University of Virginia Library

The Meteorologists

Ye watch the appearance of the earth and sky,
And oft with certainty predict a change;
Fair weather now, and now a storm is nigh,
As o'er our mighty continent they range.
And this is well; to study Nature's laws,
And all her hidden mysteries make known;
But if in these the immortal mind shall pause,
Content to know phaenomena alone;
If, with no grateful heart, no reverent mind,
The sunshine and the rain we shall receive;
To higher truths, to nobler knowledge blind,
In Nature and her laws alone believe;
What profits it? Wiser were men of old,
Who could each change with wonder, faith behold.
Poem No. 855; c. 6 March 1875