University of Virginia Library


478

“WHEN FINIS COMES”

When Finis comes, the Book we close,
And somewhat sadly, Fancy goes,
With backward step, from stage to stage
Of that accomplished pilgrimage . . .
The thorn lies thicker than the rose!
There is so much that no one knows,—
So much un-reached that none suppose;
What flaws! what faults!—on every page,
When Finis comes.
Still,—they must pass! The swift Tide flows.
Though not for all the laurel grows,
Perchance, in this be-slandered age,
The worker, mainly, wins his wage;—
And Time will sweep both friends and foes
When Finis comes!