Classic Poem

To sacred friendship I devote my muse,
For her my humble rhymes spontaneous flow;
What nobler theme could ancient poet choose?
The greatest blessing of this world below,
The finest feeling which the gods bestow.

For thee, my friend, immortal Odin waits;
Thy fair achievements will demand his smile;
Valhalla shall unfold its golden gates;
The splendid banquet shall reward thy toil,
Or for thy meed receive the Noble Isle—

The Noble Isle, where dwell the barons bold,
Whose hardy prowess has upheld thy name;
When friendship's tear shall wet thy ashes cold,
Like theirs shall shine thy deeds, like theirs thy after fame.