“Groups of radiant angels soaring”

GROUPS of radiant angels soaring

Upward in the sunshine’s gleam;

Watched as through the gates of heaven,

In their arms a form they bore;

And a thousand angel voices

Sang the name of Montefiore!

Somewhere I have caught the echo,

Drifting on till time shall end—

Caught the sound of grief and mourning;

For the poor have lost their friend!

Silent is the voice that pleaded,

Motionless the hand that gave,

And the voice that loved and pitied

Stilled and pulseless in the grave.

Softly rest his soul in slumber!

He was weary, he was lone;

Long ago his household angel

Flitted off to heaven’s throne.

Weep no tear, nor bow in sorrow,

Praise the God we all adore,

For He crowned the earth with blessing

When he gave it Montefiore.