thither go — 'neath a foreign sky. 
 The answer comes in another breath: 
 "Defend the flag!" so the monarch saith 
 As off they go, in their eager haste. 
 To swell the ranks in the fields of waste. 
 
 They march away, but the years will tell 
 Of mighty deeds — where they rose and fell; 
 And countless widows and orphans, too, 
 Will not forget when the bugle blew. 
 O, who will answer before their God 
 For loss of kindred and sacred sod? 
 Ask not of me but of One — Divine — 
 Whose eyes keep watch o'er the battle line. 
 
Today and Yesterday 85 
 
 THE SHYLOCK'S PRAYER 
 
 Sir Gillan arose, in his slumbers profound, 
 Saw spirits, immortal, close gathered around; 
 He shivered with terror — beholding the stare 
 Of widows and orphans he recognized there. 
 
 He saw, by their looks (for he knew of his shame) , 
 Just what they were thinking— the reason they came ; 
 The merciless greed, he had practiced for years. 
 Had crowded them down in their sorrowful tears. 
 
 He ruled, like a tyrant, o'er living and dead. 
 From mouths of the poor he had taken the bread; 
 He spared not a soul and he shared not a cent; 
 No wonder he gasped, when he learned their intent. 
 
 A voice, out the silence, spoke firmly; said he: 
 "This night we have chosen to reckon with thee; 
 The Lord hath decided thy days are but few. 
 And left to our judgment the penance now due. 
 
 "Ye ate of our bread and ye drank of our wine; 
 Ye offered us naught save the share of a swine ; 
 Ye smiled at our ruin, ye scoffed at our pain; 
 What say ye, speak quickly before thou art slain!" 
 
 Sir Gillan crouched low on the couch where he lay, 
 And there, on his knees, with a vengeance did pray; 
 "O, merciful Lord and Creator of man. 
 Have pity on me!" was the way he began. 
 
86 Today and Yesterday 
 
 "Thou knowest I sinned — for my actions relent; 
 I come to Thee, Lord, like a sinner repent. 
 What deed canst atone for the past I have led? 
 Deliver me, Lord, from this horde round my bed." 
 
 He buried his face in his hands; like a child 
 He bitterly wept, and the spirits all smiled 
 When, boldly, there entered an angel, with pride, 
 Who came unattended and stood by his side. 
 
 Sir Gillan looked up in his humble despair. 
 The angel had answered his pitiful prayer; 
 (A halo encircled her beautiful head!) 
 And, raising a cross, with a gesture she said: 
 
 "The Lord hath decided! He bids thee obey. 
 Give back to the poor all thou taketh away. 
 Beware of His warning — the unfailing wrath 
 He visits on sinners who leaveth His path." 
 
 Then, stepping aside, at the wave of her hand 
 The spirits departed — a satisfied band, 
 And back on his couch sank the Shylock, of old, 
 To dream of his treasures — his jewels and gold. 
 
 Next morning. Sir Gillan awoke with a start. 
 The spirits had conquered — converted his heart. 
 His neighbors soon noticed the wonderful change 
 And questioned his actions — unusually strange. 
 
 At peace with his God, not a penny he spared ; 
 He feasted the poor — with the pauper he shared. 
 And many are they, who, forgiving his shame. 
 Revere, in its glory. Sir Gillan's good name. 
 
Today and Yesterday 87 
 
 A MODERN HORATIUS 
 
 There's no such word as failure to him who perseveres 
 By honest ways and measures— throughout the passing 
 
 years ; 
 Who dips far in the future — however well he sees — 
 And like an Argus studies well Life's possibilities. 
 
 There's no such thing as failure for any man, today, 
 Who has the strength and courage to toil while others 
 
 play; 
 Who neither stops nor falters before Life's rugged 
 
 ridge. 
 Who shows the selfsame valor of "Horatius at the 
 Bridge." 
 
 <:> <:> o 
 
 VESPER VOICES 
 
 I hear the sound of vesper voices recanting through the 
 
 twilight airs; 
 I hear the tread of weary footsteps, now wending up 
 
 the golden stairs; 
 The world is silent save the minstrel hallowing this 
 
 earth with prayers. 
 
 I know not what the future holdeth, nor what its 
 
 goodness hath in store; 
 Could spirits tell, in human voices, the story of that 
 
 wondrous shore, 
 My soul might find its true transition— passing onward, 
 
 nothing more. 
 
Today and Yesterday 89 
 
 GOBLINS 
 
 Did you ever see the Goblins hanging round your bed 
 
 at night? 
 Sort of rise up with a startle — feeling full of ugly 
 
 fright? 
 Have them grab at you and miss you — pull the covers 
 
 off your head? 
 Those are awful looking objects that come hanging 
 
 round your bed. 
 
 Well, I've seen those dreadful Goblins, had them chase 
 
 me in my sleep 
 Round the room and out the doorway — through my 
 
 windows softly creep; 
 Gee! but they are frightful critters — ghastly things a 
 
 body meets — 
 Wicked Goblins that come round him, when a fellow 
 
 over-eats. 
 
 Pies and pickles, jams and jellies, they're the things 
 
 which bring them round — 
 Naughty Goblins that you dream of — springing on you 
 
 with a bound; 
 Mother says: "They're evil spirits that go visiting at 
 
 night — 
 Prowling round your bed to scare you, 'cause you hav'n't 
 
 acted right." 
 
 Did you ever dream of Goblins, have them chasing you 
 
 about? 
 (Think you've wings, like birds, to fly with) make you 
 
 shudder, cry and shout? 
 
90 Today and Yesterday 
 
 And you fly up like an eagle — touching earth once in a 
 
 while — 
 Up again, before they grab you, as you journey on a 
 
 mile? 
 
 Dream of walking on a mountain, falling down, below, 
 
 somewhere ? 
 Have a lion try to eat you, or a tiger grab your hair? 
 Then, I know what you've been doing, Mother says 
 
 (she never lies) : 
 "You've been fooling round the cupboard — eating jam 
 
 and mincy-pies." 
 
 -<:^ -<:^ <:> 
 
 FOR SHAME! 
 
 Shame on the man who fosters a selfish thought, in- 
 stead. 
 
 And bids his sons and daughters go earn their daily 
 bread ; 
 
 While, in his lazy stupor, he reels before the fire 
 
 And by the watchdog takes his place — an unrelenting 
 sire. 
 
 Has he no manly instinct? — no feeling in his heart? 
 
 What right has he to prosper thus or claim a father's 
 part? 
 
 When home the children wander — exhausted by their 
 
 toil. 
 He greets them with his curses — from which they do 
 
 recoil. 
 Where goes the guilty culprit — his sentence to await. 
 
Today and Yesterday 91 
 
 There! lead such worthless fathers forth to meet their 
 
 worthy fate. 
 No judgment is too awful, no sentence too severe 
 For him who offers flesh and blood to gain his bread 
 
 and beer. 
 
 <:> <:> 's:> 
 
 HUMAN BEINGS 
 
 We are only human beings schooled in drudgery and 
 arts; 
 
 Some with scornful, selfish notions, others — kind re- 
 sponsive hearts; 
 
 Rich or poor, it does not matter what in life may us 
 befall. 
 
 We are only worldly playthings, human beings — that 
 is all. 
 
 Born to weakness, sin and sorrow; prone to misery and 
 
 pain; 
 Worshipers of the immortal, we may prosper or attain ; 
 Press we onward — blindly onward — little heedful lest 
 
 we fall 
 In our ignorance and follies, human beings — that is all. 
 
 Gravely speaking (but in earnest) we are heartless, 
 
 careless things 
 Of the needs and likes of others — of that joy which 
 
 friendship brings; 
 Strangers, some, to true compassion — Christian deeds, 
 
 however small. 
 We, the rank and file of nations, human beings — that 
 
 is all. 
 
