As homeward, by the evening star,
I pass along the plain,
I see the taper's light afar,
Shine through our cottage-pane.
My brothers and my sisters dear,
The child upon the knee,
Spring, when my hastening steps they hear,
And smile to welcome me.
And when the fire is growing dim,
And mother's labours cease,
I fold my hands, and say my hymn,
And "lay me down in peace."