Beneath the parent roof we meet

In joyous groups, and gaily greet

The golden beams of love and light,

That dawn upon the youthful sight.

But soon we part, and one by one,

Like leaves and flowers, the group is gone.

One gentle spirit seeks the tomb,

His brow yet fresh with childhood’s bloom:

Another treads the paths of fame,

And barters peace to win a name.