92 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Let us strive then to be better — since we cannot perfect 
 
 be; 
 Let us seek to aid the brother more unfortunate than 
 
 we; 
 Kindly words are writ in heaven, noble deeds on 
 
 Honor's wall, 
 Thus we daily live and perish, human beings — that is all. 
 
 "sl^ <;> "vl^y 
 
 ONLY A ROSE 
 
 Only a rose, with its petals tossed, 
 Blown by the winds and as quickly lost; 
 Lost to the Summertime and the glade; 
 Lost as the love of a fickle maid; 
 Only a rose of the rarest hue, 
 Kissed by the sun and the morning dew. 
 
 Only a rose — just a rose — that is all, 
 Blooming forever in Memory's Hall. 
 Broken and scattered its petals lay 
 Torn from their moorings of yesterday; 
 Only a rose, with its fragrance sweet. 
 Scattered and trampled beneath the feet. 
 
 Mother and children alike are they 
 Clinging together from day to day. 
 Same as the shrub and its shattered rose, 
 Parted in time as the story goes; 
 Such is the ending we all must share, 
 Bitter the sorrow our hearts must bear. 
 
Today and Yesterday 93 
 
 QUEEN OF THE HOUSEHOLD 
 
 Queen of the Household, is Mother, who labors from 
 
 morning till night; 
 A patient and generous toiler — while striving with all 
 
 of her might; 
 Whenever there's darning or mending, she labors both 
 
 early and long, 
 With seldom a frown or a grumble — with many a 
 
 hush-a-by song. 
 
 Her pleasure is found in her children — in seeing them 
 
 tidily dressed. 
 In guiding their footsteps to traverse the paths of the 
 
 honored and blessed; 
 So, when they have grown into manhood — each child 
 
 with a home of its own — 
 They'll turn not their backs upon Mother and leave her 
 
 to wander alone. 
 
 Yes, Queen of the Household, is Mother, the dearest 
 
 and kindest of all; 
 When sickness or trouble o'ertakes us, she's always the 
 
 first one to call; 
 And no one can doctor like Mother — fulfill all our 
 
 wishes as well; 
 The courage inspired by her presence, no language can 
 
 truthfully tell. 
 
 But, when she is laid in her coffin — with tenderness 
 mingled with care, 
 
 We gather to take the last look on an angel one slum- 
 bering there, 
 
94 Today and Yesterday 
 
 We're moved by a sense of emotion — a something that 
 
 causes us thought: 
 Have we been to her all we might have? Have we always 
 
 done as we ought? 
 
 We notice, how furrowed her forehead — the ravage of 
 
 wearisome grief; 
 Her life was a bountiful harvest but Death has exacted 
 
 the sheaf. 
 Those lips which oft kissed us, when children, are 
 
 silenced forever and dead; 
 And also, the hands that caressed us and laid us to rest 
 
 in our bed. 
 
 When June-time comes on — in its glory, our tribute to 
 
 Mother is due; 
 We'll cover her grave with sweet roses and garlands of 
 
 violets blue; 
 We'll plant on the mound a white lily — the brightest 
 
 and fairest we see — 
 The emblem of all that is holy and righteous a woman 
 
 can be. 
 
 O "Ox -^lO- 
 
 PRISONER AND BIRD 
 
 From out the sunny woodland came a messenger one 
 
 day, 
 A little bird ; it sang a song of love, then flew away. 
 O such a song! so sweet and clear; how tuneful, too, 
 
 each note; 
 It sang so loud he feared the strain would burst its tiny 
 
 throat. 
 
Today and Yesterday 95 
 
 Away it flew; far, far away! to realms — he knew not 
 
 where ; 
 He longed to follow in its wake and in its blisses share. 
 But, as it faded from his sight, one thought o'ershad- 
 
 owed all: 
 Let come what may, the world is best outside the prison 
 
 wall. 
 
 <:> <:> <:> 
 
 THEY ARE NOT DEAD 
 
 (Our Departed) 
 
 They are not dead — they are not dead 
 
 But sleeping in the Halls of Time; 
 Just dreaming, slumbering instead. 
 
 Enjoying peacefulness sublime! 
 Step lightly by — with gentle tread — 
 They are not dead — they are not dead 
 
 These human souls of love and pain; 
 On heaven's roster, be it said. 
 
 Are writ their names (but not in vain) 
 Indelibly, with sacred lead; 
 They are not dead — they are not dead! 
 
 They are of earth its richest seed 
 Transplanted in a holy bed — 
 
 Consistent with our timely need. 
 To greater heights their souls are wed; 
 They are not dead — they are not dead 
 
 But fast asleep and be it so — 
 Above their graves no sordid dread 
 
 Awakens either friend or foe; 
 For all of which Christ freely bled; 
 They are not dead — they are not dead! 
 
96 Today and Yesterday 
 
 BEAUTIFUL THOUGHTS 
 
 Our flowers of creation are beautiful thoughts — 
 
 The fragments of memory woven with care; 
 Our kindhest thoughts make the sunshine of Hfe 
 
 We tenderly cherish and lovingly share. 
 O tidings of love, O sweet tidings of peace 
 
 That bear us away on their infinite wings; 
 The sweetest, the purest, the grandest are these: 
 
 Our beautiful thoughts of the beautiful things. 
 
 O beautiful thoughts, 
 
 O beautiful thoughts! 
 Coming and going with heavenly wings; 
 
 For such is the glory 
 
 Enhancing life's story — 
 Our beautiful thoughts of the beautiful things. 
 
 Our beautiful thoughts are the blessings supreme 
 
 That carry us back to the days of our youth, 
 To many a scene and to many a clime 
 
 Now hallowed through Age's reflection; in truth, 
 When cares are perplexing and heavy our woes. 
 
 We long for that freedom which lethargy brings, 
 We drink in the glorious sunshine of life 
 
 With beautiful thoughts of the beautiful things. 
 
 O beautiful thoughts that enlighten our way — 
 Make easy and softer the pathways we tread 
 
 While reaping Love's harvest in JNIemory's fields 
 Enriched by the dust of our sanctified dead. 
 
Today and Yesterday 97 
 
 The treasures of life that we covet and share; 
 
 The love that contentment unerringly brings; 
 Are due to our reverence of all that is good — 
 
 Our beautiful thoughts of the beautiful things. 
 
 -<:^ -"C^ <:> 
 
 LOVE TALKS 
 
 Love talks, and the words he says to thee 
 Are ever the same as our hearts recall, 
 The sweetest of sayings to each and all, 
 
 The same as he said to me. 
 
 Love talks in a language — all his own, 
 In whispering musings, so noble, sweet. 
 The angels, in heaven, his words repeat 
 
 In loftier undertone. 
 
 Love talks, and the rippling rills — in play — 
 Go dancing along, in their rhythmic glide, 
 To oceans afar — to the great seaside — 
 
 To linger another day. 
 
 Love talks, and the happy birds in June 
 Cry out in their joy, in their freedom sing 
 Of Infinite glory — our God and King — 
 
 But whither away too soon. 
 
 Love talks; in the woodland, in field and glen 
 The flowers rise up from their downy beds. 
 Make floral the way where the rabbit treads. 
 
 To brighten the paths of men. 
 
98 Today and Yesterday 
 
 PREPAREDNESS 
 
 Vhi libertas ibi patria. 
 
 When comes the Nation's call, 
 
 Who will evade the ball? 
 
 Who will be first to fall- 
 Soldiers or seamen? 
 
 Pass not our duty by, 
 
 Carry our Banner high, 
 
 Harken the battle cry 
 Calling on freemen. 
 
