1 This book of books I'd rather own,
Than all the gold or gems
That e'er in monarchs' coffers shone;--
Than all their diadems.

2 Nay, were the seas one chrysolyte,
The earth a golden ball,
And diamonds all the stars of night,
This book were worth them all.

3 Without a doubt, this book is worth
All else to mortals given;
For what are all the joys of earth,
Compared to joys in heaven?

4 This is the guide our Father gave,
To lead to realms of day--
A star whose luster gilds the grave--
The life, the light, the way.