BEDFORD WEEKLY MAIL BEDFORD, INDIANA FRIDAY, DEC. 14, 1900 In memory of Alice Carlton, who died July 18, 1990 ALICE. Life led a little child, one April morn, Into our world, With many a promise sweet Of hope and happiness and joy new born, The sky looked down upon her. Life grew fleet. And led her childhood into ardent youth That seemed abloom with beauty, grace and truth. But o'er a long, low pain-blanched plain of years Life led her helpless on; through dread defiles Of suffering, dark with agony, that tears Of love could naught allay, nor smiles Of sympathy illume, nor skill removed, He led her. Then 'midst pleasures thought foregone, As if the early promise he would prove, Life led her, till God called her home at dawn. At dawn, and "in the joyous summer-time, When I am always better, as you know!" Oh, would you, could you, given power sublime, Have chosen her a happier time to go? At dawn, for which she often waited long, Pain-tossed, but eager for the morning light, For first faint call of slow, sweet, low bird-song. To banish all the shadows of the night; At dawn, when choristers at heaven's gate sing; At dawn, when courage strong and faith renew The heart-her spirit fled, on viewless wing Into the Better land, to wait for you, With loved ones gone before. And "Some sweet day" Her soul may greet yours on its upward way. ANNA MILLER. Jeffersonville, Ind.