Poems (Trask)/Trifles
TRIFLES.
Little streamlet, murmur On thy quiet way,—Down in lowland meadows Kiss the crowfoot gay; Refresh the thirsty cattle, Cool the reaper's brow,—Lave the hazel bushes Which the ripe nuts bow,—All thy course with humble gifts, Little stream, endow.
Red-lipped, blushing daisy, Pride will pass thee by,—But thy modest sweetness Draws the thoughtful eye; Cast thy fragrant odors On the soft south breeze, Touch the brow of beauty, Scent the clover seas,—Make a feast of honey For the toiling bees.
White cloud, sail the azure, 'Mid the crystal stars,—Drop thy graceful shadow Through the amber bars; Gather strength and moisture, Let the rain come down Pearly, pure, and heavenly, On the dusty town,—All the drought-parched country With the rich flood drown.
Sweet west wind, steal softly Down the royal heights In the drowsy daytime, In the star-bright nights. Waft thy balm of healing Over lonely moors,—In at palace windows, In at cottage doors; Give the toiling millions Health from thy full stores.
Soul, with nature humble, Guard thy talent small; Stay thy feet on virtue, Take heed lest they fall. Cheer the sad and weary,— Lend a helping hand,—God loves an earnest worker Who heeds the wise command, To let his light shine broadcast O'er the gracious land.