To a Departing Friend

Farewell, and may some angel guide,
Some viewless spirit hover o'er thee;
Who, let or weal or woe betide,
Will still unchanging move before thee.

A hallow'd light shall burn at night,
When sorrow's wave rolls drearily,
And o'er thy way a cloud by day
Shall east its shadow cheerily.

Thy bark of pleasure o'er life's smooth sea
Shall gallantly glide along;
Pray'rs and blessings thy breezes shall be,
And hope be thy parting song.

Go then; I have given the spirits charge
To watch o'er thee now and for ever;
To smooth life's waters, and guide thy barge
Where tempest shall toss it never.