"IT HAS AYE DONE SO HITHERTO."
By Philip B. Strong
THAT was an answer full of wisdom
The master's Scottish servant made,
When asked if he supposed the heaven,
Which had for days all cloudy stayed,
Would ever clear and show the blue,
"It has aye done so hitherto." Ah, pain must pass; and not forever
Can anguish last the heart to rend!
Though long the sun of hope be hidden,
Its healing rays shall yet descend
And fill with light the life anew;
"It has aye done so hitherto." And, waiting one, with cry unanswered
Till trust in God has almost died,
Doubt not, although thy prayers at present
Seem all unheard or all denied;
Faith yet shall find each promise true;
"It has aye done so hitherto." When burdens sore the breast is bearing,
When bitter woes the soul assail,
'Twill help endure with firmer patience
To know the future cannot fail
Some joy to give in sorrow's lieu;
"It has aye done so hitherto."