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THE BISHOP'S WELCOME.
The solemn chant, the swinging bell,And rising purple incense tell Of that Great Presence dwelling there.
And wherefore all this roseate bloom, These floral wreaths, this grand display?It is to welcome one who comesAn honored guest to heart and homes, We twine these fragrant flowers to-day.
In love and purity we come To give him welcome warm and true;The flowers of Faith and Hope are rare;We offer them in fervent prayer, Bright with the heart's own crystal dew.
With God's own seal upon his brow, A people's love laid at his feet,In fullest hope and fearless trust,Undimmed by any doubting, must Be welcome, rare, and strangely sweet.
Galveston, April 30, 1882.
