RONDEAU.— BROTHER AND FRIEND.

Brother and friend I found thee in the hour

Of need and day of trouble, strong and true.—

In June's fair mirth, and when the sunrise hue

Shewed bright where joy had built his thoughtless bower,

Thou wert a child to sport with, something lower

Than a friend's need. I gave, methought, thy due,—

An elder sister's gentleness, nor knew

That ere Spring dawned my soul would feel thy power.

Brother and Friend!

A man, with a man's strength, and will, and fire,

I know thee, my Alcides; thus a god

For some fair soul to reverence, and desire

To own and worship. I can place thee higher

To-day, in naming thee,— pain's paths just trod —

Brother and Friend.