Pebbles and Shells (Hawkes collection)/Upon the Heights
UPON THE HEIGHTS
I stood at evening on the solemn heights, Upon the spot where earth and heaven meet, I saw the broad earth lying at my feet,Her bosom set with myriad twinkling lights, I heard a church bell tolling sacred rites,And faint and far a nightbird's plaintive call,I felt the love that broodeth over all And winged my soul to new and higher flights.
It was not night, mine eyes were growing dim, I stood upon the hoary heights of years, Above the plain of youthful joys and fearsAnd saw e'en to life's dark horizon rim; I things were plain, the darkest clouds were riven, And hosts of stars illumined the gates of heaven.