THE ARGUMENT.—Address to Memory. Spring-time described. Thoughts and fancies connected with it. Builds a log barn. Spring employments. Increase of trials. WILLIAM'S sickness. His Song on Christian Warfare. Good to himself from its composition. Leaves Bush for Village again.Tinkersin the country. Thoughts and feelings in connection with it. Preaches in public under peculiar circumstances. Introduced to his future Father-in-law's family. Visits their house. Reception. Description of his future Wife, and Sisters. Anecdote. Commences business. Visits the States to bin tools. Takes Niagara in his way. Scenery above Lewiston. First sight of Rapids; of the Falls. Song to them. Conclusion.
O, Memory! What art thou? Whence thy power?Thy wonders are displayed from hour to hourOf my existence. By thy powerful aidSweet Childhood's scenes most truthfully are madeTo pass before me in such vividness,I stand amazed, and thy great skill confess!By thy assistance, things long lost to viewSpring forth surprisingly—both fresh and new.I travel back through more than thirty years,With all their toils and pleasures, griefs and fears.Go where I may, thou ever art with me,As Counsellor and Friend, dear Memory!Thy secret depths I would again explore,And must draw largely ere my task be o'er.Be thou noignis fatuusto allureMe from the paths of truth, nor it obscure,While I attempt to paint the coming scenes,Which COOPER passed through with such slender means,'Tis early Spring-time, and the opening budsBestud the boughs of trees through all the woods.The snow and frost remain till rather late;But Sol's great power for this will compensate.He, aided by soft winds and copious rain,Will melt the snow, and break stern Winter's chain.The Frost-King, thus so suddenly dethroned,May vent his rage, as if a giant groaned;Or muster scattered forces and come backOnce and again, to the repulsed attack!And when he finds his efforts all in vain,May hurl defiance on Spring's beauteous train;And, from his region of eternal snow,Send rude North winds to strike a deadly blow;To nip the fairest blossoms in the bud,And blast, in spite, thegardener'sprospects good.Yet One, Almighty, will his rage control;His fiat has gone forth, "Let Seasons rollIn quick succession, while the Earth endures!"And this, great benefits to us secures.
The birds begin to pair; the grass to spring;And Maple sap is scarce worth gathering;Yet, when it won't makesugar,some prepareSyrup, and vinegar, of flavor rare.On every hand the brightly green-robed treesMay hear their finery rustling in the breeze;And pleased, like mortals, with their gay attire,May feel a strong, vain-glorious desireTo have a glass in which to view their charms,Or mark the effect of each rude blast's alarms.Some, far more highly favored than the rest,Have such a mirror as may suit them best.Of these are they which grow beside a stream,And, all day long, of their own beautv dream;Or those that grace the margins of a lake,Whose face reflects the grand display they make.Ah, these imaginings are far from just;Fair Nature would much rather sink to dustThan thus dishonor her great Maker's name!And we, vain sinners, should be filled with shame,To be so far behind in praises meet—Neglecting duty that should still be sweet.Up to this time our Emigrants contrivedTo keep from debt, though they themselves deprivedFar, far too often, of substantial food—Which, in the end, did them but little good.Yet day by day they toiled with eagerness,In hope that God would their joint efforts bless.
To build a barn of logs they now prepare;This gives them much hard labor, and some care.To put it up they call a "Raising Bee;"And, wishful to prevent ebriety,They buy nowhisky; but, instead of it,Have cakes and coffee, which are far more fit.The work was gone through in true Bush-man style,Although a few assumed a scornful smile,And would, no doubt, have been well satisfiedTo have theliquor-jugstill by their side.This job completed, Spring work next came on,And, truly, there was plenty to be done!The man from whom they bought their "Indian lease"Had madebrush fences, and there was no peaceFrom "breachy" cattle, breaking through with ease,To eat the crops as often as they please!To cut down trees, and split them into railsFor laying fence, is work which seldom failsThe new Bush farmer, who must ever beUpon the move, and used to industry.Such was their case; and. Oh! the aching limb,And sinking heart, as prospects grew more dim!
Anon, the sun shoots down such powerful rays,As seems to set the air almost a-blaze!They felt the previous Summer very hot;But that, through Winter's cold, was quite forgot.Besides, as yet 'twas Spring; then why this heat?Their strength was small from lack of proper meat.'Tis true, they did not want for dailybread;But Bush-life should with stronger food be fed.In lieu of tea, they used rootsassafrasSo much and often, that they all, alas!Not only cleansed their moderate share of blood,But thinned it far too much to do them good!WILLIAM, especially, became so weakHe could scarce bear to work, or e'en to speak.When he essayed to stoop, his back seemed broke;And courage failed beneath the heavy stroke.
The different remedies which friends advised,All failed to bring the health he so much prized.His fond hopes crushed, he tried to bow his head,Submissive to the will of Him who bledFor such poor sinners, on the "cursed tree;"And found some comfort in his misery.One day his spirits sank extremely low—And Faith, herself, fled from him in his woe;When, like a flash of lightning, to his mindA passage came, sent by his FATHER kind!"Fight the good fight of Faith," with magic worthRang through his soul, and very soon gave birthTo a most lively, energetic Song,On Christian Warfare—in which he was long.I give the verses, with an earnest prayerThat all my Readers may their spirit share,And seek for grace to help them still to fightThe "Fight of Faith," as in their Maker's sight!
THE CHRISTIAN'S BATTLE-SONG."Fight the Good Fight of Faith."
Soldiers of Jesus! say—Where is your armor?The word has gone forth; you are called on to fight!Still doth the conflict grow warmer and warmer;Then trust in your Captain for wisdom and might!
Soldiers of Jesus! mind well your behavior;See those proud foes, how undaunted they stand!Hark well to the words of your loving Savior:"Be ye also ready!" Regard this command.
Soldiers of Jesus! O, be not alarmed!Your glorious Captain has conquered them all!Rouse, then, your courage! Be never disarmed!Your enemies seek to accomplish your fall.
Soldiers of Jesus! Immanuel's banner—Most glorious of Ensigns—is reared up on high;Fight ye! O, fight ye! in soldier-like manner;Jehovah, to help you, forever is nigh!
Soldiers of Jesus! the foes you contend withAre subtle, expert, they are many and great;Your armor's so tempered, that it will ne'er bend withBeing used well against them; nor early, nor late.
Take Breastplate of Righteousness—take Shield of Faith!By which you are able to quench all the dartsOf your great Antagonist! For, so He saithWho styles Himself "Faithful," and who strength imparts.
To these be there added "Salvation's bright Helmet,And Sword of the Spirit—the Word of your God."That God who your Foes with destruction o'erwhelmeth,And rules both the Heavens and Earth with his nod.
Still praying "with prayer and great supplication,In the spirit of Truth, and watching thereto,With all perseverence, for the edificationOf Brethren—the Saints," who are Soldiers like you.
