Pebbles and Shells (Hawkes collection)/By Hill and Vale
BY HILL AND VALE
Through hill and vale life's winding way is laid By stony walks and highways fresh and sweet, And oft the cruel stones shall cut thy feetAs one by one life's countless steps are made;And some at noon shall rest them in the shade Upon the summit of achievements steep, And some at morn shall lay them down to sleep,When life is fresh, in indolence's cool shade;And some are strong of heart and not dismayed By all the dangers of life's varied way,— With swift impetuous feet that naught can stayThey journey on; and some are sore afraid,— But still they hurry on, by hills and vales Until the sun goes down and day-light fails.