Classic Poem

How the souls of friends departed
Brood around this joyful scene!
Tender, brave and faithful-hearted,
They have left their memories green.
Could we view them,
Smiles upon each face were seen.

As they scan our gladsome meeting,
It recalls a thousand joys;
As they list our cheerful greeting,
'Tis to them a glorious voice;
'Tis the echo
Of a hundred years of joys!

One by one those loved ones perished;
But they left the chain still wound;
Every virtue that they cherished
Here is found as here they found;
Thus in Heaven
Blessed souls with ours are bound.

Thus shall we, tho' long departed,
When a hundred years are sped,
Join the brave and faithful-hearted,
Who around this Lodge shall tread;
And our memories
Shall be cherished here, though dead.