Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/155

Rh

"I had a young companion then—    My own, my only child!— The darkest watch, the longest march,     His laugh and song beguil'd.

"He was as cheerful as the lark    That singeth in the sky; His comrades gladdened on their way, 	    Whene'er his step drew nigh.

"But he was wounded, and was sent    To join a homeward band; Thank God, he drew his latest breath     Within his native land.

"I shared in all our victories,    But sad they were to me; I only saw the one pale face     That was beyond the sea.

"Peace came at last, and I was sent,    With many more, to roam; There were glad partings then, for most     Had some accustomed home.

"I took my medal, and with that    I crost the salt sea wave; Others might seek their native vales,     I only sought a grave.

"I knew that, on his homeward march    My gallant boy had died; I knew that he had found a grave     By yonder river's side.