XXVIII.
A GRACE BEFORE DINNER.
[This was an extempore grace, pronounced by the poet at a dinner-table, in Dumfries: he was ever ready to contribute the small change of rhyme, for either the use or amusement of a company.]
O thou, who kindly dost provide
For every creature’s want!
We bless thee, God of Nature wide,
For all thy goodness lent:
And if it please thee, Heavenly Guide,
May never worse be sent;
But, whether granted or denied,
Lord bless us with content!
Amen.
XXIX.
A GRACE BEFORE MEAT.
[Pronounced, tradition says, at the table of Mrs. Riddel, of Woodleigh-Park.]
O thou in whom we live and move,
Who mad’st the sea and shore,
Thy goodness constantly we prove,
And grateful would adore.
And if it please thee, Power above,
Still grant us with such store,
The friend we trust, the fair we love,
And we desire no more.