Three sisters guard the lives of mortal men
With care unvarying, from youth to age.
Ever around us, though beyond our ken,
Do they in silent ministry engage.
Mysterious Trio—hand in hand, they go
Through the sad realm of human pain and woe!
Mother of Tears, of bitterness, and grief,
Thou art, to-day, in many a silent room—
Before thy steps, death stealeth, like a thief,