Introduction. N preparing "Among the Poets" for the public the Author has gathered into one volume some of the most brilliant gems of song. These are not confined to one theme. Here the careful reader may worship with the most devout of different ages,-breathe the tender strains of love familiar to every human heart,—with Trowbridge bless the "Golden Stair" of children,-feel the thrill of our national poems,-laugh heartily with those who still see the amusing side of life. The variety renders it suitable for a souvenir, and the merit of its literary contents will secure the commendation to which it is entitled. Unfortunately there are some readers for whom poetry has no attraction. They see no beauty and learn no truth unless presented in the plain garb of prose. Yet the highest beauty and grandest truth in human thought is arrayed in white-robed poetry. Divine communication of heavenly truth was first revealed by prophecy in poetic form; and may not the bursts of rapture at Creation's morning, and at the birth of the blessed Redeemer, be typical of the joys of the world to come where life will be one enraptured poem, and praise find full expression in the blessedness of song? A. A. SMITH. INDECISION. IN THE BARN. INDEPENDENCE BELL. INCIDENT OF THE FRENCH CAMP. IN A PARIS RESTAURANT. INGERSOLL TO HIS GREAT-GRANDMOTHER. IN THE HALF-WAY HOUSE. JULY 2, 1881. JOHN BROWN OF OSAWATOMIE. - |