My soul enjoys, my song approves,
For conscience’ sake, as well as love’s.
For why?—They show me hour by hour
Honor’s high thought, affection’s power,
Discretion’s deed, sound judgment’s sentence,
And teach me all things—but repentance.”[378]
And there is a charm and gentleness about the following lines which Dr. Drennan addressed to his wife, with a gift of a ring:
“Emblem of happiness! not bought nor sold;
Accept this modest ring of virgin gold.
Love, in this small, but perfect, circle trace;