I first promise that in this home,
Jehovah's loved and feared-
His law so holy, just and good,
Is constantly revered.

No need that wealth with golden store
And courtly pomp be theirs;
The glittering meshes which they weave
Oft prove delusive snares.

On true affection's altar, then,
With radiance most benign,
The vestal lamp, with steady light,
Should ever brightly shine.

With deeds of kindness each must strive
To make the other blest -
Not only
feel
the genial glow,
But make it manifest.

Forbearance, with her sceptre mild,
Should o'er the hearth preside:
And cheerfulness, with smiling face,
With her the sway divide.

Disorder and confusion wild,
May never enter here;
But regulations wisely made,
Guide well the social sphere.

Refinement with emotions nice,
A varied charm would lend;
And intellectual pleasures rare,
With her, would sweetly blend.

No looks austere may chill the flow
Of happy spirits bright;
While home amusements innocent,
The youthful ones delight.

One precept now, will close these hints;
'Tis taught in Christ's own school-
In Mathew's Gospel, seventh and twelfth,
And called 'The Golden Rule.'