Select Poetry.

Hawke's Bay Times, Volume 7, Issue 349, 12 February 1866, Page 1

Select Poetry.

LOED PALHEE STO N. (Pom the British Standard.) The subj oined stanzas are hy the Coatbridge Poetess—who, we may remind our readers, is a self-educated woman, was ■unable to read till after she had grown up. can still write only in the form of printed letters, and is above seventy years of age:— (3 LOFTIEE muse in higher strains may sing qV A worthier requiem o'er the statesman’s bier; Yet genius, rank, and grandeur may not bring A holier tribute, or a warmer tear. '‘Familiar in our mouths as household words,” His name, his talent, and his worth. Enshrined In Britain’s heart, when memory stirs its chords, Bhe boasts the triumphs of his master mind. The world of politics abroad he scanned With eagle glance, that would not quail or pause; Woe to the despot whoso unholy hand Had touched the ark of British rights and laws I His was no garment rolled In needless Wood— His voice no shouting warrior’s battle-cry; A Nestor at the Council board he stood, His counsels ever sage, and purpose high. The demon steed of dark despotic power He curbed aud reined with might of matchless skill; When o’er our isle the tempest seemed to lower. The brooding clouds were scattered at bis will. “ We may not look upon his like again,” Full oft ha passed, avoiding shoal and strand. O’er diplomacy’s deep and treacherous main, And brought the good ship Britain safe to land. Alas! the hand that held the helm is cold— The trusted pilot treads the deck no more; Whose skilful tactics—measures prompt and bold— Kept far the dangers of a leeward shore. His place is vacant at the Council Board, Aud empty in the senatorial hall; But, in the nation’s heart, a grateful chord Still vibrates there for him, revered of ail. Janet Hamilton. Langloan, Coatbridge, November, 1865.