Poems (Cook)/Parting Song
PARTING SONG.
Come, let us part with lightsome heart, Nor breathe one chiding sigh;To think that wings of rainbow plume So soon should learn to fly.We scarcely like the chimes to strike That tell of Pleasure's flight;But Friendship's chain, when sever'd thus, Is sure to re-unite. Then why not we as merry be, Though this song be the last,Believing other hours will come As bright as those just past!
The wild bird's song is loud and long, But the sweetest and the bestIs whistled as he leaves the bough, To seek his lonely nest.The sun's rich beam shines through the day, But flashes deeper stillWhile darting forth his farewell ray Behind the western hill.Then why not we as merry be, In this our parting strain?For, like the bird and sun, we'll come With joy and warmth again.
The moments fled, like violets dead, Shall never lose their power;For grateful perfume ever marks The Memory's wither'd flower.The sailor's lay, in peaceful bay, With gladsome mirth rings out;But when the heavy anchor's weigh'd, He gives as blithe a shout.Then why not we as merry be, In this our parting strain;And trust, as gallant sailors do, To make the port again?