The Farewell

written in 1786

Farewell, old Scotia's bleak domains, Far dearer than the torrid plains, Where rich ananas blow! Farewell, a mother's blessing dear! A brother's sigh! a sister's tear! My Jean's heart-rending throe! Farewell, my Bess! tho' thou'rt bereft Of my paternal care, A faithful brother I have left, My part in him thou'lt share! Adieu, too, to you too, My Smith, my bosom frien'; When kindly you mind me, O then befriend my Jean! What bursting anguish tears my heart; From thee, my Jeany, must I part! Thou, weeping, answ'rest - 'No!' Alas! misfortune stares my face, And points to ruin and disgrace, I for thy sake must go! Thee, Hamilton, and Aiken dear, A grateful, warm adieu: I, with a much-indebted tear, Shall still remember you! All hail then, the gale then, Wafts me from thee, dear shore! It rustles, and whistles I'll never see thee more!