X.

Ah! blest those years of youthful hope, When every breeze was Zephyr, every morning May! Then as we bravely climbed the slope Of life’s steep mount, we gained a wider scope At every stair, and could with joy survey The track beneath us, and the upward way; Both lay in light—round both the breath of love Fragrant and warm from Heaven’s own tropic blew; Beside us what glad comrades smiled and strove! Beyond us what dim visions rose to view! With thee, dear Master! through that morning land We journeyed happy: thine the guiding hand, Thine the far-looking eye, the dauntless smile; Thy lofty song of hope did the long march beguile.