Poems (Merrill)/Farewell to the San

by Clara A. Merrill

FAREWELL TO THE SAN

To Dr. N.:—
My stay here has been quite extended,
 And many long months now are gone;
But soon my sojourn must be ended,
 For now I 'm not sick with the "Con."
My heart may have an " affection"—
 Yet do not imagine I'm ill,—
For I'm sure that, in case of detection
 It would baffle your medical skill.

The "Microbe" lies hidden, tho closely you scan,
 Yet it lives! Now, sad to relate;
One grievance exsists which I owe to the San—
 Oh dear, I have gained so in weight!
No more like a fairy am I.—Yet 'tis true
 It is lovely to come here and rest,—
It's a fine place to thrive—For see, even you
 Are not very small round the vest!

Oh no! and if ever I meet with a friend
 Who is built on the skeleton plan
And wishes some fat on the ribs, I intend
 To tell him to come to the San!
I'm sorry to leave Greenwood Mt. so fair
 And the scenes I've so long dwelt amid,—
I know I have been an annoyance and care
 Like a naughty refractory kid.

But vain are regrets.—So why let them tend
 Toward the past?—Let ill memories flee!
Yet this will I say: Dr. Nichols—Kind friend
 I thank you for your kindness to me.
And I hope the Good Father who rules over all
 By an all-wise and infinite plan
May guide and bless you, what e're may befall—
 And rich blessings send down to the San.
The San Poetess.