What comfort just to clasp it,
My rosary so dear;
Each mystery brings fresh courage
And drives away all fear.
In prayer so oft repeated,
Yet never growing old,
I read the wondrous story
Of God’s own love untold.
Each chaplet forms a garland,
To place at Mary’s feet;
Fair buds and full-bloom roses
Exhaling fragrance sweet.
The crucifix which crowns it
Reminds me day by day,
To bravely bear my crosses
Along earth’s rugged way.
I hope when life is ended,
And death shall set me free,
Still twined around my fingers
Will be my rosary.