THE true friend is the same, In sunshine or in shade, In humbleness or fame— When Poverty's keen blade Suppresses joy and mirth And hurls you to the earth. True friendship clings alway, When false ones swiftly flee. In night or in the day, Upon the land or sea, Fixed like a magnet-heart, It never can depart. The true and loyal friend Is conscious of your faults, But, generous to defend When the mean critic halts, Or makes the worst appear Upon his cynic spear. I have two noble friends, Of high and gracious birth— A gift that heaven sends Though I am little worth. I'm glad to live so long For friendship, sweet as song. Mother and daughter true To Friendship's grand behest, All good things come to you And be ye ever blest! To ye be crowns divine Is ever prayer of mine! | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...IN THE MILE END ROAD by AMY LEVY MONNA INNOMINATA, A SONNET OF SONNETS: 6 by CHRISTINA GEORGINA ROSSETTI THE FIRST FIRE by ANNA LETITIA BARBAULD ON A JUNIPER-TREE, CUT DOWN TO MAKE BUSKS by APHRA BEHN ON THE WATERFRONT by WILLIAM ROSE BENET I KNOW A BROOK by JOHN GARDINER CALKINS BRAINARD |