Neighbour Jane

Every morning, when she woke, quaint and short the prayer she spoke.
" Make me easy, Lord, I pray, to live with—easy through the day."

Nothing more did Jane e'er ask. But straightway faced the first hour's task.
Neighbours said it was a fact, Jane had charm and Jane had tact.
She didn't hurt nor irritate ; she didn't prick, she didn't grate.

Gentle, courteous, kindly Jane, neighbours called and called again !
Found her presence like sweet balm, sympathetic, soothing, calm.
"Jane," said one, " sweet oil has found to make the wheels of life go round.
Bumpy places disappear just as soon as Jane draws near.

"Every evening, e'er she slept, to the window this Jane crept;
Worshipped there the starry crowd. " Who am I ? " she cried aloud, "
To make a fussy, wordy riot when such nobility is quiet!
Make me easy. Lord, I pray, to live with—easy through the day.