Page:Poems Clark.djvu/78

I do not wonder that you faltered, longing
 To hold the ring, and leave behind the cross;—
To bear such weight upon your trembling shoulders,
 And feel your burden was but tarnished dross;
Knowing the cross you hid within your bosom.
 Must be the headstone o'er a lifelong loss.

I understand the fierceness of the conflict,
 And how you watched your friend's fast paling cheek,
And knew the radiant circle of your blessings,
 On which she gazed in sadness dumb and meek,
Was such a contrast, in its starry gleaming,
 With the dull cross that pressed her shoulders weak.

I do not think you waited long ere yielding
 Your happiness to soothe your loved one's woe;
And I can dream you learned a trick of smiling,
 When on her cheek you saw the roses glow;
Folding, meanwhile, the cross unto your bosom,
 Bidding nor look, nor word your anguish show.

And He, who came to comfort in grief's midnight,
 Has writ this promise on your hidden cross;
"The merciful are blessed, obtaining mercy;"
 Heaven's compensations o'er crown earth's dull dross,
And God, from out his treasures of compassion,
 Will work your sweetest gladness from life's loss.

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