There they knelt with folded hands, and said There he waited till their low "Amen;" Little Olga crept into his arms; Arthur leant upon his shoulder; May "Years ago, my children, years ago, In one early friend, you know her name, "And this friend-a few years older-gave Such fond care, such love, that day by day The new home grew happy, joy complete, Studies easier, and play more sweet, While all childish sorrows passed away. "And your mother-fragile, like my May— "Years passed on, and then I saw them first: "Then it happened, by a strange, sad fate, One thought entered into each young soul: Joy for one-if for the other pain; Loss for one -if for the other gain : One must lose, and one possess the whole. "And so this-this-what they cared for-came And belonged to Margaret: was her own. But she laid the gift aside, to take Pain and sorrow for your mother's sake, And none knew it but herself alone. "Then she travelled far away, and none The strange mystery of her absence knew. Even your mother thought her changed and cold, And for many years I thought so too. "She was gone; and then your mother took That poor gift which Margaret laid aside : Flower, or toy, or trinket, matters not: What it was had better be forgot. . ... It was just then she became my bride. "Now, I think May knows the hope I have. Arthur, darling, can you guess the rest? Even my little Olga understands Great gifts can be given by little hands, Since of all gifts Love is still the best. "Margaret is my dear and honoured wife, And I hold her so. But she can claim From your hearts, dear ones, a loving debt I can neither pay, nor yet forget: You can give it in your mother's name. "Earth spoils even Love, and here a shade On the purest, noblest heart may fall: Now your mother dwells in perfect light, She will bless us, I believe, to-night,She is happy now, and she knows all." Next day was farewell-a day of tears; And turned back to see his lady stand Ah, they loved her soon! The little one Arthur always with her now; and May -Well, I loved my own dear lady best. GIVE PLACE. TARRY Crowns of Heaven Set in azure night! Linger yet a little Ere you hide your light: -Nay; let Starlight fade away Heralding the day! Snowflakes pure and spotless, Still, oh, still remain, Binding dreary winter, -Nay; but melt at once and bring Blossoms, gentle blossoms, Do not wither yet; Still for you the sun shines, Still the dews are wet: |