 Menaced on every side, 
 Goaded — our rights defied, 
 What? — if our hands be tied, 
 
 What be the glory? 
 Nations may on us frown. 
 Wise men may cry us down. 
 Ours is a righteous crown — 
 
 Laureled in story. 
 
 Quickly! (no time to spare) 
 Let us, in full, prepare 
 Lest we be forced to share 
 
 111- fate and sorrow; 
 Nothing must blind — or should- 
 Eyes on a course so good. 
 Stand as our fathers stood 
 
 Waiting the morrow. 
 
Today and Yesterday 99 
 
 Lovers of sacred sod, 
 Trusting in mighty God, 
 Sleep not or lightly nod- 
 Ever be steady; 
 Wake from a drowsy state. 
 Wake ere it be too late, 
 Time will announce our fate, 
 Let us be ready! 
 
 •<^ -<::> ^3- 
 
 THE JUNCTION OF LOVE 
 
 Did you ever arrive at the Junction of Love — 
 See all of the passengers there? 
 
 The handsome old gent' with his young turtle-dove- 
 More false than her light, curly hair? 
 
 The withered old maids and the gawkiest boys 
 Awaiting young Cupid's swift train? 
 
 The winsomest maidens, with hearts full of joys? 
 Then you were asleep or insane. 
 
 It's worth all the time that it takes for the trip 
 
 Providing you've moments to spare; 
 The homeliest maid may be tempted to "flip" 
 
 Love's fast-going train — if you dare. 
 For all of the lovers there's oceans of hope, 
 
 For widows and widowers, too, 
 And sometimes the older ones seek to elope 
 
 And Cupid oft carries them through. 
 
100 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Among all the creatures I happened to see, 
 
 Two elderly people were they, 
 Too old for a runaway couple to be. 
 
 Their hair was a silvery gray. 
 She leaned on his arm with a grace — all her own, 
 
 As elderly ladies oft do; 
 I'd given my oath, if the truth I'd not known, 
 
 That Cupid was putting them through. 
 
 It's toot-a-toot-toot, be it off to the East, 
 
 The North or the South, or the West; 
 There's sorrows for lovers — unable to feast. 
 
 For others sweet pleasures and rest. 
 So, get a through ticket to heaven above. 
 
 Be active — not given to gab; 
 And when you arrive at the Junction of Love, 
 
 Be careful! but ready to grab. 
 
 -^i*- ^^:> <:^ 
 
 THE LITTLE RENEGADE 
 
 They call me a little renegade; O why do they call 
 
 me so? 
 Because I wander away from home and never tell when 
 
 Sometimes it's swimming in yonder creek, or roaming 
 
 the meadows green; 
 I'm always getting in bad — somehow — though, surely, 
 
 I'm never mean. 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
 101 
 
 Dad bought me an Injun suit (now, that was some- 
 thing I longed to wear) ; 
 
 Some arrows, too, and a big, red bow, and feathers to 
 deck my hair, 
 
 The Little Benegade. 
 
 I built a tent (in the old back-yard) of carpet— all 
 
 lined with straw; 
 And Annie Ripples, who lives next door, came over to 
 
 be my squaw. 
 
102 Today and Yesterday 
 
 AVe made a raid on the pantry shelves and captured a 
 
 a lot of cake, 
 Some pies and cookies, and ginger-bread as fine as two 
 
 hands could make; 
 A bag of apples, some sweet preserves, — we carried 
 
 them into camp, 
 And both got sick on the things we ate, they gave us 
 
 an awful cramp. 
 
 When Daddy heard of our doings, well, he laughed till 
 
 his sides were sore; 
 And Mother frowned and said some things she never 
 
 had said before. 
 He took me up on his hobby-knee and whistled a merry 
 
 tune; 
 He said: "The weather's been fine all day," that 
 
 "Christmas is coming soon." 
 
 -^^ <:> <c> 
 
 YOUTH'S PRAYER 
 
 "O give me riches, vast, galore!" 
 
 A pleading youth implored; 
 "Give unto me my share — and more — 
 
 Of what this world hath stored! 
 Give freely. Lord, I ask of Thee, 
 A goodly share give unto me." 
 
 An angel listened well and long 
 
 Then left without delay. 
 And through the blessed, loving throng 
 
 She hastened on her way. 
 Before her Master, boldly — strong — 
 She sang, in Pity's name, his song. 
 
Today and Yesterday 103 
 
 "Go thou, my child," He softly said, 
 "Grant him his wish, that others may 
 
 Behold his acts; but o'er his head 
 
 Shall hang the Sword of Truth. This day 
 
 The world is his — its wine, its bread; — 
 
 A golden pathway he shall tread!" 
 
 His prayer thus answered, far he went — 
 'Mid happiness and joys untold — 
 
 By land and sea. His days were spent 
 Within— without the Shepherd's fold. 
 
 Alas! to him (in discontent) 
 
 Old Age an early message sent. 
 
 Again he prayed. The angel kind 
 Then hstened to his woeful plea; 
 
 God opened wide Youth's eyes to find 
 The folUes he had failed to see: 
 
 The evil acts that undermined 
 
 His all but shattered form and mind. 
 
 Most fervently he prayed, but meek 
 The voice that sought to set him free; 
 
 The Lord o'erheard — to him did speak : 
 "I gave thee all thou asked of Me. 
 
 What more ye ask? Wherefore ye seek? 
 
 'Tis mine to* serve the poor and weak!" 
 
 "One more request have I to make; 
 
 I care not. Lord, for boundless wealth; 
 Take all— keep all for heaven's sake— 
 
 But give me back my youth and health!" 
 The Lord demurred and to him spake: 
 "Alas! too late dost thou awake." 
 
104 Today and Yesterday 
 
 SONG OF THE SAILOR BOY 
 
 Where mountain waves are running high and sweeping 
 
 o'er the deck 
 With all that force and violence — no human hand can 
 
 check ; 
 Or, on some peaceful ocean wide — wherever it may be, 
 It matters not, when duty calls, that is the place for me. 
 
 Heigh-ho! Heigh-ho! 
 That is the place for me. 
 In time of 'peace 
 Or time of war 
 That is the the place for me; 
 Heigh-ho! Heigh-ho! 
 That is the place for me. 
 For I am king of the ocean! 
 For I am king of the sea! 
 
 When sounds the call, "To action!" you will find me at 
 
 my post, 
 A daring, loyal, sailor lad who loves his Flag the most ; 
 Where shot and shell are flying fast and bursting o'er 
 
 the sea, 
 Where hell and heaven take their turn — that is the place 
 
 for me. 
 
 Unfurl the Starry Banner, boys, O lend it to the breeze ! 
 The only Flag of Freedom's soil that rides the foaming 
 
 seas ; 
 Protect it when in battle line, for sacred be its name; 
 God bless it ever! right or wrong, we love it just the 
 
 same. 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
 105 
 
 WISHED TO BE LIKE FATHER 
 
 Little Johnny Frizzle-Bonnie hid behind his Father's 
 
 barn, 
 And, with pipe and strong tobacco, soon "wound up his 
 
 baU of yarn." 
 
 Such a feeling — such a gripe. 
 
 Oh, so sick was little Johnny, such a feeling — such a 
 
 gripe, 
 Such an awful, queer sensation — all from smoking of 
 
 a pipe. 
 
106 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Mother found her weeping urchin, kindly bore him to 
 
 his bed; 
 On tlie soft and downy pillow, Johnny laid his dizzy 
 
 head. 
 
 "It's no use," he said to Mother (with a broken heart 
 
 he cried) ; 
 "I just wished to be like Father, that's the reason why 
 
 I tried." 
 
