John Vance Cheney

John Vance Cheney (29 December 1848 – 1 May 1922) was an American poet.

Tears (1892)

 * Not in the time of pleasure Hope doth set her bow; But in the sky of sorrow, Over the vale of woe. Through gloom and shadow look we On beyond the years! The soul would have no rainbow Had the eyes no tears.
 * The Century Vol. 44, Issue 4 (August 1892)

The Happiest Heart

 * Who drives the horses of the sun Shall lord it but a day; Better the lowly deed were done, And kept the humble way.


 * The rust will find the sword of fame, The dust will hide the crown; Ay, none shall nail so high his name Time will not tear it down.


 * The happiest heart that ever beat Was in some quiet breast That found the common daylight sweet, And left to Heaven the rest.