III.
A little while it seemsSince those were daily thoughts which now are dreams.
A little while is gone
Since, the last battle fought, the victory won,
We saw sweet Peace come back with all her charms,
And watched a million men lay down their arms.
But at this morning's call
We bridge the interval;
And yet once more, with no regretful tears,
Live back again, though now men's blood be cooled,
Through the long vista of the fading years
To days when Sumner spoke, and Andrew ruled.
IV.
Courage is first and last of what we needTo mould a nation for triumphal sway:
All else is empty air,
A promise vainly fair,
Like the bright beauty of the ocean spray