 Sad Experience proved master; Sorrow stood aside 
 
 for Joy; 
 Out the path of Bad Temptation stepped a better, wiser 
 
 boy. 
 
 -Qy <:> -«o 
 
 TRUE FRIENDSHIP 
 
 'Tis not the friendship, proffered for a minute. 
 To be withdrawn from one as quickly given. 
 
 But friendship true, with deep affection in it. 
 
 For which we strive — though oft the heart is riven. 
 
 The aching heart may feel the pang of hunger 
 For friendship lost; — for love be ever pining; 
 
 In older days, more so than when in younger. 
 We need its staff in weary years declining. 
 
 Give me that friendship, born of vast emotion. 
 
 Which thrills the heart, as swells the torrent river 
 
 That, sweeping onward, gathers in its motion 
 The sands of Time, ah! blessed be the giver. 
 
Today and Yesterday 107 
 
 THE SUMMER GIRL 
 
 A picture hat, a winsome smile, 
 
 A fluffy gown of white; 
 A parasol — the latest style — 
 
 Her hobby and delight; 
 Some bows of ribbon — gloves and rings, 
 
 A pair of silken hose, 
 A hundred other little things 
 
 And twice as many beaux. 
 
 A pair of pumps to deck her feet; 
 
 Bewitching eyes of blue 
 That ever,, in their wonder, greet 
 
 And search us through and through; 
 A box of rouge, some shiny pearls, 
 
 An auto coat, a fan; 
 A sweet composite of all girls — 
 
 Designed for foolish man. 
 
 A perfect queen of loveliness, 
 
 Most charming to behold ; 
 A skillful archer, I confess. 
 
 Though neither shy nor bold. 
 Beware of her, if you should stray 
 
 From home to other parts, 
 The Summer Girl might pass your way. 
 
 Somewhere, in search of hearts. 
 
Baddy 's Boy 
 
Today and Yesterday 109 
 
 DADDY'S BOY 
 
 It's Mother when my finger's sore 
 
 And I am feeling sad; 
 It's ISIother, Mother! till it's o'er, 
 
 But Daddy when I'm glad. 
 It's Mother when my feet are wet 
 
 From standing in the rain; 
 It's INIother whom I always get 
 
 For every ache and pain. 
 
 It's Mother when I go to bed 
 
 And Daddy in the morn; 
 It's Mother when I bump my head 
 
 But Daddy for a horn, 
 A train of cars, a hoop or ball, 
 
 A sled, a pair of skates, 
 A hobby-horse to ride, yes, all 
 
 Of them — he never waits. 
 
 And when my shoes are wearing out. 
 
 My candy box is low, 
 I never stop to cry or pout 
 
 But off to Daddy go. 
 It's Daddy this, and Daddy that. 
 
 Whenever he's in sight; 
 I always know where I am at 
 
 When Daddy's home at night. 
 
no Today and Yesterday 
 
 KNIGHTS OF ^OLUS 
 
 A breeze came out the Westward and ushered into sight 
 A Knight of old — of strength untold — all armored for 
 
 a fight; 
 Behind him were his warriors bedecked in gay attire, 
 All servants of the Master Will, Who ruleth son and 
 
 sire. 
 The moon rose high above them; the night its curtain 
 
 drew 
 While darkness closed about the scene and hid them 
 
 from my view. 
 
 ^olus clutched his sabre; he smote him on the breast! 
 Then looked he to the Northward, the South, the East, 
 
 the West; 
 And, turning to his warriors, in thundering tone he 
 
 spoke : 
 "Who dares to play me traitor shall wear a deadly yoke! 
 Let they, who love their Master, His mighty will obey; 
 Ho ! forward, Knights of Honor — bold! Behold! I lead 
 
 the way." 
 
 O victors! talk of conquests, of battles lost and won. 
 The Battle of the Heavens was a triumphant one. 
 Beneath them were the lowlands, the lakes and rivers, 
 
 too. 
 The busy cities of the world — o'er which they quickly 
 
 flew. 
 With all the graceful motion an eagle doth display, 
 A million strong they swept along with ease and gal- 
 lantry. 
 
Today and Yesterday 111 
 
 Before them lay the fortress. With all their hellish 
 
 might 
 A thousand war-clouds thundered a challenge bold — 
 
 outright : 
 O talk about a tempest — its terror and its roar, 
 The heavens shone in crimson — earth weltered in the 
 
 gore. 
 As onward pressed they onward! It was a mighty 
 
 strain ! 
 And every inch they lost that day, they nobly won again. 
 
 Talk of your lords and masters ; speak of your Spartans, 
 
 bold; 
 The ancient kings of glory — their warriors and their 
 
 gold; 
 The armies of their kingdoms, united, could not stand 
 The charge of such an army — on either sea or land. 
 The Knights of brave ^olus fought in their fiendish ire 
 Till all the earth was drenched with blood — beneath the 
 
 aerial fire. 
 
 <:> ^v:> <^ 
 
 OLD BILL JONES 
 
 Said Old Bill Jones with earnest air : 
 "Th' way looks dark, we must prepare- 
 Fix up th' fences roun' these States, 
 Th' feller's lost who always waits. 
 Th' time is right, th' weather fine, 
 Get out yer ramrods — make 'em shine, 
 Be careful, too, th' 'beans don't spill,' 
 We've had enough o' Bunker Hill! 
 
112 Today and Yesterday 
 
 "I've jest been talkin' ter th' boys, 
 They're all het up an' full o' noise ; 
 While some dissent — most all agree 
 Et's up ter us on land an' sea. 
 No use ter hedge ! th' truth is plain : 
 Th' world is mad an' gone insane. 
 An' ef we care a whit which way 
 Th' breezes blow — we'd better say. 
 
 "But sure as heaven — sure as fate — 
 This is no time ter sit an' wait; 
 Be up an' doin' — show yer zeal, 
 Yo' can't grind feed without a wheel! 
 Mirandy says, 'Ye're talkin' wild. 
 Remember, Bill, we've got a child! 
 If war should come, he'd hav' ter go; 
 I wish yo'd not be talkin' sol' 
 
 "But when it comes ter wars an' kings. 
 These women! they be funny things; 
 (Yet, after all, they may be right, 
 Et's savages who shoot an' fight.) 
 They give their all f er cannon feed. 
 Where sailors die and soldiers bleed; 
 But, men are men! an' will not lag 
 When duty calls 'em ter th' Flag. 
 
 "Tom Dinkleman rode home with me; 
 
 His arguments went gee-haw-gee. 
 
 Ag'in th' war, he favored peace 
 
 An' wisht ter goodness wars would cease. 
 
 He slapped his hands an' clawed his hair, 
 
 Et made me wince ter hear 'im swear, 
 
 But when he got ter earth ag'in 
 
 Said he, 'Bill Jones, we're sure ter win!' 
 
Today and Yesterday 113 
 
 "We met Tim Hadley in th' lane; 
 'Whoa! stop!!' cried he — with upraised cane 
 (While on his face a sullen frown) 
 *W'at be this news thet's goin' roun'? 
 Well, I'll be durned, ef et comes true, 
 They'll find our fellers navy-blue; 
 An' should they try our boats ter ram, 
 They'll find no frills on Uncle Sam.' 
 
 "When storm clouds fill us full o' dread, 
 
 An' roofs be leakin' overhead; 
 
 When roads are rough — th' drivin' poor — 
 
 Our journey anything but sure; 
 
 When jealous nations flout our name 
 
 An' seek ter drag us inter shame, 
 
 Et's time ter rally an' prepare. 
 
 Yo'll find Bill Jones a-campin' there!'* 
 
 <:> <:^ <:> 
 
 SO SHALL IT BE 
 
 So shall it be, when once this life is o'er. 
 
