Ode to friendship

I would like to take this opportunity to recognize one of my dearest friends. There is no special occasion, no big event serving as a catalyst for my remarks. I simply want to tell Mallard how much I appreciate his friendship. Mallard has led a rough life, and I cannot help but feel at least partly to blame. But through it all, Mallard has remained a loyal friend. When I need a shoulder to gnaw on, Mallard is there. When I need to hear a friend's voice, he is always quick to quack at me. Most of my friends fall silent after a few weeks, but Mallard remains as loquacious as ever. You wear the scars of friendship well, Mallard. The next time we go out to eat, I'll pick up the bill.