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Show THE VICTIM OF INTEMPERANCE. bi b. f. lukr Oace Fortune's smiles did on me gleam, Then my heart did happy seem; Everyday that came and went. Seemed to find my heart content. Never lamenting or grieving the past, rijiuking my lot had been poorly cast ; Bit always enjoying a feeling of mirth, Saying, "That is the only blessing on earth," So soul take thine ease and drink in thy joy. Don't think of reforming, thou art yet bat a boy. Ah yes! bnt a boy in word and in deed, For surely I then sowed thistles for seed. And now am I reaping my harvest with pain. Wishing I might sow it over again. I'd gather seeds of the choicest kind, And plant them deep in bouI and mind. I'd allow no frivolous charms of the day To turn me from the better way, The way that causes men to fear their God, That they may not be smitten by his chastening rod. Little I thought in the days that are past The demon of liquor would noli me so fast. Change my laugh Into tears, my mirth into gall. Oh! would men were not jrjhject to "Father Abe's" fall: The hearts I once cherished, the friends that were dear, Xow tnrn with disgust when they look at me here. Here in this dark and loathsome cell; God knows that for me there could be No worse hell. Bat ere many days I'll meet my doom, And my body be laid in a drunkard's tomb. For my experience indeed, I have paid a dear sum; Paid my body and sonl to the conqueror, "Eum." Many attend this popular school. Lose all their manhood and die as a fool They never find out they are on the wrong road, Till they are crushed into earth by their burdensome load. Bat here let me give a word of advice, Pay attention and listen. I won't speak iwic?. "Be willing to know that heat will burn Without putting your hand in the fire to learn. |
