From the Rock Island Argus, April 1, 1914. By Henry Howland.
My little boy, the way is long
That you shall have to go;
God grant you may be brave and strong
To do your part, to show
Whate’er may be the goal you seek,
Whate’er the height you gain,
Consideration for the weak
And those who strive in vain.
My little boy, ambition’s call
Will oft be sweet to you;
God grant you strength to turn from all
That wicked men pursue,
To let no gain come to your hand
If blood must be the price,
To spurn the profits that demand
Another’s sacrifice.
My little boy, with all to learn
And laughing still at play,
God give you manliness to spurn
What honor thrusts away,
To keep you free from guile and greed,
Where’er your course may lie,
To do the brave, heroic deed,
Though doing it, you die.