University of Virginia Library

Meantime the troops of various climes
Met in the city lanes betimes,
And there they crowded, trading, bustling,
Till eventide, full rudely justling.
They met, they scowl'd—then rushing, mingled,
While their rude weapons jarr'd and jingled.
Few words were changed for ill or good;
For why? They were not understood:
But many brazen looks said plain,
“Friend, you and I may meet again!”