581. L. M. Anonymous.

"Not lost, but gone before."

1Say, why should friendship grieve for those

Who safe arrive on Canaan's shore?

Released from all their hurtful foes,

They are not lost--but gone before.

2How many painful days on earth

Their fainting spirits numbered o'er!

Now they enjoy a heavenly birth;

They are not lost--but gone before.

3Dear is the spot where Christians sleep,

And sweet the strain which angels pour;

O why should we in anguish weep?

They are not lost--but gone before.