The Farewell (Doyle)

The Soul to the Body

So sorry, dear old friend, you have to die. We've been such goodly partners, you and I, Such comrades in our work, and mates at play, We've lived together many a happy day. It's only lately that you disappoint. Sluggish in limb and clogged in every joint; But that is not your fault, for grim old Time Has blocked your tiny arteries with lime. And cut your sap and left its withering trace In every wrinkle of your dear old face. No, faithful comrade, I have nought but praise; If there were fault, 'twas mine. You walked the ways On which I led you, be they low or high. Thanks for all services! And so good-bye!

The Body to the Soul

Good-bye, old friend! You've used me many a year. And, as you say, I'm rather out of gear, And quite disposed to rest. No doubt you'll find Some other form congenial to your mind. And moulded on this wreck you leave behind. For that, they say, persists. May it be one That serves you faithfully, as I have done. Of course its right our partnership to sever Since I am old and you as young as ever. I'll find some cancer cell or handy germ To bring my waning forces to a term And break the framework of the old machine. Then down at Woking or at Golder's Green They'll do the trick. And you, friend, from afar, Will see the oaken chest or cinder jar, And know that I have gone without a pang Back to the elements from which I sprang.