Yet once again, but once, before we sever, <br />Fill we one brimming cup,—it is the last! <br />And let those lips, now parting, and for ever, <br />Breathe o'er this pledge, 'the memory of the past!' <br />Joy's fleeting sun is set; and no to-morrow <br />Smiles on the gloomy path we tread so fast, <br />Yet, in the bitter cup, o'er filled with sorrow, <br />Lives one sweet drop,—the memory of the past. <br />But one more look from those dear eyes, now shining <br />Through their warm tears, their loveliest and their last; <br />But one more strain of hands, in friendship twining, <br />Now farewell all, save memory of the past.<br /><br />Frances Anne Kemble<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/song-151/
