Classic Poem

Julia, let fond remembrance cling
Around the parting hour;
Unfading let that garland be,
Late plucked from friendship's bower.

Lurid and dark our path would be,
Uncheered by friendship's rays;
Incense divine, thy hallowed flame
Lights up our darkest days.

Absence and time can ne'er destroy
Pure friendship's chrystal streams;
Near us the loved one lingers round,
And greets us in our dreams.

No brighter chain this earth can boast,
Than twines 'round kindred hearts;
Brilliant and fair the links remain,
Though fate rends them apart.

Alas! that we so soon must part.
Ere budding friendship's bloom;
Remain, sweet germ, within each heart,
And thrive beyond the tomb.

Receive, dear friend, these parting lines,
Though humble they appear;
Earth, with its joys, are fading fast,
With all that love us here.

Then may we be prepared to soar
Where ransomed spirits blend;
There may our souls in love unite,
Where friendship fears no end.