 The world is old, the twilight air is still. 
 The minstrel's music hushed, the sun no more 
 
 To shine, and darkness reigns supreme — God's will ; 
 The sea becalmed, the lightning's force unstrung. 
 
 The thunder's voice in silence deep is lost; 
 Life's theater is closed, the curtain rung. 
 
 The actors gone to pay the final cost. 
 So shall it be! 
 So shall it be. 
 
114 Today and Yesterday 
 
 So shall it be, when Time recalls the stars ; 
 
 The dissolution that o'ertakes our race 
 Shall overcome this universe, and Mars 
 
 Will dissipate its forces into space. 
 Lo! everything tends to eternity; 
 
 Each something has its own allotted end; 
 The beauties of this earth shall pass as thee, 
 
 Its glories fade with time's unerring trend. 
 So shall it be! 
 So shall it he. 
 
 So shall it be — obedient to God's will; 
 
 The twinkling stars in heaven's firmament, 
 The brook, the glen, the mountain and the hill 
 
 Shall disappear and in their turn be rent; 
 All this and more, in time, shall years discern. 
 
 And out of it shall come another world 
 To dwell in space, be peopled and, in turn. 
 
 Dissolved at will — in unknown regions hurled; 
 So shall it be! 
 So shall it he. 
 
 •^o '<^ <:> 
 
 LOST CONFIDENCE 
 
 I've a thought (in distress) 
 Which I often eschew: 
 
 Of the friends who profess. 
 Of the friends who are true; 
 
 Of the former, how man}'? 
 Of the latter, how few? 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
 115 
 
 Anticipation 
 
 LITTLE JIM SHOWDER 
 
 Little Jim Showder 
 Meddled with powder 
 
 Once — on a Fourth of July; 
 And that is the trouble 
 He cannot see double 
 
 No matter however he try. 
 
 Realisation 
 
116 
 
 Today and Yesterday 
 
 THE SUN-DOG 
 
 The Sun-Dog sat on the planet Mars 
 
 And barked at the Man-in-the-Moon; 
 He coyly blinked at the shooting stars 
 That coursed their way through the twilight bars 
 And struck on a far-away dune. 
 
 He saw the Earth, like a giant ball, 
 
 Go spinning around like a top; 
 
 His dizzy height made the World 
 
 look small; 
 "O dear!" he thought, "if I slip 
 and fall, 
 O goodness! Oh where will I 
 stop?" 
 
 "Tee-hee, ha, ha!" laughed the big Moon-Man, 
 
 "Why don't you leap off like a frog? 
 Come! listen now, I've a happy 
 
 plan — 
 A novel one for my little man: 
 
 Suppose that you try a tobog'?" 
 
 The Sun-Dog wailed in his ^vild 
 despair, 
 Then leaped for his life in the 
 gale; 
 He struck a Comet, near by — some- 
 where — 
 It burned his feet and it scorched 
 his hair 
 And blistered his nose and tail. 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
 117 
 
 "Ki-yi, ki-yi!" came the mournful sound, 
 
 He uttered a terrified yell, 
 For, lo! the Comet which he had found. 
 It quickly twisted its tail around 
 
 And down from his haven he fell. 
 
 The big Moon-JNlan, in his mansion high, 
 
 Observing his terrible plight, 
 Presumed to saj^, as he blinked one eye: 
 "No place for dogs in a starry sky!" 
 
 And shut off his radiant light. 
 
118 Today and Yesterday 
 
 DUTY AND OBEDIENCE 
 
 Duty and Obedience tripped along — a jolly pair; 
 They had naught to worry them, nay! a single pain or 
 care. 
 
 Life to them was truly dear, as they journeyed side by 
 
 side; 
 While between them, full of mirth, walked the manly 
 
 Prince of Pride. 
 
 Love and Fancy, passing by, clinging to the arms of 
 
 Fate, 
 Envied them — with bitter hearts — casting glances full 
 
 of hate. 
 
 Duty smiled serenely, then, and Obedience looked wise ; 
 Shiftlessness and Poverty boldly stared them in the 
 eyes. 
 
 Neither looked to right nor left; each enjoyed the happy 
 
 stroll ; 
 Straightway to Success they went — as an arrow finds its 
 
 goal. 
 
 On each head be placed a wreath; in each hand a frag- 
 rant rose; 
 
 Showered his blessings on them both: Health and 
 Wealth and Sweet Repose. 
 
Today and Yesterday 119 
 
 NO TEARS FOR US 
 
 We've settled it, my goodly wife and I, 
 To quarrel no more — serenely live and die. 
 We've fought it hard for nearly fifty years 
 And forty wells would hardly hold the tears — 
 Those bitter tears we shed, while hard we fought 
 O'er everything each said or even thought. 
 
 Our troubles first began one winter's night, 
 While all alone, at home, by candle light; 
 Her home, I mean, I didn't have one then 
 No more 'n a tiny chick without a hen. 
 We disagreed; I wanted her to wed. 
 "I'd rather own the devil, sir!" she said. 
 
 Well, stick I did, for I made up my mind 
 To win her love — to that I was resigned. 
 With cap in hand, I made believe my flight; 
 I didn't even chance a sweet good-night. 
 I turned a little sideways — just to see 
 If she would flinch or show one care for me. 
 
 No! there she sat! defiant and all- wise; 
 
 Her fingers twitched — likewise her drooping eyes; 
 
 Too proud to speak the words she longed to say. 
 
 She'd rather die, I knew, than bid me stay ; 
 
 But, that was her — years since I've learned it well 
 
 Betwixt the roads to heaven and to hell. 
 
 The war broke out about that time and I 
 Made up my mind — a soldier's life to try. 
 
120 Today and Yesterday 
 
 I heard the beating drum and thrilhng fife; 
 Away I went and offered up my life. 
 He is a coward who attempts to lag 
 When duty means protection for the Flag. 
 
 Next evening, when I called to break the news 
 
 Of my intention — just to get her views; 
 
 I found her softly weeping, 'cause — you see — 
 
 The news had taken flight ahead of me. 
 
 "Oh, John!" she cried, "be brave! be loyal — true! 
 
 Remember: I'll be waiting here for you. 
 
 "Stand for the Flag — a hero to the last; 
 Fight as our Fathers fought in ages past; 
 Lend not your hands to any coward's game, 
 The world regards with hate a traitor's name. 
 When other hands the Flag may cease to bear. 
 Oh, hft it up! although you perish there. 
 
 "When shot and shell are bursting round your head 
 Where soldiers brave go charging o'er the dead. 
 My earnest prayers will ever be for you; 
 God bless thy courage, John, may it prove time!" 
 Well, when I left her home that solemn night, 
 I vowed to God that I would go it right. 
 
 At Petersburg we were one fatal day; 
 Around us all our noble comrades lay. 
 With death in sight, her words I did recall; 
 I grasped the Flag and raised it over all ! 
 A shot went tearing through my arm, it fell! 
 Again, I raised the Colors with a yell. 
 
 With one arm helpless — dangling at my side, 
 The other bore, at length, my country's Pride; 
 And on the parapet I placed it there. 
 It was the answer to an unknown prayer. 
 
Today and Yesterday 
 
 121 
 
 I did my best; I knew I'd get my pay 
 When war was o'er and I went home to stay. 
 
 When I returned, It was with joy indeed, 
 And neighbors came from miles around to feed. 
 
 Again, I raised the Colors with a yell. 
 
 It didn't take a heap of time that night 
 To settle down and get things going right; 
 And, by the way she cuddled up to me, 
 I felt assured a wedding there would be. 
 
 In fact, I was a hero 'mong them all, 
 
 No more a boy, a man — both stout and tall. 
 
