A loaf of bread with a glass of milk
With a roof that shelters and a restful bed,
A place to wear the faded silk
And a pillow for the aching head;

A kettle that sings while the night wind sighs,
And a cup of tea to drink;
A hearth to sweep and a babe that cries,
With a pile of dishes in the sink.

A home to keep and a man to love,
With a heart that is true and fine.
These precious things sent from heaven above,
Will be prized for yours and for mine.




THE UNBIDDEN TEARS


Glad tears that rush like rivers down the cheek
Like gilding gold of morning's amber light.
O happy hearts, by hearths when wills are meek!
We welcome sun that chased away the night.
The weeping eyes will not acknowledge hate.
When lovers meet forgiven after pain,
Tears cleanse the heart and mind of fire and mote,
And freshen countenance and bleach the stain.