Eden

Under a tree we sat, My love, and I. Under a tree we sat, And heav'n was nigh! Shades of leaves on her face, Sunflecks, and dainty grace, And in her eyes a trace, Of the blue sky!

Leaves rustled tenderly, Wind passing by. Leaves rustled tenderly, Like a soft sigh. Sweet were the words she said, Bending her pretty head: With her cheeks rosy red:— "Just you and I."

On the whole earth alone, 'Midst sweetest flow'rs. On the whole earth alone, Eden is ours. Here in Dame Nature's school, Under your gentle rule, Now when the day is cool, Fill up the hours.

Loving her voice, and sweet, Red lips apart. Loving her voice, and sweet, Moving my heart. Soft were her clinging hands, Holding the golden strands, Of love's dear silken bands, Close round my heart!

Thus love should ever be, If it has worth. Thus love should ever be, Like a new birth. A balm for every pain, Sunshine through winter's rain, God's Eden back again, Heaven on earth!

Hobart, Tasmania
A. C. A. Van Hewer