Ode

Written for the anniversary exercises of the Golden Branch Society of Phillips' Exeter Academy, June, 1851.

We've met again within these halls— These halls to mem'ry dear, Where scenes of harmony and peace Have filled the by-gone year. But e'en while recollections fond Still cling around the heart, One bitter thought disturbs our joy: For we have met to part.

Full well we know, our path through life Can ne'er be always bright; The sweetest hours to mortals given Are swiftest in their flight. Then let us follow duty's call, With calm, undaunted brow, Nor weakly chide the stern behest, Which separates us now.

Ye whom this consecrated spot Still sheds its blessings o'er, Use well the moments as they pass, For they return no more. Here you must gird your armor on, Survey the field of life, And then go forth to earn a name, Or perish in the strife.

Great men have been before us here, Whose fame the wide world knows; Excelsior still shines for us— The star by which they rose. They're shedding now a mighty spell On all the paths we tread; On living brows bloom laurel wreaths, While cypress mourns the dead.

Then let us form the high resolve To make our lives sublime, And mark a clear and noble track Upon the sands of time, And bring fresh honors to the list Of men and heroes all, Whose power is felt from pole to pole— The sons of Phillips' Hall.