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Show Qili HENRY HOWLAND QlMdl GUEST i it; v'J He sat alone before his grate And musing watched the leaping flames; The night was Cold, the hour was late, The windows rattled in their frames; But warmth was in the room; a book Lay open on his knees; his chair Wsl3 deep and soft, and by his look You might have guessed his dream were fair. "My ventures have gone well," he said; My profits have been large today; I've caused no 'man to sit in dread, I've filched no other's rights away; My dealings have been fair and just, I have not claimed more than my right; Nowhere have I betrayed S. trust, Or put another's hopes to flight." His open book slipped to the floor, And presently he was aware, Though no one had unlatched the door. That Some One stood beside him there; The peace that had been in his breast Forsook him as he sat and gazed At his mysterious white-robed guest; He was affrighted and amazed. "Today," the presence said, at last, "Success has journeyed a your side; The profits you have made are vast,. And in your heart is selfish pride." "But all my profits were well-won," The man In trembling tones, replied; "No single evil have I done, I have not robbed or crushed or lied "Ay, there was much you did not do; You heard no hungry orphan's pleas; The sick, the lame, the widowed, too What thought had you for such as these?" The flames that had so brightly played Died to a feeble, flickering spark; The rich man sat alone, afraid Because the night was cold and dark. |