Poems for the Sea/The Sister's Farewell

by Lydia Sigourney

THE SISTER'S FAREWELL.

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Brother, good bye,—your choice is made,
   On the great Sea to dwell,
Where mighty ships majestic ride,
   And foaming billows swell,

Good bye, beneath the spreading shade
   Of our old favorite tree
In places where our childhood play'd
   You will remember'd be.

The hearth-stone of our pleasant home
   Must lone, and alter'd seem,
And I shall listen to your voice
   Even in my sweetest dream.

Yes, I shall miss the merry smile
   That oft-times cheer'd my heart,
While far away, mid storms and surge
   You bear a venturous part.

Brother, good bye! yet ne'er forget
   Whatever else betide,
That your good conduct is our wealth,
   Your stainless name, our pride.

Be firm and honest, kind and true,
   In sunshine, or in blast,
And make your duty, your delight,
   Where'er your lot is cast.

Oh Brother dear! Heaven be your guide
   Upon the boistrous main,
And bring you to your sister's side,
   In happiness again.