STEADFAST.
Not like the stars that high in heaven
Shine so serenely with unchanging rays
That marveling at their calmness, you believe
Of their “firm-fixed and lasting quality”
There is no type upon the earth beneath.
A few weeks hence look up, and you shall find
Each steadfast planet steadfastly has moved
Across the midnight azure of the sky
With silent rays still tranquil and serene.
Not steadfast like the stars is she I love,
But as this gem I wear upon my breast;
Whose rich rays wander from me through the room,
Sparkling and fading with capricious gleam
Of light and color, like the varying moods
Of my beloved one; those who turn to praise
The beauty of the gem, admire most
The changefulness of its most restless rays;
Yet I feel no uneasiness or doubt;
Knowing full well whenever I look down
Upon my breast, the jewel will be there.
WITH A CRYSTAL LION.
For L. R. W.
Keep watch and ward,
In stately guard,
Around my Una’s wayward feet;
Not lest she tread
False ways instead
Of higher paths, serenely sweet;—
But lest in care
For all who share
Her tender ministry, too late
Her frail strength yield;—
Be thou her shield;
They also serve who sometimes wait!
Of crystal, clear
As in its sphere
Her lofty spirit moves alway;—
Of massive strength
As all at length
Will find who make her soul their stay;—
With flowers and buds
Whose sweetness floods
The air even when we cannot see;—
This gift I send
My earliest friend;—
Dear type of all she is to me!