The beard is grey and hair now thins apace
Which frames the contours of your Autumn face,
But mind is sharp, the body lither now
And age’s crown sits lightly on your brow.
So go you gently from your working years
To busier ones ahead and shed no tears
For what is past. That worthy task is done
And countless pupils to their futures gone.
Upon the sea a timely zephyr blows
And on the mountains lie eternal snows.
To you, great teacher, wise and laughing friend,
“Ad Multos Annos” is the wish we send.

1998