To a Sister + 

A fresh young voice that sings to me + 

So often many a simple thing, + 

Should surely not unanswered be + 

By all that I can sing. + 

Dear voice, be happy every way + 

A thousand changing tones among, + 

From little child’s unfinished lay + 

To angel’s perfect song. + 

In dewy woods⁠—fair, soft, and green + 

Like morning woods are childhood’s bower⁠— + 

Be like the voice of brook unseen + 

Among the stones and flowers; + 

A joyful voice though born so low, + 

And making all its neighbours glad; + 

Sweet, hidden, constant in its flow + 

Even when the winds are sad. + 

So, strengthen in a peaceful home, + 

And daily deeper meanings bear; + 

And when life’s wildernesses come + 

Be brave and faithful there. + 

Try all the glorious magic range, + 

Worship, forgive, console, rejoice, + 

Until the last and sweetest change⁠— + 

So live and grow, dear voice. + 