Reverie

O'er the long reach of water comes The plash of dipping oar, And faintly, borne upon the wind, Far voices gain the shore.

I hear their low, faint murmur as The boat glides on its way, And with the glance of flashing oar Fall silver drops of spray!

I lie with half-closed eyes and dream Of days that long are fled; While fancy brings unto my side The forms of those now dead.

When life and love were as a song From vibrant chords of youth! When every heart that greeted me Spoke but of trust and truth!

Thus half-adream I hold commune With mine own heart, and ask Were youth and joy the greater gain, Or life's more finished task?

Quick comes the answer to my lips-- Quick to the question craved-- "The noblest deeds of life are those In later years engraved

"On tablets of the living mind, In characters full bold; Not happiness, nor yet content, Can here life's measure hold!

"Not to glide on in summer dreams, Nor yet to love, is best; But in thy noble strength to grow And earn the longed-for rest!"

So not with envious eyes I watch The boat whose living freight Is youth and all youth's sunny dreams-- I, who have learned to wait!