Yoked in knowledge and remorse, now we come to rest,

Laughing at old villainies that Time has turned to jest,

Pardoning old necessities no pardon can efface—

That undying sin we shared in Rouen marketplace.

Now we watch the new years shape, wondering if they hold

Fiercer lightnings in their heart than we launched of old.

Now we hear new voices rise, question, boast or gird,

[19]

As we raged (rememberest thou?) when our crowds were stirred,

Now we count new keels afloat, and new hosts on land,

Massed like ours (rememberest thou?) when our strokes were planned.

We were schooled for dear life's sake, to know each other's blade

What can blood and iron make more than we have made?

We have learned by keenest use to know each other's mind.

What shall blood and iron loose that we cannot bind?

We who swept each other's coast, sacked each other's home,

Since the sword of Brennus clashed on the scales at Rome,

Listen, count and close again, wheeling girth to girth,

[20]

In the linked and steadfast guard set for peace on earth!

 Prev. P 23/116 next