Page 336
FAREWELL OF THE SOUL TO THE BODY.
COMPANION dear! the hour draws nigh The sentence speeds—to die, to die. So long in mystic union held, So close with strong embrace compell'd, How canst thou bear the dread decree, That strikes thy clasping nerves from me? —To Him who on this mortal shore, The same encircling vestment wore, To Him I look, to Him I bend, To Him thy shuddering frame commend. —If I have ever caus'd thee pain, The throbbing breast, the burning brain, With cares and vigils turn'd thee pale, And scorn'd thee when thy strength did fail— Forgive!—Forgive!—thy task doth cease, Friend! Lover!—let us part in peace. If thou didst sometimes check my force, Or, trifling, stay mine upward course,