The Best Of Counsel

by James Nack

To the best of girls.

Now heed my words, my precious girl! --
Affection is the richest pearl,
Nor lightly should be thrown away
On those who cannot love repay;
Beware to whom thou shalt impart
That priceless jewel of the heart!
Care not alone for form or face,
Or winning words or witching grace;
But choose thou one whose honored name
Thou canst be proud to share and claim;
Let it be one of cultured mind,
Of generous thoughts and feelings kind,
Who never sought, nor e'er would seek
To wrong the helpless or the weak,
But ever would employ his best
To shield the friendless and opprest;
Who proudly treads temptation down,
Nor sinks at fortune's darkest frown;
Whose equal soul and mind sedate
Can stand unmoved each change of fate;
Whose faith is firm, whose honor bright,
Whose love is an immortal light!
Such were the love, and such alone,
That can be worthy of thy own!