but spare a mother's tears!

their hope, their stay, their darling youth.

in manhood's dawning blush,

bless him, thou god of love and truth,

up to a parent's wish.

the beauteous, seraph sister-band—

with earnest tears i pray—

thou know'st the snares on ev'ry hand,

guide thou their steps alway.

when, soon or late, they reach that coast,

o'er life's rough ocean driven,

may they rejoice, no wand'rer lost,

a family in heaven!