 Admiring girls, who heard my story told, 
 
 Came smiling round, but, pshaw! theirs couldn't 
 
 hold 
 A candle to my Mary's roguish eyes — 
 More beautiful, I thought, than Autumn skies. 
 
122 Today and Yesterday 
 
 The days soon passed and, as the story goes, 
 We settled it — somehow; God only knows 
 The way such things occur, when lovers meet 
 And sit and talk, make love and go it sweet; 
 But, so it was, we married — her and I — 
 And vowed to God, in peace, to live and die. 
 
 We bought a farm — adjoining — 'cross the road. 
 Went head and ears in debt to pull the load ; 
 And every day we worked it hard and long 
 As both of us were young and doubly strong. 
 We made it pay a handsome dividend 
 And soon, it was, we had some gold to lend. 
 
 But, live in peace — that was another thing. 
 She was the queen and I the working king. 
 A prince or two soon joined us on our way 
 And each, of course, had baby things to say; 
 And when we were at outs — betwixt the two 
 We shared a love that heaven holds for few. 
 
 One day we quarreled; out in the field I went 
 
 To plow the corn; but, oh, such hours I spent. 
 
 I was so mad, I hardly can recall 
 
 If corn I plowed, or, if I plowed at all. 
 
 I found myself astride the handle-bars 
 
 And gazing up I saw the twinkling stars. 
 
 I thought of Mary and our little twins. 
 Most dear to me and free of earthly sins. 
 Says I, "Old man, this ain't the place for you!" 
 And home I went — just as I ought to do. 
 I figured out what I would do and say; 
 I couldn't travel fast enough that way. 
 
 When I got home, she met me with a stare — 
 A solemn look ; 'twas sorrow planted there. 
 
Today and Yesterday 123 
 
 Her eyes were full of tears — such bitter tears, 
 I hadn't seen the like of them for years. 
 I took her in my manly arms, that night, 
 And hugged her in a fashion nobly right. 
 
 Her heart was crushed. Those cruel words I said 
 Had stung her pride and bowed her queenly head. 
 I saw my duty and fulfilled my part; 
 It didn't take her long to change her heart. 
 And when the chores were done, the horses fed, 
 We knelt, in prayer, beside the children's bed. 
 
 No tears for us ! We've had our fill for aye. 
 It's fun to quarrel, when it occurs in play; 
 But heated words oft take a sudden start 
 And burn a hole clean through another's heart. 
 They little know, what's on the other shore. 
 Who always dwell inside of heaven's door. 
 
 •<::> -<::>- -o^ 
 
 ADIEU, FOND THOUGHTS 
 
 No more I hear the Curlew's plaintive call — 
 The Bobolink's, the welcome Whippoorwill's ; 
 
 No more I tread those fields — beloved of all; 
 No more I roam the flowery dales and hills; 
 
 And shut within the busy City's walls, 
 
 I doubly miss what Memory recalls. 
 
 O for one hour, one day amidst those climes. 
 To mingle with the flowers, the bees, the birds; 
 
 To walk again the paths of former times; 
 
 To hear once more a Mother's welcome words, 
 
124 
 
 Today and Yesterday 
 
 When Life was young. 
 
 Where, from an oaken bucket, oft I got 
 The like of which the City offers not. 
 
 O for one glance, one look, one blissful hour 
 Beside that hearth — amidst its loving band, 
 
 When Life was young and Love, itself, a power. 
 With Hope — triumphant — ever in command. 
 
 Adieu, fond thoughts, alas! to thee I'm wed: 
 
 O cruel, heartless City and thy dead. 
 
Today and Yesterday 125 
 
 JIM— THE ENGINEER 
 
 Holding firmly to the throttle, like a sphinx, sat Jim 
 
 O'Dair; ,. , . • , ^ i 
 
 Often had he faced a tempest 'mid the lightnmg s awlul 
 
 glare; i .i . 
 
 Thrice had he escaped collision (once, mdeed, that very 
 
 year) ; n ^ • 4. 
 
 He had learned to smile at danger— feel immune to 
 
 death or fear. 
 
 Every rail was most familiar, every crook and every 
 
 bend; . ,. 
 
 Every hill and dale a picture; every tree a standnig 
 
 Every 'Movement of his engine thrilled his being with 
 
 delight, T , 1 1 
 
 As it, plunging, rolled and thundered— thundered on- 
 ward through the night. 
 
 Like a Trojan toiled the fireman— not a blink of either 
 
 eye 
 As the firelight 'neath the boiler, flaring, lit the inky 
 
 Fell like crimson on Jim's features, made him look 
 
 a hero bold. 
 Braver than the bravest Spartan m those hallowed days 
 
 of old. 
 
 Far away his mind oft wandered; sweet, indeed, his 
 
 thoughts most kind. 
 Of the joys of home— the greeting of those dear ones 
 
 left behind; 
 
126 Today and Yesterday 
 
 And he thought of Ted — the baby — (all occurring like 
 
 a dream) 
 As he felt his hand, unmindful, crowding on a bit of 
 
 steam. 
 
 Flashed the lightning in its fury; broke the tempest in 
 
 its wrath 
 As old Sixty swiftly glided o'er its narrow, sinuous 
 
 path; 
 Dashing onward, ever onward through the darkest hours 
 
 of night 
 Like a meteor from heaven in its wild and giddy flight. 
 
 None was there to give a warning like our famous 
 
 Shelley gave. 
 And the bridgework sank beneath him and he sank 
 
 beneath the wave. 
 Fate, grim Fate, had so decreed it as the Master doth 
 
 alway, 
 And the danger came — no warning — like the fated 
 
 Firth of Tay. 
 
 By the window stood the Mother — in her arms a baby 
 held; 
 
 And her heart was full of anguish ; in her eyes the tear- 
 drops welled. 
 
 She had had a premonition that was robbing her of rest, 
 
 And she tightly clasped the baby, softly, gently to her 
 breast. 
 
 "What is that I hear, dear Mother?" (Bessie asked — 
 
 with eyes a-gleam) 
 "Like the noise of grinding girders and the sound of 
 
 hissing steam?" 
 
Today and Yesterday 127 
 
 Down she knelt beside her Mother, prayed to God most 
 
 fervently 
 For the safety of her Father — prayed as only she could 
 
 pray. 
 
 Long they waited for his coming, where the fire was 
 
 burning bright — 
 Watched and waited for the Father through the long 
 
 and weary night. 
 O the horror of the moment ! O the anguish and despair 
 Of a terror-stricken Mother, and a child's unanswered 
 
 prayer! 
 
 <::> <::> <::> 
 
 HAD I THE WINGS OF AN EAGLE 
 
 Had I the wings of an eagle, its plumage and grace; 
 
 I say, 
 Had I the wings of an eagle, I surely would fly away; 
 Away ! on my airy pinions, far over the mountains glide ; 
 I would build my nest 
 In some lofty crest — 
 O'erlooking the ocean, wide. 
 
 But, since I am not an eagle with plumage and grace — 
 
 all that, 
 I'll solace myself to mingle around where the earth 
 
 is flat. 
 When I think of our dear Darius — high up in his 
 
 Father's barn — 
 I shiver a bit. 
 Thank heaven I sit 
 Much lower, I do, by darn! 
 
128 Today and Yesterday 
 
 THE RAGGED LAD 
 
 "I never meet a ragged boy on the street without feeling that I may 
 owe him a salute, for I know not what possibilities may be buttoned up 
 under his shabby coat." — Garfield. 
 
 My heart goes out to the struggling boy who garners a 
 
 humble share; 
 The honest lad, with a manly stride, unblessed by a 
 
 parent's care. 
 I pity him and I love him, too, ah! tender the heart he 
 
 knows ; 
 God bless and guard him from harm and sin — the lad 
 
 with the ragged clothes. 
 
