Blessed be the Lord for He endorsed me a friend
Who hanged my birth upon the willow of mirth.
When disdain embarketh the threshold of my wit
Hath reined my veins to the God who reigns.
Blessed be the Lord for He girdled mine acquaintance,
And confined her presence whence resentment fetters my patience
When counsel is drouth and enslaveth my thoughts
Burgeons her wisdom to disable my prison.
Blest be the Lord who preserved me a good friend
Who tasted my gall and trod hither my sorrows
Yet inclined to my burdens my yoke she borrowed.
Cleaveth like blood throughout my marrow.
Bless oh LORD, my faithful friend
Uphold her lamp to thrive Thy sight.
Knead Thine oil to the breath of her light
Ensoul forth mine heart to wing her flight.
