Page:Love's trilogy.djvu/349

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'GOD'S PEACE'
339

'GOD'S PEACE' 3S9

There are those who in poor blindness try to make themselves contented with such mean happi- ness. There are others who in attempted cynicism insist that security kills happiness. There is only one happiness, to be at peace in happiness. To know that the day rises with the same sun that set yesterday, to desire nothing, to fear nothing, not to wish any day over again or any day different, because each day is equally happy.

That happiness, the only one, is mine. More than most people I have chased happiness. I have sought it out in the world, where men make their fortunes, and I have been up early and out late trying to find it, I have excited myself and tired myself out in the pursuit. Then suddenly it came to me like a gentle song in a quiet, far-away place. I heard it murmuring over the water on a beautiful summer night. I dare not call, fearing to frighten it away, but in humble faith I opened my heart to it, and lo and behold ! one day I found it singing within.

I have searched my heart, but no doubt is hidden there. I have been awake through lonely nights, but no shadow fell across Greta's lovely image.

In a white boat I glide down a sunlit river, and in my hand I hold a golden fruit, pure and perfect.

CHRISTMAS NIGHT.

WHEN this afternoon I arrive at the miller's, XXVI I find two Christmas guests besides myself. They are Greta's god-daughter, the four-year-old