Prayer is the soul's sincere desire,
Utter'd or unexpress'd;
The motion of a hidden fire
That trembles in the breast.
Prayer is the burden of a sigh,--
The falling of a tear,--
The upward glancing of an eye,
When none but God is near.
Prayer is the simplest form of speech
That infant lips can try;
Prayer, the sublimest strains that reach
The Majesty on high.
One Female Figure.
This beautiful production should be represented by one who has an
amiable and modest appearing countenance, good figure and features.
The hair must be brushed up from the forehead, and fastened behind in
a black crochet net. The dress should be pure white, open very low at
the front and back. A cross is suspended from the neck by a band of
white ribbon. A heavy white veil should pass over the top and back of
the head, and be tied loosely four inches below the chin; the head
inclined forward slightly, the eyes closed, while the countenance
should appear serene, pure, and full of hope; the arms are to be
folded out of sight upon the breast. The same machinery, pedestal,
wire basque, crimson curtain, and fairies that are used in the Bust of
Proserpine, may be used in this piece. The light should be mild, and
come from the left side of the stage. Music plaintive, and of a sacred
order.