The Bridge of Fire (collection)

James Elroy Flecker (1884–1915)

Gentle Poet, only friend,Lover of the stars and sun,Since our days are at an end,Since the older days are done;

Since it seems that nevermoreMay I hope to trail my gownRapturously, as before,With my friend in Oxford Town;

Since I so regret a timeSo unprofitably spent,Let me send a little rhymeFrom a king in banishment,—

Send a wish that we may seeBetter days, and braver days:—Floreas, amice mi!Floreat Praxiteles.