To my husband on his 10^th

Wedding Day 20^th Oct 1859

Accept this book dearest

 In commemoration of the day that brought me to thee dearest 

Making this my earthly stay

Much perhaps as o’er the leaves you turn

Such thoughts as these from it you’ll learn

2

Methinks we each, have each been to each

Like wild flowers by the way

And make life no hasten wilderness

But gather flowers gay

And now have blossoms bright

To fill our hearts with delight

3

True we’ve seen hopes as fine flowers

All wither and die

And trials have had these darksome hours

Dimming life’s sunny day

Yet our souls may well sense

The love and kindness of the Lord

4

But as he’s watched o’er these wild flowers

Making them flower and grow

With gentle dews and balmy showers

Doubtless he wills his love

On those who show him equal case?

Yes! Aye they too his love will share

5

Behold these flowers are all assay’d

With heavenly sweet grace

And if your heart is o’er dismayed

And unfavoured thoughts find place

Surely they’ll speak reprovingly

Saying he who clothed us cares for thee

Mary Livens