Songs for the Sorrowing

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated.1861 Excerpt: ... IN SIGHT OF HEAVEN. A Pioneer Missionary, who was found frozen to death on the hank of one of the Western Rivers which he had just succeeded in crossing, held in his hand a paper, and on it were feebly penciled the words in sight of heaven.11 O TRiuMPH-glance of Pilot, first in view of broad New World! O Flag, by weak hands waved aloft, and held in death unfurled! Pale blossoms are ye, born of Earth, to die by March-winds driven, Beside this autumn-fruit of Faith, that glows in sight of heaven. Yet Earth has had her conquerors, and prince and peasant name Entwine in gorgeous blazonry along the scroll of Fame, IN SIGHT OF HEAVBN. 07 And glorious memories are embalmed among her priceless things--Of warriors brave and rulers wise, true poets, patriot-kings. But this man more than conqueror through might of love became, To bear through frontier-wilds the Cross with loyal hand his aim; And never yet hath minstrel heart, by love or sorrow riven, Indited loftier line than this last shout in sight of heaven. Not over pleasant garden-paths, or prairies green and gay With turf and flowers upspringing fast, God's herald took his way; Nor was he cheered by kindly voice, companionship and smile, Sent forth to thread the wilderness where silent Indians file. He lay not on a peaceful couch, within a quiet room, While friends and kindred paved with love his passage to the tomb; No brother came to bid him place his confidence on high; No worldling gazed with awe-filled mien to see a Christian die. But in the gloom of forest-ways by fleet hoof seldom trod The lone man faced his foe, alone, and sank on stranger-sod: IN SIGHT OF HEAVEN. 69 He had forded one wide river, it was dark, and deep, and cold; Another and a mightier across his pathway rolled. Alone? ah no! for ...