The Burning Marl

The Dead

J. Le Gay Brereton

HAIL and farewell to those who fought and died,
    Not laughingly adventurous, nor pale
    With idiot hatred, nor to fill the tale
Of racial selfishness and patriot pride,
But merely that their own souls rose and cried
    Alarum when they heard the sudden wail
    Of stricken freedom and along the gale
Saw her eternal banner quivering wide.

Farewell, high-hearted friends, for God is dead
    If such as you can die and fare not well
        —If when you fall your gallant spirit fail.
You are with us still, and can we be adread
    Though hell gape, bloody-fanged and horrible?
        Glory and hope of us who love you, Hail!

Back    |    Words Home    |    J. Le Gay Brereton Home    |    Site Info.    |    Feedback