Note 3 — Chapter XLIV
Reading edition
Underneath we give the last copy of nonsense-verses which Colin was seduced into writing, though the chief interest they possess is chronological, as marking the end of the period of life in which a man can express himself in this medium. As for Miss Matty, to tell the truth, she received them with less of her usual good grace than might have been desired; for, though in her own person she was perfectly reconciled to the loss of his devotion, and quite safe in entertaining the mildest sentiments of friendship for him, still she was naturally vexed a little to see how he had got over it—which was a thing not to be expected, nor perhaps desired. This however, was the calm and self-controlled tone of Colin’s farewell:—
“Be it softly, slowly said, With a smile and with a sigh, While life’s noiseless hands untie Links that youth has made— Not with sorrow or with tears: With a sigh for those sweet years, Drawing slow apart the while; For those sweetest years a smile. Thus farewell! The sound is sweet Parting leaves no sting behind: One bright chamber of the mind Closing gracious and complete. Softly shut the silent door; Never shade can enter more— Safe, for what is o’er can last; Somewhat sad, for it is past. So farewell! The accents blend With sweet sounds of life to be; Never could there dawn for me Hope of any dearer end. Dear it is afar to greet The bright path before thy feet, Thoughts that do thy joy no wrong Chiming soft the even-song, Till morn wakes the bridal bell Fair and sweet, farewell! farewell!”