TO A FRIEND.

Otago Witness, Issue 1851, 30 March 1904, Page 63

TO A FRIEND.

Oh, God, Took clown in lcvmg joy and smile Upon those lives that hold sv.-eet friendship* kiss ; And in those hearts I love, le l levt awhile The sweet ethereal showeis of holy bliss. That is my prayer. God give them happiness. Give me the n.an whose honest hand Is proffered m sweet friendship's ause ; And though by work it's mighty tanned, I do not care. I kcow no laws. But want the love that never thaws. Give me the man whose friendly eyes &how that gieat -wealth and fond desira To st«u:d for right; whoso bopom cries For love and trust; whose worclu aie fire; Whc has a touch of friendly ire. Ah ! ?ive to me that honest heart That throbs within an honest breast! Give me the man thri can impart His friendly sentiments so biest: I want a heart that stands its test. I do not want the sneciing tongue That finds behind cut backs a place To jeer at us and everyone. I'd sooner have a ■swollen far Well punched — jt would lis betto* grace. Ah! give to me! Ah! give to me That genial warmth, that great -'Halloo!" That loving grasp, that "How are ye?" Give me the man whose actions show He is my fuend m weal 01 voe. Cto friends in life ne few raid far between. AJthougli we ni?et the many whose soft smile Oft happer-F in its virtue to be seer, V7h"n wanting am thing io/ a short wmle: Such friends w : e find -their sentiments defile. — C. Bkaithwute.

Dunedin. March. 1901