31 OCTOBER 1896, Page 17

A NIGHT THOUGHT.

As in the night I lie awake, My thoughts their flight full often take To the old village churchyard near, Where sleeps the friend I held most dear.

And if the moon with gaze steadfast Move through the rays the sun does cast, And all the lamps of heaven shine To guide her on her way divine, I almost envy him who lies So still beneath those peaceful skies.

But if dark clouds be overhead— Dark as men's days when Faith has fled—

And moon and stars are nigh shut out, Like Hope by Unbelief and Doubt, I sadly think how dank and drear His mossgrown grave must then appear, And many a sigh heave for his sake, As in the night I lie awake.

WILLIAM HENRY.