THE SAD YEARS
A SONG FOR EVALEEN
Sing a song for Evaleen, only two years old,
Running laughing on life's path in her wilful way;
Christ-Child, Whom on Mary's knee her loving arms enfold,
Let Thy little angels come with this babe to play.
One to guide her either hand, so what deed it do,
It shall neither give nor take grievous hurt or pain;
Let these little fingers pull blossoms fair and true
For the glory of Thy feet, without thorn or stain.
One to whisper songs of joy in her listening ear,
So the sad world's bitter cries reach her but afar;
So that evil, on his way, finds no welcome here,
Let but white words come to her where Thy angels are.
One to guard her dimpled mouth, laughing in its glee,
So it say no cruel words, nor let anger call;
