LIFE'S AFTER-GLOW.

OFT, at the close of a hot summer day,

The gorgeous colors of the sunset fade.

And the piled clouds from crimson burn to gray;

Then, 'twixt this splendor of the daylight's death,

And the black, hopeless curtain of the night,

By soft, sweet breezes heralded and followed.

The after-glow shines out with tender light,

And with its gentle, quiet lustre fills

The heated heaven.

Thus it is with man.

After the noontide flush and fire of youth

Comes on a restful time, with colors wan,

To calm and cool life-heated heart and brain

Ere easeful death brings endless welcome sleep.

J. K. M.