Isle of Wight Observer January 7, 1860

I am come, I am come, from the womb of Time,
To run my swift course in this changing clime;
And I look for a smile from all I see-
A smile of joy as a welcome to me.

As I entered the world I could faintly hear,
The passing farewell of the dying year,
And I caught the sweet peal of many a chime,
Which were greeting the new-born child of Time.

And I thought – “tis a cheerful and happy land,
Where, welcomed by all, I shall shortly stand.”
And I hasted along with a merry heart,
In the mirth and the pleasures to bear a part.

I am come, I am come, and ye soon shall see,
That not without cause ye thus welcome me:
I will garnish your meads with beautiful flowers,
And deck, with a garland, the evergreen bowers.

I will give you sweet sunshine to warm and to cheer,
And Philomel’s sonnets to ravish the ear,
And my sun shall soon ripen the fruits of the field.
And plenty shall teem when my sceptre I yield.

Then bid me “God speed” in this good work of mine,
Nor hinder the joy which for you I design;
But help me in blessing, and labour with me,
That this year, indeed, may a happy year be.

I am come, I am come, from the womb of Time;
To run my swift course in this changing clime;
And I covet a smile from all I see –
A smile of joy – as a welcome to me!       “M”
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