Poems (Angier)/A Vision

by Annie Lanman Angier

A VISION.

'Twas a beautiful vision that noiselessly stole,
Like a sweet dream of heaven, entrancing the soul;
Though weary the sleeper, her cares fled away
Like mists of the morning at break of the day.

By her side stood a Presence—nor motion nor breath
Broke the silence that reigned like the stillness of death;
The white Dove of Peace spread its pinions so near,
That hushed was each murmur and calmed every fear.

Awe-stricken she gazed on the shadowy form,
For the vision yet lingered, fair, radiant, warm;
All, save that the head which was reverently bowed
Seemed bathed, like yon moon, in a light, fleecy cloud.

Who, who is this visitant? softly she sighed,
Then paused, yet no lips to her question replied,
But the veil gently lifted, revealing to view
Her own radiant form, while a voice she well knew—

Said—This crown is heaven's guerdon, the conqueror's sign,
On the brow of the faithful till death it shall shine;
Still, still uncomplaining thy daily cross bear,
Through that if thou conquer this crown thou shalt wear!

Like a white lily bending, so holy and meek,
The dew on its petals, heaven's breath on its cheek;
The sleeper awoke, to her soul had been given
A glimpse of their rapture who waken in heaven.