University of Virginia Library


127

I. A CHILD'S FACE ON THE SHORE.

Down to a quiet sea the shores incline,
So smoothed from sorrow, and so swept from care,
A maiden's foot could scarce in trespass dare
To print thereon her solitary sign;
But yesterday its brow was line on line
Scored deep, and aged,—to-day so young and fair;
Yet waves that wrought the wondrous change up-bare
Shells closely shut, and jelly-fish that shine.
I could not grieve to think the tide of years,
Of pain and passion's heavy gall, should mar
Thine innocent, unmeditative face:
Furrows for thought, and channelling for tears,
Can of the hand that works them borrow grace,
Secrets like shells, and patience like a star.