Soldiers of Jesus! now fight with all ardorBeneath that bright Banner now high and unfurled!O, doubt not but Jesus will be your Rewarder,When from their proud standing your foes He has hurled!
Soldiers of Jesus! your Captain is waitingTo give you a Crown—a most glorious reward!Forward! press forward! success contemplating;He'll give you the Victory; this promise regard.
Soldiers of Jesus! behold Him descendingUpon a White Throne, His bright Angels around!The "glorified throng" are upon Him attending;Before Him all Nations and Kindreds are found.
Hear those glad words, "Come, ye bless'd of my Father!Inherit the Kingdom prepared long for you!"Then glory to Him and the Father together;With the blest Holy Spirit, to whom it is due!
The composition of these lively verses,Was made to him one of his greatest mercies;They roused his courage by their warlike tone,And made him feel he was not left aloneTo fight against a host of watchful foes:For One was with him who felt all his woes;Who had Himself through every trial been,And still is with his people, though unseen!Such sweet reflections had this good effectUpon his mind: they led him to respect,More than he yet had done, pure Bible truth;And thus he learned to bear Christ's yoke in youth.His soul—so sensitive—was led, at last,Her every grief, her every fear to castUpon her God, with simple faith—unfeigned;And found His promise true; she was sustained.
His body still was weak; and on the farmHe could not work without receiving harm.To be aclerkhe was not now inclined—'Twas not a life congenial to his mind;To work at his own trade he thought was best,Which thought to several friends he then expressed.These all agreed it would be right to tryTo find employment in the Village nigh.In it was one who carried on the trade,Who, to appearance, had a fortune made.To him he then applied, with some success,To get a job, and wrought with eagerness.Alas! it only lasted for a week,And he was thus compelled fresh work to seek.That Brother, who before had stood his friend,Now kindly offered ample means to lendTo start in business on his own account;But COOPER dreamt he never could surmountThe difficulties which beset him round,So inexperienced as he should be found.The work required, to him, was mostly new,And made up bymachines, as well he knew.To work with these must be his chief concern;But where was he to go such work to learn,Unless he made too great a sacrificeOf Christian privilege? This, in his eyes,Was of such moment, that he rather choseTo struggle with chill Want, and other woes,Until such time as God saw fit to showTo him the path in which he ought to go.
Meanwhile, astinker, he two irons took,With solder, rosin, and the Christian's Book!Equipped in this way 'mongst his friends he went,And happy hours in work and trav'ling spent.Of mending tins he had enough to do;And got good board, and decent wages, too.Ere long he visited more distant farms,And found his calling not devoid of charms.On Nature's varied face he still could gaze,And each new scene presented fresh displaysOf God's Omnipotence and boundless love,Which raised his thoughts from Earth to things above.While, ever and anon, he found a friendTo give him work, and press on him to spendThe night, in comfort, 'neath his friendly roof;And thus afford the most substantial proof,That Human-kindness in its warmest glowWants but Occasion, its full worth to show!Sometimes a Settler viewed him with suspicion,And paused ere he would give the least permissionFor him to enter his small, rude, log dwelling,While WILLIAM'S heart was with keen feelings swelling.Anon, a gentle word would turn the scale—The man would list the youthful tinker's tale;Would give a hearty welcome to his house,And introduce him to his thrifty spouse;Would bid her bring; that leakypail, orpan,Which had been tinkered by "that other man,"Who got from her the pewter spoons, and lead,His supper, breakfast, and a nice clean bed;Then took the metal every bit away,Saying he got not half enough for pay!When WILLIAM heard such things he did not wonderThat farmers, sometimes, looked as black as thunderWhen he applied for work, or lodging soughtWith earnestness, which fear of want had taught.All he now earned went to the family store,And thus he kept 'as poor as heretofore.
About this time, an invitation cameTo their small Church, to spread Christ's glorious name.Two Brethren were deputed each Lord's DayTo do the work, but not for worldly pay.They tried to carry out the Lord's command,Which few, in this our day, can understand:"Freely ye have received—so freely give;More blessed 'tis to give than to receive."
On one of these occasions COOPER wentWith a dear Brother, who to preach was sent.That Brother was ta'en sick, and could not preach;WILLIAM, in public, was not wont to teach.But He, whose sacred name they bore, was there;On Him the youth now strove to cast his care.The school-room—such it was—was crowded quite,Yet he felt nothing daunted at the sight.'Twas well, perhaps, that every face was newTo him, and all the future hid from view;For in that very room two maidens sate,Both destined to be his in marriage state.And greatly influence his future fate!Had he known this—so sensitive was he—It might have him unmanned to such degree,As to prevent completely the dischargeOf duties which, to him, looked very large.But as it was, he saw before him thereThe old and young, whose looks bespoke some careFor their salvation. That most precious theme,Of whose great worth the worldly-wise ne'er dream,He with strong feelings urged upon them all;And there were hearts responding to the call!Such deep attention never had he seenIn any Meeting, in his life, I ween!It thrilled his very soul, and made him speak,In glowing language, of the Savior meek—Whose love to sinners moved him to lay byHis own great Glory, and come here to die!The good accomplished on that Sabbath day,Ten thousand fold his labor did repay.His unpremeditated preaching wentHome to some hearts—a Heavenly message, sentBy God's good Spirit, as a proof to beOf Grace most wondrous to Eternity!
The simple service reached at last its close;When the sick Brother to some hearers goesTo learn their welfare, and his own impart,With strongest tokens of a friendly heart.Those persons were both English—man and wife—Who knew, for years, the toils of Bush-farm life.To them was introduced the new-made preacher,Just then mistaken for an older teacher.Due explanations made, they him inviteTo call and see them, and stay over night.He, nothing loath, the invitation kindAt once accepted, with delighted mind.The two return, and with their Brethren meetTo join in worship—simple, pure and sweet.
The incidents of that blest Sabbath dayHaunted his mind, till he could not delayA visit to his new-made, kindly friends,In hopes that it might tend to make amendsFor great privations, every day endured,Whilst but a mere subsistence was secured.He therefore took his bag and tools once more,To call at places never seen before.He, in his wanderings, to a Village came,Which had, for water-power, acquired some fame;There he found work that did a day employ,And learned what gave to him much greater joy—How some five miles would bring him to the farm,Where he might hope to meet a welcome warm.Fatigued, he reached the house in strangest plight—For sweat and dust made him a sorry sight.The mother was engaged in converse thereWith her first-born—a daughter blithe and fair.These knew him not—so different his arrayFrom What it was upon that Sabbath day.And though he gave to each a friendly greeting,It might have proved a rather chilly meeting,Had not the youngest daughter whispered thus;"'Tis the young preacher come to visit us."This was enough; apologies were made,And perfect welcome speedily displayed.In sweet discourse they sat a little while,Whenteawas served, in most superior style,Cooper of such a meal had never tasted,Since he from his dear native land had hasted.This o'er, the conversation they resume,While truth's clear rays afresh their minds illume.This was to him a most important day;For gloomy clouds then broke and fled away.His future, once so dark, now brighter grew,And filled his soul with gratitude anew.
