SELECTIONS IN ENGLISH POETRY

Bid him be swift and keen as they, 25

As keen of ear, as swift of sight.

The blackbird sings to him, "Brother, brother,

If this be the last song you shall sing,
Sing well, for you may not sing another;

Brother, sing.*1 30

In dreary doubtful waiting hours,

Before the brazen frenzy starts,
The horses show him nobler powers;

O patient eyes, courageous hearts!

And when the burning moment breaks, 35

And all things else are out of mind,
And only Joy of Battle takes

Him by the throat, and makes him blind,

Through joy and blindness he shall know,

Not caring much to know, that still 4°

Nor lead nor steel shall reach him, so

That it be not the Destined Will.

The thundering line of battle stands,

And in the air Death moans and sings;
But Day shall clasp him with strong hands, 45

And Night shall fold him in soft wings.

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