A Prayer (O thou dread Pow'r ...)
By Robert Burns
Left, by the author, at a Reverend friend's house in the room where he slept.
I.
O thou dread Pow'r, who reign'st above!
I know Thou wilt me hear,
When, for this scene of peace and love,
I make this prayer sincere.
II.
The hoary sire -- the mortal stroke,
Long, long, be pleased to spare!
To bless his little filial flock,
And show what good men are.
III.
She, who her lovely offspring eyes
With tender hopes and fears,
Oh, bless her with a mother's joys,
But spare a mother's tears!
IV.
Their hope -- their stay -- their darling youth,
In manhood's dawning blush --
Bless him, thou God of love and truth,
Up to a parent's wish!
V.
The beauteous, seraph sister-band,
With earnest tears I pray,
Thou know'st the snares on ev'ry hand --
Guide Thou their steps alway!
VI.
When soon or late they reach that coast,
O'er life's rough ocean driv'n,
May they rejoice, no wand'rer lost,
A family in heav'n!
Source Book
The Poetical Works Of Robert Burns
by Robert Burns
Copyright 1910
Published by Ward, Lock, and Co., Ltd
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A Prayer (O thou dread Pow'r ...)
by Robert Burns
