FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE. IF on this verse of mine Those eyes shall ever shine, Think not that for a rhyme, Nor yet to fit the time, I name thy name, - true victress in this strife ! That, when we kneel to pray, And that thy gallant deed, For God, and for our need, 'Tis good that thy name springs From two of Earth's fair things, – A stately city and a soft-voiced bird ; 'Tis well that in all homes, When thy sweet story comes, And brave eyes fill- that pleasant sounds be heard. Oh voice ! in night of fear, As night's bird, soft to hear, Oh watcher! worn and pale, Good Florence Nightingale, Thanks, loving thanks, for thy large work and will ! England is glad of thee, – Christ for thy charity, |