Sarab bammond Palfrey. 1830. THE LIGHT-HOUSE. O'er waves that murmur ever nigh I lose myself in idle dreams, And wake in smiles or sighs or fright, Forever there, and still the same; It draws my heart towards those who roam Unknown, nor to be known by me; I see it, and am glad at home, They see it, and are safe at sea. The common air has generous wings : No messenger to run before, Devising plan; No mention of the place, or hour, No waiting till some sound betrays No different voice, no new delays, "What bird is that? The song is good." And eager eyes Go peering through the dusky wood Then, late at night, when by his fire, Watching the flame grow brighter, higher, By snatches, through his weary brain, When next he goes that road again, On leafless bough will make him sigh: Just here I heard, in passing by, But while he sighs, remembering How sweet the song, The little bird, on tireless wing, In other air; and other men, On other roads, the simple strain Are finding sweet. The birds must know. Who wisely sings The common air has generous wings: A LAST PRAYER. Father, I scarcely dare to pray, So clear I see that things I thought So clear I see that I have hurt The souls I might have helped to save, In outskirts of Thy kingdoms vast, Unknown. THE THRUSH. Songster of the russet coat, Full and liquid is thy note; Plain thy dress, but great thy skill, Small musician of the field, Near my bower thy tribute yield, Little servant of the ear, Ply thy task, and never fear. I will learn from thee to praise Edmund Clarence Stedman. 1833. THE SINGER. O lark! sweet lark! Where learn you all minstrelsy? What realms are those to which you fly? Forever in the sky. O child! dear child! Above the clouds I lift my wing To hear the bells of Heaven ring; Some of their music, though my flights be wild, To Earth I bring: Then let me soar and sing! FROM "THE ORDEAL BY FIRE." Thou, who dost feel Life's vessel strand Be strong and wait! nor let the strife, |