This was a leader of the sons of light, <br />Of winsome cheer and strenuous command. <br />Upon the veteran hordes of Bigot-land <br />All day his vanguard spirit, flaming bright, <br />Bore up the brunt of unavailing fight. <br />Then, with the iron in his soul, one hand <br />Still on the hilt, he passed from that slim band <br />Out through the ranks to rearward and the night. <br />The day is lost, but not the day of days, <br />And ye his comrades in the losing war <br />Stand once again for liberty and love! <br />Close up the ranks; his deed your deeds let praise! <br />Against the front of dark where gleams one star, <br />Strive on to death as this great captain strove!<br /><br />Bliss William Carman<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/edward-thring/
