Page:All quiet along the Potomac and other poems.djvu/23

 Ere she loved the gallant soldier, Ralph Vervain of Tennessee.

Still the south wind fondly lingers 'Mid the veteran's silver hair; Still the bondman, 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!&quot;

&quot;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,&mdash; 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; 2*