VERSE: TREASURES

By Adelaide Anne Procter

Let me count my treasures,

All my soul holds dear,

Given me by dark spirits

Whom I used to fear.

Through long days of anguish,

And sad nights, did Pain

Forge my shield, Endurance,

Bright and free from stain!

Doubt, in misty caverns,

‘ Mid dark horrors sought,

Till my peerless jewel,

Faith to me she brought.

Sorrow, that I wearied

Should remain so long,

Wreathed my starry glory,

The bright Crown of Song.

Strife, that racked my spirit,

Without hope or rest,

Left the blooming flower,

Patience, on my breast.

Suffering, that I dreaded,

Ignorant of her charms,

Laid the fair child, Pity,

Smiling, in my arms.

So I count my treasures,

Stored in days long past —

And I thank the givers,

Whom I know at last!