Brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.
2 Corinthians 13:11
Words: Lillian Huddlestin, 1897. Appeared in Gospel Songs and Hymns No. 1, edited by George Holsinger (Bridgewater, Virginia: George B. Holsinger, 1898), number 151. Judging from the lyrics, the song seems to have been written for graduating students.
Music: Galatia George B. Holsinger (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know where to get a good photo of Huddlestin (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
We join to sing a parting song,
On this our parting day;
Not thoughtless words and merry eyes,
Shall mark our roundelay.
Refrain
We part today—sad thought to all—
To meet, we know not when;
Perhaps until the Master’s call,
We may not meet again.
But not sad hearted will we go,
Where duties’ banners fly;
We’ll bravely meet our every foe,
And at our post we’ll die.
Refrain
Schoolmates, farewell, today must end
Our mingled joyous life;
Our happiness and joy must blend,
With toil and battle strife.
Refrain
Farewell to all, may memory blend
Our hearts in fond embrace;
Till, in our home in Heav’n we find
Our final resting place.
Refrain