Rebel Verses — Friends

Friends Years ago, Simply ages;

I don't know How the deuce they go: Like turning pages!

We're still friends at any rate;

Nothing can invalidate The fun we had, Good or bad, Always together, Not caring whether Earthquake or thunder, Over or under;

Joy in each heart;

Singing like thrushes Young in bushes: Now--we're apart.

I've never been so happy since then: They talk of the love of women and men, It's not half so true as that of friends;

Not passionate, not selfish, Never ends ...

Not our fault to be forced away, Destiny came: A wedge: We could not turn its edge;

And so it fell upon that bitter day.

We might have had such times!

But--No!

No!

It wouldn't go;

And after that 'twas never the same;

I can't encompass it by rhymes, Halting and tame;

There it lies-- Not to be altered by tears or sighs: We meet, stealing;

Eyes on the door;

With banished feeling-- But--No more!

Charing Cross--1916