22 MAY 1869, Page 14

POETRY.

"THE RETURN OF THE DOVE," BY G. F. wArrs, R.A.

[ROYAL ACADEMY, 1869.]

ONLY a waste of waters, Only a tideless sea,

Which is not life, which is not death, But death in life to me.

Only the years on-coming Rolling their silent waves Over the bygone trouble, Over Life's hidden graves.

Only a drear out-looking For a hope that is long delayed, And a weariful prayer for patience, And a wish that may not be prayed.

Why am I ever watching? What can I ever see ?Only a dove that is coming From a far-off land to me.

Only a branch it is bringing, Which tells of a clearer day, And bears ins a promise of peace and life, When the waters have passed away. F. M. S.