To My Books
As one who, destined from his friends to part,Regrets his loss, but hopes again erewhileTo share their converse and enjoy their smile,And tempers as he may affliction’s dart;
Thus, loved associates, chiefs of elder art,Teachers of wisdom, who could once beguileMy tedious hours, and lighten every toil,I now resign you; nor with fainting heart;
For pass a few short years, or days, or hours,And happier seasons may their dawn unfold,And all your sacred fellowship restore:When, freed from earth, unlimited its powers.Mind shall with mind direct communion hold,And kindred spirits meet to part no more.