"My mind was ruled with small cares to-day,
And I said pettish words, and did not keep
Long-suffering patience well; and now how deep
My trouble is for this sin! In vain I weep
For foolish words never can unsay.

Yet not in vain, oh, surely not in vain!
This sorrow must compel me to take heed:
And surely I shall learn how much I need
Thy constant strength my own to supersede,
And all my thoughts to patience to constrain.

Yes, I shall learn at last though I neglect
Day after day to seek my help from Thee.
Oh, aid me, that I may always recollect
This gentle-heartedness and oh, correct
Whatever else of sin Thou seest in me."