957. S. M. Conder.

Saturday Evening.

1The hours of evening close;

Its lengthened shadows, drawn

O'er scenes of earth, invite repose,

And wait the Sabbath dawn.

2So let its calm prevail

O'er forms of outward care;

Nor thought for "many things" assail

The still retreat of prayer.

3Our guardian Shepherd near

His watchful eye will keep;

And, safe from violence and fear,

Will fold his flock to sleep.

4So may a holier light

Than earth's our spirits rouse,

And call us, strengthened by his might,

To pay the Lord our vows.