“The land of Song within thee lies, Watered by living springs ; Its clouds are angels' wings. “Learn, that henceforth thy song shall be, Not mountains capped with snow, Nor forests sounding like the sea, Nor rivers flowing ceaselessly, Where the woodlands bend to see The bending heavens below. “ There is a forest where the din Of iron branches sounds ! A mighty river roars between, And whosoever looks therein, Sees the heavens all black with sin, Sees not its depths, nor bounds. “ Athwart the swinging branches cast, Soft rays of sunshine pour ; Then comes the fearful wintry blast ; Our hopes, like withered leaves, fall fast ; Pallid lips say, 'It is past ! We can return no more !! “Look, then, into thine heart, and write ! Yes, into Life's deep stream ! Be these henceforth thy theme " |