Or words unkindly desecrate the scene;

But all with pure sincerity conspire

To strengthen friendship, fan love’s holy fire.

If thus we meet—if thus in peace unite,

And make each home a temple of delight,

Our hearts will tell us there is not on earth

A place more sacred than the social hearth.

As this sweet strain of poesy came forth,

All felt its truth and beauty. It described

The pleasures now enjoyed, and but portrayed