Page:Home; or, The unlost paradise (IA homeorunlostpara00palm).pdf/107

 Quicken the scattered seed, and in its time Reward the sower with the reaper's joy. Around the new-made Home his tasteful hand New beauties shall create. Well pleased his ear Shall note the voices, echoing far, of flocks And herds that 'mid abundance graze content; Nor need he envy here the city's din As glide, in healthful toil, the peaceful years.

Ah! Time, at once giver and robber thou! Ere life hath reached its noon, each year beholds Some gift possessed made richer, or some grace, Some power, or pleasure, all anew bestowed. But high noon passed, each year shall filch away Somewhat of beauty's charm, of manhood's strength, Of lustre from the eye, and from the ear Of quickness to perceive the subtile thrill. Thou stealest from the agile limb and step, Elastic beyond art, the lithesome spring; From golden locks, or raven, their bright hues Thou plunderest silently, till all are gone;