Goodbye Poem by Edward Rhodes

My friend, I would desire that you ignore
All that I've said amiss in these poor lines
And would forgive my words. if nothing more
And would not mark my forced and foolish rhymes
For these are words of parting and farewell
And so are hard to write, I cannot find
The words to say, for only time will tell
The meaning now of my distracted mind
If you should read these words, though poorly made
And do regret your knowing me, my friend
Please do not hate me for them, or upbraid
My premature farewell, before the end
If I do not succeed, at least I'll try
Through many words to say but one. Goodbye