"Farewell," sir, is a word often lightly uttered and readily forgotten.
But when it marks the rounding-off and completion of a chapter in life,
the severance of ties many and cherished, of the parting with many
friends at once--especially when it is spoken among the lengthening
shadows of the western light--it sticks somewhat in the throat. It
becomes, indeed, "the word that makes us linger." But it does not prompt
many other words. It is best expressed in few. What goes without saying
is better than what is said. Not much can be added to the old English
word "Good-by." You are not sending me away empty-handed or alone. I go
freighted and laden with happy memories--inexhaustible and unalloyed--of
England, its warm-hearted people, and their measureless kindness.
Spirits more than twain will cross with me, messengers of your
good-will. Happy the nation that can thus speed its parting guest!
Fortunate the guest who has found his welcome almost an adoption, and
whose farewell leaves half his heart behind! [Loud cheers.]




ARTHUR WING PINERO


THE DRAMA

[Speech of Arthur Wing Pinero at the annual banquet of the Royal
Academy, London, May 4, 1895. The toast to the "Drama" was coupled
with that to "Music," to which Sir Alexander Mackenzie responded.
Sir John Millais in proposing the toast said: "I have already
spoken for both music and the drama with my brush. ["Hear! Hear!"]