Some Poems by Sir Walter Scott
page 57 of 72 (79%)
page 57 of 72 (79%)
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Marked on thy roll of blood what names
To Britain's memory, and to Fame's, Laid there their last immortal claims! Thou saw'st in seas of gore expire Redoubted PICTON'S soul of fire - Saw'st in the mingled carnage lie All that of PONSONBY could die - DE LANCEY change Love's bridal-wreath For laurels from the hand of Death - Saw'st gallant MILLER'S failing eye Still bent where Albion's banners fly, And CAMERON, in the shock of steel, Die like the offspring of Lochiel; And generous GORDON, 'mid the strife, Fall while he watched his leader's life. - Ah! though her guardian angel's shield Fenced Britain's hero through the field. Fate not the less her power made known, Through his friends' hearts to pierce his own! XXII. Forgive, brave Dead, the imperfect lay! Who may your names, your numbers, say? What high-strung harp, what lofty line, To each the dear-earned praise assign, From high-born chiefs of martial fame To the poor soldier's lowlier name? Lightly ye rose that dawning day, From your cold couch of swamp and clay, To fill, before the sun was low, |
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