The Husband of the widow care for her, The Father of the fatherless: The faithful Friend, the abiding Comforter, Watch over her to bless. Full twenty years of blameless married faith, Of love and honour questioned not, Joys, griefs imparted: for the first time Death Sunders the common lot. Christ help the desolate Queen upon her throne, Strengthen her hands, confirm her heart: For she henceforth must bear a load alone Borne until now in part. Christ help the desolate Woman in her home, Broken of heart, indeed bereft; Shrinking from solitary days to come, Beggared tho' much is left. Rise up, O Sons and Daughters of the Dead, Weep with your Mother where she weeps; Yet not as sorrowing without hope be shed Your tears: he only sleeps. Rise up, O Sons and Daughters of the realm, In pale reflected sorrow move; Revere the widowed hand that holds the helm, Love her with double love. In royal patience of her soul possess'd May she fulfill her length of days: Then may her children rise and call her bless'd, Then may her husband praise. |