If any line that I ever penned, Or any word I have spoken, Has comforted heart of foe or friend - In any way, why my life, I'll say, Has reaped the reward of labour, If aught I have said, or written, has made Gladder the heart o' my neighbour.
If any deed that I ever did Lightened a sad heart's sorrow, If I have lifted a drooping lid Up to the bright to-morrow, Though the world knows not, nor gives me a thought, Nor ever can know, nor praise me, Yet still I shall say, to my heart alway, That my life and labour repay me.
If in any way I have helped a soul, Or given a spirit pleasure, Then my cup of joy, I shall think is full With an overflowing measure. Though never an eye, but the one on high Looks on my kindly action, Yet, O my heart, we shall think of our part In the drama, with satisfaction.