Page:Oregon Literature by Horner.djvu/113

Rh the sound of bugles, the neighing of prancing steeds, the clashing of steel, the roar of artillery and all the symbols of war of ancient times thrill the hearts of the American people far beyond any other passion or sentiment. The spirit of war, which has desolated the earth in all ages, is not dead but only slumbering in our people. We have already had several wars during our brief national existence and may have many more. The people worship warriors great fighters for more than they do the greatest intellectual and moral giants the world has ever produced. No man, however great he may have been intellectually and morally, has ever been elected president of the United States over any kind of a military hero. And no party or man has ever opposed a war in this country, just or unjust, without having been swept out of power by popular indignation.

—Hon. Harrison R. Kincaid.

The ruddy rose, amid the thorns

And leaflets green which she adorns;

Sustains her charms, preserves her grace,

And heavenward lifts her lovely face.

Although her rough companions pierce,

With lances keen and daggers fierce,