Classic Poem

It is in our heart, dear Sisters,
While the Mason chain is bright,
To give our warmest welcome
To the best beloved, to-night;
To the wife, so fondly cherished,
To the daughter, sister, true,
To the faithful, tender-hearted, —
Shall I say the word? — to you .

We acknowledge countless blessings
From the Bounteous Hand above;
Our bond was first cemented
By Divine assent and love;
We are grateful, truly grateful,
For all gifts He doth bestow,
But our warmest thanks are given, —
Shall I say the word? — for you .

The woes of life are many,
Thronging dark on every side,
In tears, and sighs, and broken hearts,
And sorrows far and wide;
The Mason's hand is generous,
But most freely we bestow
When the appeal is made us, —
Shall I say the word? — by you .

Our Brotherhood is countless,
From the East unto the West;
In every land, and clime, and tongue,
They rank among the best;
And every man a hundred miles
On frosty sod will go,
To give you help, or win a smile, —
Shall I say the word? — from you .

Then hail! Adoptive Masonry,
That brings us here together;
May manly arms round lovely forms
Protect from stormy weather;
And when, adown the hill of life,
Our tottering feet shall go,
May our weary steps be comforted, —
Shall I say the word? — by you .