THANKSGIVING AFTER CHILDBIRTH

Woman! the Power who left his throne on high,

And deigned to wear the robe of flesh we wear,

The Power that thro’ the straits of Infancy

Did pass dependent on maternal care,

His own humanity with Thee will share,

Pleased with the thanks that in his People's eye

Thou offerest up for safe Delivery

From Childbirth's perilous throes. And should the Heir

Of thy fond hopes hereafter walk inclined

To courses fit to make a mother rue

That ever he was born, a glance of mind

Cast upon this observance may renew

A better will; and, in the imagined view

Of thee thus kneeling, safety he may find.