Music, and Other Poems

INSCRIPTIONS FOR A FRIEND'S HOUSE

                    THE HOUSE

     The cornerstone in Truth is laid,
     The guardian walls of Honour made,
     The roof of Faith is built above,
     The fire upon the hearth is Love:
     Though rains descend and loud winds call,
     This happy house shall never fall.

                  THE DOORSTEAD

     The lintel low enough to keep out pomp and pride:
     The threshold high enough to turn deceit aside:
     The doorband strong enough from robbers to defend:
     This door will open at a touch to welcome every friend.

                 THE HEARTHSTONE

     When the logs are burning free,
     Then the fire is full of glee:
     When each heart gives out its best,
     Then the talk is full of zest:
     Light your fire and never fear,
     Life was made for love and cheer.

          THE SUN-DIAL

     Time can never take
     What Time did not give;
     When my shadows have all passed,
     You shall live.