1. They pray the best who pray and watch, They watch the best who watch and pray,
2. Whether they guard the gates and watch, Or, patient, toil for him and wait,
They hear Christ's fingers on the latch, Whether he comes by night or day.
They hear his fingers on the latch, If early he doth come, or late.

3. With trembling joy they hail their Lord,
And haste his welcome feet to kiss,
While he, well pleased, doth speak the word
That thrills them with unending bliss:

4. " Well done, my servants, now receive,
For faithful work, reward and rest,
And wreaths which busy angels weave
To crown the men who serve me best. "