In Memory of the Prophet Joseph: A Poem

108 IMPROVEMENT ERA

"Foolish fellow, you could have been better employed." "But your answer, Bessie?" "My answer to what?" playfully. "Will you be my wife?" "Yes;" she said, giving him her hand. American Fork, Utah.

IN MEMORY OF THE PROPHET JOSEPH. December 23, 1904.

The angels heralded thy birth with songs of praise, Joyous hosannas! And the courts of heaven trembled With the ecstasy of melody! And lo! there swept upon the air, so pure, so sweet, So filled with harmony, and joy and love, it seemed 'Twould melt the soul, a new and glorious hymn, Radiant with hope! A peon of sweet liberty, a benediction and a blessing. Rising in gladness from the hearts that loved the Christ, And who had waited in the Paradise of God. Waited in hope, oft longing forthe hour, When light again should flood the darkened earth, And thy great work begin! 0, thou wert valiant in the cause of Christ! The mockings and the scourgings thou didst bear! Thy armor was of Righteousness, and round thy loins Was girt the buckler of God's Truth. Thy shield Was Love: upon thy brow was placed a crown of Peace; And in thy hand the sceptre of the Lamb! U Envoi. Our hearts with love are turning unto thee, On this thy day of birth. Into our fainting souls thy faith has crept And made us strong! 0, Christ, our Lord, grant thou that we May dwell with Joseph in eternity! George E. Blair. Salt Lake City, Utah.