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THE REPLY OF THE SHUNAMMITE WOMAN.
THRICE happy was thy life's unruffled flow,
And happier still thy calm, contented mind,
Which thus around thy quiet home could find
The all that heart could wish or heaven bestow;
But seldom is it woman's lot below
At once the joys of wedded love and truth
To share, yet "dwell among her own." Ah no,
Far oftener must she leave the home of youth,
With sad though willing heart break every tie,
To join the lot of one, than all more dear;
For his loved sake 'mid strangers live and die,
Content his joys to share, his griefs to cheer;
To find in one fond heart her earthly rest,
And in that holy love be satisfied and blessed.

E.

December 14, 1844.