The Message

Waking from tender sleep,

My neighbour's little

Put out his baby hand to me,

Looked in my face, and smiled.

It seemed as if he

Home from a happy land,

To tell me something that my

Would surely understand.

Somewhere, among bright dreams,

A child that once was

Had whispered wordless love to him,

And given him a sign.

Comfort of kindly speech,

And counsel of the wise,

Have helped me less than what I

In those deep-smiling eyes.

Sleep sweetly, little friend,

And dream again of heaven:

With double love I kiss your hand,—Your message has been given.