In Memoriam

They were —
But what avails it now, to tell of what has been! —
Fond-hearted, dear, and passing fair.
As e'er on earth were seen.

They are —
In safety with their God, secure from sin and care.
And the bright day cannot be far
When we may meet them there.

The tears—
Our loss of them might claim, thoughts of their gain do dry.
That we may watch till Christ appears,
Bringing them in the sky.

Jesus! —
Their hope and life in death, our joy in grief and pain.
We live in Thee, live Thou in us,
And all shall meet again.