Primary tabs
Transcription
[Page 61]
The Campaigner
There's a heavy hearted laddie
Weary and worn to-day,
Now in his third year battle
Biding the grim fate's sway.
Two years since the proclamation
When impulse led him through
Conventions hard unto a heart
Discipline never knew.
Only one's heart, and not the world
Know of the drill squad's test,
When youth revolts at harsh commands,
Recruits may know the rest.
An April day the palid dawn
Found heroes all in rank,
Sickly grins hid fluttering hearts
Facing the unknown blank,
Some were maddened by blood's desire,
Scorning the hail of Death
Some remained to succour mates
Watching their final breath.
Strong men recoiled at sight of blood,
And weak turned into strong,
And nerves beat drill & heart beat brawn
When days just crawled along.
Sickness and strain sent many to
A shell free other land.
Some saw it through but only few
Obeyed Retreat's command.