GOOD COUNSEL.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume II, Issue 84, 5 December 1874, Page 13

GOOD COUNSEL.

— ++ — BY 'WILLIAM PEMBBOKE MTJLCHINOCK. Cling to your friend, when you prove his devotion — Breast the false world with him by your side, Firm as a rock that repels the rude ocean Dashing against it in power and pride. Though danger and death around him should hover, Still be you prompt to shield and defend, Till each rude tempest that threatens is over, , Meet it like true men, and cling to your friend. Toil for your land with unceasing endeavor, Put forth your powers of muscle and mind, Strike while a fetter is left you to sever, Strike while a tyrant is left to bind. Check not your spirit, proud, panting for glory, Free be the stroke of your heart and your handOn through the ranks of the plunderer hoary, Strike for your freedom, strike for your land. Give to the poor, o'er the wide earth they wander, Toiling and working, never at rest ; Setter to give than in riot to squander That which would lighten a sorrowing breast. Think on the sickness and hunger assailing Each mud-built hut on the cold wintry moor — Think on each squalid child bitterly wailing. Think on your comforts— and give to the poor. Think on your God in all seasons and places, Fondly adoring Him bend you the knee ; Shun every vice, every sin that debases, Happy and light let your conscience be ; let your soul take without grief or repining Each stroke he deals with his chast'ning rod ' Soon to the mourning one bright hope conies shining, Be he but patient — then think on your God.