Zinzendorff and Other Poems/Introduction to an Album
INTRODUCTION TO AN ALBUM.
Gleaner! the field's before thee. Many a sheaf
Whiteneth the ground, which thou may'st freely take
Into thy garner. Friendship's clusters bend
In ruddy ripeness, and the flowers of Love
Breathe fresh perfume for thee. Go, ask of Wit
His sparkling diamond, win from Fancy's hand
Her frost-work talisman, from Mirth require
Such garland as she weaves in Music's bower,
And search for gold in Wisdom's heaven-wrought mine.
Perchance the hoary Sage a gem may grant
Of rich experience, or some timid child
In tender meekness deck thy pencil'd vase.
And as the Gleaner from the fruitful fields
Of Boaz, gathering where the reapers strew'd,
Came to her Mother at the close of day
With welcome store and brightly glowing smile,
So bring thy gifts to Memory's treasure-shrine.