 | Wood-notes and Church-bells |  |
THE SHADOW ON THE WALL.
In childish joy, fresh from her mother's kiss,She dances with the light upon her face,
Love in each look, and in each motion grace:
But something in that charmèd scene, I wis,
To eyes which fondly watch her is amiss:
Ah, on the lighted wall through tears they trace
A shadow dancing in that happy place
As the child dances—mocking at her bliss.
From burdened heart there bursts a sad “Alas!
The shadow comes with life's new-risen day,
Until night deepens nevermore to pass:
Oh, if but He as closely by her stay,
Who loves the little ones, and puts to flight
All mortal shadows with His conquering light!”
| Wood-notes and Church-bells | |