IV.
Affliction often proves the kindest friend
To mortal man; the mourning soul grows wise;
All chast’ning hath improvement for its end;
Man looks to Heaven when earthly comfort dies,
And most effectual prayers are breathed in sighs.
The broken hearted never plead in vain;
Their anguish hath a voice to reach the skies;
O, would the soul rich consolation gain,
It cometh in the day of suffering and pain.