Part 6 (2/2)

See how the autumn leaves float by decaying, Down the wild swirls of the rain-swollen stream.

So fleet the works of men, back to their earth again; Ancient and holy things fade like a dream.

Nay! see the spring-blossoms steal forth a-maying, Clothing with tender hues orchard and glen; So, though old forms pa.s.s by, ne'er shall their spirit die, Look! England's bare boughs show green leaf again.

Eversley, 1848.

THE WATCHMAN

'Watchman, what of the night?'

'The stars are out in the sky; And the merry round moon will be rising soon, For us to go sailing by.'

'Watchman, what of the night?'

'The tide flows in from the sea; There's water to float a little c.o.c.kboat Will carry such fishers as we.'

'Watchman, what of the night?'

'The night is a fruitful time; When to many a pair are born children fair, To be christened at morning chime.'

1849.

THE WORLD'S AGE

Who will say the world is dying?

Who will say our prime is past?

Sparks from Heaven, within us lying, Flash, and will flash till the last.

Fools! who fancy Christ mistaken; Man a tool to buy and sell; Earth a failure, G.o.d-forsaken, Anteroom of h.e.l.l.

Still the race of Hero-spirits Pa.s.s the lamp from hand to hand; Age from age the Words inherits-- 'Wife, and Child, and Fatherland.'

Still the youthful hunter gathers Fiery joy from wold and wood; He will dare as dared his fathers Give him cause as good.

While a slave bewails his fetters; While an orphan pleads in vain; While an infant lisps his letters, Heir of all the age's gain; While a lip grows ripe for kissing; While a moan from man is wrung; Know, by every want and blessing, That the world is young.

1849.

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