2 They have gone from us, and the grave is strong, Yet in night's silent watches they are near; Their voices linger round us, as the song Of the sweet bird that lingers on the ear, When, floating upward in the flush of even, Its form is lost from earth and swallowed up in heaven. 355. 11s. M. Anonymous. Are They Not All Ministering Spirits? 1 How dear is the thought, that the angels of God May bow their bright wings to the world they once trod; Will leave the sweet songs of the mansions above, To breathe o'er our bosoms some message of love! 2 They come, on the wings of the morning they come, Impatient to lead some poor wanderer home; Some sinner to save from his darkened abode, And lay him to rest in the arms of his God. 3 They come when we wander, they come when we pray, In mercy to guard us wherever we stray; A glorious cloud, their bright witness is given; Encircling us here are these angels of heaven. 356. C. M. *J. H. Perkins. Spiritual Presence. 1 It is a faith sublime and sure, That ever round our head Are hovering, on noiseless wing, The spirits of the dead. 2 It is a faith sublime and sure, When ended our career, That it will be our ministry To watch o'er others here; 3 To bid the mourners cease to mourn, The trembling be forgiven, To bear away from ills of clay The deathless soul to heaven. 357. C. M. Jane Taylor. The Unseen World. 1 There is a state unknown, unseen, Where parted souls must be; And but a step doth lie between That world of souls and me. 2 I see no light, I hear no sound, When midnight shades are spread; Yet angels pitch their tents around, And guard my quiet bed. 3 The things unseen, O God, reveal; My spirit's vision clear, Till I shall feel, and see, and know, That those I love are near. 4 Impart the faith that soars on high, Beyond this earthly strife; That holds sweet converse with the sky, And lives eternal life. 358. P. M. Anonymous. Ministering Angels. 1 Brother, the angels say, Peace to thy heart! We, too, O brother, have Been as thou art,-- Hope-lifted, doubt-depressed, Seeing in part, Tried, troubled, tempted, Sustained, as thou art. 2 Brother, they softly say, Be our thoughts one; Bend thou with us and pray, "Thy will be done!" Our God is thy God; He willeth the best; Trust Him as we trusted-- Rest as we rest!