Ah! how eagerly day by day
Do we ask—Will he tidings from loved ones bring?
From the loved ones far away?
Will he come with messages of cheer
Sent by some loving friend?
Or will the tidings be dark and drear,
And the lines in sadness penned?
Ah! postman! how often does your ring
Prove only a funeral knell!
Alas! how oft does your coming bring