A Song of the Olden Time

To-day my gay and happy heart, Was lost in pleasant dreaming; And I had won a loving part In all the by-gone's seeming.

I saw that most renowned maid, Before her father falling, Those savage hearts, within the shade Of antique trees, appalling.

I saw the deep and gushing love, That fearful moment started, That murmur'd like a turtle dove, To cheating hope departed.

I saw the kind and gentle deeds, That gemm'd her after being That little camp, from sorest needs, And frequent slaughter, freeing.

I thought that she was kindly sent, In gracious God's foreknowing, To save from fatal detriment, This infant nation growing.

I saw the savage maiden's form With Culture's graces, glowing; In virgin beauty, bright and warm, Like vernal roses blowing.

I saw her sweetly, deeply smile On Rolfe beside her sitting, As o'er the neighboring stream the while The shades of eve were flitting.

I saw her wed in love beneath The forest's lofty awning; While white and dusk maids bring a wreath, Like night commixt with morning.

I saw the strange and novel fame, She left to song and story, Which down the future's track of flame, Beams forth with deathless glory.