4648403Poems — Not in VainFrances M. Sharpless

NOT IN VAIN
Some lilies rose in stately radiance white
'Mid shafts of living green;
And the pure, starry splendor made a light
Around the homely scene.

What chance had placed the bulbs in such a spot
No human tongue could tell,
But neither shower nor Summer sun forgot
To tend the nurslings well.

A lover wandering by the lonely place
Plucked one with musing smile,
Seeing anear one well-remembered face
And whispered all the while:—

"This perfect flower with a dew-drop laden
In virginal garb of white,
Shall bear my secret to my dearest maiden
And plead for me to-night."

A little ragged boy with eager hand
Hath gathered two or three;
And now, who is there that in all the land
Hath such a joy as he!

Hunger and want his gaunt companions long
Have slunk in shame away,
While that sweet presence like an unsung song
Thrills all his soul to-day.

Yet ere a little must the lilies fade
And thrown aside, must die;
But for two hearts a heaven they have made
Ere they neglected lie.

A memory of love in one fair breast;
In one sad empty soul
Some longings have been stirred that ne'er shall rest
Under earth's low control.