Classic Poem

Only a dying horse! Pull off the gear
And slip the needless bit from frothing jaws.
Drag it aside there—leave the roadway clear—
The battery thunders on with scarce a pause.

Prone by the shell swept highway there it lies
With quivering limbs, as fast the life tide fails.
Dark films are closing o'er the faithful eyes
That mutely plead for aid where none avails.

Onward the battery rolls—but one there speeds,
Heedless of comrade's voice or bursting shell—
Back to a wounded friend who lonely bleeds
Beside the stony highway where it fell.

Only a dying horse! He swiftly kneels,
Lifts the limp head and hears the shivering sigh,
Kisses the horse while down his cheek there steals
Sweet Pity's tear—“Good-bye, old man, good-bye!”

No honors wait him, medal, badge or star,
Though scarce could war a kindlier deed unfold;
He bears within his breast, more precious far
Beyond the gift of kings, a heart of gold.