A lov'd companion, chosen friend,
Does at this hour depart,
Whom the dear name of father binds
Still closer to my heart.
On him may joy-dispensing heav'n
Each calm delight bestow,
And eas'd of peace-destroying care
His life serenely flow!
Did I but know his bosom calm,
And free from anxious fear,
Around me in more cheerful hues
Would every scene appear.
And I will hope that he, who ne'er
Repin'd at heav'n's decree,
But ever patient and resign'd,
Submissive bent the knee:
Who, best of fathers, never sought
For arbitrary sway,
But free within each youthful mind,
Bade Reason lead the way.
Who taught us, 'stead of servile fear,
A warm esteem to prove,
And bade each act of duty spring,
From gratitude and love.
Yes, I must hope that generous mind
With many cares opprest,
Shall in the winter of his days
With sweet repose be blest.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem