The Evening and the Morning.

When Life’s evening twilight gathers Darkling shadows from the tomb, Then a bright celestial morning Kisses back the gathering gloom; Robed in beauty’s bright adorning This aurora—dawning glory, Kisses back the gathering gloom. When the crimson tide is throbbing With the hopes that wildly mount, And the sensuous soul is drinking From enjoyment’s sparkling fount, Then the thoughts will turn with shrinking From the coming of life’s gloaming— Death seems then a Stygian fount. But when life’s weary day is closing— When the lengthening shadows fall, Sweetly singing angel voices Come with blessing in their call! The departing soul rejoices With prevision, of Elysian, Gladly welcoming the call. As the spirit fetters loosen And the soul gains greater height, It will see the evening shadows Meet and kiss the dawning light; And, dispelling all the shadows, This supernal life eternal, Opens into morning light. Aye, the golden gates swing open! To reveal the splendors bright; From His throne the glory streaming Haloes Death with holy light; Angels voicing their rejoicing— Heaven’s mansions brightly gleaming, Flood Life’s evening time with light.