A Farewell To Arbroath

 

Arbroath, farewell !  Thou much loved scene,

where kindness winged each passing day ;

in thee so blest our stay has been,

with pain we force ourselves away.

 

But though the parting trumpet's sound

now bids us leave thy friendly shore,

Arbroath shall oft be pledged around

the social tables in Strathmore

 

And should a foe insult this coast, -

where long may peace and plenty reign ! -

should danger rouse your loyal host,

to prove the impious menace vain,

 

Whate'er the patriot's bosom warms

the civic, the eternal tie

shall summon us to friends in arms

with them to conquer or to die.

 

Ye matrons kind, ye nymphs so fair

who charmed us with endearing smiles,

for such as you we'll proudly share

the soldier's dangers and his toils.

 

 

Anon

1799