  As some grey captain of a merchantship, Whose prosperous voyage o'er the watery strife Has large concern for all, knows that his wife Waits his home-coming up the horizon's dip With holier heart than crowds that throng the slip, So He well knew, thou—flower-elect of life! Chosen from out a clamor of voices rife— Waitedst his voyage o'er with prayerful lip. Fair Bride, forget him not through circling years! But with a Christ-like love, deep as unfeigned Surpassing that of commerce or of state, With holy hands thy dower devote with tears Of gratitude and loyal heart unstained; Thy sacred vow perform with soul elate. |
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