But Thou wast kinder than he dreamed,

As age by age brought hopes more fair,

And nearer still Thy kingdom seemed.

4 But never rose within his breast

A trust so calm and deep as now;—

Shall not the weary find a rest?

Father, Preserver, answer Thou!

5 ’Tis dark around, ’tis dark above,

But through the shadow streams the sun;

We cannot doubt Thy certain love;