The Shamrock - Helena Callanan

There are thoughts sweet perfume breathing, Bright and sage and full of beauty, Culled from past and present ages, O’er thy album’s pages strewn. From the rich domains of fancy Loving hands with care have gathered Every bud of sweetest meaning They were planted all too soon. Else I might find some stray blossom With fresh dew of thought upon it; Yet I fain with thy fair garland Would one tiny field-flower twine One green spray of native shamrock, Fragrant with historic mem’ries, On each leaf in letters golden I’d engrave a gift divine. Faith, firm Faith, bright, strong, enduring Faith, that life’s fierce storm and passion Shall pass by, and leave unclouded; Be this blessing thine for aye

Hope, that glimmereth through darkness, Charms the present, gilds the future, With warm rays of heaven’s glory, Imaging eternal day. Love, God’s crown of bliss, outshining All the joys e’er known or dreamed of, Perfect as thy fairest vision, Be this treasure thine, to keep. In thy inmost heart close folded, May it ever walk beside thee, Safe without regrets or shadows, Fears to fright, or tears to weep. In the pages yet ungarnished Wilt thou give my shamrock welcome Only for the fervent wishes Fondly wreathed around the stem? Tribute to thy grace and beauty, And the mellow light of kindness That illumes thy gentle spirit, And thy heart, thy purest gem.