Dear friends farewell, I now must go

1 Dear friends farewell, I now must go
The gospel for to preach;
My master calls me so to do,
His people for to teach.

2 While I was here, you have been dear,
And have been very kind;
But now in grace, I leave this place,
And leave you all behind.

3 Weep not for me for here you see,
My trials have been great;
And now all you I bid adieu,
And wish you all success.

4 Twill not be long before the church,
Will altogether be;
And you that love the lord below,
Shall then your Saviour see.

5 There you shall join in songs divine,
God's holy name shall praise;
And view his smiles, forget the toils,
Of these few evils days.

6 There you shall stand at his right hand,
And in his presence dwell;
And him adore for evermore
So brethren, now farewell.

Source: A Collection of Hymns and Spiritual Songs: from various authors #LXIII