THE ANGEL AND THE INFANT 8,6,8,6 [23]Unbekanntes. transl., Jane Borthwick or Sarah Findlater Smiling, a bright-eyed seraph bent Over an infant's dream; To view his mirrored form he leant As in the crystal stream. "Fair infant, come," he whispered low, "And leave the earth with me; To a bright and happy land we'll go -- This is no home for thee. "Each sparkling pleasure knows alloy, Nor cloudless skies are here; A care there is for every joy, For every smile a tear. "The heart that dances free and light May soon be chained by sorrow; The sun that sets in calm to-night, May rise in storm to-morrow. "Alas! to cloud a brow so fair, That griefs and pains should rise! Alas! that this dark world of care Should dim these laughing eyes! "To seek a brighter land with me, Infant, thou wilt not fear; For piteous Heaven the sad decree Recalls, that sent thee here." It seemed ou him the sweet babe smiled. His wings the seraph spread: They're gone -- the angel and the child. Poor mother! thy son is dead! |