Long years of pleasant friendship may be broken
— By one hour's work with thoughtless word or deed.
Yet why forget the thousand good words spoken,
— The kindly help which met a passing need?

We do not spurn the sunlight when 'tis hidden;
— We look for good when fiercest storms descend.
Then why lose faith, when undeserved, unbidden,
— We meet disloyal usage from a friend?

Long years of pleasant friendship may be broken
— By one hour's work with thoughtless word or deed.
Yet why forget the thousand good words spoken,
— The kindly help which met a passing need?

We do not spurn the sunlight when 'tis hidden;
— We look for good when fiercest storms descend.
Then why lose faith, when undeserved, unbidden,
— We meet disloyal usage from a friend?