CHURCH IN THE VALLEY.

A tree of life from Eden far,
O lowly church, you stand!
So stood the Lord whose sign you are,
And blessed the barren land.
A tower of strength you show to all
Who recognise His grace:
The tender lights which round you fall
Write heaven upon your face.
Your bells down in the hollow lea
Cry as from sheltering nest,
"Come all ye labouring men to Me,
And I will give you rest."

CHURCH BELLS AND SHEEP BELLS.

The sheep bells tinkle from the knoll
Faintly and sweet 'twixt far and near,
But hark! at hand the funeral toll
How solemn and how clear
Each wafts a hint to faithful love
Of ever-mingling wealth and woe,
The energy of life above,
The requiem below.
Now sweeps the wholesome evening breath
As tho' a voice from Heaven should fall,
Blending the notes of life and death,
And harmonising all.