1 “Thou remainest.” Breathe it softly,
As in loneliness ye wait,
As the vanished ones long waited
For the opening of the gate.

2 “Thou remainest.” This thy watchword
When the foes from ambush start;
Vain their siege! If God be with us
Peace may garrison the heart.

3 “Thou remainest.” Peace our portion
Though the billows toss and foam;
Lo, the vessel rides at anchor,
Everywhere is God and Home!

4 Nature, in her moods inconstant
Can desert the child she bore;
Hope betrays by brightest promise,
“Thou remainest” evermore.

5 Silent the familiar voices,—
Vacant places, who can fill?
Vanished forms and absent faces—
“Thou remainest” with us still

6 Years recede; the Christ abideth,
Time and change may do their worst;
All is ours, for Thou remainest,
Thou art Last as well as First.