THE MARCH OF THE YEARS.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume X, Issue 13, 1 April 1893, Page 291

THE MARCH OF THE YEARS.

Do you hear the rhythmic beat Of the firm and forward feet Of the years ? White with frost, and red with heat. Charged with gifts to all they meet On desolate world, in crowded street, March the years. You may watch them as they go Through life’s stages, while they grow, Into might. First is Spring’s imperial glow. Next the summer's flush and flow, Lastly age and Winter’s snow, And long night. Steady, regular their pace, Every movement full of grace, March the years. Yet he runs a breathless race, And his forces he must brace, Who keeps step by step through space With these years. They are charged with gifts for man. Let him wrest the best he can From the mass. Shadow, substance, deed and plan, Honour’s gold, dream’s talisman, You may seize—but for a span — As they pass. They can heal your heart, or break. They can mock your thirst, or slake ; Smiles or tears They can give and you must take ; Yet they come for love’s own sake. And true servants you may make Of these years. Of their marchings to and fro The eternal God doth know ; He is King. Let them come and let them go, God is in each one, and so All is well. Come weal or woe, God is King ! Mauianne Farningham