As you take a companion, a dear, chosen friend.

I’m happy in thinking you’ll bring home a wife

To take the direction in things of this life,

May her interest and aim be all one with us here,

And she be to mother a daughter most dear.

The sister, the daughter, and wife, all combine;

The home of her childhood she too must resign.

Though former companions may not be forgot,

New duties, new trials will fall to her lot.

Be true and affectionate, always the same;

One in heart as you now are to be one in name,

Wherever she is, be it your joy to come;

While each can say truly, “There’s no place like home.”

You’ve doubtless informed her you intended your mother

Would have a home with you, and also your brother,

That she unexpectedly might not find these,

To add to her household, to care for and please.

You’ve been an affectionate, dutiful son;

Everything in your power, for my comfort you’ve done;

You’ve said this attention you owed me through life—

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