THE OLD FRIARY BELL
P. O’H. PETERS.

Written on hearing it at Clonmel a few days ago

Air- “Aileen Mavourneen.”

WHAT mystical music resounds on my ear,
Remarkably tender, melodious and clear;
Proclaiming its mission thro’ valley and dell?
‘Tis the beautiful chime of the old Fri’ry bell.

How softly it floats on the swet-scented air,
Inviting the faithful to service and prayer ;
Saint Mary’s itself couldn’t really excel
The beautiful chime of the old Fri’ry bell.

For many a year has it echoed along
The clear-winding river majestic and strong,
Outliving both Ireton and Cromwell as well,
The beautiful chime of the old Fri’ry bell.

Tho’ seasons unnumbered have silently flown,
Since first I rejoiced in its magical tone;
Yet deeply I’ll cherish, wherever I dwell,
The beautiful chime of the old Fri’ry bell.

Taken from My Clonmel Scrapbook
Compiled & Edited James White
Second 1000 ; Published E. Downey & Co., Waterford ; 1907 ; No. ISBN