The Days Gone By

O, dearly loved and soon to part.
     In shine and shadow tried
You'll ne'er escape from any heart
     We've opened to you wide!

                              Of days gone by us, friend 
                                   Of days gone by,
                              We'll store a precious memory
                                   Of days gone by.

You've led to Truth's unfading mead
     And fountain never dry,
And, faithful, served our every need
     In days gone by.

                              In days gone by, our friend,
                                   In days gone by,
                              You've earned a sacred memory
                                   In days gone by.

The bridegroom and the bonny bride
     Still bless the happy tie
Wherewith you bound them side by side,
     In th' days gone by.

                              Of days gone by so fleet,
                                   Of days gone by, 
                              They keep a blessed memory
                                   Of th’ days gone by.

The mourners over many a grave
     Yet thank the Power on high
For tender, healing words you gave
     In days gone by.

                              Of days gone by, belov'd,
                                   Of days gone by, 
                              They guard a holy memory
                                   Of days gone by.

What tho' our hearts are full of tears,
     We'll keep our eyelids dry:
Aye, laugh at all the quips and jeer
     Of days gone by.

                              Of days gone by in glee,
                                   Of th’ days gone by,
                              We'll lodge a happy memory
                                   Of th days gone by!