Classic Poem

Oh, could I as lift this pen
Mark out thy destiny,
I would have thee happy now, as when
Nurs'd at thy mother's knee.

I would have thee cherish'd, free from harm,
On this eventful morn,
Bless'd and content, with brow as calm
As the hour that thou wer't born.

On a peaceful pillow thou wouldst sleep,
Thy dreams should pleasant be;
Would God, I had the power to keep
Thy heart from sorrow free.

The flowers of hope thy path would strew,
To walk in manly pride;
All hearts around thee firm and true,
Great good should thee betide.

I've not the power, alas, dear friend
To give thee all I say,
But hope they'll please, the lines I send
Thee, on thy natal day.