I see the airplane rise and soaring
On all bright days and fair;
The tiny specks go roaring out
Across the hills from care.
If my good pilot friend is landing
On some star world up there.
He might bring back some silver
Or flowers for my hair.
PROMISES
On New Year's day
Mankind makes promises
Of gossamer film.
IN BOASTFUL PRIDE
He walked quite proudly on the rocky ledge
And shouted, "I am standing here so high!
How fine the valley and the flowing rye,
I see the barn that's near the osage hedge;
Come look—it's splendid from this shaly edge!"
He leaned far out and slipped—the foolish guy.
Where he had stood was only murky sky.
To face great danger is a privilege.
Don't dare for show, my boy, the rock might slide.
For worthy cause the brave will stand or fall,
But watch the stepping where the bluff is steep;
Remember too when flushed with boastful pride,
Men take most careless risks—don't reckon all;
And then—a life goes out in just one leap.