Ring out its peal! and as the cadence floats
Far o'er the azure waters, men shall pause,
While, like an angel's tongue, those silvery notes,
Speak to the heart of Jesus and his cause,
Invite to prayer, and Zion's holy strain,
And welcome to the fold poor wanderers of the main.

Ring out its peal! 'twill tell of children's love,
Tell of the generous warmth which fills the breast,
The glow of feeling kindled from above,
Ere the young soul by earth has been possest:
Yes, let its changes wake the sleeping air,
While rugged seamen weep, and think WHO placed it there .

List to its voice! at first the gentle swell,
Then the full burst, so joyous and so clear;
Ah, how it speaks of Heaven — that thrilling bell,
Until the inmost spirit wakes to hear;
While he who tosses on the briny sea,
Feels in his heart — that bell is calling me .

Sons of the Church! shall childhood bring its gift,
And will not ye be roused to double life?
Yes, pour the offering with unstinted hand;
Here be competitors — 'tis holy strife;
Give — give the Gospel — can ye heed the cost?
When ye yourselves are safe — can ye forget the lost ?

Chime on, sweet bell, may thousands heed thy call,
Turn from the spoiler's path, and weep for sin,
Then strong in Faith before the footstool fall,
Invoking grace the victor crown to win;
And when the sailor's latest hour has sped,
Strike on his ear once more, and tell of " land ahead . "