That mother's care assigned him the "best bed,"On which to lay his weary limbs and head.Most sweetly did the Wanderer sleep and rest,As though by grief he ne'er had been oppressed,He rose, refreshed, soon after break of day,And thankfully his "Orisons did pay."
While these dear folks the breakfast were preparing,He to mend leakytinsno pains was sparing.For what he did he would not make a charge—His Independence was a trait too large;But that kind mother would not be repaidIn work or money for her love displayed.She fixed the price—a very liberal one—And paid thecashfor all that he had done.Perhaps my readers think this matron's eyesSaw, in the tinker, a most likely prizeTo win, as husband, for her daughter fair;But surely they must be mistaken there!This family's standing was considered good;WILLIAM, amongst the very poorest stood:And, in his tinkering garb, was not a matchFor that fair girl, whom many strove to catch.Let this be as it might; he left the houseWithout proposing to make her his spouse.Yet not without the strongest inclinationTo make short intervals of separation.
Their daughter, Jane, was in her twentieth year,And did to him a lovely maid appeal.He knew her soon as skilled in house affairs,But ever lacking vain, coquettish airs.Her form was graceful, and of medium size,And sweet good nature beamed in her bright eyes.Her face, for most part, wore a pleasant smile,While her dear heart ne'er harbored aught of guile.Her charms were such that COOPER'S heart, ere long,Could not resist their influence so strong.Nor need we wonder much, for soon he learnedShe had good offers, in great plenty, spurned,Before she knew the Tinsmith—so forlorn—Whose poor appearance ne'er drew forth her scorn.
Phebe, the youngest girl, was quite a lass,Who might not yet have used a looking-glass.Possessed of bright brown eyes and cheerful face,On which, of sorrow, none could find a trace—Unless her paleness might be viewed as such;Yet all who read her eyes would doubt it much.Of lively spirits, and most active turn,Still fond of work, she could not fail to learnSuch household duties as her mother thoughtBest that her girls should, in their youth, be taught.To be a favorite, Phebe scarce could fail;And parents rightly named her, "Nightingale!"For, while asleep, she oft would sing at nightSome lively tune, and always sing it right.Between these two, in age and temperament,Another girl was to that couple lent.She, than her sisters, always seemed more shy,At least, if strangers happened to be nigh.All three grew up good-looking, and becameAs faithful wives as e'er were known to fame.One chubby babe, and three more sprightly boys,Ranked 'mongst the number of this family's joys.
Meanwhile a curious incident occurred,To mention which may harmless mirth afford.Our hero long had wished to take a tourStill further North, 'mongst farmers far from poor;And when returning—say onFriday night—To hold ameeting, if his friends thought right.The place agreed upon was their "large room"—One large enough, if neighbors all should come.This, settled, off he went for several days,Toiling and sweating under Sol's strong rays.Sometimes with Christians of most generous souls;Anon, with those whose conduct him appals,Till the important day at last came round;When at a house, hard by, hetinkeringfound.The work all done, they ask him to partakeRefreshment with them, for pure kindness' sake.He thankfully complied with their request,And found their cheer was of the very best.The meal was served beneath a pleasant shade,And he, to each good thing was welcome made.Soon there rode by a gentleman well dressed,And the host's daughter thus herself expressed:"Most likely that's the Preacher just gone by;He's dressed in black, and wears a white neck-tie.""Perhaps so," said the father; "'tis the nightThe Meeting's held, and they did us invite."WILLIAM, meanwhile, beheld the mother's eyesCast oft upon him; and, with some surprise,She asked, "Did you not preach a month agoAt the Plains School House?" He replied, "'Twas so.""And is it you that's going to preach ere longAt our near neighbors?"Heasked, "Is it wrong?""No; only—" There's the rub! O contrast great,Betwixt the well-dressed man, andtinker's state!To do them justice, 'tis but right to add—They went to hear him, and for it were glad.
Ere many weeks he is prevailed uponTo take that kind friend's offer, and has goneTo Buffalo for tools; and on his wayMakes for Niagara, without delay.Years he had longed to see that splendid sight,And now this journey took with great delight.'Twas in the month of August; when, he foundHimself for Lewiston, by steamer, bound.The night he reached that was a sultry one—And such excitement he had never known.The room in which he tried to get some sleepHad six poor drunkards in it! [Footnote: Fact] 'So, at peepOf early dawn, he rose; then washed his face;Paid off his bill, and strove his nerves to braceBy walking o'er the seen remaining miles,With glowing feelings, and face clad in smiles.O, what a morn was that! A cooling breezeBlew from Ontario, and just moved the trees.Around, no clouds obscured the bright, blue sky;Yet o'er the Falls a mist was rising high!He clomb the "Mountain's" rugged, stony height,And often turned to gaze with fond delightUpon the scene before him. The blue LakeOne sheet of golden splendor! Sol, awake,Had sent his rays athwart that inland Sea,Ere He rose high, in glorious majesty!On either hand lay woods, and fields of grain,Stretched out, for miles, in one vast fertile plain.Upon his left rose BROCK'S plain Monument;By "sympathy"—false named—now sadly rent!The genuine fruit of murderous Civil war,Whose dogs—let loose—stop not at Virtue's bar;But oft, by their vile deeds, dare to polluteWhat men most sacred deem as worth repute.May thou, my dear, my own Adopted Land!Ne'er hear again the tramp of hostile band;Whether poured forth from neighboring foreign shore,Or fruit of thy own sons' deep thirst for gore!WILLIAM, arrived upon the mountain top,Pauses not long; he had scarce time to stop.He took the River bank, and there, below,The wondrous rapids for the first time saw.His thoughts and feelings would be hard to tell,While he stood there—bound as by magic spell.Ere long he felt a very strange desireTo brave that Water-Spirit's foaming ire!And once or twice essay'd e'en to descendThe precipice's front, to gain his end!
"O for a bathe"—thought he—"in that pure stream!Is it reality? or do I dream?Am I now standing on Niagara's brink?O that I could of its pure waters drink!"Soliloquizing thus, a thundering soundBroke on his ear, and noise of Rapids drowned!Aroused by this, he hurried faster on—The veil of mist his guide—until, anon,He reached a bend, which brought before his viewThe mighty Cataract's wonders, ever new;Yet at such distance he could not well traceThe varied beauties of that matchless place!Most eagerly he took the road again;Nor paused to seek the company of men,Who, reared amid these wonders, seldom feelThe deep emotions, or the fervid zealWhich he then felt, as nearer still he drew,And found his dreams of the Great Falls all true.At last he stood there; and, in earnest, gazedAs though he could not weary: quite amazedAt the vast grandeur of the beauteous scene,And half inclined to look on all as meanThat he had viewed before! Musing, he stoodStill as a statue, while the mighty floodDashed madly onward, as if eager stillTo take the leap, obedient to God's will!
