A Prayer

Grant me but courage, Lord! I ask not that Thou smooth the appointed path; I ask not any joys the years afford, I ask not even Thine averted wrath.

Let me but learn to smile-- Let me face lightly any blow that falls; Bear bravely with my bondage all the while, And hug my freedom within prison walls.

Thus when the end draws near, With lifted head let me the potion quaff, And so--as one who never learned to fear-- Pass on to meet Thy judgment with a laugh.