 The world is large but it holds a place for him who will 
 
 only try, 
 And Character is the winning card that stands for a 
 
 place up high. 
 Don't pass him up for the foppish youth who banks 
 
 on his princely pose; 
 Give him a chance, he may show his hand^ — the lad with 
 
 the ragged clothes. 
 
 When others fail in their daily tasks and life is a 
 
 drudge, at best, 
 And strong hearts weaken beneath their load and long 
 
 for eternal rest; 
 Maybe that he, whom I have in mind, will triumph o'er 
 
 ills and foes 
 And take his place with the world's elect — the lad with 
 
 the ragged clothes. 
 
Today and Yesterday 129 
 
 The narrow path is a righteous one; it crosses the fields 
 of sin; 
 
 Though long its way, the reward is sure, who follows 
 it close will win. 
 
 Perhaps you'll find, in the after years (no telling- 
 God only knows) 
 
 A statesman great, or a President— the lad with the 
 ragged clothes. 
 
 So, don't be hard on the worthy lad but give him a 
 
 helping hand — 
 A little boost, it will cost you naught— save strength 
 
 at 3^our own command; 
 He'll not forget and the day may come (a day of 
 
 remorse and woes) 
 When you'd be glad, could you clasp his hand — the lad 
 
 with the ragged clothes. 
 
 <::> <:> <;:> 
 
 LOVE'S SEQUEL 
 
 lead me away from the city — from its everlasting 
 
 roar. 
 From scenes that are weird, unpleasant, to the quietude 
 
 of yore; 
 Yes, back to the little tavern— the much revered abode, 
 That shared with the weary traveler a home along the 
 
 road. 
 
 1 think of a little maiden with love in her roguish eyes, 
 Whose hair was a golden color, as fair as the Autumn 
 
 skies ; 
 
130 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Who dwelt in a country tavern, in bygone days of old ; 
 Who danced and sang for the travelers and fairy stories 
 told. 
 
 A youth, in his pride and glory, as he wandered on his 
 
 way, 
 Footsore from his weary journey, saw the coyish maid 
 
 one day, 
 And charmed by her youthful beauty, he stopped to 
 
 rest a spell 
 And fell in the hands of Cupid who lingered in the dell. 
 
 Oh, sad was his heart, I tell you, when he said a last 
 
 "Good-bye!" 
 And left on his tiresome journey with a tender look 
 
 and sigh; 
 While, there in the road, the maiden (with looks that 
 
 speak — not tell) 
 Glanced after the youthful hero and waved a fond 
 
 farewell. 
 
 Years passed and the youth returning from the city 
 
 (rich and wise) 
 Observed through the open window (at a glance) those 
 
 roguish eyes; 
 Alas! by her side another, with a cherub on his knee; 
 He felt in his heart the ending of all that he prayed 
 
 might be. 
 
 So, onward he rode — not stopping, for his heart was 
 
 filled with pain 
 To see by her side another, and to feel his love in vain ; 
 And back to the city's splendor he went but never told 
 How love crept away to another while he was seeking 
 
 gold. 
 
Today and Yesterday 131 
 
 SWANS OF THE OCEAN 
 
 (A toast to the American Sailors on their trip around the Horn.) 
 
 Sail onward! O Swans of the Ocean, o'er the blue and 
 
 briny deep, 
 Away on your perilous journey — 'tis a guard you ever 
 
 keep; 
 So, here's to the mightiest vessels that ever our Banner 
 
 bore; 
 And here's to the bravest of sailors who guardeth a 
 
 freeman's shore. 
 
 Where travel our ships on the ocean, or, at anchor in 
 
 harbor, lay; 
 Where flutters our Pennant ("Old Glory") it is there 
 
 that our wishes stray; 
 And love for the weak is our motto, 'twas ever and will 
 
 be still. 
 But woe to the great and the mighty who trespass our 
 
 sacred will. 
 
 God ruleth the waves and He guideth (with a kindness 
 
 known of yore) 
 Our ships o'er the treacherous billows — by the stormy, 
 
 rocky shore; 
 His word is the law of our Nation, His blessings we 
 
 ever invoke; 
 God spare them — our trustworthy sailors — and shield 
 
 them from tyranny's yoke. 
 
Today and Yesterday 133 
 
 UNCLE JOE 
 
 Just been down to see the "kids" — made my weekly call; 
 
 Found them well and full of fun, 
 
 Hopping round and on the run — 
 Older ones, and small. 
 
 Sister Ann is doing fine (so it 'pears to me) ; 
 
 All the children love to mind, 
 
 She is alwaj^s very kind — 
 Kind as she can be. 
 
 When I drive in, by the lane, loudly do they shout ; 
 
 Every youngster does his best 
 
 Running forth to beat the rest — 
 Little, big, and stout. 
 
 Sakes but it's a royal treat every time I go; 
 
 Sister says : "From morn till night 
 
 They be watching for a sight 
 Of their Uncle Joe." 
 
 I am thinking pretty strong — going there to stay; 
 
 What's the use to live alone 
 
 With no "kiddies" of your own? 
 Sure, it doesn't pay! 
 
 So, I guess I'll pack my duds — make a lasting call; 
 
 Couldn't ask for any more 
 
 Than a seat near heaven's door — 
 With those youngsters, all. 
 
 When you've nothing else to do — nowhere else to go ; 
 
 Drop around and with us share. 
 
 All the "kiddies" will be there 
 With their Uncle Joe. 
 
134 Today and Yesterday 
 
 VALUE OF FRIENDSHIP 
 
 If I had friends both tried and true; 
 
 If I had friends, perchance, like you; 
 
 If I had friends in whom to trust, 
 
 As true as steel and fair and just. 
 
 Perhaps, 
 
 Perhaps ! 
 
 I might feel different today 
 
 While plodding on my weary way. 
 
 But then. 
 
 Ah, then! 
 
 I say: 
 
 If I had friends as pure as gold, 
 
 Such friends as others wish to hold. 
 
 My heart would leap with joy supreme 
 
 And life would ever be a dream. 
 
 But, oh, 
 
 No, no! 
 
 The varied friendships we must buy, 
 
 They never last, they quickly die. 
 
 The friendships, such as I desire. 
 
 Are heaven-born — with love afire, 
 
 Not shams, like faithless vows in play. 
 
 But everlasting — day by day! 
 
Today and Yesterday 135 
 
 MARANDY AN' I 
 
 I've hearn et oft said thet "a feller's a fool 
 Ter live all 'is life like a petrified mule, 
 'Way back, in th' woods, with th' bat an' th' owl, 
 A-hoardin' o' money an' eatin' o' fowl; 
 A-swillin' th' pigs, an' a-milkin' th' cows, 
 From mornin' till ev'nin' a follerin' plows, 
 An' runnin' th' churn fer th' people, in town, 
 Who spread et on thicker 'n Ringlin's ol' clown. 
 It's gee, haw an' gee, from mornin' till night. 
 An' never see nothin' thet's worthy o' sight." 
 
 We argued together an' talked et all o'er; 
 I told 'er about et, she told me some more; 
 We came ter th' 'elusion, Marandy an' I, 
 Ter visit th' city — a- fore we should die. 
 
 There's Mary, our daughter, she married last spring; 
 
 Marandy an' I did th' very best thing: 
 
 We built 'em a house, an' we furnished et, too. 
 
 With ev'rything needed — like parents should do. 
 
 We built on a section adjoinin' our land 
 
 An' gave 'em a deed thet forever will stand. 
 
 They're prosp'rous an' happy: fer sech we are glad; 
 
 God never put breath in a wiUin'er lad ; 
 
 I'll bet my ol' mare he'll be "pumpkins"; some day 
 
 They'll 'lect 'im ter congress an' take 'im away: 
 
 He's sharper 'n tacks, an' yo' orter be nigh 
 
 An' listen 'im talk ter Marandy an' I. 
 
