p. 90 | ONLY A WORD by Seb.

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 18, 1875

ONLY A WORD.

By Seb.

Only a word! but the word was a legion Of giant reproaches in armor of steel, Trampling the delicate blooms of the region That feeling hath planted, with furious heel. Only a word! Only a word! But a legion with cruelty spurred.

Only a word! but the word was a network That tangled the reason and wearied the brain, Caught in its meshes the beautiful fretwork That fancy hath sculptured and broken in twain. Only a word! Only a word! But ensnaring the senses that heard.

Only a word! but the word was a quiver So full of suspicions and bristling with fears, Keen were the barbs, making friendship to shiver— How torn and discolored its plumage appears. Only a word! Only a word! Bearing death to the bright-winged bird.

Only a word! but the word was a casket Of fragrant forgiveness with carvings so rare, Laden with love, and the one who shall ask it A necklace more precious than rubies shall wear. Only a word! Only a word! But how precious to them that have erred. —Seb.