Classic Poem

Good night! the spirits of the blest and good
From these dear wails go with you and abide;
In hours of sorrow, hours of solitude,
Or when the hosts of melancholy brood,
And cloud your mind, may angel spirits glide
From the White T HRONE and give you great delight;
Dear friends, good night!

Good night! good night! and joy be with you all;
May sickness never blight, nor poverty;
May slanderous breath your spirits ne'er appall;
May no untoward accident befall,
But all things prosperous and happy be;
May morning suns rise on you fresh and bright;
Dear friends, good night!

Good night! in dreams may faithful Martha come
To tell of her beloved, high in Heaven;
And Ruth , the gleaner, from her harvest home,
And Adah , maid immortal, from her tomb,
Esther and true Electa , spirits bright,
And say, good night!

Good night! and when the shadows of the grave
Close in around you, — when the laboring breath
Draws heavily, and unto Him who gave,
You yield the spirit, be H E strong to save,
Who is our G UIDE and S AVIOUR unto death!
Then may dear friends and heavenly hopes unite
To say, good night!