GONE!
Reading edition
SUGGESTED ON HEARING OF THE DEATH, ONLY A FEW DAYS APART, OF TWO INFANT CHILDREN OF AN ESTEEMED FRIEND.
Gone! Like a ray, that came and kissed some flow'rs, Charming their loneliness with many a hue; But cheering only, as such marvels do, A few short hours.
Gone! Like a dew-drop-jewel of the mist, That lives the briefest moment in the morn; Sparkling in purity upon a thorn; Then heaven-ward kisst.
Gone! Like a Summer-wind, that woke a thrill In every leaf it fondled as it fled, Then left each leaflet drooping low its head Mournful and still.
Gone! Like a swelling wail at Autumn time, That went with such sad cadences away, 'Twas thought a God from Heav'n had come astray Weeping sublime.
Gone! Like a dream of beauty in the night, That came to tell a fair and welcome tale, Then left the wakening dreamer to bewail The dead delight.