Wexford People 18th September, 1875 p.8
(abridged)
The youthful comrades whom we loved, can we forget then? Never!
The heartfelt pressure of each hand remains with us forever.
Though many a mile of sea and land since then our paths may sever.
Can we forget those olden days? No, comrades, never! Never!
Some east and west, some north and south have drifted o’er life’s ocean,
Yet looking back at those fond days each heart throbs with emotion;
Though we be sundered far for years, perhaps, indeed, for ever,
Can we forget those olden days? No, comrade, never, never!
Some gained the rugged hill of fame, while some are toiling lowly;
Their hearts, though withered up, are filled with aspirations holy,
Shall we look coldly down on those who failed in life’s endeavour?
I hear each friendly voice ring out, “No, comrades, never! Never!”
Then here, old comrade take my hand; we’ll drain a glass together.
We care not for the want of wealth, nor troubles heed a feather.
We pledge our comrades in this cup, and wish them joy for ever.
Can we forget those olden days? No, comrades, never! Never!
Artane
The Burren and Beyond 