If I should die and leave you here awhile,

be not like others, sore undone, who keep

long vigils by silent dust.

 

For my sake, turn again to life and smile,

nerving they heart and trembling hand to do

something to comfort weaker hearts than thine.

Complete these dear unfinished tasks of mine.

And I perchance may therein comfort you.

 

Mary Lee Hall (1843 – 1927)