CLOSE to the verge of fourscore crowded years Your heart is strong, your soul serene and bright; As when confronting first life's hopes and fears -- The star of manhood crowned your brow with light. Clear thoughts are spells to keep to keep the life-blood pure, Brave aims are medicinal, rife with balm; What wonder then, with @3thee@1 life's joys endure, And life's majestic sunset smiles in calm! For thou art one whose brotherhood supreme Hath touched all circles of benign desire; Therefore, thy days like some unclouded dream, Are slowly melting into heavenly fire. |