Words fitly spoken—how they cheer
The heart depressed by doubt or fear!
Suggest new efforts for the right
And lead us onward to the light.
How full of balm and healing they
When Sorrow's shadows cross our way!
A ministry of helpful power
They shed around the darkest hour.
Words fitly spoken! human speech
Was made the human heart to reach.
Who touches hearts himself must know
The spirit's tender overflow;
Rightly what should be said, must say,
Not more, or less, or go astray
In wastes of words to lose the way,
And wander from the light of day.
