IF IT BE ADMITTED that to induce a Blade of Grass to grow where never one grew before, is to be a World-Benefactor,-let me claim for the present volume the aim, at least, to plant some green thoughts in hearts that are arid or sad. The First Poem in the Book had, and has, this One Object, and I would fain have it noted how carefully avoided are all Specialties of Fret, lest there should be drawn thencefrom unkind or unwise suggestions of Personal Application, whereas it should surely rather be, that hope to cure must be found in presentments so high and holy as are here offered. About the Second Poem I cannot say it is printed for the public eye without great hesitation, and, indeed, reluctance. It has hitherto been a Home Memorial, and now only emerges from its |
