For five-and-forty years
Through winter's cold and summer's heat,
Have worn the nuptial gears.

The heat and burden of the day
They honestly have borne,
Until their heads are growing gray,
Their limbs with toil are worn.

In all the ups and downs of life--
Of which they've had their share--
They never knew domestic strife,
Or, if at all, 'twas rare.

They now seem standing on the verge
Of that unfathomed sea,
Just waiting for the final surge
That opes eternity.

When comes that surge, or soon or late,
May they in peace depart;
And meet within the shining gate,
No more to grieve or part.



THE DONATION VISIT.

The following poem was read upon the occasion of a donation visit by
the Head of Christiana congregation to their pastor, Rev. James I.