Jones Very (1813–1880)

THE BUBBLING brook doth leap when I come by,

Because my feet find measure with its call,

The birds know when the friend they love is nigh,

For I am known to them both great and small;

The flowers that on the lovely hill-side grow

Expect me there when Spring their bloom has given;

And many a tree and bush my wanderings know,

And e’en the clouds and silent stars of heaven;

For he who with his Maker walks aright,

Shall be their lord, as Adam was before;

His ear shall catch each sound with new delight,

Each object wear the dress which then it wore;

And he, as when erect in soul he stood,

Hear from his Father’s lips that all is good.