To the Memory of M. A. R.

[ZaunköniG]

To the Memory of M. A. R.

With the mild light some unambitious star
Illumes her pathway through the heavenly blue, -
So unobtrusive that the careless view
Scarce notes her where her haughtier sisters are, -

So ran thy life. Perhaps, from those afar,
Thy gentle radiance little wonder drew,
And all their praise was for the brighter few.
Yet mortal vision is a grievous bar

To perfect judgment. Were the distance riven,
Our eyes might find that star so faintly shone
Because it journeyed through a higher zone,

Had more majestic sway and duties given,
Far loftier station on the heights of Heaven,
Was next to God, and circled round his throne.