At the bottom of your thoughts, this is the night you've chosen, <br />Prince, you must now make an end of things - the night is frozen <br />Come, get up! for sensing in shadow the smell of a thief <br />That old dog, Liberty, is growling and baring its teeth. <br />Though Carlier has chained it, it still continues to bay <br />You can't wait any longer. It's time now for the prey. <br />Look, December spreads a fog that's blacker than black <br />Just as a robber baron from his manor slips out the back. <br />Surprise now cold assassin the enemy in your sights. <br />Up! The regiments in the barracks wait tonight. <br />Knapsacks ready and now crazed with wine and with a furor, <br />Settling for a bandit to become an Emperor. <br />Take your lantern and come with careful steps - and quick - <br />Take your knife, the time is ripe, for just now the Republic <br />Confident and not seeing how your dark eyes do glow <br />Sleep with your oath, prince, tucked beneath the pillow.<br /><br />Victor Marie Hugo<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/nox-1/
