Classic Poem

INSCRIBED IN " TALES OF THE OCEAN "

THIS first book that I ever knew
Was read aloud to me by you —
Friend of my boyhood, therefore take
It back from me, for old times' sake —
The selfsame " Tales " first read to me,
Under " the old sweet apple tree, "
Ere I myself could read such great
Big words, — but listening all elate,
At your interpreting, until
Brain, heart and soul were all athrill
With wonder, awe, and sheer excess
Of wildest childish happiness.

So take the book again — forget
All else, — long years, lost hopes, regret;
Sighs for the joys we ne'er attain,
Prayers we have lifted all in vain;
Tears for the faces seen no more,
Once as the roses at the door!
Take the enchanted book — And lo,
On grassy swards of long ago,
Sprawl out again, beneath the shade
The breezy old-home orchard made,
The veriest barefoot boy indeed —
And I will listen as you read.