Page:The history and achievements of the Fort Sheridan officers' training camps.djvu/39

 ��Our tears flowed as we heard of w^ounds received.

And when news came of decorations granted

For valiant deeds performed,

Supplanted were our tears and fears by pride and joy

And grateful song we raised

That God had given us two sons, two men,

Who in the hour of trial failed not, nor faltered,

But with head erect, and flashing eye and lion heart

Met foe and vanquished himi.

Then came the sad, sad news,

"Regret to state your son, leading

His men to victory, was brought in bleeding from fatal wounds

And has 'gone w^est,'

Smiling, glad to have done his best."

Ah, God, now give us grace to say.

Thy will be done. Thou gave and Thou hast taken.

Be brave dear hearts, yet is thy cup not filled.

God in His providence has willed.

That you should offer all.

And came the other message.

Blotting like a pall remaining light.

And hope took flight, and

We had given all.

Ah, God, Thou art a Father

And Thou didst give Thy Son that we might live,

But Thou are God,

And we are only human,

And we are sad and lonesome for our lads.

We miss their loving kiss,

Their hearty greeting.

Their cheering smile.

And all the while the home-fire bright we're keeping

For their dear sakes.

Perhaps, who knows, some day they will return.

At night when all is silent,

When stars are bright.

And they will come

And they will press our lips

With the accustomed, ne'er to be forgotten goodnight kiss,

Ah, God,—

��Grand Rapids, December 31, 1918.

�� �