THE STAR-SHIPS

Up on the waves of the great sea-sky Where the moon island dreamily floats Sailing about, with laughter and shout, Are thousands of gay little boats; And some are quite large,—they are nearer, you see, And some very faint and afar; Each little boat has a bright little sail And each little sail is a star. And “Come up and drift!” they are calling to me “The sea is blue and so wide”; And the little sails wink, and its pleasant to think That each longs to take me to ride; But sadly I say: “You are too far away”; And their light trembles down on my face; So hailing the brightest, far upward I send My heart’s dearest wish in my place.