Poems for the Sea/The Sister's Farewell
THE SISTER'S FAREWELL.
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.