Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/119



tell me of my brother, So far away at sea; Amid the Indian islands, Of which you read to me,

I wish that I were with him, Then I should see on high The tall and stately cocoa, That rises mid the sky.

But only round the summit The feathery leaves are seen, Like the plumes of some great warrior, It spreads its shining green.

And there the flowers are brighter Than any that I know; And the birds have purple plumage, And wings of crimson glow.

There grow cinnamon and spices, And, for a mile and more, The cool sweet gales of evening Bring perfume from the shore.

Amid those sunny islands His good ship has to roam: Amid so many wonders He must forget his home.