Ronald Reagan: So Long Cowboy

Fold your tent now Cowboy, the prairie sunset has come Pull the hat low Over the silent brow, let the horse go home Without saddle, It's round up time for you, the trail is done. Bit and bridle; O let it go free, and feel the weightless World runs with it, Put the branding iron down, blow out the sun; The mind's habit Shutting out the endless tedium and stress Now can reclaim The dignity that future-centered men Denied; the fame Past-centered men recalled and softly blend With their own hopes; And none but the dead ever realized. Roll up the ropes The cowboy no more rides, or seek the prize. Rustlers die fast Cowboys live long, lariat looping ferile glory; Rodeo past, The poled hat and belt tell all the final story.