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HYMN TO LIFE
17
Through quivering pines the gentle south winds stray,
Singing low songs that bid the tear-drops start;
And thoughts of thee are in each trembling lay,
    Thrilling the listener's heart.

Old Ocean lifts his solemn voice on high,
Thy name, O Life, repeating evermore,
While sweeping gales and rushing storms reply
     From many a far-off shore.

The stars are gathering in the darkening skies,
But our dull ears their music may not hear,
Though, while we list, their swelling anthems rise
      Exultingly and clear!

O Earth is beautiful! She weareth still
The golden radiance of life's early day;
Still Love and Hope for me their chalice fill,—
     Life, turn not thou away!