The text sets a reflective, even sad tone. The hymn melody appears in the tenor, and we will build from an 8' foundation. We could use either a very soft stop or a firm, rich (not bright) combination. A principal or a soft solo reed is possible. On the firmer side is a cornet or a larger reed. Both of these become darker and richer in the tenor range.
With the solo in a lower range, the accompaniment must not be allowed to predominate. The higher range of the accompaniment will render the 8' stops clear and bright, and the 4' stops even brighter. If the solo is of flue tone, more care must be exercised in this regard than if it is reed tone. To balance the pedal with the accompaniment, we will use a 16' flute and 8' flute or principal stops.