Comrades

I and my Soul are alone to-day,          All in the shining weather;     We were sick of the world, and put it away,          So we could rejoice together.     Our host, the Sun, in the blue, blue sky          Is mixing a rare, sweet wine,     In the burnished gold of this cup on high,          For me, and this Soul of mine.     We find it a safe and royal drink,          And a cure for every pain;     It helps us to love, and helps us to think,          And strengthens body and brain.     And sitting here, with my Soul alone,          Where the yellow sun-rays fall,     Of all the friends I have ever known          I find it the BEST of all.     We rarely meet when the world is near,          For the World hath a pleasing art     And brings me so much that is bright and dear          That my Soul it keepeth apart.     But when I grow weary of mirth and glee,          Of glitter, glow, and splendour,     Like a tried old friend it comes to me,          With a smile that is sad and tender.     And we walk together as two friends may,          And laugh and drink God's wine.     Oh, a royal comrade any day          I find this Soul of mine.