University of Virginia Library

I
ENGLAND'S MOMENT

Europe awaits a mandate! Strong and clear
If but the voice of nobler England sounds,
The wild beast, Death, will pause upon his rounds:
Mankind will hearken, starriest heaven will hear.
It is no hour for weak-lipped doubts or fear
For lo! the Sultan hunts with hell's black hounds.
While Emperors smile, blood drips from children's wounds
And horror heightens with the freshening year.
Stern hearts allied can stem the crimson stream.
Deep pity thrills the chivalry of France:
Mazzini's land is stirring and awake.
Others are moving. Shall we only dream?
Can no great passion lift us from our trance?
Immense the moment, and immense the stake.