ELM SHADOWED IPSWICH .

 Mary 0. B. Dunning.

Parting Song. Senior Class, Female Seminary, July 17, 1866 .

 

Fain would we bribe thee, O Time, on the wing,

To linger with us in the bloom of the Spring;

Linger awhile from the toils and the snares, -

From the conflict of life with its sadness and cares.

 

But thou art remorseless, --on pinions of might

Thou fliest, and we, too, must share in thy flight;

From rose-tinted bowers where the festal wreathes sweep,

Thou bearest us onward Life's vigils to keep.

 

Yes, into the current with thee we must glide,

Not knowing the sorrows or joys which betide;

But though from youth's dreams of enchantment we part,

Leave us, ah, leave us the youth of the heart!

 

And oh, where Life's trials and sufferings press,

Still there be our mission to comfort, and bless ;

From our lips may the kind word never depart, -

Leave us, yes, leave us the youth of the heart.

 

Elm shadowed Ipswich , kissed by the sea,

Meadow, and river, and rocks bold and free, -

How shall we cherish the memory of thee,

Beautiful Ipswich , kissed by the sea !

 

Sisters and friends, take our loving Farewell!

Ever with you may God's kindest care dwell.

Time-honored School!  where sweet memories rest,

Parting we bless thee,  -and mayst thou be blest.

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