2 NOVEMBER 1895, Page 31

POETRY.

A VIGNETTE.

THE swallow's curve shakes the ambrosial air, :?

While tints of sunset fall- upon -the sea ;

And, subtay mixed by mixard Memory, Thoughts of rich Yesterdays are-thrilling there :

Salt•scented rocks raise dreaming heads and bare, Now from their blue abounding burden free Save where the gem-like pools of water be,— Set soft in plush of gold and colours rare.

The land is as the sea, asleep in peace ; The charmed air twinkles o'er still-standing wheat; It is as though the calm could never cease, Nor winter menace such victorious heat :— Sudden a lark makes music at heaven's door, And sings as if no bird had sung before !

JOHN HOOBEN.