Poems (Greenwell)/Parting
For works with similar titles, see Parting.
PARTING.TO E.L.R.
We parted not like lovers in their youth, Fond pledge and promise eager to renew, But e'en like steadfast-hearted friends whose truth, Tried by world-wear, world-change, soul-conflict, knew Its strength and rested; so our words were few. We parted with the clamour of the street Around us thick, yet secret, lone, and sweet Was our communing. Then I did not say As oft of yore, "Dear friend, when far away, Remember me," nor thou, "Forget me not." What is this life that Thou shouldst be forgot For all that it hath yet to give me? Nay! In this world or the next I count to be Rememb'ring and remembered; we have shared The cloud and sunshine here. Eternity Will never blight the flower that Time hath spared!