The tiller of the soil
Goes forth in purpose strong; For Spring's exultant song Wreathes round the head of toil.
Earth! nurture well the seed;
Sun! gild the swelling grain; Heaven! sap the thirsty plain; Till plenty answers need.
Breathe out, Oh genial Spring!
Thy teachings over all; Till, manna-like, shall fall, Soft peace where tumults ring.
Then shall the wondrous story
On nature's vivid page Gleam, till millennial age Doth flood the world with glory.
SUMMER.
Hail Summer! glad Summer! thou Queen of the year!
Hail fragrance and beauty encircling thy sphere!
With song of the oriole, with hum of the bee,
We welcome thy coming from far Southern sea.
Thou tintest the blossom on Winter's cold grave;
Bidd'st Commerce ride forth on the white-crested wave;
Thy sweet zephyrs float from the golden-hued west
As whisper of angels from realm of the blest.