Poems (Smith)/Thee, My Friend
THEE, MY FRIEND.
Thy little acts of kindness Have won for thee a place In my heart's pure affection, That time can ne'er efface.
Until I pass forever Unto my home above, Memory will linger ever Around thy deeds of love.
In gentle accents tender, Kindly words and true,—An ever friendly welcome I have received from you.
Now let me thank thee kindly: Believe me thy true friend;On my friendship trusting ever, You may through life depend.
If best wishes for thee ever Could thy days prolong,While on this earth forever This would be my song—
God spare and lead thee gently Unto the living Truth;Keep thee pure and holy,— Guide thee in thy youth
Unto that everlasting life Were all is peace and love.Free from care and earthly strife, To dwell with God above.
And when you this brief life resign, And on earth no longer stay.In Heaven may your record shine As clear and bright as day.