In Winter Time

In Winter Time The north-wind plays a dirgeful harp Like the plaint of a human moan; Athwart the plain and mountain scarp It wails o'er a shrouded zone; It pierces deep, it pierces sharp Through walls of wood and stone. It pleads to the listening ear, By the fireside's cheerful form, For the many destitute of cheer In the cold and pitiless storm, — "O God, provide where they appear, And keep the suffering warm!" My prayer is all my offering, But others are praying, too. Shall not our prayers an answer bring In helping others view The course pursued in everything That charity should do? While yet the fierce north wind declares Its chill and painful smart, O God, thou who dost answer prayers, Make warm the human heart: Bid charity relieve the cares That wintry days impart. Albuquerque, N. M. Joseph Longking Townsend