Classic Poem

STEAMSHIP " Russia , " July 6, 1873

H ER winsome face and artless grace
Like sunbeams warmed my heart,
As angels bright diffuse a light
That stays when they depart.

A touch may heal; a spark from steel
Of bright eyes kindle fire;
One touch of hers my finger stirs
To wake with joy the lyre.

And through the day her spirit gay
Spread like a summer breeze,
When left alone, I saw her on
The alienating seas.

To her my thanks. Back to the ranks,
I turn, of work and strife,
Breathing a prayer that saints as fair
As she, may guard her life.