16 JANUARY 1886, Page 13

POETRY.

"DES CTLTORY READING."

SUGGESTED BY THE ARTICLE IN THE "SPECTATOR " OF JAS. 2s.

0 FINEST essence of delicious rest !

To bid for some short space the busy mill Of anxious, ever-grinding thought be still ; And let the weary brain and throbbing breast Be by another's cooling hand caressed.

This volume in my hand, I hold a charm Which lifts me out of reach of wrong or harm.

I sail away from trouble ; and, most blessed Of every blessing, can myself forget : Can rise above the instance low and poor Into the mighty law that governs yet.

This hinged cover, like a well-hung door, Shuts out the noises of the jangling day, These fair leaves fan unwelcome thoughts away.

F. M. P.