Classic Poem

Lo, from the distant West,
Lo, from your honored guest,
The voice of greeting and the word of prayer;
Ye sons of cheer, all hail!
This grateful tongue shall tell
The tie that binds you and the joys you share;

There is a Cord of length,
There is a C HAIN of strength;
Around you each I see the sacred coil.
How long, ah, well I know!
How strong, your deeds do show,
The while you labor in the sacred toil.

In amplest share bestowed,
By Him you worship — G OD ,
The joy of Friendship well you feel and prize
'Tis H IS own best design,
'Tis perfect, 'tis divine,
It is the bliss diffused through upper skies.
Peace be within your halls!
The C EMENT of your walls
Be H OLY L OVE — pure, indestructible!
From the o'erarching Heaven
A gracious smile be given,
The favor of the D EITY to tell.

When each shall bow in death,
Joy to the parting breath!
Rich fragrance from a thousand generous deeds!
And where your ashes be,
Sacred to memory
The spot while man pure truth and honor heeds!

And me, oh loving Friends,
When life's poor story ends,
Me in your inner heart of hearts enshrine!
Humble, but oh, sincere, —
Erring and sorrowing here,
Write me as one who loved each Mystic line!

Builders of light, your hands!
Distant our several lands?
No; for I see, I hear, I feel you now!
Bind once again the chain;
Again, dear Friends, again;
Hear, Gracious Lord, hear and confirm the V OW !