Original Poetry.

Alexandra Herald and Central Otago Gazette, Issue 699, 27 October 1909, Page 5

Original Poetry.

THE LAST BID

(Contributed to a Departing Citizen)

Just a word before you leave us, A whisper iu your ear—■ A bid not lightly given From old friends you're leaving here ; To tell you we will miss you, aye ! And more than you can guess,—• To wish you in the Northland Happiness and all success.

Just a bid at this your leaving, That fortune be your lot— To tell that though the Northland calls Not soou you'll be forgot; For lights that shine as you have shone Are few and far between. A rarity the genial— And good old sport you've been. Just a hearty grip at parting (Perhaps a tear dim'd eye), An old friend's hearty hand-shake—■ Not an everyday Good-bye ; For a friend we know we're losing When we take you by the hand— To the Northland goes our shining light, Too well we understand.

Just a cheer from friends of yesterday, To-morrow, and all time, — From old and new the same adieu, For the sake of Auld Lang Sync ; From every old and youthful heart A cheer that rings with pride— For those who go to stand by you In the Northland side by side.

Just a bid, the third aud last time, At this your parting sail— Prosperity to wish you, To trust that in Life's gale Good luck will ne'er desert you (We know you've got the pluck); And bid you—Farewell, Larry ! Wishing you and yours Good Luck