Meaning: The quote "Her face betokened all things dear and good, The light of somewhat yet to come was there Asleep, and waiting for the opening day, When childish thoughts, like flowers would drift away" is from the poem "Supper at the Mill" by Jean Ingelow.

Jean Ingelow was an English poet and novelist who lived from 1820 to 1897. She was known for her lyrical and narrative poetry, as well as her novels which often depicted domestic scenes and characters. Her work often explored themes of nature, love, and the passage of time.

In this particular quote, Ingelow describes a young girl or woman whose face embodies qualities of innocence, hope, and anticipation. The phrase "Her face betokened all things dear and good" suggests that the person being described possesses an expression that reflects kindness, warmth, and virtue. This sets the tone for the rest of the quote, which conveys a sense of potential and promise for the future.

The line "The light of somewhat yet to come was there Asleep, and waiting for the opening day" evokes a sense of latent possibility and unfulfilled potential. The imagery of light being present but asleep suggests that there is a hidden, untapped energy or brightness within the individual, which is waiting to be awakened and revealed. This imagery is further reinforced by the phrase "waiting for the opening day," which conveys a sense of anticipation and the expectation of something significant and transformative on the horizon.

The final line "When childish thoughts, like flowers would drift away" symbolizes the natural progression from innocence to maturity. The comparison of childish thoughts to drifting flowers suggests a sense of fleeting beauty and impermanence, as well as the idea that as one grows older, the simplicity and naivety of childhood will gradually give way to more complex and nuanced experiences.

Overall, this quote captures a sense of optimism, potential, and the bittersweet passage of time. It reflects on the transient nature of youth and innocence, while also hinting at the promise of growth and development. Ingelow's lyrical language and evocative imagery invite readers to contemplate the universal themes of hope, change, and the inexorable march of time.

In conclusion, Jean Ingelow's quote from "Supper at the Mill" offers a poignant and evocative portrayal of the beauty and transience of youth, as well as the anticipation of what the future may hold. Through her eloquent language and imagery, Ingelow captures the essence of hope, innocence, and the inevitable transition from childhood to adulthood. This quote serves as a timeless reminder of the universal experiences of growth and change that resonate across generations.