Classic Poem

Here lie no mercenaries who for gold
Bartered their strength and skill and their life's blood;
These men led homely lives, and looked to grow old
In peace earning a quiet livelihood
Yet when the drums made summons near and far
They sprang to arms, pitifully unprepared
For the great agony of modern war;
And here in Flanders with their comrades shared
Honour and pain, and here in Flanders died
Unflinching … Weep a little and be content,
Strong in your faith and in your measureless pride.
Their trial was great and their death excellent.