The Angel of Death laughed aloud in his glee, As he wildly careered o'er the pitiless sea : To the winds and the waters he spake but a word, And the wind and the waters grew mad as they heard.

He laid his cold hand on the ship that last night Rode in prowess and pride, and his touch was a blight.

He walked to and fro 'mid the once happy crew, And he laughed in their faces—and God only knew With what anguish of torment, what depth of despair, To his ice-cold caress their warm hearts were laid bare! The Angel of Life glided over the wave, And his God-given task was " to seek and to save "; But what were these creatures, with visages grim, And with bodies uncouth, that accompanied him? God bless them, brave hearts! they were all angels too, For the deeds they had done were what angels might do; And they rushed through the storm to that perishing crew, And salvation went with them—and God only knew What thanks for His mercy by warm hearts was given That the Angel of Death from those hearts had been driven! Now, God speed the life-boats, whose w*k is to save From the terrors of Death on the pitiless wave; And may we do our best their upholders to speed, By augmenting the funds they so urgently need.

W. EDMONDSON.