DAYBREAK.

A wind came up out of the sea, And said, “O mists, make room for me.” It hailed the ships, and cried, “Sail on, Ye mariners, the night is gone.” And hurried landward far away Crying, “Awake! it is the day.” It said unto the forest, “Shout! Hang all your leafy banners out!” It touched the wood bird’s folded wing, And said, “O bird, awake and sing.” And o’er the farms, “O chanticleer, Your clarion blow; the day is near.” It whispered to the fields of corn, “Bow down, and hail the coming morn.” It shouted through the belfry tower, “Awake, O bell! proclaim the hour.” It crossed the churchyard with a sigh, And said, “Not yet! in quiet lie.” —Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.