share all Heaven's eternal joys,
And be forever blessed.
Passing the Gate.
Lines on leaving the house of a dear friend where I had
pleasantly spent several weeks.
Down deep in the heart is a fountain of tears,
Though seldom it flows to the eye;
'Tis not that I have not true interest and love,
That I say not the sad words, Good bye.
The gate must be opened, and opened for me,
For me to go out of the place,
Where I have enjoyed the best bounties of earth,
Where in love face has answered to face.
As I passed through the gate, language fails to express
My deep-felt emotions of heart;
'Twas leaving a home where was freedom and rest;
And who else can such favors impart?
Not that I was homeless; another dear place
Was all ready and waiting me, where
Again I should mingle with children and friends;
But oh! there's life's burden and care.
'Tis not that I'd shun them, and useless remain,
That I felt thus whi
