Page:Poetical Remains.pdf/237

Rh

And the loud startling clash of spear and shield, Sudden as earthquake's burst!—and, blent with these, The last wild shriek of those whose doom is sealed In their full mirth!—all deepening on the breeze, As the long stormy roll of far-advancing seas!

And nearer yet the trumpet's blast is swelling, Loud, shrill, and savage, drowning every cry! And lo! the spoiler in the regal dwelling, Death bursting on the halls of revelry! Ere on their brows one fragile rose-leaf die The sword hath raged through joy's devoted train; Ere one bright star be faded from the sky, Red flames, like banners, wave from dome and fane; Empire is lost and won,—Belshazzar with the slain.