Page:Backblock Ballads and Later Verses (C.J. Dennis, 1918).djvu/137

Rh Have you seen the old grey mothers Smiling to the ringing cheers? Have you seen the young wives striving Bravely to hold back the tears? Have you seen the young girl marching By her soldier-lover's side? Have you seen our country's women All aglow with pride?

Women of the little homesteads, Women of the city slums, They are waiting, ever waiting; And the sound of muffled drums In some stricken Home is echoed, Where grey Grief is guest to-day. And to-morrow? Nay, the others Still must wait—and pray.

Then, shall we think shame, my brothers, To give thanks upon our knees That the land we love should hold them— Wives and mothers such as these? Women who still hide their sorrow As their soldiers march away, Turning brave and steadfast faces To the light of day?