The little hands returning wistfully

From birdlike wand'rings, ever come to rest,

On fostering hand on tender cheek or breast;

The upturned eyes, with loving certainty

Seek ever the grave face where broodingly,

The mother-soul by yearning love opprest,

With wings down-drooped, seems folded o'er the nest

Where lies the Hope of all humanity.

And she His World, and He her Calvary,—

He wraps her round with all the mystery