CALM AFTER STORM

Thou hast but seen what but mine eyes have shown —

Mine eyes that gazing on thee picture Heaven;

Thou hast but heard what but my voice hath given —

My voice that takes from thine a calmer tone.

Ah! couldst thou know all that my heart hath known,

While with Despair's dark phantoms it hath striven —

From faith to doubt, from joy to sorrow driven,

Till rescued and redeemed by Love alone,—

Thou wouldst not marvel were my cloudless brow

O'er-clouded, were my aspect less serene!

Love smiles on Death, unveils his mystery

Of joy and grief, and Love bids me avow

This truth, with chastened heart and tranquil mien,—

‘ Less pure Love's bliss if less Love's agony.’