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The gay Chrysanthemum she fondly brings, 
Of ‘ Love unceasing ’ lo the year that sings; 
She strews Dead Leaves in ‘Sadness’ on the shrine 
That ‘ Friendship ’ covers with her Ivy Vine; 
And thus, through life, with ready skill conceals, 
The keenest anguish that the proud heart feels. 
Dear though the theme, ah! wherefore longer cast 
Our saddened vision back upon the past? 
As o’er the relics of some cherished friend, 
In mournful musing, pensively we bend, 
Departing years no lighter tones inspire, 
Than such, Melpomene, as wake thy lyre! 
But other thoughts with budding youth appear, 
And other feelings greet the opening year; 
Then gay Thalia comes with joyous strain, 
And faith, and peace, and gladness wake again; 
Doubt flies the scene, as Hope’s bright form appears, 
With iris hues to paint our future years. 