Again he's roused by shout, away below,'Twas from a Boatman, anxious now to knowIf he would cross to the Canadian side?COOPER obeyed, with Fancy for his guide;And soon was bouncing o'er the heaving deep,Whose current forced the boat to take a sweep;While, ever and anon, a dash of sprayMade wet his clothes, as would a rainy day.They reached the landing; and he now has goneToTable-Rock, and muses still alone.The song which follows does express in partThe strong, warm feelings of his raptured heart:
Niagara! I hail thy magnificent wonders,The work of my Father—the maker of All!His voice 'tis I hear, in thy earth-shaking thunders,As "Deep unto Deep" every moment "doth call!"Waters rushing, always pushingOver the ledge of crumbling rocks;Ever leaping, never sleeping,Sound His praise in ceaseless shocks.
Thy mist to my mind seems a Pillar enshriningHis All-glorious Presence, by day and by night!Thy rainbows bespeak Him to Mercy inclining—Though none who gaze on thee are clean in His sight!Colors blending, mist ascending;All are displaying His great power!Rapids roaring, are adoringHim—their Maker—every hour!
The myriads of pearls, and bright emerald glories,Encircling thy brow, 'midst the foam and the spray,Unite in presenting the most vivid storiesOf splendor and riches which He can display!Pearls descending, without ending,Down that giddy precipice,Seem deriding our vain pride inWorks which can't compare with this.
The trees on thy banks look like worshippers standing,To pay at Thy shrine their just tribute of praise;And loudly, indeed, are their voices demanding,That man unto God his sweet anthems should raise!Each tree growing, oft is bowing,Lowly its tall majestic head;Man, still scheming, 's seldom dreamingOf this feast before him spread!
My soul, quite enraptured, could stay here forever,And drink in thy beauties with constant delight;But something within me is whispering, "NeverBe so taken up with sublunary sight!"Paths of Duty should have beautyMore than what I find in thee;For thy glories tell no storiesOf some things worth much to me.
But yet I can gaze on thy dazzling brightness—Thy rainbows, thy pearls, thy clear emerald green;On rapids still toss'd into foam of pure whiteness;On falls the most glorious that Earth has e'er seen!Strength acquiring, in admiringAll as the matchless work of God;Can, with pleasure, leave such treasure,And my journey onward plod.
Around the Falls he lingered till past noon,And still felt grieved to have to leave thus soon.So loath was he a single charm to miss,He oft went down and up the precipice,By means of spiral stairs which constant shook,As if by palsy-fit they had been struck.The engine's whistle warns him now to go,And take the cars for risingBuffalo.In that new City he arrived ere night,Which gave to him but very small delight.Tools soon he found—sold onlyby the set;And with his funds, the price could not be met.Here was afix! Naught for him now remainedBut to return, with just hispleasuregained!This, as an offset, stood against the debtHe had incurred, and kept him from a fret.Once more I pause, but with a hope quite strong,That I may soon resume my simple song.
THE ARGUMENT.-Address to Hope. Its benefits to William. Commences business. Manner of conducting it. Thinks again of Matrimony. Shop described. Inconveniences in it. An incident. Discouragement in trade. Compensation for them in visits to his intended. A further glance of her. The home provided her. Marriage. A peep at their home afterward. Forced to leave it. A second move. A Love's-pledge. Imminent peril of the wife. Unhappy condition of first-born. Church matters. WILLIAM'S trials from temper, etc. Continued success in business. Tinsmith's Song. His long sickness, and support under it. Dutiful conduct of Apprentice. Wife's self-sacrifices and matronly management. COOPER'S gratitude to her for it. Continued Poetical predelictions. Visits with his Wife the Falls of Niagara. Family increase. Troubles in Church affairs. Excommunication. Fresh Church connection. Troubles arise afresh. Death of Wife. WILLIAM'S lament. Conclusion.
Hail, Hope! thou gem-decked Maid, with features fair!Fairer than fabled goddesses of air.I still regarded thee as sprung from God;As sent to us from his divine abode,With the sweet sisters, holy Faith and Love,That favored mortals might your virtues prove.Led on by thee, we pass through heavy trial,Requiring ever constant self-denial,Unscathed, yet ridded of defiling dross,To find ourselves the better for its loss.Prompted by thee, we scale vast mountain heights;Or take to Earth's far bounds most rapid flights;Face dreadful storms; yea, greatest dangers brave,And, unappalled, view the deep, yawning grave!In every age thy praise have Poets sung;Throughout the world thy praise has loudly rungSo much and often, that I need not dwellUpon thy worth: for it were hard to tellThe millionth part of good thou hast achieved;By finite man it cannot be conceived!Thy sovereign virtues WILLIAM deeply felt,Howe'er engaged, and wheresoe'er he dwelt.In constant toil, and chilled by Penury,He knew 'twas blessed to be cheered by thee.Thou madest him content in low estate,And for Prosperity to patient wait;Till some, who thought his course deserved much blame,Were led to full approval of the same.
More weeks went past, and his kind patron boughtBoth tools and stock; when he with vigor wroughtIn a small shop, and did his best to giveDue satisfaction, and made out to live.
Throughout the country nothing now was heardSave talk of Civil war; yet undeterredWas he, by what was going on around,From his employment; and kept gaining ground.The village of brave Soldier's was quite full,And they, alone, made business far from dull.When he at first commended, he made a ruleFor which some folks then deemed him quite a foolTo make good work and cheap, and have his payFor all he sold; and this he did always.He had been taught to look HonestyAs the best part of Business policy;And his experience fully proved the truthOf that old maxim learned in early youth.
Meanwhile, as worldly prospects brighter grew,To marriage state he turned his thoughts anew,And made proposals for that lovely maid;Nor was disapprobation once displayedBy either parent, who gave full consent,As she, to marry him, was quite content.Though not a "first love," their's remained still true,And smoothly ran-was ever fresh and new!
His humble home, and shop, were all in one,And looked, to others' eyes, most woe-begone!It was for business truly quite unfit;Yet customers still found their way to it.Back from the street—up some half dozen stairs—Two boards, on barrels, held his shining wares!On one side high—the other very low—And all unplastered; it was quite a show!At one end stood his bench, and close beside itLay his rude couch; let not the rich deride it!
At times, he rose from off that humble bedWith a fairsnow-wreathclose about his head!
One bitter night, some loyal VolunteersWere quartered on him; and he told his fears,That much of comfort could not there be found,In such a room, with all his fixtures round.One made reply which went to WILLIAM'S heart,And provedthat manhad "chosen the good part"—"'Tis better," said he, "than our Savior had;Of such a lodging He would have been glad!"
