Poems, by Uriah Smith

Ode

Written for the anniversary exercises of the Golden Branch
Society of Phillips’ Exeter Academy, June, 1850. POUS 136.3

Borne on in the swift course of time,
The hour again is here,
Which calls from us a sad adieu,
And swells the parting tear.
We’d fain the golden hours prolong,
Which have so quickly past;
We’d fain delay the farewell song,
And bid our union last. POUS 136.4

But tho’ we grieve that some so soon
Must leave our social band,
We would not have you linger here,
‘Gainst duty’s high demand.
But, rather, we would bid you forth
Into the field of life,
To battle for immortal names,
Like heroes in the strife. POUS 137.1

Advance, then, in the grand career,
So nobly here begun;
Aim to accomplish life’s great end,
Until life’s course is run.
May fortune smile upon your path,
And all your efforts bless;
And may her arm be ever near
To crown you with success. POUS 137.2

And, as you tread your onward course,
May virtue guide your way;
And wreath of fame adorn your brow,
Which ne’er shall fade away,
“EXCELSIOR” will lead you on
To posts of honor high,
And call to mind our “holy bond,”
Of “Friendship’s Sacred Tie.” POUS 137.3

And may you prove, while on you press
With banner wide unfurled,
An honor to your native land,
A blessing to the world.
And when at last, life’s work is done,
This recompense you’ll have,
The true and lasting fame that waits
The Great, the Good, the Brave. POUS 137.4