Page:History of Joseph and his brethren.pdf/14

14 Joseph visits his Father.

When Joseph knew his pious father lay

On his sick bed, to him he hastes away,

Joseph he brought Manasseh and Ephraim,

Placed before his father's eyes now dim,

At sight of them, cries Jacob, who are these,

My sons, says Joseph from between my knees.

When near, he kissed them, & with sweet embrace

Admires his GOD to his Joseph's face.

These boys of thine which were in Egypt born,

They shall be mine, not orphans or forlorn.

Manasseh he blest, commends him to his GOD,

Bids him to mark the steps that Abraham trod,

Displeased was Joseph to see his elder son

Put by, and the younger the blessing won,

But Jacob replied, son, I know it well.

For Ephraim shall unto great nations swell.