THE STORY WITHOUT END
I learnt of those who often knew
The baton and the cell,
Who asked for right by peaceful means—
O'Connell to Parnell.
And once when thro' the cheering streets
Some “felon” homeward came
I lit, amongst the gayer lights,
My candle's tiny flame.
When I was but a tiny child
I ran by Kickham's side;
I heard his bitter story told
In reverence and pride.
And when with years he passed away.
When life was young and fair,
I stood upon time's crowded path,
And met O'Leary there.
I saw with pity and amaze
A craven party go,
Obedient to a Scotsman's word,
For Parnell's overthrow.
69
