If any line that I ever penned,
    Or any word I have spoken,
Has comforted heart of foe or friend---
    In any way, why my life, I'll say,
Has reaped the reward of labour,
    If aught I have said, or written, has made
Gladder the heart o' my neighbour.

If any deed that I ever did
    Lightened a sad heart's sorrow,
If I have lifted a drooping lid
    Up to the bright to-morrow,
Though the world knows not, nor gives me a thought,
    Nor ever can know, nor praise me,
Yet still I shall say, to my heart alway,
    That my life and labour repay me.

If in any way I have helped a soul,
    Or given a spirit pleasure,
Then my cup of joy, I shall think, is full
    With an overflowing measure.
Though never an eye but the one on high
    Looks on my kindly action,
Yet, O my heart, we shall think of our part
    In the drama, with satisfaction.