A New-Born Child and its Parent

[ZaunköniG]

A New-Born Child and its Parent

Charles! my slow heart was only sad, when first
I scanned that face of feeble infancy;
For dimly on my thoughtful spirit burst
All I had been, and all my child might be!

But when i saw it on its mother’s arm,
And hanging at her bosom (she the while
Bent o’er its features with a tearful smile)
Then I was thrilled and melted, and most warm

Impressed a father’s kiss; and all beguiled
Of dark remembrance and presageful fear,
I seemed to see an angel form appear –

‘T was even thine, beloved woman mild!
So for the mother’s sake the child was dear,
And dearer was the mother for the child.