FOR I AM DESOLATE

New Zealand Tablet, 18 March 1920, Page 33

FOR I AM DESOLATE

The Christmas light is burning bright In many a village pane, And many a, cottage rings to-night With many a merry strain. Young boys and girls run laughing by, Their hearts and eyes elate: I can but think on mine, and sigh, For I am desolate. There’s none to watch in our old cot Beside the holy light, No tongue to bless the silent spot Against the parting night. I’ve closed the door and hither come To mourn my lonely fate; I cannot bear my own old home, It is so desolate! I saw my father’s eyes grow dim, And clasped my mother’s knee I saw my mother follow him— My husband wept with me. My husband did not long remain— His child was left me yet; But now my heart’s last, love is slain, And I am desolate! —Gerald Griffin.