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250 The sanction of approving Heaven
 * To marriage-ring, and roof, and dower;

When she, a Wife, in matron pride, Stood, life-devoted, at thy side; When happy lips had pressed her cheek,
 * And happiest lips her “bonny mou’,”

And she had smiled with blushes meek,
 * On my congratulating bow,

A sunbeam, balmy with delight, Entranced, subdued me, till I quite
 * Forget my anti-nuptial vow,

And almost asked, with serious brow
 * And voice of true and earnest tone,

The bridesmaid with the prettiest face To take me, heart and hand, and grace
 * A wedding of my own.

Time’s years, it suits me not to say How many, since that joyous day, Have watched and cheered thee on thy way
 * O’er Duty’s chosen path severe,

And seen thee, heart and thought full grown, Tread manhood’s thorns and tempters down,
 * And win, like Pythian charioteer,

The wreaths and race-cups of renown— Seen thee, thy name and deeds, enshrined Within the peerage-book of mind— And seen my morning prophecy Truth-blazoned on a noonday sky,