University of Virginia Library


21

THE STREAM OF LIFE.

Ever onward rushing
Waters pour along;
Rill from mountain gushing
Cheers the earth with song;
Rivers full of gladness
Kiss the meadows fair;
Cataracts in madness
Plunge they reck not where.
Rivers, rills, and fountains,
Wherefore do ye flow?
O'er the meads and mountains
Whither do ye go?
Gliding, leaping, springing,
Endless waterfall,
Murmuring, roaring, singing,
Sea receives you all.
Life is moving ever
In a varied stream;
Manhood's brisk endeavour
Follows youthful dream;

22

Infants with their prattle
Make the moments fly;
Soldiers in the battle
Strive they know not why.
Wherefore without leisure
Do we toil and play?
Busy hours and pleasure
Whither lead us they?
All in restless motion
Ever hurrying fast,
In a boundless ocean
Death receives at last.