The Poetical Works of Jonathan E. Hoag/To Jonathan E. Hoag, Poet

by James F. Morton, Jr.

To Jonathan E. Hoag, Poet

Death said: "Why should I spare this child,
  Perchance for woe or shame?"
Life answered: "I have kept for him
  A loved and honored name."

Death said: "Why should this youth defy
  My ever-piercing dart?"
Life answered: "I have given him
  A strong and faithful heart."

Death said: "Why should this man be free
  From common doubts and fears?"
Life answered: "He has learned to trust
  The promise of the years."

Death said: "Why should this aged one
  His weary days prolong?"
Life answered: "He has won of me
  The sacred gift of song."

Death said: "Yet is he mine at last."
  "Nay, seek some other prize,"
Said Life, "Thy dart is powerless here;
  The poet never dies!"

James F. Morton, Jr.