 | Three Hundred Sonnets |  |
252
TARRING CHURCH.
Mother,—beneath fair Tarring's heavenward spire,Where in old years thy youthful vows were paid,
When God had granted thee thy heart's desire,
And she went forth a wife, who came a maid,
With mindful steps thus wisely have we stray'd,
Full of deep thoughts: for where that sacred fire
Of Love was kindled, in the self-same spot,
Thou and the dear companion of thy lot,
Thy helpmate all those years, mine honour'd sire,
To-day have found fulfill'd before your eyes
The promise of old time;—look round and see
Your children's children! lo, these babes arise,
And call you blessed: Blessed both be ye!
And in your blessing bless ye these, and me.
| Three Hundred Sonnets | |