Parting

Farewell! that word has broken hearts

And blinded eyes with tears;

Farewell! one stays, and one departs;

Between them roll the years.

No wonder why who say it think —

Farewell! he may fare ill

No wonder that their spirits sink

And all their hopes grow chill.

Good-bye! that word makes faces pale

And fills the soul with fears;

Good-bye! two words that wing a wail

Which flutters down the years.

No wonder they who say it feel

Such pangs for those who go;

Good-bye they wish the parted weal,

But ah! they may meet woe.

Adieu! such is the word for us,

‘ Tis more than word —‘ tis prayer;

They do not part, who do part thus,

For God is everywhere.