968. L. M. Bowring. Joy after Sorrow.

1 As, when the deluge-waves were gone,
Hills, plains, and vales in freshness burst,
And nature's earliest rainbow shone
On scenes more lovely than the first,

2 Loosed from the ark, a heavenly dove,
The promise-branch of olive bore, --
Pledge of returning peace and love
That beamed more brightly than before: --

3 So when affliction's waters glide
From the enfranchised soul away,
More peaceful, pure, and sanctified,
The soul emerges into day.

4 And then, as with the olive bough
The heavenly dove of old drew near,
Some gentle words of truth will flow,
In holy music on the ear.

5 O'er all the transient things of time,
The oblivious foot of years hath trod;
But all that's sacred and sublime
Stands steadfast as the truth of God.