Farewell

As we travel Life's weary journey, And plod through the gathering years, With our burdens of care and sorrow, O'er a pathway bedewed with tears. If, perchance, for a fleeting moment Our hearts should with rapture swell, We have added but one more sorrow, When we bid the glad time "Farewell". I have watched the bright dawn awaking, And noted each changing light, As the sun, in its morning splendour, Dispelled the dark gloom of night. I have welcomed its bright rays stealing Over hill-top, and wood, and dell; Yet, my joy was alloyed with sorrow, As I bade the bright stars "Farewell". I have seen the red sun descending To its home in the glowing west, Whilst the tremulous voice of nature Was solemnly lulled to rest. I have welcomed the stars, appearing, And greeted them one by one, Yet, my greeting was toned with sadness, As I said "Farewell" to the sun. When we welcome the summer sunshine, Farewell to the flowers of Spring. Adieu to the fruits of Autumn, When we welcome the frosty king. Good-bye to the joys of childhood, When vigorous youth appears; Then - a season of strife and turmoil, And - farewell to the vanished years. I am sighing a farewell message, As I sit in the gathering gloom. Farewell to all earthly sorrows, Then - rest, in the silent tomb. Farewell to the trees, and flowers, To mountain, and stream, and dell, Farewell to the glorious sunlight, To the moon and stars, "Farewell"