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71

A Silence and a Song.

I am alone, dear Master—
Alone in heart with Thee!
Though merry faces round me
And loving looks I see.
There's a hush among the blithe ones,
While a pleasant voice is heard,
A truce to all the fournament
Of flashing wit and word.
And in that truce of silence,
I lay aside my lance,
And through the light and music send
One happy upward glance.
I know not what the song may be,
The words I cannot hear;
'Tis but a gentle melody,
All simple, soft, and clear.
But the sweetness and the quiet
Have set my spirit free,
And I turn in loving gladness,
Dear Master, now to Thee.
I know I love Thee better
Than any earthly joy,
For Thou hast given me the peace
Which nothing can destroy.
72

I know that Thou art nearer still
Than all this merry throng,
And sweeter is the thought of Thee
Than any lovely song.
Thou hast put gladness in my heart,
Then well may I be glad!
Without the secret of Thy love,
I could not but be sad.
I bless Thee for these pleasant hours
With sunny-hearted friends,
But more for this sweet moment's calm
Thy loving-kindness sends.
O Master, gracious Master,
What will Thy presence be,
If such a thrill of joy can crown
One upward look to Thee?
'Tis ending now, that gentle song,
And they will call for me;
They know the music I love best,—
My song shall be for Thee!
For Thee, who hast so lovèd us,
And whom, not having seen,
We love; on whom in all our joy,
As in our grief, we lean.
73

Be near me still, and tune my notes,
And make them sweet and strong,
To waft Thy words to many a heart
Upon the wings of song.
I know that all will listen,
For my very heart shall sing,
And it shall be Thy praise alone,
My glorious Lord and King.
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