Classic Poem

TO. C. C.

Welcome ! Perhaps the simple word says all.
And yet, when from a country's earnest heart
It sudden springs, quick pride and triumph start,
Eager as love, and even hold in thrall
Of silence love's own speech, while they recall
How in all men's great deeds of life and art
Their native land immortal share and part
Must keep.
But thou, O royal soul, how small
Such laurels unto thee, we know who love
Thee, and whom thou hast loved! We dare to bring
To thee this mite of silent offering,
And know how it thy great, warm heart will move,
That, dumb with joy, we find no voice as yet,
And cannot see, because our eyes are wet!