Volume I Part 7 (1/2)

Hark to the voice of the wind!

It has swept through the gloomy forest, Where the sledge was urged to its speed, Where the howling wolves were rus.h.i.+ng On the track of the panting steed.

Where the pool was black and lonely, It caught up a splash and a cry-- Only the bleak sky heard it, And the wind as it hurried by.

Hark to the voice of the wind!

Then throw more logs on the fire, Since the air is bleak and cold, And the children are drawing nigher, For the tales that the wind has told.

So closer and closer gather Round the red and crackling light; And rejoice (while the wind is blowing) We are safe and warm to-night.

Hark to the voice of the wind!

VERSE: TREASURES

Let me count my treasures, All my soul holds dear, Given me by dark spirits Whom I used to fear.

Through long days of anguish, And sad nights, did Pain Forge my s.h.i.+eld, Endurance, Bright and free from stain!

Doubt, in misty caverns, 'Mid dark horrors sought, Till my peerless jewel, Faith to me she brought.

Sorrow, that I wearied Should remain so long, Wreathed my starry glory, The bright Crown of Song.

Strife, that racked my spirit, Without hope or rest, Left the blooming flower, Patience, on my breast.

Suffering, that I dreaded, Ignorant of her charms, Laid the fair child, Pity, Smiling, in my arms.

So I count my treasures, Stored in days long past-- And I thank the givers, Whom I know at last!

VERSE: s.h.i.+NING STARS

s.h.i.+ne, ye stars of heaven, On a world of pain!

See old Time destroying All our h.o.a.rded gain; All our sweetest flowers, Every stately shrine, All our hard-earned glory, Every dream divine!

s.h.i.+ne, ye stars of heaven, On the rolling years!

See how Time, consoling, Dries the saddest tears, Bids the darkest storm-clouds Pa.s.s in gentle rain; While upspring in glory, Flowers and dreams again!

s.h.i.+ne, ye stars of heaven, On a world of fear!

See how Time, avenging, Bringeth judgment here; Weaving ill-won honours To a fiery crown; Bidding hard hearts perish; Casting proud hearts down.

s.h.i.+ne, ye stars of heaven, On the hours' slow flight!

See how Time, rewarding, Gilds good deeds with light; Pays with kingly measure; Brings earth's dearest prize; Or, crowned with rays diviner, Bids the end arise!

VERSE: WAITING

”Wherefore dwell so sad and lonely, By the desolate sea-sh.o.r.e, With the melancholy surges Beating at your cottage door?