Our hero, with hishand-toolsgot along,At best, but slowly; and sometimes went wrong.It was no easy thing to ascertainWhat kind of goods a ready sale would gain.His brother Tinsmith showed no friendly spirit;He deemed him far too low in workman-merit!And threatened vauntingly to drive him out:But God's rich blessing compassed him about!His patterns he contrived, as best he could;And every month, astradesman, firmer stood.His constant visits to his future bride,Much of sweet pleasure every time supplied.Rare worth and beauty did the maid possess;To see her was to taste of happiness!She was too lovely, and too gentle, far,For one whose mind was very oft ajar;So humble, that she left her father's house,With all its comforts, to become his spouse.The home which he for that fair girl provided,By most young lasses would have been derided.'Twas just the farthest half of his rude shop,Lined with planed boards on all sides, and the top;Quite small in size, 'twas amply furnished,With stove, three chairs, a table, box and bed!
In March, his natal month, through sleet and rain,He bore his wife, who did not once complain.Nowedding jauntcould their small means afford,Yet they had pleasure in true love's accord;'And what they lacked in way of outward show,Was quite made up by warm affection's glow.They were a happy couple, with warm hearts:Both striving eagerly to act their parts.If ever twain were blended into one,'Twas in their case, as all who knew them own.He, working soon and late to rid his debt;She taking care of all he chanced to get.And, with sweet smiles upon her face,Dispelling of despondency each trace.
Too soon, the place in which their bliss begun.Was made too hot by our Canadian sun.A Bakery below, Sol's rays above,With heat from stove made them most glad to move.They next obtained a shop which answered well;For all he made, they could most freely sell.This place, however, they were forced to quitIn three months after they had entered it.More than one person had on it a claim,And each law-suit fanned their litigious flame,Until at length it went to Chancery,And that sage Court could on this thing agree—To have it closed forthwith! And thus our friendsWere forced to move, once more, to gain their ends.Each move brought double rent; but this becameA thing remembered only by its name.Trade still increased, as did Experience, too,And WILLIAM now had more than he could do.But by this time he had assistance foundIn his wife's brother, as apprentice bound;A youth most active, and good-natured, too,Who took delight in what he had to do.The shop to which they went—last on the street—Was, as a residence, to them most sweet.Almost in front, a river calmly flowed;Close by, a plain wood bridge the stream bestrode.There, he could stand at his shop door and viewA scene which called up feelings ever new.Above the bridge, for nearly half a mile,It is most lovely, clad in Summer's smile.Tall trees, of various kinds, its margins grace,While it flows on, with ever gentle pace,Past two small islands; each one like a gemSet in the stream so softly passing them.There, often has he sat, on summer's eve,With his fair bride, both loath the scene to leave.Lit up by Luna's beams, 'twould larger seem,And scope afford for sweet poetic dream.One island he would picture as the siteOf a neat mansion, where he might, at night,Retire from business cares to take a boat.And on the surface of the river floatWith his most charming—his most loving wife;Content to leave behind all worldly strife.Such freaks would Fancy play, when he inclinedTo let her reign sole Monarch of his mind!Yet, when the spell was broke, the sweets of homeWere such, that from them he ne'er wished to roam.And thus days, weeks and months most smoothly passed,Till Winter came, each beauteous scene to blast.Now, with new hopes, alas! came fears as well,The strength of which it is not mine to tell.But those who once have fond, young husbands been,May well conceive what hopes and fears I mean.Scarce bad December sealed the Frost-King's reign,Ere these true hearts a Love's-pledge did obtain.
Protracted labor, bringing sore distress,Came nigh extinguishing their happiness!This oft led WILLIAM to the Mercy Seat;And, oh, his visits there were truly sweet!Nor was it vain; two precious lives were spared,And the young parents were, afresh, preparedTo grapple with their duties—growing large—Conscious of weakness in their full discharge.The babe proved cross and fretful; and, for years,Frequent convulsive fits filled them with fears;And quite unfitted her, in after life,For bearing a just share of toil and strife.This proved an exercise for faith and prayer,Until the fully felt that God's kind careWould be extended o'er their suffering child;And this thought made their souls more reconciled,To bear with patience this great, frequent trial,Which called on them so much for self-denial.
A growing interest now in Church affairsFilled that young father's mind with weighty cares.At this my readers need not be surprised;Nor should my notice of it be despised.That Church on Scripture truth had ta'en its stand,And wished to bend alone to God's command—To copy, in their government, the planMarked out by Christ, when first His Church began.Now they sought one well qualified to takeThe Elder's office—not for lucre's, sake,Nor "as a lord o'er God's own heritage"—But one who humbly would, with warmth, engageTo do His bidding, and bear peaceful ruleO'er that small Church-that it might prove a schoolFor Saints to grow in strict conformityTo God's just will-as they that will may see.
One soon they found, who had for years been tried:Who by Paul's test was willing to abide;Well knowing the advice which he had givenTo Ephesian Elders; and how he had strivenTo labor with his hands for the supportOf self and friends, oft made the worldling's sport.
Let none imagine that this flock obtainedAnother's labor for some selfish end;Large sums they raise to help the suffering poor,And freely give of their superfluous storeTo send the Bible into heathen lands—And that while all are laboring with their hands.This testimony I would bear of them;'Tis strictly true, whoever may contemn.
As deacons they chose WILLIAM and another,Who was regarded as a worthy brother.In God's pure sight they viewed themselves unfitFor such high office; yet accepted itIn deference to their brethren, who made choiceOf them at once, without dissenting voice.'Twas thus it came that he had many cares,Beside his family's and trade's affairs.In preaching now he took his regular turn,And, though but weakly, did with ardor burnTo tell poor sinners of a Savior's love,Or Saints instruct in lessons from Above.He 'midst those labors found, with sore distress,A constant warfare mar his happiness.Dyspepsia-fell disease-his stomach seized,And, like a demon, would not be appeased;But made his temper, far too quick and warm,By frequent outbursts often work him harm.This grieved the heart of his beloved wife,And might have led to constant family strife,Had not the Lord to him his folly shown,By greater chastisement than he had known.
And now our friends possessed sufficient meansTo pay their debt, or purchase those machinesWhich tinsmiths use; and WILLIAM asked his friendIf he, conveniently, could longer lendWhat they were owing him? His kind replyLed COOPER soon the needful tools to buy.This was an era in their history,And they most gladly work more activelyIn manufacturing their humble wares,Or giving to old things their due repairs.While freely pushing their close labor through,They still found plenty for the two to do;Which called on them for greater thankfulnessTo their kind God, who did their business bless.While thus engaged, pray tell me where's the wrong,If they should sing the following "Tinsmith's Song?"
