EVERY INCH A MAN.

Te Aroha News, Volume VII, Issue 441, 29 January 1890, Page 6

EVERY INCH A MAN.

She sat in the porch in the sunshine As I went down the street— A woman whose hair was silver, But whose face whs blossom sweet, Making me think of a trarden, Where, in spite of the frost and snow Of bleak November weather. Late, fragile lilies grow. I heard a footstep behind me. And the sound of a merry laugh, And I knew the heart it came from Would be like a comforting staff In the time and hour of troub'e. Hopeful and brave and strong; One of the heartb to lean on When we think all things go wrong. I turned at the click .of the gate latch. And met his manly looks. A face like his gives me pleasure. Like the page of a bleasant book. It told of a steadfast purpose. Of a brave and daring will; A face with a promise in it That I hope the years fulfil. He went up the pathway singing, I saw the woman’s eyes Grow bright with a wordless welcome. As sunshine warms the skies. “ Back again, my own sweet mother,” He cried, and bent to kiss The loving face uplifted For what some mothers miss. That boy will do to depend on; I hold that this i 8 true, 'From lads in love with their mothers Our bravest heroes grew. Earth s grandest hearts have been loving hearts Since time and earth began ; And the hoy who kisses his mother Is every inch a man !