TO MY DAUGHTER MARY, ON HER WEDDING DAY.
Forth from the sheltering wing of home,
Forth from its sunlit bowers,
Fly like the bird, intent to roam,
And try her new fledged powers.
Peace spread its gentle pinions o'er
The nest so warm and fair;
And nature's glories round her pour,
When free in upper air.
O'er broad, sweet fields, on joyous wings,
With warbling throat, she flies;
She sings and soars, and soars and sings,
Plumed for the distant skies.
So from thy dear, delightful home,
With trusting faith aspire;
Life's beckoning labors bid thee come;
The high behest desire.
Like evening sunlight on the hill,
Like verdure on the sod,
Love, pure and ardent, lingers still
Where'er thy steps have trod.
April 27, 1858.
