Classic Poem

The angel of mercy to-night is abroad;
There gleams from her finger the signet of God;
Her work in beneficence all is designed—
The sad to console and give light to the blind.
Oh brightest of beings that nestle above
The angel of mercy, the angel of love!

The sound of her wings rustles light on the air;
She bends her bright course to th' abodes of despair
Her features entrance the dull vision of pain,
And the joyless are kindled with rapture again.
Oh sunniest object that sparkles above,
The angel of mercy, the angel of love!

To lips of the fevered she tenders the cup;
The head of the drooping her hand beareth up;
The friendless she points to the land far away,
And the dying makes hopeful with visions of day.
Oh, nearest divine of the powers above,
The angel of mercy, the angel of love!

Dear Sisters, to you is her mission consigned,
To you she, departing, leaves duty behind;
In errand Celestial she bids you go forth,
And be the beneficent angels of earth!
Yes, each of you prove on the model above,
An angel of mercy, an angel of love!