Brother and friend I found thee in the hour
Of need and day of trouble, strong and true.--
In June's fair mirth, and when the sunrise hue
Shewed bright where joy had built his thoughtless bower,
Thou wert a child to sport with, something lower
Than a friend's need. I gave, methought, thy due,--
An elder sister's gentleness, nor knew
That ere Spring dawned my soul would feel thy power.
Brother and Friend!
A man, with a man's strength, and will, and fire,
I know thee, my Alcides; thus a god
For some fair soul to reverence, and desire
To own and worship. _I_ can place thee higher
To-day, in naming thee,--pain's paths just trod--
Brother and Friend.