Page:Poems Acton.djvu/25

Yet had he falsehood found,
And for its sleep profound
 Envied that child.

Then came the yearning thought—
 Would it be vain,
If he with fervour sought
 Sweet peace to gain?
How should he welcome rest
Back to his wearied breast
 Gladly again?

"Peace may once more be thine!"
 Hope whispered low;
But in thy bosom's shrine
 Change must thou know.
Some to thee false have seem'd,
All hast thou worthless deem'd—
 Ah, 'tis not so!

"Scatter thou mercy's seed,
 Wipe tears away,
Kind word and noble deed
 Sow while you may:
Gladden the mourning one—
Joy, for such mercies done,
 With thee shall stay."