I would that thus, when I shall see THE BATTLEFIELD Once this soft turf, this rivulet's sands, Ah! never shall the land forget How gushed the life blood of her brave Gushed, warm with hope and courage yet, Upon the soil they sought to save. 5 10 Now all is calm, and fresh, and still; Soon rested those who fought; but thou The black-mouthed gun and staggering wain; 20 5 10 15 20 A friendless warfare! lingering long Yet nerve thy spirit to the proof, And blench not at thy chosen lot. The timid good may stand aloof, The sage may frown - yet faint thou not. Nor heed the shaft too surely cast, Truth, crushed to earth, shall rise again; Yea, though thou lie upon the dust, Like those who fell in battle here. Another hand thy sword shall wield, Till from the trumpet's mouth is pealed RALPH WALDO EMERSON CONCORD HYMN Sung at the Completion of the Battle Monument, By the rude bridge that arched the flood, The foe long since in silence slept; Alike the conqueror silent sleeps: And Time the ruined bridge has swept Down the dark stream which seaward creeps. 5 10 On this green bank, by this soft stream, We set today a votive stone; Spirit, that made those heroes dare To die, and leave their children free, Bid Time and Nature gently spare The shaft we raise to them and thee. THE PROBLEM I like a church; I like a cowl; I love a prophet of the soul; Fall like sweet strains, or pensive smiles: |