Page:A Highland Regiment.djvu/37



HERE the light wraith of death goes dancing

In and out of the wavering line,

Now retreating and now advancing

Till opposite you he makes the sign,

Though the wind of his breath be on you,

Though in your flesh you feel the smart,

There have been worse things laid upon you,

Be steadfast and endure my heart.

There is no need of honour for you,

There is no gift the gods can send,

Only the weary days before you.

Only endurance to the end.

This remains that in all temptation

Still your head shall be lifted high.

You that have known a worse damnation.

Why should you be afraid to die?