What though our bench labor rob us of the favorEnjoyed by the farmer, 'midst fair Country scenes;What though 'tis confining to make up tins shining,There's naught in the trade which our conduct demeans,Then ply the shears, since it appearsThat our calling is honest and fair;Yet take good heed, lest, in our speed,We should send from our hands leaky ware!
In using the folder we then may grow bolder,And form and groove pans with our consciences clear;Drive each of the turners with skill beyond learners,And put in stout wire with our hearts full of cheer.Then take a burr and make it whirr,As the bottoms spin round like a "top;"And fit these tight, which is but rightIf we wish a good name for the shop.
In this case the setter will do the work better,And strong double seams will repay all our pains;But slight not the soldering, or customers orderingTheir work at our hands will begrudge us our gains.This we can do and yet push throughQuite a good share of labor each day,And in our sales of pans or pailsBoldly ask those who buy for our pay.
We thus may be working, no selfishness lurkingWithin, though the weather be cloudy or cold;And lawfully striving our trade still be drivingFrom far better motives than mere thirst for gold.Then we may serve and never swerveFrom strict duty's plain, straightforward path,Our country's weal with fervid zealBy skill which each artisan hath.
O! then our bench labor may bring us the favorOf a jaunt now and then midst the forests and fields,Which pleasure so joyous can never annoy us,If health and contentment it constantly yields.Then ply the shears, since it appearsThat our calling is honest and fair;Yet take good heed lest in our speed.We should send from our hands leaky ware.
And now these parents' hearts were rendered gladBy a sweet babe as ever parents had;A lovely boy, a precious first-born son,An April flower ere Spring had well begun.Thus were their family and cares increasedWhile pleasure was not lessened in the least.But a few months were destined to discloseA lengthy list of what some think are woes.Three serious accidents that year befelHis aged father, and 'twere hard to tellThe weary months of suffering he enduredEre loss of limb to him relief procured.Their patron, too, was by sore sickness broughtDown to death's door, as all who saw him thoughtWILLIAM at last was on a sick-bed thrownFor many weeks, and then was fully shownThe fervent love and patience of his wifeIncreasing still through years of after life.Bereft of reason, as his friends declared,Rich consolation he at all times shared.Death—man's "last foe"—for him no terrors had,His blighted prospects did not make him sad.To leave his wife and babes he was resigned,And this while all deemed him of unsound mind.The tempter, true, his faith and feelings tried,But his suggestions met "God will provide."This simple text was strong enough to stayEach wavering thought that rose from day to day.
The time when he fell sick was in the Fall,When lively business made most pressing call.And yet he was enabled to abideContent with this, "Jehovah will provide,"Ev'n so he did, and that in wondrous way,For his wife's brother worked both night and day,A striking instance of unselfishnessBut rarely seen in youths of such a class.
Though outward things looked dark, this chastisementWas plainly from a loving father sent;And they saw constant reason to rejoiceThat what is painful might be made their choice.For, while it weaned their thoughts from things of earthIt made them prize the more their heavenly birth.And ev'n their fond affection for each otherWas purified from that which tends to smotherThe noblest energies of Christian souls,And far too often their best thoughts controls.This sickness showed, and that most strikingly,How good a nurse this faithful wife could be.Through all her trials she was quite resigned,And not one murmuring thought rose in her mind.A more attentive or enduring nurseI'm very sure ne'er shone in poet's verse.When his recovery was manifestedHer love and patience were severely tested.Forcalomelcaused him such great distressHe was oft found in fits of fretfulness.But yet she meekly bore with his capriceAnd her self-sacrifice did never cease.
He, when restored again to perfect health,Grew far more conscious of the store of wealthBy him possessed in having such a wifeTo act as helpmate through the storms of life.And not long after, when their lovely boyWas very sick, he did his skill employTo soothe her sorrows by an artless layExhorting her to make God's love her stay;And holding up to view Heaven's perfect bliss,He aimed to show that naught can come amissTo those who all their hopes on Jesus rest,And "seek through His Atonement to be bless'd."
Their child restored, their joys again increase,For God's sweet service yields them constant peace.He, constantly employed in hard bench work,Let not a thirst for wealth within him lurk,And was enabled to preserve his mindSo free from care that, when he felt inclined,He could with ease bring all his thoughts to bearOn Scripture truths, and each with each compare,Or let his fancy take her random flightTo bring fromDreamlandsome new-coined delight.At other times would raise his tuneful voiceAnd sing sweet hymns which long had been his choice,Or else recite some charming poetryWith touch of skill and much of energy.At times his spouse, too, did her sewing bring,And joined harmoniously God's praise to sing.Thus mostly passed their time for months and yearsIn bliss too great to last, as it appears.Meanwhile their debt most honestly was paid,By which then prospects were much brighter made.Yet gratitude glowed brightly in each heart,To him who acted such a friendly partAs to lend money and then wait for yearsIn patience for the payment of arrears.
About this time they visited "The Falls,"As business was not urgent in its calls.WILLIAM felt joyful in no trifling measureWith such a wife to share so great a pleasure,And gladly spent his money and his timeTo view with her that scenery sublime.This jaunt gave both the most heartfelt delight,And furnished her the first and only sightShe ever had of wonders there displayed,Which were in Spring's fresh beauty then arrayed.They stood and gazed, or sat in shady place,With glowing feelings pictured in each face.He greatly longed to have a dwelling near,That he might oftener view scenes grown so dear.But family needs would force themselves on him,And those bright visions very soon grew dim.Yet he inquiry made of settlers roundTo learn what prospects then might there be foundOf earning a just living at his trade;But this quite threw the project in the shade.Then he thought fit to let "well be" aloneTill clearer light should on the scheme be thrown.Hopes next arose that he might yet revisitOnce every year, with pleasure more exquisite,Those grand, unrivalled Falls with her he loved,More lovely still now that her love was proved.The sequel shows how little we foreseeOf good or evil in our destiny.'Tis right; and this should make us place our trustIn God, our Father, ever wise and just.Since naught can happen without His permissionWho orders our affairs with wise precision.
At the appointed time they home returned,While love for it more strongly in them burned.One Winter and two Summers now had passedSince a fine boy upon their care was cast.Again stern winter came, with cloudy skiesAnd howling blasts like some fell demon cries.Dark, chill November had been ushered in,With much of elemental strife and din,When came another daughter, bright and fair,To charm the hearts of that still loving pair.The new come love pledge, as time swiftly flew,In sweetest bands their souls more closely drew.Increasing means more household comforts brought,Not greatly coveted if they were sought.They asked God day by day for such suppliesOf worldly blessings as He deemed most wise,Took those most thankfully He kindly sent,And with their lot, for most part, were content.'Tis true that COOPER wished to spend more timeFor the improvement of himself in rhyme,But greater duties had a higher claim,Neglect of which would bring upon him blame.He therefore kept his muse in close subjection,And gained God's blessing and most kind protection.Yet now and then his pent up feelings brokeThrough all restraint, and his rude harp awokeTo pour forth numbers with intent to cheerParents or friends, who lent a willing earTo his effusions, void of learning's grace,But full of feeling, which supplied its place.
