Higginson and Bigelow, comps. American Sonnets. 1891.
MiltonGeorge Lunt (18031885)
W
Life’s noblest aim, long ere its shadows close,
Unfolds the golden gate; the stream outflows
Whence the free spirit drinks divinest thought.
Then, visions from the Empyrean caught
Imbue the waiting soul; the bridal rose
Of Sharon blended with the lily glows,
For him in one immortal chaplet wrought;
Deeper and holier than the hope of youth
The heart’s high trust, as mortal ties decay;
Too oft, our broken manhood tears of ruth
Demands; at morn, we know not of the day;
Fair holds its promise, when, redeemed like truth,
Clear evening melts in depths of heaven away.