He used to greet me with a smile, His heart was light and glad; I’ve seen him tremble at my voice, I’ve made that heart so sad. Do you see this pledge I’ve signed to-night? My mother, wife, and boy Shall read my purpose on that pledge And smile through tears of joy. To know this night, this very night, I cast the wine-cup down, And from the dust of a sinful life Lift up my manhood’s crown. The faded face of my young wife With roses yet shall bloom, And joy shall light my mother’s eyes On the margin of the tomb. I have vowed to-night my only boy, With brow so fair and mild, Shall not be taunted on the streets, And called a drunkard’s child. Never again shall that young face Whiten with grief and dread, Because I’ve madly staggered home And sold for drink his bread. This strong right arm unnerved by rum Shall battle with my fate; And peace and comfort crown the home By drink made desolate. Like a drowning man, tempest-tossed, Clings to a rocky ledge, With trembling hands I’ve learned to grasp The gospel and the pledge. A captive bounding from my chain, I’ve rent each hateful band, And by the help of grace divine A victor hope to stand. [Illustration] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES 1. Silently corrected obvious typographical errors and variations in spelling. 2. Retained archaic, non-standard, and uncertain spellings as printed. 3. Enclosed italics font in _underscores_.