The Poetry Corner

Widow Bedott To Elder Sniffles

By Frances Miriam "Berry" Whitcher

O reverend sir, I do declare It drives me most to frenzy, To think of you a-lying there Down sick with influenzy. A body'd thought it was enough To mourn your wife's departer, Without sich trouble as this ere To come a-follerin' arter. But sickness and affliction Are sent by a wise creation, And always ought to be underwent By patience and resignation. O, I could to your bedside fly, And wipe your weeping eyes, And do my best to cure you up, If 'twouldn't create surprise. It's a world of trouble we tarry in, But, Elder, don't despair; That you may soon be movin' again Is constantly my prayer. Both sick and well, you may depend You'll never be forgot By your faithful and affectionate friend, Priscilla Pool Bedott.