And now, so many Evenings past, Our Budget’s fairly out at last; Exhausted all its various store, Nor like to be replenished more. Then, youthful friends, farewell! my heart Shall speak a blessing as we part. May Wisdom’s seeds in every mind Fit soil and careful culture find; Each generous plant with vigour shoot. And kindly ripen into fruit! Hope of the world, the rising race May Heaven with fostering love embrace, And turning to a whiter page, Commence with them a better age! An age of light and joy, which we, Alas! in promise only see. J. A. THE END |