 | Madrigals, songs and sonnets |  |
174
XXIV.
INSCRIBED TO I. L. T. B.
Sad and alone and weary, nigh despairing,
I sat in the old church above the sea,
And heard the organ sound a peal of glee,
Like some great solemn “bird of God” declaring
Peace and good-will to all who, meek robes wearing,
Hail'd the bright dawning advent; but for me
There was no comfort till that minstrelsy
Had faded, and the silent air was bearing
One sweet clear voice, that said, “Unto Me come,
Ye heavy-laden! unto Me, and I
Will bear your burden!” Then my terror ceased,
And, gazing out, I saw, across the foam,
God's symbol smite along the wintry east,
Pale gold between the waters and the sky.
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