Poems (Kimball)/Prelude
Prelude.
to
JOHN GREENLEAF WHITTIER.
But for thy gracious words, revered of men,Scarce had I ventured on from year to year To seek the great world's much-engrossèd ear With the small rhythmic whispers of my pen. And now to silence oft withdrawing when Thy songs so full and sweet, so strong and clear, And those of others, nobly sung, I hear, I ask, Why do I aught but listen? Then Myself makes answer, Who hath given thee This voice within that thou art fain to still?Though few and scarcely heard thy notes may be, Seek not, nor yet withhold. Trust makes amends For Trust that waits unquestioning God's will, Hearing His words above the words of friends.