June 13

WELCOM pure thoughts and peaceful hours Inrich'd with sunshine and with showers!

Welcom fair hopes and holy cares,

The not to be repented shares

Of time and business, the sure road

Unto my last and lov'd abode!

O supreme bliss!

The circle, center, and abyss

Of blessings, never let me miss

Nor leave that path which leads to Thee,

Who art alone all things to me!

I hear, I see all the long day

The noise and pomp of the "broad way";

I note their course and proud approaches,

Their silks, perfumes, and glittering coaches.

But in the "narrow way" to Thee

I observe only poverty,

And despis'd things; and all along

The ragged, mean, and humble throng

Are still on foot; and as they go

They sigh, and say, their Lord went so!

HENRY

VAUGHAN

THE MAKER OF FREEDOM