THE SISTERS OF SCIO.
BY MRS. HEMANS.
As are our hearts, our way is one,
And cannot be divided. Strong affection
Contends with all things, and o'ercometh all things.
Will I not live with thee? Will I not cheer thee?
Wouldst thou be lonely then? Wouldst thou be sad?
Joanna Baillie.
I.
"Sister, sweet sister! let me weep awhile!
Bear with me—give the sudden passion way?
Thoughts of our own lost home—our sunny isle—
Come, as the wind that o'er a reed hath sway;
Till my heart dies with yearnings and sick fears;—
Oh! could my life melt from me in these tears!
II.
"Our father's voice—our mother's gentle eye—
Our brother's bounding step—where are they, where?
Desolate, desolate our chambers lie:
How hast thou won thy spirit from despair?
O'er mine, swift shadows, gusts of terror sweep;
I sink away—bear with me—let me weep!"
