Lincoln in the Rain

Abraham Lincoln in the rain
        Upon the platform stood,
Gave his farewell, and voiced his pain
        That he might leave for good
The land that nurtured him so well,
        The land that held a son,
Because a great task on him fell
        And duty must be done.

Greater than that which rested on
        The shoulders, as he said
Of President George Washington
        The task that lay ahead.
Rumors of his assassination
        Were known, but undeterred
He headed for his destination
        And every heart was stirred.

When the assassination came
        He had worked many years
Indefatigable—his name
        All history reveres.
He left, his major task fulfilled,
        Bequeathing unto men
A legacy on which to build,
        Each humble citizen.