Page:Poems, Alan Seeger, 1916.djvu/222



O friends! I know not since that war began

From which no people nobly stands aloof

If in all moments we have given proof

Of virtues that were thought American.

I know not if in all things done and said

All has been well and good,

Or if each one of us can hold his head

As proudly as he should,

Or, from the pattern of those mighty dead

Whose shades our country venerates to-day,

If we've not somewhat fallen and somewhat gone astray

But you to whom our land's good name is dear,

If there be any here

Who wonder if her manhood be decreased,

Relaxed its sinews and its blood less red

Than that at Shiloh and Antietam shed,

Be proud of these, have joy in this at least,

And cry: "Now heaven be praised

That in that hour that most imperilled her,

Menaced her liberty who foremost raised 172