Page:Fifes and Drums, Poems of America at War, Vigilantes, 1917.djvu/23

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By right of a Document sealed with a Seal—

King Solomon's firman which none may repeal."

"Ha!" snarled the Hyena; "but where is your proof?"

"My warrant is writ," said the Ass, "on my hoof."

"Indeed!" sneered the Plaintiff; "then show it, I beg."

"Look well!" brayed the Ass, as he drew up a leg.

Close peered the Hyena. The Ass gave a snort

And kicked the Conspirator clean out of Court.

While Patience is praiseworthy, even in Gath,

And Sweetness may possibly turn away Wrath,

The mildest can have but one answer to give

Oppressors who question their title to live.

Arthur Guiterman.