Deacon Foster's Pew (1890s)

[Asiaticus]

Deacon Foster's Pew (1890s)

[April]

I sit here thinking, Will, of you
and many days gone by.
The old church where so oft we sang
together you & I.
But thoughts of one rehearsal night
will constantly arise.
Till I can read my tithe clear
to mansions in the skies

I'm thinking of that rainy night
the rest had hurried home.
And we in Dea. Fosters' pew
were sitting all alone.
You were a seeker then dear Will
but not of things above.
The length, bredth, hight & debth
of everlasting love.

I was on the anxious seat
uncertain how to move.
Within thine arms of love enclosed
thy constancy to prove.
And Oh, the promises you made
you my own dear Will.
What peaceful hours I once enjoyed
how sweet the memory still

Oh what sweet words of love you spoke
and kissed away the tears
And how I trembled at the thought
lest someone should appear.
But when you you turned the lights all out
to guard against surprise
I bid farewell to every fear
and wiped my weeping eyes.

And when you fixed the cushions up
and I reclined at ease
The pulpit pillow 'neath my head
and you on bended knees.
With your warm kisses on my lips
how could I stay your hand
The veil was lifted and by faith
you viewed the promised land.

Oh. what rapture feelings
thrilled through my veins
I cried, Oh Lord, my heart is touched
you shouted out Amen.
My very soul was all ablaze
I thought that I could see
The land of rest, the souls' delight
The Heaven prepared for me.

I thought a charge I had to keep
with fear and shame
How anxiously I waited Will,
till I come 'round again.
In my distress I vainly strove
to check the falling tears.
The precious blood gushed freely fourth
and concurred all my fears

But that was many years ago
and I've no doubt that you
Remember still that rainy night
in Deacon Foster's pew.
But Oh my first experience
will near forgotten be
Till I shall read my tithe
clear to mansions in the skies