AN OLD MAN'S MUSINGS.

(After an Afternoon Pipe, at Nazareth House, Hammersmith.)

["Here again, clustered close round the fire

Are a number of grizzle-lock'd men, every one is a true 'hoary sire.'

Bowed, time-beaten, grey, yet alert and responsive to kindness of speech;

And see how old eyes can light up if you promise a pipe-charge to each.

For the comforting weed Kingsley eulogised is not taboo in this place,

Where the whiff aromatic brings not cold reproval to Charity's face."