Page:Battle of Minderoo.pdf/2



Twas Sabbath morn, the rising sun Had not appeared in view; But day contested with the night At beauteous Minderoo The Cork-bark shed a sweet perfume, And the wild Ashburton Pea Made sweeter still the morning air, And birds sang merrily What means this band of armed men Who ride on firey steeds What mission brings them this abroad That so much caution need as, No pannicans or hobble chains Upon their saddles tied. They seem to hold their very breath, As o'er the plain they ride. How slowly, and how silently They're riding neck, and neck. The impatient neighing of a steed His rider soon doth check. The sun shows in the Eastern sky Illumining the scene, And lighting up the thick snake-bush, With leaves of heavy green. The startled Emu o'er the plain; Is quickly lost to view, And from the gums with noisy scream There flies the Cockatoo. A smile comes o'er our leaders face, A smile that seems to show He feels that job, a warrior feels Who meets a worthy foe: For there some hundred yards ahead The dimly burning fires Betray the presence of the foe To meet whom he desires. A foe both dangerous & cruel With cunning like to theirs He means now to surround their camp, And take them unawares; They see the troop, and starting up,