Parting Hymn

BY P. P. PRATT.

To leave my dear friends, and from neighbors to part, Dear friends, I must leave you, and bid you adieu,

And go from my home, it afflicts my poor heart- And pay my devotions in parts that are new;

With the thoughts of absenting myself far away, But still I'll remember in pilgrimage there

From the house of my God where I've chosen to pray. The joys that we tasted in answer to prayer.

But Jesus doth call me a message to bear, How oft, when the day's busy bustle has clos'd.

To kingdoms, and countries, and islands afar; And nature lies sleeping in silent repose,

His presence will bless me and be with me there, To some lone retreat I will fondly repair,

His Spirit inspire me, in answer to prayer. Remember my kindred, and pray for them there.

Then why should I linger with fondest desire

O'er home and the raptures its comforts inspire?

For sweeter, O sweeter, the message I bear

To comfort the mourner in answer to prayer.