Poem August 10, 1899 Issue

To the Spirit

BY CHARLES GIBSON.

Great Spirit, hear me as I rove
Through field or forest, woods or grove,
Through wind encircling woods of woe,
Or flee from an approaching foe:
Great Spirit, help me as I rove,
To conquer wickedness with Love.

Behold! There is a wak'ning voice,
Lipped in its half immortal choice,
That sings from the surrounding shade,
And reaches oft the sunny glade.
Behold: the songs upon the wind,
Ring with the breath of life, behind.

Great Spirit, thy divine refrain
Would turn these mockeries of pain
From dull despair to notes of joy,
To Life, and find our childhood's toy.
Great Spirit, breathe, and long remain
Love ruling earth's enshrouded fane.