Notes from Julian's Hymnology:
Miss Lathbury was born in Manchester, Ontario County, New York, on August 10th. 1841. She wrote extensively for the American religious periodical press, and is well and favourably known. Of her hymns that have come into common use are:
a). "Break Thou the Bread of Life" — communion with God; a "Study Song" for the Chautauqua and Scientific Circle written in the summer of 1880.
b) "Day is dying in the West" — evening: written at the request of the Rev. John H. Vincent D.D. in 1880. It was a "Vesper Song", and has been frequently used in the responsive services of the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle.
Miss Lathbury's hymn in 'Spiritual Songs' is no 190, "Break Thou the Bread of Life. Dear Lord to me". This is one of the new hymns included in 'Spiritual Songs' and it has become a favourite hymn with some.