"In Time of War and Tumult."

HARRY DOUGLAS ROBINS.

I sought to eat life's bread—and lo!
The loaf turned to a stone.
I thought to drink love's wine—the cup
Was empty save a moan!
Where once was spread a feast of dreams
I saw a board swept bare—
Not e'en a crust of hope was left
Or crumb to give me fare.

Grim desolation seized my soul,
Mine eyes dark doubt did close,
Rebellion like a tempest wild
Hot in my heart arose:
But when the storm had left me wan
A voice said, "Ask of me;
And whatsoe'er thou wilt, that thing
Shall be done unto thee."

To claim the promise all forgot
I humbly bent my knee
And prayed, "What is unlike Thyself
O God, cast out of me.
Make soft this hardened heart of mine,
Fill me with charity;
And no will let me know but Thine,
Give me no mind but Thee."