 He knows a few points 'bout this life an' success 
 Thet many a' ol' one would like ter possess. 
 
136 Today and Yesterday 
 
 So, then, while away — on our visit ter town — 
 He looked after things an' he did 'em up brown ; 
 We di'n't hav' ter worry a whit 'bout th' stock 
 So long as Marandy had bills in 'er sock. 
 
 We've lived in th' country nigh all o' our days 
 An' followed our parents' profession an' ways. 
 Th' school on th' hill-top — three quarters away — 
 Wuz where we first met as wee children at play. 
 Marandy's grandfather, he taught th' ol' school 
 An' laid down th' law with a sancterfied rule; 
 He made all us youngsters sit straight an' walk fast, 
 An' sorrow fer '/m who made eyes when he passed. 
 
 When harvest wuz o'er an' th' grain in th' bins, 
 An' nothin' a-doin' 'cept warmin' our shins, 
 An' ev'nin's were long an' th' fields drifted high, 
 Then, over th' hills, ter th' schoolhouse we'd fly 
 Ter spellin' school matches — gee- whiz! what a time 
 Us youngsters all had — without costin' a dime. 
 Th' horses they liked et; a whifF o' fresh air 
 Jest set 'em a goin' like dogs on a tear 
 As over th' fence-tops we sped in our flight 
 Like witches I've hearn of an' dreamed of at night. 
 
 When Johnny left home (thet wuz two years ago), 
 Et made us feel lonesome; yo' see, 'twas jest so: 
 Our boy had outgrowd all th' learnin' an' rule 
 We had, here at home, an' we sent 'im ter school. 
 He kinder imagined a lawyer he'd be, 
 A doctor, a preacher — some one o' th' three. 
 
 We fitted 'im out in th' very best style 
 An' gave 'im a pension ter run 'im a while. 
 We longed ter be with 'im an' visit our boy 
 Who sent us sech letters o' infinite joy. 
 
Today and Yesterday 137 
 
 We longed ter embrace 'im; we wisht we could fly 
 Away ter th' city — Marandy an' I. 
 
 "Ding-dong!" said th' bell, like a flash we were gone, 
 An' seatin' ourselves in th' car, we flew on. 
 Gee-whiz! how th' fences took up in th' race 
 An' swept by th' winders — like hounds on a chase. 
 Marandy an' I lost our breath f er a while 
 And neither could catch et f er nearly a mile. 
 When "toot-a-toot-toot" went th' whistle once more. 
 An' both o' us wisht ourselves out o' th' door. 
 
 I said ter Marandy: "Be calm an' keep cool," 
 An' other folks laughed 'cause they thought 'er a fool 
 Fer hidin' 'er face on my breast as we flew — 
 Afraid o' some demon — like babies oft do. 
 While on w^ent th' train, with ets rattle an' roar, 
 A-tearin' up sand as et rushed 'long th' shore; 
 An' neighbors came out o' their houses ter see 
 Th' wonderful train thet they hearn et ter be; 
 An' horses an' pigs stood amazed — in their eye 
 A look o' farewell fer Marandy and I. 
 
 "O, dear," said Marandy, a-catchin' 'er breath, 
 "Et seems we are ridin' — a-goin' ter death! 
 Don't like et a whit, an' I'd ruther be where 
 Th' birds an' th' bees, with their noise, fill th' air— 
 A-ridin' along — on th' road — by th' farm. 
 Behind our oF Polly — no danger o' harm." 
 
 O' course I agreed, fer I felt jest a mite 
 Uneasy, myself, o'er th' terrible fright. 
 I thought as I sat by th' winder, thet day: 
 "I'd ruther be ridin' a new load o' hay; 
 
138 Today and Yesterday 
 
 Let all o' 'em have et, who love et, I low 
 I'd ruther be ridin' a hay-rake or plow." 
 
 Well, Johnny wuz there — as we spected he'd be — 
 
 But, oh! what a different youngster wuz he — 
 
 His face wuz all swollen, th' end o' 'is nose 
 
 Wuz somethin' resemblin' a cherry or rose. 
 
 An' oh! (jest ter think et) he stood (o-u-r o-w-n p-e-t) 
 
 A-chewin' an' puffin' a long cigarette. 
 
 Marandy, she gave me a wonderful look, 
 
 An' both o' us thought o' th' little prayer book 
 
 We gave 'im thet day, when we kissed 'im good-bye 
 
 An' wisht 'im "safe journey" — Marandy an' I. 
 
 If any yo' fellers should journey ter town. 
 
 Beware o' th' eels an' th' sharks thet come roun'! 
 
 Marandy an' I had our share o' th' luck 
 
 O' greenhorns who venture an' always get stuck. 
 
 We found thet th' city wuz no place fer boys 
 
 Or innocent gals in their innocent joys; 
 
 Th' thief an' th' robber were runnin' th' thing; 
 
 Th' devil, himself, had 'is foot on th' string. 
 
 No wonder thum fellers complain o' their lot — 
 
 Each workin' th' other fer all he has got; 
 
 An' Johnny — our Johnny — wuz slipp'ry an' shy, 
 
 He teched us fer money — Marandy an' I. 
 
 Yo' talk about th' city an' its wealth an' fun galore. 
 We've had our fill, forever, o' ets everlastin' roar, 
 Et's money here, an' money there; no matter where 
 
 yo' go 
 Th' feller from th' country hasn't got a lick o' show. 
 I'd ruther hustle taters — gather pumpkins in th' fall. 
 An' do a thousand other things I do not now recall; 
 
Today and Yesterday 139 
 
 I'd ruther spend my money on my cattle an' my hogs, 
 Invest my extra surplus in a herd o' yaller dogs. 
 Et's back inter th' country, with th' butterflies an' bees, 
 Where yo' get th' scent o' clover an' th' blossoms o' the 
 
 trees ; 
 There! is joy fer us — eternal, from th' beggars we are 
 
 free ; 
 Like Marandy, I am satisfied, ets good enough fer me. 
 
 -Q^ <:> <:> 
 
 HAD I A THOUSAND SONS 
 
 Although I do abhor 
 The wickedness of war. 
 
 This much I hold as right: 
 Had I a thousand sons, 
 (And they as many guns) 
 I'd bid them all God-speed 
 To battle, die and bleed 
 
 For Freedom's holy right; 
 And should they all return — 
 
 Their mission be in vain, 
 I'd welcome them with loving heart 
 
 But send them back again; 
 Back to the line of battle, 
 
 Back to the depths of hell, 
 To seek the foe — 
 Come weal or woe — 
 
 And say: "O Lord, 'tis well!" 
 
140 Today and Yesterday 
 
 WEEP NOT FOR ME 
 
 Weep not for me, when I am gone, 
 Nor waste thy flowers in vain display; 
 
 The straggling spirit — passing on — 
 Once parted from its earthly clay 
 Is bomid to find its destined way. 
 
 Weep not for me, nor wish me back 
 
 (When once my soul hath taken flight) 
 
 From out the deep, unfathomed black — 
 Beyond the far, outstretching night, 
 For, surely, it will find the light. 
 
 Weep not for me, but let thy prayers 
 Forever follow me instead. 
 
 When life is o'er — its pain and cares — 
 Then gently, softly rest my head 
 Devoutly, on a Christian's bed. 
 
 Weep not, I say, weep not for me! 
 In death doth Life fulfillment find; 
 
 Though dark the hour of mercy be — 
 To future life the eyes be blind — 
 Some sunsliine may remain behind. 
 

 
 
 
 
 
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