Grandson, on thy Second Birthday

Dear Padraig! Thou blessed favoured boy! Thy mother’s pride, thy father’s joy and treasure of us all! On this thy second natal day, We’re gathered round brave words to say, and fondly to forestall Those hopes so truly twined in you --- The Days so bright, the skies so blue --- That far ahead we see. And so it is our wish and prayer That God may have you in his care and seated on his knee.

We look on thy staunch sturdiness Bright promise of that rich success To which you are the heir! For if your manhood but attains The sturdy strength stored in your veins Trumpets yet will blare Those triumphs stout of brain and brawn, The plaudits from the massed throngs drawn, The ripe and well won meed Of feats that will deserve their fame. Work for thy land, thy Irish name Brave act and fairer deed.

Dear Grandson, Godson, well loved lad, Go forward bravely, blightsome, glad, To thy fate’s part! And meet whatever comes thy ways With cheerful front, unflinching gaze and an unfaltering heart. I have the hope that in thy prime Thou’ll surely reach the heights sublime and live supremely. Whether I be here or be elsewhere These lines will be the echo of my prayer, On this birthday for thee.