In a Library (Randall)

Tread softly here, as ye would tread In presence of the honored dead, With reverent step and low-bowed head.

Speak low - as low ye would speak Before some saint of grandeur meek, Whose favor ye would humbly seek.

Within these walls the very air Seems weighted with a fragrance rare, Like incense burned at ev'ning prayer.

Here may we sit and converse hold With those whose names in ages old Were in the book of fame enrolled.

Here under poet's power intense We leave this world of sordid sense, Where mortals strive with problems dense.

And mount to realms where fance, free, Above our poor humanity, Roams in a joyous ecstasy.

Of if through history's maze we tread, The hero, patriot, long since dead, Whose great heart for his country bled.

Seems once again to work and fight, In superstition's darkest night, For God, his fellows, and the right.

Enough! mere words can never tell The influence of the grateful spell Which seems among these books to dwell.