Page:Rudyard Kipling's verse - Inclusive Edition 1885-1918.djvu/790

 772 RUDYARD KIPLING'S VERSE

The heat of his spirit

Struck warm through all lands; For he loved such as showed

'Emselves men of their hands; In love, as in hate,

Paying home to the last. . . . But our world is none the kinder

Now Great-Heart hath passed!

Hard-schooled by long power,

Yet most humble of mind Where aught that he was

Might advantage mankind. Leal servant, loved master,

Rare comrade, sure guide. Oh, our world is none the safer

Now Great-Heart hath died!

Let those who would handle

Make sure they can wield His far-reaching sword

And his close-guarding shield; For those who must journey

Henceforward alone Have need of stout convoy

Now Great-Heart is gone.

THE END