He passed along the dewy sward, The blue-bird sang aloft “good-morrow!” He plucked a bud, the flower awoke And smiled without one pang of sorrow. He spoke of all that graced the scene In tones that fell like music round us, We felt the charm descend, nor strove To break the rapturous spell that bound us. We listened with mysterious awe, Strange feelings mingling with our pleasure; We heard that day prophetic words, High thoughts the heart must always treasure. Great Nature’s Priest! thy calm career, With that sweet morn, on earth has ended— But who shall say thy mission died When, winged for Heaven, thy soul ascended! * * * * * INSPIRATION. TO SHIRLEY. BY WM. P. BRANNAN. What shall yield me inspiration, What sweet spell entrance my thought, Whilst I sing the adoration By thy matchless beauty wrought? Overcome with exultation Which thy charming presence brought. Incense-bearing breezes hover Round my flushed and throbbing brow, Minstrels in their shady cover Chant divinest music now; Nature, yield to nature’s lover Language worthy of his vow! Where she walks a richer splendor Hallows all the earth and sky, Unseen angels there attend her; Heaven and love sleep in her eye— Graces have no grace to lend her, Zephyr breathes an envious sigh. Thou thyself art inspiration! Moving, breathing, blessing, blest; The lily and the rose-carnation Live upon thy cheek and breast, Daring time and desolation, Thrilling hearts with wild unrest! * * * * * EDDA MURRAY. BY ENNA DUVAL. Learn to win a lady’s faith Nobly, as the thing is high; Bravely, as for life and death— With a loyal gravity. Lead her from the festive boards, Point her to the starry skies, Guard her by your truthful words, Pure from courtship’s flatteries. By your truth she shall be true— Ever true as wives of yore— And her _Yes_, once said to you, SHALL be Yes for evermore. ELIZABETH BARRETT BROWNING.