14
SELF-COMMUNION.
He cannot touch the inward flame.
Nay, though he steals thy years away,
Their memory is left thee still,
And every month and every day[1]
Leaves some effect of good or ill.
The wise will find in Memory’s store
A help for that which lies before
To guide their course aright;
Then, hush thy plaints and calm thy fears;
Look back on these departed years,
And, say, what meets thy sight?”
Nay, though he steals thy years away,
Their memory is left thee still,
And every month and every day[1]
Leaves some effect of good or ill.
The wise will find in Memory’s store
A help for that which lies before
To guide their course aright;
Then, hush thy plaints and calm thy fears;
Look back on these departed years,
And, say, what meets thy sight?”
- ↑ Cancelled reading:
And every passing night and day.