Another Spring and Summer passed away,Then Autumn, too, and Winter held the sway;While January, when half its course was run,Brought to our friends a second infant son.Two of each kind parental love now claim,As sharers of their destiny and name;While years of happiness might seem in storeFor, prosperous still, they loved each other more.That season was their best in way of trade,And thus their prospects wore no darkening shade.
Satan—arch enemy of all mankind—Beheld with envy their true peace of mind,And most maliciously employed his skillTo work them woe—defiant of God's will.Their worldly property he did not touch,For loss of this would not be felt so muchAs trouble with their brethren in the church,Severed from whom they might be left in lurch.His plan succeeded, as I know too well,For some deemed wise were held as by a spellIn hands of strongest preconceived opinion,While Ignorance held them in his dominion.WILLIAM had seen this long, and mourned in soul,With such emotion as scarce brooked control,And, knowing that they held it just and rightFor all to seek increasing Scripture light,He, in the search for truth, gave up his mind,And was well pleased some few choice pearls to find.These lustrous gems he had no wish to hide,So held them up to view, and earnest triedTo lead his brethren to approve their worth;But such a course gave to contention birth.Nor was it long before occasion cameFor those opposed to lay upon him blame,The end of which was that they did him severFrom sweet communion with their church forever!Under this blow he tried to bear up well,But all he suffered 'twould be hard to tell.His spouse and parents with him sympathisedAnd broke the bands which each so long had prized.Naught now remained for them but to uniteIn holy fellowship with purer light.Soon some few other friends who knew their caseTheir humble cause did with much warmth embrace.One with our hero labored in the WordWith what small skill and time he could afford.Things went on smoothly for about a year,And some success did much their hearts to cheer.Ere long, however, troubles unforeseenBurst on the little band with shafts so keenThat WILLIAM'S faith and strength were sorely tried,And with his lot he was dissatisfied.One of the flock was easily led astray,And self-indulgence held him in its sway.Two others left because a change of viewMade several seek to be baptized anew.
Slow passed another very trying year,And thick gloom gathered, filling them with fear.Our friend was sick from an unquiet mind,While Comfort—wonted guest—he failed to find.At last his loved, his idolized wifeIn her accouchment left this mortal life.Schooled long, he firmly bore this heavy stroke,And bowed his head submissive 'neath God's yoke.This brought him peace, and his sad muse ere longFound utterance in the following mournful song:
Awake, my harp! give forth in solemn timeThy sweetest numbers in harmonious rhyme.'Tis time to bid my dormant powers arise,Yet I would first dry up my weeping eyes.My full charged bosom heaves, and oh, how slowConflicting thoughts in well timed numbers flow.Cease, rebel feelings, cease your dreadful strife;The theme's my love, the partner of my life.Her portrait is before me, and that smileUpon her features playing, shows no guile.What were thy thoughts, my loved one, on that dayThe artist's skill did our joint forms portray?Thou wast not then so foolish as to deemAn early death a vain or idle dream.We oft had converse on that mournful theme,As oft looked forward to the solemn dayWhen death, grim monster! should tear one away.Ithought my time most surely first would come,Andthou, expected'st, first to reach thy home!Thus were we apt to number out our days,And oft together led to seek God's ways.Most unfeigned pleasure did we take in this,And gained as fruit sweet tastes of heavenly bliss.Now, my belov'd one, thou art gone from meAnd our dear little ones! Oh! can it be?The sad reality comes o'er my mind.Thou'rt gone indeed, and we are left behind.Oh for that faith of which thou wast possessed,As thy pure spirit strove to gain her rest.Oh for that patience which thou didst displayBeneath our Father's hand to thy last day.Methinks that thou art whispering in my ear:"Let God's sure promises thy spirit cheer;"Remember that our Jesus is the same"To all whose trust is in His precious name."A few short days, perchance, or months, or years,"May flee away; yet he will still thy fears"And bear thee up as if on 'eagle's wings,'"Far, far above the reach of earthly things."Remember what thou didst to comfort me;"Thou hast God's word, the same it is to thee."Let fervent prayer ascend to God above;"He'll deign to listen for He still is love."Rouse then, thy courage, let thy faith be strong,"Let Hope, 'an anchor sure,' to thee belong."The time's not distant we again shall meet"To part no more. This is a thought most sweet."But yet in patience do thy soul possess,"And wait God's time, and then He will thee bless."Enough my loved one, I will haste awayTo do my duties without more delay.And trust in God who can fresh strength impartTo me to serve him with a perfect heart.
Here, then, kind reader, I must close my lay,As other duties call me now away.If you've had patience to go with me throughMy lengthened tale, I bid you warm adieu.If my small learning has called forth a sneer,Know you from such things I have naught to fear.For what is written I have this defense:My song at least lacks not forcommon-sense.
WILLIAM AND AMELIA[Footnote: For the benefit of such readers as are not acquainted withthe locality of Lake Windermere, I may say it is the largest lake inEngland, and lies to the north.]
Near the side of Windermere,Down a gentle rising hill,Flowed a murmuring brook so clearEvery portion of the year,And no doubt is flowing still.
Hard by stood a small, neat house,Tenanted by peasants poor.The mother was a loving spouse,One who never was a blowze,But most tidy evermore.
The husband was an honest manWorking hard on working days,Deeming it the wisest plan.Each day's labor he beganBy pure prayer to God always.
We shall call them HUMBLEWORTH;They such name deserved quite well.In that country of the northAll would speak their praises forth,With delight their worth would tell.
Three dear children graced their home,Lovely were they in their youth.When they chanced in woods to roam,Fairies seemed they to become;Full their hearts of love and truth.
AMIE, BESS and little ANNWe their names at present call;AMIE'S bloom was richer thanAny rose which zephyrs fan.She had, too, a lovely soul.
BESS was as a lily pale,Graceful as a fawn could be.She was never very hale,Parents' eyes could see her fail,And they felt anxiety.
Little ANN, a chubby lass,Was the youngest and the pet;Friends all thought naught could surpassThat sweet child in lovelinessWhich they in their lives had met.
I have said that they were poor.This was true of worldly things;Yet they had an ample store,They were skilled in Bible lore;And from this sweet comfort springs.
Very close observers mightDeem them once of higher rank,They defrauded of their right,But still blest with gospel light,Of rich consolation drank.
Near them lived a proud, rich man,Wide his lands, but small his heart.Of him a report there ranThat he to be rich beganPracticing a knavish part.
"GRIPEY" was the name he bore'Mongst the country people round;They could reckon up a scoreOf vile actions, if not more,And from these this name they found.
