Poems (Argent)/Cathedral Chimes
CATHEDRAL CHIMES.
"Bells—the music nighest bordering upon heaven."C. Lamb.
FAR away I heard them Through the tranquil air,In the distance pealing,Like sweet voices stealing Through a world so fair.
Beautiful and wondrous Was that ringing chime,In the twilight dying,Falling softly, sighing To a mystic rhyme.
All was still around me By the river dim,As I stood and listenedBy the waves that glistened Round its utmost rim.
In the wind's low murmur Through the leafy trees,Louder came the measureOf that tuneful pleasure, 'Cross the sleeping seas!
Like a white-winged angel, Down from starry skies,Those sweet chimes came o'er me,Upwards, onward bore me Through life's mysteries.
All in silver shadows Lay the waters wide,Through the meadows gleamingFitful rays went streaming Idly o'er the tide.
Mingling all in chorus, Bird and bell and bee, All the earth in singingJoined in that grand ringing, Subtlest melody!
Till my soul was wakened To a higher power,Life seemed not so dreary,Heart and brain less weary, For that calm, bright hour.
Such a calm as angels, In the fields above,Feel with untold gladness,Ne'er a thought of sadness In their perfect love.
Far away I heard them, Beautiful and fair,In the distance pealing,Like sweet voices stealing Through the tranquil air!