Cantering In Poem by Martin Farquhar Tupper

A mindful man, but hearted like a child,
Lived near my dwelling; he was frank and glad,
Though many sorrows might have made him sad;
But, to say sooth, his cheerfulness beguiled
The way of life so well, that trouble's power
Was half unheeded, like a passing shower:
Still as he went he sang, hoping the best,
And restless energy claim'd every hour,
And with a buoyant spirit he was blest.
One day we rode together on the grass,
Talking of bygone years and all the rest,
So look'd-for and so swiftly seen to pass,
When, as my gloomier spirit sigh'd Alas!
Thus to his pony's canter keeping time
His heart exulting pour'd itself in rhyme:-

'Huzza,- huzza!
For so much thrown behind my back,
And so many patches of light on my track,
And so much done, and so much won,
And life's race hitherto honestly run,
For honour and hope, and enough, and to spare,
And perfect Providence everywhere,-
For peace and pleasure by nights and days,
Huzza! give God the praise!

'Huzzah for the past, whatever betide;
Huzza! in piety, not in pride:
Grateful and glad may the spirit be seen,
And humble at heart though triumphant in mien,
While Sincerity sings right out
Where Vanity lying would darken with doubt,-
For happiness, honour, and help always,
Huzza! give God the praise!

'Yes,- for friends on every shore,
Loving and blessing us more and more,-
Yes,- for a sowing in every clime,
To bud and to bear to the end of time,-
Yes,- for a reaping rare and good,
A heavenly harvest of angels' food,
Mercies, comforts, pardoning love,
And grace upon earth, and glory above,
O friend! with me our chorus raise,
Huzza! give God the praise!'