Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). An American Anthology, 1787–1900. 1900.

By Langdon ElwynMitchell

1478 To One Being Old

HER aged hands are worn with works of love;

Dear aged hands that oft on me are laid;

Her heart’s below, but, oh, her love’s above,

As flowers do sunward turn though in the shade.

The set of sun is dear that lasts not long,

And she is sweeter far than light that dies:

But if her aged body’s weak, she ’s strong;

Her folly, wisdom in a softer guise.

The very smile of love is hers, and she

Hath him long known where others knew a shade;

Forget thine eyes, and learn herewith to see

Within this time-worn sheath the snowy blade.

Upon her lovely cheek there still doth play

A maiden’s blush, for her heart grows not old;

Her silver locks go sweetly all astray;

Though silver are her locks, her heart is gold!