Poems (Stephens)/Three crowns

by Eliza Jane Stephens

THREE CROWNS.

A homely cot, where want and toil,
 Had ever close companions been,
Where learned guest with brilliant talk
 Was never known to enter in.

But here a noble thoughtful youth
 Was constant poring o'er his book,
And nothing could his search beguile,
 Though worn and pallid was his look.

When some deplored that in such work
 He would his youthful spirits drown,
(Ambition here had found a slave)
 He said, "I seek a scholar's crown."

And one there was in early prime,
 A strong and self reliant man,
With all the plentitude of grace,
 A mind to execute his plan.

"My father is a king," he said,
 "And I his loyal only son,
I have no war to wage with fate,
 My crown has been already won."

Another came in humble garb,
 Who scarcely drew a passing glance,
So often going to and fro,
 It only seemed as if by chance.

And yet he always seemed intent,
 Serene and gentle too his mood,
He wished for none to herald him,
 His days were spent in doing good.

When asked his hope of a reward
 He said, "May I deserve some day
The promised crown of righteousness,
 The gift that fadeth not away."