THE MARRIAGE.

To and fro the bells are swinging,

Cheerily, clearly, to and fro;

Gaily go the young girls, bringing

Flowers the fairest June may know.

Maiden, flowers that bloom'd and perish'd

Strew'd thy path the bridal day;

May the Hope thy soul has cherish'd,

Bloom when these are pass'd away!

The Father's parting prayer is said,

The daughter's parting kiss is given;

The tears a happy bride may shed,

Like dews ascend to heaven;

And leave the earth from which they rise,

But balmier airs, and rosier dyes.