DESPONDENCY.
Yearnings for only a glimmer
Of harvest of golden grain-
Praying to God in the darkness;
Praying for light and for rain;
For rain that this barren desert
May bloom in fullness of song —
Praying, and watching, and waiting;
Patiently waiting and long.
Oh! must our watching be futile?
Oh! must our prayers be in vain?
Oh! shall we never behold it—
The waving of rip'ning grain?
God send us aid to be faithful!
Grant that our hearts may be strong!
Grant but a glint of the laurels,
To those who watch faithful and long.
Grant us assurance of welcome
At last to proud victory's throng.
—John Liesk Tait.