AN ARGUMENT FOR PEACE

"You do but dream; the world will never see

Such time as this you picture, when the sword

Shall lie inglorious in its sheath, and be

No more of valorous deeds incentive or reward."

The ocean breezes fanned them where they sat,

At leisure from life's conflict, toil and care,

Yet not unthoughtful, nor unmindful that

In all its weal and woe they held their share.

The rose-light charm and pride of earliest youth

A chastening touch had toned to lovelier hue,

And the white soul of purity and truth

Looked out alike from eyes of brown and blue.

"I covet your fair hope," he spake again,

"I cannot share it; all the hoary past

Denies that mightier prowess of the pen

[Pg 9]

The poet claims, and proves it still surpassed

"By sword and musket and the arts of war.

And 'twere not so,—the query will return,

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