On the Departure of the Cusa

TAKE them, fair ship, these friends of mine,Into thine arms and safely keep;With sad reluctance we resign,Aye, with feelings true and deep;With prayers unuttered in the heartWe'll render up as ye depart.

Hope, Faith, and Love, these three combine,Inwrought in glowing pictures strong;How bold the tints, how rich and fine,As mystic scenes around us throng.A light from heaven on such will flow,Radiance shed as on ye go.

Take them, father, mother, son, and bride;Quell every fear which may arise;Know ye how much we now confide,How much in love without disguise?May every change a charm impart,New health, new vigor, to each heart.

Take them, and may the winds and wavesBe ever lulled to peace and rest;The ocean calm, as on ye glideWith these, our treasures, on its breast:We crave the boon of strength, of power,Half to express this parting hour.

Another charge, O, good ship,—IWould pardon ask for this delay—Her boy to bless, embrace; good-by,Fair Emma; on thy deck, to-day,A gem more prized ye cannot hold;Our hearts must keep the rest untold.

That Neptune and the Naiads keepA never-slumbering watch, I ask;That loved ones, while with thee, may reapThe pleasures, we in sunshine bask;May Heaven protect, all ills dispel;Time speeds, and now a last farewell.