Fair flower! from one who toils in distant land,
Preaching a Gospel sent the world to save;
Welcome! for thou wast plucked by his own hand,
And safe hast reached me here o'er land and wave.
Why need I ask, " what tidings dost thou bear? "
When in thy form a Father's love I see,
Who for the grass, and tender flower doth care;
Much more for us, wherever we may be.
Dear friend! though now with dangers compassed round,
And far from home, and all the heart holds dear;
Still mayest thou be as ever faithful found,
Trusting in God without one anxious fear;
Whose Word will hush all strife, and bring the day,
When wars from the whole earth shall pass away.