This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
The Orphan's Dream of Fame.
I LEARNED within myself to live. I saw,
E'en in my childhood, that the heart's bright buds
Withered and faded at the touch. I turned
From all life's empty, heartless mockeries,
And wept my griefs away on Nature's breast.
To me was given the deep and earnest love
Of holy solitude. I strayed alone
By rock and stream, and through the forest depths,
And found a sweet and dear companionship
In every sight and sound that greeted me
In all my wayward wanderings.

                 I learned
Glad music from the lark's free, gushing song,