Illinois Verse/Passing of the Bone-yard
Passing of the Bone-yard
Historic stream!Mysterious bones in the distant past were foundUpon its banks. Then came the surmise soundThat drinking Indians, thirstily bending low,Perished here by hidden enemy's bow.
Romantic stream!Along its banks the early violets grew;Across the rippling waters soft winds blew.And here would linger when the moon was brightAmorous couples far into the night.
Quiet little stream!Demure and calm; now showing scarce a traceOf its turbulent youth when it would race along itsPath, and students then would bearAcross to class belated co-eds fair.
Passing stream!Tradition fading from the college life,Tho Skull and Crescent still conducts its strifeEach spring across the stream in East Side ParkAnd occasional frosh are ducked here for a lark.
Ancient stream!Your course on the campus now is almost run.No more can you join in youth's hilarious fun.For many strenuous years you gave your best—Meander slowly along; you've earned your rest.