FOR A BIRTHDAY
Wiser and older grownI will not wish you, nor say,“Many returns of the day!”Nor bid for happiness—Since Life will ban or blessStill in the old, stern way.If years be a boon or curseI reckon a close-drawn thing;And doubt if the good they bringOutweighs by a hair the pain—If the loss sink not the gain—Yet, be yours as you onward wend,Strong soul, and rest at the end.