Dear friend of mine whose magnet-heart
Hath joined mine own to thee,
Where'er with changing years thou art
Or near or far from me.

O friend of mine, I'd have thee know
How dear I hold thy worth!
Thy sweet companionship, I vow
O'ertops the gauds of earth.

Dear friend of mine, this faithful thought
May joy and solace be, —
Not separation, death, no! Naught
Can change my love for thee!