Virginia: A Tragedy, and Other Poems - Marion Forster Gilmore

MARION FORSTER GILMORE

JOHN P. MORTON & COMPANY
Incorporated
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY
1910

Dedication

TO MY FATHER

Years can not cloud the light of your clear eyes,
Steadfast and bright with high integrity;
Nor rob your spirit of the strength that lies
On those firm lips; nor dim the purity
Of a high soul, which bears the shield of Love
Untarnished, as it was upon the day
When One, with tender faith, desired to prove
Her "Royal Knight," and gave her heart away.
Bear her bright shield, and smile, as years roll by—
Years that have crowned you with the priceless crown
Of steadfast faith and worldwide charity—
Until you reap the joy that you have sown,
In that near land, where, with a light divine,
The eyes you love through all the ages shine.