FRANK DEMPSTER SHERMAN
Reading edition
America, 1860-
Pebbles
Out of a pellucid brook 5 Pebbles round and smooth I took: Like a jewel every one Caught a color from the sun,— Ruby red and sapphire blue, Emerald and onyx too, 10 Diamond and amethyst,— Not a precious stone I missed: Gems I held from every land In the hollow of my hand. Workman Water these had made 15 Patiently through sun and shade, With the ripples of the rill He had polished them until, Smooth, symmetrical, and bright, Each one sparkling in the light Showered within its burning heart All the lapidary's art; And the brook seemed thus to sing: 5 Patience conquers everything!