TO THE RAINBOW.
Reading edition
O Iris! bringing balm for Summer's tears, So lightly gliding down thy bridge of rose, I know not why my spirit drinks repose Soon as thy footfall the horizon nears. Spellbound I watch the crimson-shaded piers As arch by arch the blooming pathway grows, And where the richest flush of color glows I trace thy trailing garments. Sighs and fears Have vanished: in one long and ardent gaze Thy steps I follow down the heavenly slope. Iris, be mine thy message! Let thy rays Write out how I with destiny may cope. Ah! spanned with light would be all coming days, Could I but read thy oracle of hope. Frances L. Mace.