Grim mockery of fate! The assassin's knife
Once more hath power upon a patriot's life.
One steel-armed miscreant, with one felon blow,
May lay the moulder of a nation low.
Masterful man and fiery patriot, still
Is that strong heart, relaxed that iron will.
Yet there's more honour for the brave at rest,
After vain struggle and abortive quest,
Than for the ungrateful herd who dare not rise
To the full height of perilous destinies,
The Northern Bear his distant quarry nosing,
Or the Coburger in gay Carlsbad glosing.
R. Peel from Mr. G.—Mr. Gladstone, writing to Sir Robert Peel, who had been addressing the Fazeley branch Lodge of Oddfellows, said, "In our small community we have four separate lodges, and I have associated myself with them all." Mr. G. may now adopt as his signature, not the initials "G. O. M.," but the new one of "O. F. O.," or "Odd Fellow Out." No doubt, with his love of retirement and study, the Grand Old Odd-Fellow often says, sighingly, to himself, "O for a Lodge in some great Wilderness!"
To Dr. W. G. Grace on his 47th Birthday.
Many happy returns of the day!
Old Time on his record should nick it,
Long, long may he umpire your play.
Here's wishing you luck at the wicket,
Long life,—for one "century," say,—
And a hundred more of 'em at Cricket!
BLASÉ.