Page:Poems Sigourney, 1834.pdf/20

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roars the hoarse storm from the angry north, As if the wintry spirit, loth to leave Its wonted haunts, came rudely rushing on, Fast by the steps of the defenceless Spring, To hurl his frost-spear at her shrinking flowers.

Yet while the tempest o'er the charms of May Sweeps dominant, and with discordant tone The wild blast rules without, peace smiles within; The fire burns cheerful, and the taper clear Alternate aids the needle, or illumes The page sublime, inciting the rapt soul, To soar above the warring elements. My gentle kitten at my footstool sings, Her song monotonous, and full of joy; Close by my side my tender mother sits, Industriously bent,—her brow still bright With beams of lingering youth, while he, the sire, The faithful guide, indulgently doth smile At our discourse, or wake the tuneful hymn Which best he loves.

Fountain of life and light!— Father Supreme! from whom our joys descend,