The Sequel — “If.”
If health be firm—if friend be true—
If self be well-controlled,
If tastes be pure—if wants be few—
And not too often told—
If reason always rule the heart—
If passion own its sway—
If love—for aye—to life impart
The zest it does to-day—
If Providence, with parent care,
Mete out the varying lot—
While meek contentment bows to share,
The palace, or the cot—
And oh! if Faith, sublime and clear,
The spirit upwards guide—
Then bless’d indeed, and bless’d for ever,
The bridegroom and the bride!