A Birthday Wish

Oh, could I as I lift this pen Mark out thy destiny, I would have thee happy now as when Nurs'd at thy mother's knee.

I would have thee cherish'd, free from harm On this eventful morn, Bless'd and content, with brow as calm As the hour that thou wer't born.

On a peaceful pillow thou wouldst sleep, Thy dreams should pleasant be; Would God, I had the power to keep Thy heart from sorrow free.

The flowers of hope thy path would strew, To walk in manly pride; All hearts around thee firm and true, Great good should thee betide.

I've not the power, alas, dear friend To give thee all I say, But hope they'll please, the lines I send Thee, on thy natal day.