February 5
Companions of the Way (Morning)As the sun when it ariseth in the high heaven, so is the beauty of a good wife in the ordering of her house.
NOT as all other women are Is she that to my soul is dear; Her glorious fancies come from far, Beneath the silver evening star; And yet her heart is ever near.
Great feelings hath she of her own, Which lesser souls may never know; God giveth them to her alone, And sweet they are as any tone Wherewith the wind may choose to blow.
Yet in herself she dwelleth not Although no home were half so fair; No simplest duty is forgot, Life hath no dim and lowly spot That doth not in her sunshine share.
She doeth little kindnesses Which most leave undone or despise: For naught that sets one heart at ease, And giveth happiness or peace, Is low-esteemed in her eyes.
Blessing she is: God made her so, And deeds of week-day holiness Fall from her noiseless as the snow; Nor hath she ever chanced to know That aught were easier than to bless.
JAMES RUSSELL. LOWELL.
A CHARACTER