Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/155

"I had a young companion then—
    My own, my only child!—
The darkest watch, the longest march,
    His laugh and song beguil'd.

"He was as cheerful as the lark
    That singeth in the sky;
His comrades gladdened on their way,
    Whene'er his step drew nigh.

"But he was wounded, and was sent
    To join a homeward band;
Thank God, he drew his latest breath
    Within his native land.

"I shared in all our victories,
    But sad they were to me;
I only saw the one pale face
    That was beyond the sea.

"Peace came at last, and I was sent,
    With many more, to roam;
There were glad partings then, for most
    Had some accustomed home.

"I took my medal, and with that
    I crost the salt sea wave;
Others might seek their native vales,
    I only sought a grave.

"I knew that, on his homeward march
    My gallant boy had died;
I knew that he had found a grave
    By yonder river's side.