Toast to “Larry Doolan”

Toast to “Larry Doolan”

                                                                                                        

VERSATILE James Wallace Melvin,

Our fancies turn often to you,

As poet, promoter and athlete,

And lovable character, too.

Now sleeping with those of your kindred,

Succumbing at last to defeat,

To the only invincible foeman,

Whom none has been able to beat.

What matters if fortune o’erlooked you,

To smile on less talented men?

It’s the sad but commonplace story

Told over and over again.

You live in the hearts of your comrades—

That’s better than statesmanlike fame;

American friends still acclaim you,

With affection they mention your name.

Hence those within range of my vision,

Whom circumstance destined to roam,

From old Ballina, with pleasure

Recall “Larry Doolan” back home.

                                                                                      “Cappy” Fitzgerald