Page:Poems, Volume 1, Coates, 1916.djvu/239

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THE HEART OF LOVE

I KNOW a place warm-sheltered from the world—
A place secure, in mild conditions blest,
Where fainting Toil, the homespun banner furled,
May pause awhile and rest:
I know a place where fires burn late,
And Mercy, waiting at the gate,
Still welcomes the oppressed!


I know a shrine more rich than Plutus' fane.
An altar fragrant with celestial dew,
Where wavering souls their virgin faiths regain
And energies renew.
I know a garden fair and free,
Where life yet wears, unfadingly,
Lost Eden's roseate hue!

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