Classic Poem

As near, and ever nearer, side by side,
May flow two rivers, each his several course,
Each uncompanioned from his lonely source,
Until the mountain gate is opened wide,
And rock and moor and fell no more divide,
And they, with mingled waters strong and clear,
By flowery mead, or wood, or level mere,
One single stream inseparably glide.

So may your lives in purity and peace
Flow sweetly intermingled to the end,
And never may the dear communion cease
And high companionship of friend and friend,
Until that sombre and eternal sea
Receive you both in its immensity.