University of Virginia Library

IN MEMORIAM: A. F.

Ob. Oct. 12, 1879

Aug. 1875

Bright skies, bright sea—
All happy things
That, borne on wings,
Cleave the long distance, glad and free—
A boat—swift swirls
Of foam-wake—boys and girls
And innocence and laughter—She
Was there, and was so happy; and I said:—
“God bless the children!”

Oct. 1879

Dead!
Dead, say you? “Yes, the last sweet rose
Is gathered”—Close, O close,
O, gently, gently, very gently close
Her little book of life, and seal it up
To God, who gave, who took—O bitter cup!
O bell!
O folding grave—O mother, it is well—
Yes, it is well. He holds the key
That opens all the mysteries; and He
Has blessed our children—it is well.