ANSWERED PRAYERS.

I prayed for riches, and achieved success;

All that I touched turned into gold. Alas!

My cares were greater and my peace was less,

When that wish came to pass.

I prayed for glory, and I heard my name

Sung by sweet children and by hoary men.

But ah! the hurts — the hurts that come with fame

I was not happy then.

I prayed for Love, and had my heart’ s desire.

Through quivering heart and body, and through brain

There swept the flame of its devouring fire,

And but the scars remain.

I prayed for a contented mind. At length

Great light upon my darkened spirit burst.

Great peace fell on me also, and great strength —

Oh, had that prayer been first!