Classic Poem

( A PET DOG )

O FAITHFUL friend! Companion
Of many Isthmian years!
Through dry and rainy season,
Through happiness and tears,
I've never known thee falter,
Whatever chance might bring:
Thy faith's an open psalter,
From which thy praise I sing!

Thy love each year increaseth
By never act of mine;
My conduct ever pleaseth
That wondrous heart of thine!
Tho' oft neglected, slighted,
On days of selfish gloom,
Thy fondness ne'er is blighted,
But e'er in fuller bloom!

Should Time decree us parting —
Oh, may this never be! —
I'll curse the fate disheart'ning
That severs me from thee!
May Death unbarb his arrow
Whene'er toward thee he shoots,
And spare my soul to harrow,
For I love thee, " Mr. Toots! "