VII. And laurels of light, and tears of truth, And the flowers of love and immortal youth, And the breath and bliss of Liberty; And the welcoming light of heavenly eyes, For all of the brave who rest with thee; VIII. O the victory-the victory God ever keeps the brightest crown for such as thou He gives it now to thee! O young and brave, and early and thrice blest Thrice, thrice, thrice blest! Thy country turns once more to kiss thy youthful brow, And takes thee-gently-gently to her breast; And whispers lovingly, "God bless thee-bless thee now My darling. thou shalt rest!" FORCEVTHE WILLSON. LITTLE GIFFEN OF TENNESSEE. OUT of the focal and foremost fire, "Take him—and welcome!" the surgeon said; And we laid him down on a wholesome bed- Weary war with the bated breath, And didn't! nay, more! in death's despite "Dear mother at first, of course: and then, "Johnston's pressed at the front, they say!" A tear, his first, as he bade good-by, Dimmed the glint of his steel-blue eye; "I'll write, if spared." There was news of a fight, But none of Giffen. He did not write! I sometimes fancy that were I king Of the princely knights of the Golden Ring, With the song of the minstrel in mine ear, For little Giffen of Tennessee! FRANCIS O. TICKNOR. GENERAL ALBERT SIDNEY JOHNSTON. [Fell in the Battle of Pittsburgh Landing, Tenn., March 2, 1862.] IN thickest fight triumphantly he fell, No slanderous tongue can vex his spirit now, No bitter taunts can stain his blood-bought fame; Immortal honor rests upon his brow, And noble memories cluster round his name. For hearts shall thrill and eyes grow dim with tears, To read the story of his touching fate; How in his death the gallant soldier wears Ye people! guard his memory-sacred keep |