An Old Man's Prayer. Baker George Melville

      In the loftiest room, of princely state,

      Of a modern palace grand and great, —

      Whose marble front is a symbol true

      Of the inner splendors hid from view, —

      On an autumn night, when wild without

      The bold winds held their revel rout,

      Rudely assailing the passing throng,

      Through churchyards creeping with mournful song,

      A group was gathered around a board

      Heaped with all that wealth could afford,

      Or taste could suggest: dishes costly and rare,

      Fruits of all climes and all seasons, were there.

      The pendent lights in brilliance danced

      On the gleaming plate their rays enhanced;

      The massive mirrors thrice displayed

      The stately banquet there arrayed.

      Furniture carved by an artist hand,

      Carpets which only great wealth could command,

      Curtains of damask, of lace, and of gold,

      Spoke of the splendors wealth could unfold,

      And filled with a joy and a pleasure rare

      The youthful hearts that were gathered there.

      Slender each form, and fair each face,

      Of the twelve gay lads which that table grace,

      As with genial talk and pleasant jest

      They banter each other, and cheer their guest.

      For one guest is there, as youthful as they,

      With a heart as light, and a voice as gay,

      Who laughs at their jests with ready glee,

      And whose quick returns speak a spirit free,

      An honored guest; for, on the morrow,

      They must part with him in pain and sorrow.

      The glittering emblems his shoulders bear

      Bid him for strife and for peril prepare;

      Bid him go forth at his Country’s call,

      With her banner to triumph, or on it to fall.

      A moment’s pause, as with ready hand

      The waiter hurries, at command,

      To clear the table, and, instead

      Of the rich, choice viands thickly spread,

      Ranges dark bottles and cruses, which show

      Marks of long years in damp vaults below.

      The richest juices age can display

      Are quickly spread in tempting array.

      Wines of Bordeaux and Seville are there,

      With liquors and cordials sparkling and rare;

      And bottles are opened, and glasses are filled.

      When all in a moment the tumult is stilled,

      As he who presides with dignified grace