Page:Armistice Day.djvu/459

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THE CROWING OF PEACE
437

sweet Liberty, for oft have I been thy bulwark and thy shield.

Liberty. Granted, Sir Warrior. Didst thou never fight save in my defense, no one would condemn thee. But, alas! thou makest blood to flow for many another cause. Canst thou deny it, or forebear to blush that so it is?

War (hanging head). I do not deny it, but (raising head proudly) even an ignoble cause may be bravely fought.

Liberty (sternly). Thou knowest that we may not do evil that good may come. Cease thy vain reasoning and tell these people here assembled of the benefits that thou mayest confer upon them. Each item shall be set down by this herald at thy side. Boy (turning to first lad), prepare thy tablet and thy stylus. (Herald bows in obedience, lays spear and shield aside, and takes required articles from dress.)

War. I bring courage to mankind.

Liberty. (assenting with motion of head). Set down courage, Herald. (Herald writes.)

War. I bring forgetfulness of self.

Liberty. (assenting). Write it down, Herald.

War. I bring endurance and hardihood.

Liberty. A useful pair, in truth! Set them down, Herald!

War. I bring resource and inventive skill.