Classic Poem

The only way to have a friend
—Is to be one yourself;
The only way to keep a friend
—Is to give from that wealth.

For friendship must be doublefold,
—Each one must give his share
Of feelings true if he would reap
—The blessings that are there.

If you would say, “He is my friend,”
—Then nothing else will do
But you must say, “I am his friend,”
—And prove that fact be true.

The only way to have a friend
—Is to be one yourself;
The only way to keep a friend
—Is to give from that wealth.

For friendship must be doublefold,
—Each one must give his share
Of feelings true if he would reap
—The blessings that are there.

If you would say, “He is my friend,”
—Then nothing else will do
But you must say, “I am his friend,”
—And prove that fact be true.