Far back, in galleries olden,
A Roman Emperor stood,
And, looking upon the nations,
Proclaimed that the highest good
Was to be at one with Nature,—
A part of the Life sublime,
A note in the spheral music
Of the everlasting chime.
The world has gained in splendor
Since Antoninus slept,
And over its primal darkness
Has the light of Science crept;
Religion has raised her banners;
And within the homes of men,
Have art and affection gathered
The trophies of sword and pen.
But again, as athwart the dawning,
Is the " world-wide whisper" heard,
And to deathless Love and longing
Is given the priceless word:
That to be at one with Nature—
To abide in the union blest,
With God's universal order—
Is in human life the best.
God's glory is a wondrous thing.
