Page:Olive Buds.pdf/118

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been slain in battle,—and there was joy for her no more.

I saw a hoary man. He sat by the wayside. His head rested upon his bosom. His garments were old,—and his flesh wasted away. Yet he asked not for charity. I said, "Why is thy heart heavy?" And he answered, "I had a son,—an only one. I toiled from his cradle, that he might be fed, and clothed, and taught wisdom. He grew up to bless me, and all my labor, weariness, and care were forgotten. I knew no want for he cherished me. But he left me, to be a soldier. He fell on the field of battle. Therefore mine eye runneth down with water,—because the comfort-