Page:A selection of war lyrics with illustrations on wood.djvu/30

ON THE SHORES OF TENNESSEE. Still the south wind fondly lingers

'Mid the veteran's silvery hair;

Still the bondsman, close beside him

Stands behind the old arm-chair.

With his dark-hued hand uplifted,

Shading eyes, he bends to see

Where the woodland, boldly jutting

Turns aside the Tennessee.

Thus he watches cloud-born shadows

Glide from tree to mountain crest,

Softly creeping, aye and ever

To the river's yielding breast.

Ha! Above the foliage yonder

Something flutters wild and free!

"Massa! Massa! Hallelujah!

The flag's come back to Tennessee!"

"Pompey, hold me on your shoulder,

Help me stand on foot once more"

That I may salute the colors

As they pass my cabin door;

Here's the paper signed that frees you,

Give a freeman's shout with me—

'God and Union!' be our watchword

Evermore in Tennessee."

Then the trembling voice grew fainter,

And the limbs refused to stand;

One prayer to Jesus—and the soldier

Glided to that better land.

When the flag went down the river

Man and master both were free,

While the ringdove's note was mingled

With the rippling Tennessee. 24