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1842–1911

AFTER BURIAL.

Henry Abbey

So stands the premonition; and to-day I look back on the words here written down, Comparing them with what has happened since, And find there is no flaw in any scene.

Always intending to tell Grace my fear That some day I might be entombed alive, I always failed, until it was too late. But as the sod fell on the coffin-lid,

My trance was broken, and I called and screamed, Until they drew me up from out the grave, And breaking in my prison, set me free. Gianni fled, fearing my face at last.

To-day I have his letter from his home, Beneath the far-off skies of Italy, Craving forgiveness for his wrongs to me; Saying that he repents for all his past,

And with Christ's help, will lead a better life. He found his wife and children overjoyed To have him back again to their embrace. To-morrow Grace Bernard and I shall wed.

The bell that tolled my bitter funeral knell, Will ring, glad of my wedding and my bride — Ring merrily round and round a jubilant peal. There comes no premonition now to show to me

What the long future has in store for us; But from my door I watch the sunset skies, And see blue mountains tower o'er golden plains, Clothed with pure beauty stretching far away.

So seems the future. I await the morn.

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AFTER BURIAL. · Henry Abbey · Poetry Cove