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To Pervis & Annie Nov. 30th 1856. Dear friends you now have joined the hands And hearts in true affection -- The holy bond -- the marriage vows Are true love's bright reflection -- They are the ties which closely bind Two willing hearts together -- Alas -- 'tis sad -- to think these bonds Cannot remain forever -- That Time's silent hand will deign To part the earthly ties -- Yet_ sweet to think it cannot rend The Soul -- it never died -- 'Tis only frail and mortal things O'er which death has control It ne'er can rend the holy, true Affections of the Soul -- They'll strengthen, ripen, brighten glow As years roll quickly by -- And stronger yet will be those bonds When they're matured on high -- Oh may you live each others' lifes' Each others troubles share -- The joys, and pleasures, sorrows, griefs And every earthly care -- Let each the others virtues laud Their faults too -- greatly chide -- Let each the others purpose know And every thought confide -- May all your efforts ever be To make -- each other happy -- For this -- your promises were made -- This -- is your bounden duty -- And thus employing talents which Are so profusely given -- You'll make your Home -- what Home should be A miniature of Heaven. -- And when the time of parting comes As come it surely will -- May you in meek submission bow Unto our Fathers will. -- You'll part to meet again -- In mansions of eternal bliss Where pleasures banish pain. --