��Our tears flowed as we heard of w^ounds received.
And when news came of decorations granted
For valiant deeds performed,
Supplanted were our tears and fears by pride and joy
And grateful song we raised
That God had given us two sons, two men,
Who in the hour of trial failed not, nor faltered,
But with head erect, and flashing eye and lion heart
Met foe and vanquished himi.
Then came the sad, sad news,
"Regret to state your son, leading
His men to victory, was brought in bleeding from fatal wounds
And has 'gone w^est,'
Smiling, glad to have done his best."
Ah, God, now give us grace to say.
Thy will be done. Thou gave and Thou hast taken.
Be brave dear hearts, yet is thy cup not filled.
God in His providence has willed.
That you should offer all.
And came the other message.
Blotting like a pall remaining light.
And hope took flight, and
We had given all.
Ah, God, Thou art a Father
And Thou didst give Thy Son that we might live,
But Thou are God,
And we are only human,
And we are sad and lonesome for our lads.
We miss their loving kiss,
Their hearty greeting.
Their cheering smile.
And all the while the home-fire bright we're keeping
For their dear sakes.
Perhaps, who knows, some day they will return.
At night when all is silent,
When stars are bright.
And they will come
And they will press our lips
With the accustomed, ne'er to be forgotten goodnight kiss,
Ah, God,—
��Grand Rapids, December 31, 1918.
�� �
