Poems (Angier)/Norah and the Angels

by Annie Lanman Angier

NORAH AND THE ANGELS.

On her pillow she lay dreaming,
In a slumber, death-like seeming;
When above her head were heard,
Wings like those of gentlest bird.
Two bright watchers hovered there;
Thus their voices stirred the air.

first voice.

Sister, ere the break of day,
Let us bear her hence away.
In her soul Heaven's light is dawning,
And she needs no note of warning.

second voice.

Nay, sweet sister—nay, not now—
(Then she kissed the sleeper's brow),
Let her linger, still to bless
Hearts that mourn in bitterness.

first voice.

Tears already she has dried;
In a channel deep and wide,
Long has flowed her sympathy—
'Tis a broad, unebbing sea.

SECOND VOICE.

Not yet filled her meed of care,
She must heavier burdens bear;
Shed more tears, see more links broken,
Ere her last farewell be spoken.

FIRST VOICE.

Be it as our Father wills
Since each life-cup wisdom fills;
He ordains but what is best,
Faith anchors here and leaves the rest.

With the dawn the sleeper rose,
Like a sunbeam, forth she goes;
Heavenly voices through the day
Cheer her on her heavenward way.
Shining ones are by her side,
Ever prompt to guard and guide;
Till with angels Norah keep
Gentle watch, while mortals sleep.