26.12.2010, 12:50
THE 'CANNON FEVER.'
The tide of things should flow less troubled, sure ;
To clear its current sages do impart
Their wisdom, and the poet's pitying heart
Pours in its crystal tribute, bright and pure ;
But still doth War present a mighty lure
To many minds ; a charm which lulls to rest
Compunctious thought, and mails the obdurate breast
With triple-plated iron, to endure
The shock of children's cries and woman's tears,
Untouch'd, unsoften'd, and without a sigh ;
O Glory without Honour ! Helms and spears
School to a ruthless calm the warrior's eye ;
' Carnage ' he means, when he cries 'Victory,'
And barren battle hath his hopes and fears !
The tide of things should flow less troubled, sure ;
To clear its current sages do impart
Their wisdom, and the poet's pitying heart
Pours in its crystal tribute, bright and pure ;
But still doth War present a mighty lure
To many minds ; a charm which lulls to rest
Compunctious thought, and mails the obdurate breast
With triple-plated iron, to endure
The shock of children's cries and woman's tears,
Untouch'd, unsoften'd, and without a sigh ;
O Glory without Honour ! Helms and spears
School to a ruthless calm the warrior's eye ;
' Carnage ' he means, when he cries 'Victory,'
And barren battle hath his hopes and fears !