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FROM shore to shore across the stream our Allegheny river There hangs a long suspension bridge, that heavy loads make shiver; Two cables large support the bridge, in masonry embedded, While guys along across the bridge, are to the cables threaded. This bridge for forty years has stood, in every sort of weather While merchandise of every kind came o'er its planks to- gether; The pumpkins and the yellow corn, the shingles and the lumber And even Barnum and his show, the lions and their thunder. Between our town and Tidioute this route was mostly traveled, And all the people down that way, the highway freely graveled, And though in places mud was deep, while men were hauling lumber, We never knew a mule, with ears, to go entirely under. The choice old bridge of ancient days has put the people guessing, And wondering whether we may look forever on this blessing, As it is not so strong, it seems, since millions passed it over, And as compared with fording days, all find it nice as clover. And when the bridge has drawn away, from anchorage so lasting, Reminding us of life and death--bread to the waters casting : And all that anchors to this life; the strongest tie must sever; And yet the river 'neath its bridge flows on and on forever. And while we look from side to side, across the channel narrow, Upon its bosom comes the drift, in currents deep with sorrow ; And while they break away the ties, so firmly bound to- gether, Upon a broader stream may meet, and journey on forever. |
