Epes Sargent

“ Such is their high prerogative, they feel!
Mother, thy child is safe in their warm folding
Who to thy tenderest yearning can respond;
An angel arm is thy beloved one holding---
Shall heavenly love than earthly be less fond? ”

“ The dolls and books were as she placed them last;
And all the grief and gloom
Were in the hearts that clung to her so fast.
Grieve not, reft hearts! Your darling is not dead;
She lives a fuller life: be comforted!
Weep not, fond parents, as if hope were ended,
When from the mortal form the life departs:
Your little one goes forth not unattended,
Beyond are gentle hands and loving hearts. ”

“ Says, "Dear mamma, what makes me feel so strange?"
"My darling," sobs the mother, "you, are dying!"
"Dying? but what is that?" "For you, a change
From earth to heaven, my sweet." "But where is heaven?"
"Darling, 'tis where God and His angels dwell ”