With all my heart to earth’s delights did cling,

And brought upon myself thy chast’ning rod.

Then let me bear it—though it break my heart;

I’ll bless the hand that keeps me in the way;

And if again from thee my steps depart,

O, send the rod, lest I forever stray.

June 16, 1841.

MY SISTER.[9]

I.

Ah me! the joyous scenes of other days