That as we choose to sow we reap, Fruit holy or impure. Trace the effects of idleness, Extravagance and play, Of self-indulgence, vice and pride, And then reflecting say, It was not stern Nemesis' part, To punish each, as cause Of retribution to himself For breaking nature's laws. Let all, then, bravely conquer self, And use the means which heaven Has placed within the reach of each, Life's sorriest state to leaven. Industry, perseverance, thrift, Love, honesty and skill, Will aid the weakest in their work, Life's duties to fulfil. All-conquering, grand, unselfish love! Nought can withstand the power Of thy divine, o'ermastering force, To man heaven's richest dower. All know who own thy sovereign sway, No wealth can equal thine, Inspiring and constraining each, To sacrifice sublime! * * * * * TO THE EMPRESS EUGENIE ON THE DEATH OF HER SON. If sympathy can soften a mourner's poignant woe, And stay the bitter tear drops that from her sad eyes flow, Then take it, honoured Empress, from the land of thy retreat, Where hearts in bitter anguish with thine now sorrowing beat. Alas, we cannot fathom the mysteries of doom, Which set its mark upon a life brilliant in youthful bloom, Full of undaunted ardour, and eager for that strife That robbed the sorrowing mother of his most precious life. Ah, who can help recalling, and who the fervour tell,