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[centred] To

The Orphan's Soliloquy

on his return from his Mother's funeral

My mother now is gone to live insphered ...
With warning - where foul corruption has bemused
the frighted countenance, the fondest eye -
the heart that softens at all misery.

But shall I thus repine? Ah no! I Rejoice
at all evidence of hope beyond the grave.
Nor will I mourn as though of hope bereft
that she is safe - she only pain has left.
Now she is freed from Sin, released from pain,
Her life to her was loss but death is gain.
In yonder spotless sphere where all is bliss
She dwells, 'midst perfect love & happiness
Without a Sigh, a tear, a pain, a care .....
Of which while trav'lling here she had her share ...
Farewell then Mother - fare thee well a while ...
No more fond kindly look and pleasant smile
Will cheer my heart --- no more your soothing voice ...
Yet will I not repine but e'er rejoice:
For now methinks you Say "Weep not for me

"But if I now could weep! I'd weep for thee.

"And happy, cheering, [...] is the thought

"That we have parted only to be brought

"Once more again together, than to be

"For ever United through Eternity."

................................................ C. S.

Villafield Place Glasgow

14th August 1842