To An Absent Friend

1895

Could I but have my dear one back again
From the vastness of the great west unknown,
How would it ease my poor heart's silent pain
As I sit here at even all alone!

That he travels wide makes me more afraid
Who shall his wayward heart and footsteps guide,
For him softer the way my love had made,
So feels my poor heart while he wanders wide.

Cold was the night he left my sanctum warm,
A night of wintry tempest, harsh and wild,
Went forth my dear friend reckless, wild —
I say alone — for who hears angels' feet
As we pass along? Tho' we dream they come,
We hear them not upon the busy street;
We only know a void — we are alone.

Friendship! Thy very name is sorrow's own,
Synonym for parting said for trial,
'Tis I must bear the burden all alone,
And when the tear would start must wear a smile.

— Jessie M. Holland.