Page:Scenes and Hymns of Life.pdf/81

Agnes.My gentle son!
Th' affectionate, the gifted!—With what joy—
Edmund, rememberest thou?—with what bright joy
His baby brother ever to his arms
Would spring from rosy sleep, and playfully
Hide the rich clusters of his gleaming hair
In that kind youthful breast!—Oh! now no more—
But strengthen me, my God! and melt my heart,
Even to a well-spring of adoring tears,
For many a blessing left.
(Bending over the Child.) Once more farewell!
Oh! the pale piercing sweetness of that look!
How can it be sustained? Away, away!
[After a short pause.
Edmund, my woman's nature still is weak—
I cannot see thee render dust to dust!
Go thou, my husband, to thy solemn task;
I will rest here and still my soul with prayer
Till thy return.

Husband.Then strength be with thy prayer!