["I am like a traveller lost in the snow, who begins to get
stiff and to sink down while the snowflakes cover him. In
fact, I am gradually losing interest in politics, but the
feeling, like that of the traveller sinking under the snow,
is a pleasant one."--_Prince Bismarck to the Deputation of
Leipsic Students_.]

AIR--"_Excelsior_!"

The century was waning fast,
As through a wintry waste there passed
A man, who bore, 'mid snow and ice,
A banner with the strange device,
Excel no more!

His brows were blanched; his eye beneath
Flashed like a falchion from its sheath;
Red fields had heard his armour clang.
But now he smiled and softly sang,
Excel no more!

In barracks huge he saw the might
Of mailed hosts arrayed for fight;
Afar the fierce Frank bayonets shone,
And from his lips escaped a moan,
Excel no more!

"Think of the Past!" the young men said,
"Like SAUL you towered by the head
Midst those three Titans, Prussia's pride!"