54 Monk and Nun 
Lost the sense of human presence. 
Close above the clouds are sailing, 
Wafted out across the ether 
From the peaks which guard the West- 
land, , 
Towards the plain which holds the ocean. 
Northward range on range of mountains, 
Ragged-edged with balsam forests, 
Stand like ranks of mighty soldiers 
With their bayonets uplifted. 
Hush ! The north wind has departed. 
Quiet reigns upon the mountain. 
From the grove of spruces yonder 
Comes a song of primal sweetness, 
Every note is long and tender, 
Held, drawn out, like words of part- 
ing. 
'T is the nun within her abbey 
Singing of the life of virtue. 
Hark ! Beyond that riven boulder. 
Poised upon the crag's steep border, 
Rises heavenward a gloria. 
