Sonnets, Lyrics and Translations By the Rev. Charles Turner [i.e. Charles Tennyson] |
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THE “CANNON FEVER.” |
 | Sonnets, Lyrics and Translations |  |
69
THE “CANNON FEVER.”
The tide of things should flow less troubled, sure;To clear its current sages do impart
Their wisdom, and the poet's pitying heart
Pours in its crystal tribute, bright and pure;
But still doth War present a mighty lure
To many minds; a charm which lulls to rest
Compunctious thought, and mails the obdurate breast
With triple-plated iron, to endure
The shock of children's cries and woman's tears,
Untouch'd, unsoften'd, and without a sigh;
O Glory without Honour! Helms and spears
School to a ruthless calm the warrior's eye;
“Carnage” he means, when he cries “Victory,”
And barren battle hath his hopes and fears!
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