Only for One.

I have a smile my friends to greet,

Hearty and pleasant for all I meet,

     Hidden from none:

But I have a smile that they do not know,

Lit by a deeper, tenderer glow,

And I keep it bright in my heart below,

     Only for one!

I have a song for every ear,

Leaving an echo to soothe and cheer

     When it is done:

But I have a music of truer beat,

Not to be poured at the great world’s feet,

Richer and softer and far more sweet,

     Only for one!

I have a love for all who care

Aught of its warmth to claim, or share,

     Free as the sun;

But I have a love which I do not hint,

Gold that is stamped with my soul’s imprint,

A wealth of love, both mine and mint,

     Only for one!

               Frances Ridley Havergal January 18, 1869

      Winter Light.   (Song.)

           I.

   O the dark time of the year!

All the glow of radiant June light,

All the fervour of the moon-light,

     Morning glory, evening clear,

   Rainbow hues, and sparkling dews,

        What are they

If one whom I love is far away!

   O the dark time,

O the sad time of the year!

           II.

   O the bright time of the year!

All the shadow of the low cloud,

Gloom and greyness of the snow-cloud,

     Early twilight, dim and drear,

   Slowest flight of darkest night

        What are they!

For one whom I love will come today!

   O the bright time,

O the glad time of the year!

                      F.R.H.

     At the bottom right Frances wrote the date “Decr. 23.”

“Winter Light” was written on December 23, 1869. She wrote beside the title, “(Song.)” This was meant to be sung, and I think that likely she set this to music, though no score has ever been found for this.

I want to say this at the end of each of these e-mails: Much work has been done by a number of people to make F.R.H.’s works available to many. There is life in these pages, and the reality of Jesus Christ. These works truly glorify the Lord, and help, encourage, enrich His people. There are also parts of this that are very clear, compassionate, powerful presentations of the truth to people who have not yet been saved. If you see the value in these works, please tell others who might be interested in this. We have no desire to become rich or famous from this, not a trace. Our desire is that these works be widely disseminated, for the Lord’s glory and the good of His people.

We would be glad to hear from you. Please write to us by replying to this email or by contacting us through the Havergal Trust website.

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