RECOMPENSE.

Straight through my heart this fact to-day, By Truth’s own hand is driven: God never takes one thing away, But something else is given.

I did not know in earlier years, This law of love and kindness; I only mourned through bitter tears My loss, in sorrow’s blindness.

But, ever following each regret O’er some departed treasure, My sad repining heart was met With unexpected pleasure.

I thought it only happened so; But Time this truth has taught me— No least thing from my life can go, But something else is brought me.

It is the Law, complete, sublime; And now with Faith unshaken, In patience I but bide my time, When any joy is taken.

No matter if the crushing blow May for the moment down me, Still, back of it waits Love, I know, With some new gift to crown me.