Benediction

Bless this little heart, this white soul that has won the kiss of
heaven for our earth.
    He loves the light of the sun, he loves the sight of his
mother's face.
    He has not learned to despise the dust, and to hanker after
gold.
    Clasp him to your heart and bless him.
    He has come into this land of an hundred cross-roads.
    I know not how he chose you from the crowd, came to your door,
and grasped you hand to ask his way.
    He will follow you, laughing the talking, and not a doubt in
his heart.
    Keep his trust, lead him straight and bless him.
    Lay your hand on his head, and pray that though the waves
underneath grow threatening, yet the breath from above may come and
fill his sails and waft him to the heaven of peace.
    Forget him not in your hurry, let him come to your heart and
bless him.