Page:Self-Communion (1900).pdf/35

I see that time, and toil, and truth,
An inward hardness can impart,—
Can freeze the generous blood of youth,
And steel full fast the tender heart.”

“Bless God for that divine decree!—
That hardness comes with misery,
 And suffering deadens pain;
That at the frequent sight of woe
E’en Pity’s tears forget to flow,
 If reason still remain!
Reason, with conscience by her side,
But gathers strength from toil and truth;