SIEGE OF VALENCIA.
185
Now, that alike the feeble and the brave
Must cry, "We perish!"—Father! hear, and save!
The days of song are fled!
The winds come loaded, wafting dirge-notes by,
But they that linger soon unmourn'd must die;
—The dead weep not the dead!
Wilt thou forsake us midst the stormy wave?
We sink, we perish!—Father, hear, and save!
Helmet and lance are dust!
Is not the strong man wither'd from our eye?
The arm struck down that held our banners high
—Thine is our spirit's trust!
Look through the gathering shadows of the grave!
Do we not perish?—Father, hear, and save!
Hernandez enters.
ELMINA.
To do with thee?—Am I not bow'd enough?
Thou art no mourner's comforter!
HERNANDEZ.