The favorite poem of Admiral Dewey, and by him suggested
as his contribution. Also sent in by many contestants.
Abou Ben Adhem (may his tribe increase!)
Awoke one night from a deep dream of peace,
And saw within the moonlight in his room,
Making it rich and like a lily in bloom,
An angel writing in a book of gold.
Exceeding peace had made Ben Adhem bold,
And to the presence in the room he said:
“What writest thou ?'"- The vision raised its head,
And with a look made of all sweet accord,
Answered, “The names of those who love the Lord."
“And is mine one?'" said Abou. '"Nay, not so,”
Replied the angel.-Abou spoke more low,
But cheerly still; and said, “I pray thee, then
Write me as one that loves his fellow-men. '"
The angel wrote and vanished. The next night
It came again, with a great wakening light,
And showed the names whom love of God had blessed,-
And, lo! Ben Adhem's name led all the rest!
Leigh Hunt
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