A FRIEND, LADS, A FRIEND!

Te Aroha News, Volume VII, Issue 415, 30 October 1889, Page 3

A FRIEND, LADS, A FRIEND !

Of all the good gifts that in royalist measure Drop dovrn to the earth from the beautiful skies, A friend, lßds, a friend, is the fittest to treasure— A friend with a soul in his straight-looking eyes; A near one, a dear one, a sterling and sound one. Scarce twice is he found in our life's- working day; Thank God with rejoicing if only you've found one. And love him and keep him for ever and aye. Ah. comrades now (be it said with decorum) You'll get for the asking in hamlets and towns Who gayly will empty the glasses you poor'em. And laugh' ut your sallies and borrow your crowns. < > * But these jolly birds are volatile feather. They fly with the autumn and come with the spring; If olouds are pressing a change in the weather. They'll bid you good day with a flick of the wing. A friend, lads! God bless him ! warm-hearted, stout-handed. Ue's loving and loyal and always the same: But still to your follies he's open and candid— You prize his approval, you shrink-from his blame. He'll laugh at your side when the May-time is shining. But closer he'll draw on the storm-beaten way; He's like the old coat with tho honest, warm lining— You'll find out his worth in the wintry day.

Frederick Langbridok.