Call I him "SIR FINGERNEED,"Such a name is more genteel;Had he done one worthy deedI would not withold the meedOf sweet praise I truly feel.
He had but an only son,WILLIAM was his given name;He to love had not begun,Yet at times he liked to runIn the woods when AMIE came.
There for her he'd try to findHazel nuts and berries, too.Thus he showed his heart was kind—That he had no churlish mindWhen such actions he could do.
Time flew past; poor BESSIE lay—On her humble dying bed.Parents now beside her pray,AMIE watches her by day—Moving round with softest tread.
WILLIAM oft some dainty broughtTo her by his mother sent,And returned with sober thought,Musing as each mortal oughtOn a death-bed scene intent.
He had heard fair AMIE speakOf a place above the sky,Where dear BESS with spirit meekWould be taken, though so weak,If at present she should die.
Now he reaches that fine placeWhere he and his parents live.Marks of sadness on his faceMake his father wish to traceWhat could him such trouble give.
WILLIAM, not inclined to guile,Did the truth at once disclose.This creates a scornful smileOn that rich man's face the while,Then unto his wife he goes,
And in stern and angry moodAsks her why she sent the boy;Did she call that doing goodSending one of gentler blood,Just to watch a cottar die?
He no reasons deigns to hear,Bids the boy not go again.WILLIAM drops a silent tearWhile his parent still is near,Yet strict silence does maintain.
BESS has left this earthly scene,Sorrow therefore fills that home.They have to the churchyard been,And its clods are now betweenThem and charming BESSIE'S form.
They were not alone in grief,WILLIAM sorrowed much at heart,Knew not yet the saint's belief,And most slowly came reliefTo remove from him his smart.
Those who seek to curb the mindOf their offspring in their youth,Should show reason why they bind,Clothed in language very kind,Lest they tempt them from the truth.
Soon the youth began to feelGalled by most unjust restraint,And did oft in secret stealTo enquire of AMIE'S weal,And to her would make complaint.
Then she told her father all.Calm but firm was his reply:—"WILLIAM shall no longer call;Some great ill might him befall,And he must himself deny."
This AMELIA saw was rightAnd informed the gentle boy.Tears bedimmed his eyes that nightFor the loss of his delight,Which would all his peace destroy.
Said he now, "I will refrainFrom my visits, AMIE dear,If you'll true to me remainTill I can consent obtainFrom my father, whom I fear."
AMIE blushed, her word did pledge.WILLIAM snatched a parting kissAs he swiftly climbs the hedge,Fairest dreams his mind engageFor he tastes of lovers' bliss.
Pass we o'er five tedious years.Years which saw great changes comeTo some thousands in all spheres,Raised by hopes or sunk by fears,Now alive, or in the tomb
WILLIAM had just come from schoolSummoned to his father's bedOn an Autumn evening cool.Now dread thoughts began to ruleHim who lay just like the dead.
Why that start, that vacant stare?Does he know his son is by?Guilty conscience who can bear?Hope shut out or blank Despair,When one's latter end is nigh?
Stood the youth with tearful eyesFixed upon the dying man.He would speak, but when he triesHis young soul within him diesAs he views that face so wan.
Speaks the father now at last,"WILLIAM, listen to my tale.I through dreadful crime have passed,But while life is ebbing fastNow to you I would unveil
"My base heart, if yet I mayIn some measure crime atone.It is thirty years this daySince aWillI made away,To gain riches not my own.
"Him I wronged is HUMBLEWORTH,Long a neighbor near this house:His my wealth by right of birth;All I own upon this earthIs my family—and disgrace.
"I would make amends to him,But grim death now shakes his dart;Breathing fails me, eyes grow dim,Spectres 'fore my vision skim,And with terrors fill my heart.
"List, my son, your's be the task,When I'm past this earthly scene,Pardon for my sin to ask,My vile conduct to unmask,And make known what I have been.
"But, my boy, in pity spare,Spare your mother's feelings dear.Warning take, from me, nor dareSport with sin; of that beware,For great danger lurketh near.
"I more would say, but now againDeath's strong fetters bind my tongue."Soon his struggles are in vain;WILLIAM'S heart is wrung with pain,And his nerves are all unstrung.
Startling groans break on his earNow that ill-spent life has fled.WILLIAM sees his mother nearAnd attempts her heart to cheer,As she sinks upon the bed.
Seems this stroke too hard to bear.In the lack of Christian hope,Her weak heart from grief and careDroops too soon to dire despair;With such foe she cannot cope.
Now the youth feels greatest needTo curb well his ardent grief,Calls he loud for help with speed.His commands the servants heed,They obey his mandates brief.
First the mistress they conveyTo her room and lay her down.There would WILLIAM with her stay,But he could not brook delayTill his father's crime he own.
Goes he to the house once moreWhere his dear AMELIA lives.With a heart most truly sore,Reaches he the cottage door,Knocks; no one admittance gives.
Why is all so still around?This place they did occupy!"Where can HUMBLEWORTHS be found?"Asks he loud, nor heeds the soundOf man's footsteps passing by.
Turns the man in haste his headAnd the youth does recognize,Tells him, "In the lake's clean bedSome one found poor AMIE dead!"And that thitherward he hies.
This like thrust of dagger came,Near depriving him of sense.In his breast's a raging flame,Calls he AMIE'S lovely nameAs he rushes o'er the fence.
Down toward the deep lake's sideFlies he now with greatest speed.Forms among the bushes glide,Sorely is the lover triedIn this saddest hour of need.
Who can paint his grief of mindAs the lifeless form he views?Vainly strives he peace to find,This stroke seems the most unkind;He all comfort does refuse.
AMIE'S face has lost its bloom,Though her countenance is fair.Little ANN within the roomDeeply shares the general gloom,In a dim lit corner there.
Some make efforts to restoreThat sweet girl they loved so well.Too long time elapsed beforeHer dear form was drawn to shore.Death has cast o'er her his spell.
Women kind now lay her out,In pure white her corpse invest.WILLIAM then, by nature taught,With poetic feeling fraught,This warm song to her addressed:
Still like to Luna wading,Beneath yon silvery cloud,Thy beauties are unfading,Though mantled in a shroud.
As thou in death art lying,Thy lovely form I view,And ask if aught in dyingHas made thy charms seem new.
Say, wert thou conscious everThat I to thee was true?That naught but death could severThe bond 'twixt me and you?
I came with heart nigh burstingFrom thee to get relief.My very soul was thirstingTo let thee share its grief.
And now this stroke has fallenLike thunderbolt on me,And my poor heart is swollenWith saddest misery.
Oh, where can I be flyingFor strength and succor now?If there were hope in dying,I soon to death would bow.
But now my duty stronglyBids me my task fulfil;Thy family suffered wrongly,To right them I've the will.
And then I would be leavingEach bitter scene of woe,Haply my loss retrieving,If that can be below.