Poems — Let the Light Enter

The dying words of Goethe.

"Light!

more light!

the shadows deepen, And my life is ebbing low, Throw the windows widely open: Light!

more light!

before I go.

"Softly let the balmy sunshine Play around my dying bed, E'er the dimly lighted valley I with lonely feet must tread.

"Light!

more light!

for Death is weaving Shadows 'round my waning sight, And I fain would gaze upon him Through a stream of earthly light."

Not for greater gifts of genius;

Not for thoughts more grandly bright, All the dying poet whispers Is a prayer for light, more light.

Heeds he not the gathered laurels, Fading slowly from his sight;

All the poet's aspirations Centre in that prayer for light.

72 AN APPEAL TO MY COUNTRYWOMEN.

Gracious Saviour, when life's day-dreams Melt and vanish from the sight, May our dim and longing vision Then be blessed with light, more light.

AN APPEAL TO MY COUNTRYWOMEN.