Old books, old wine, old Nankin blue,
All things, in short, to which belong
The charm, the grace that Time makes strong--
All these I prize, but (_entre nous_)
Old friends are best!

--_Austin Dobson_.

* * * * *

I never crossed your threshold with a grief
But that I went without it, never came
Heart hungry but you fed me,
And gave the sorrow solace and relief.

I never left you but I took away
The love that drew me to your side again,
Through the wide door that never could remain
Quite closed between us for a little day.

* * * * *

If you would be loved as a companion, avoid unnecessary criticism.

--_Sir Arthur Helps_.

* * * * *

If you have friends in adversity, stand by them.