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174
TWO
While to the bride of an hour ago
It brought all blessings its hands could bear!
I only know that to one it came
Laden with honor, and joy, and peace;
Its gifts to the other were woe and shame,
And a burning pain that shall never cease!

I only know that the soul of one
Has been a pearl in a golden case;
That of the other a pebble thrown
Idly down in a way-side place,
Where all day long strange footsteps trod,
And the bold, bright sun drank up the dew!
Yet both were women. O righteous God,
Thou 'only canst judge between the two!