To S. F. S. + 

They say that lonely sorrows do not chance: + 

More gently, I think, sorrows together go; + 

A new one joins the funeral gliding slow + 

With less of jar than when it breaks the dance. + 

Grief swages grief, and joy doth joy enhance; + 

Nature is generous to her children so. + 

And were they quick to spy the flowers that blow, + 

As quick to feel the sharp-edged stones that lance + 

The foot that must walk naked in life’s way⁠— + 

Blest by the roadside lily, free from fear, + 

Oftener than hurt by dash of flinty spear, + 

They would walk upright, bold, and earnest-gay; + 

And when the soft night closed the weary day, + 

Would sleep like those that far-off music hear. + 