Each a regal crown might wear,

Each might be a monarch's heir."—

With a sudden start and cry,

Quivering lip and blazing eye,

Gideon smote his clenched hand

Fiercely on his battle brand—

"Smitten down with spear and bow,

All my father's house lie low,

Brethren of one mother born—

As their sun went down at morn,

Neither crown nor regal state

Shall exempt you from their fate!—

By the Lord of Hosts I swear,

Had your souls been known to spare

[Pg 54]

The men whom ye at Tabor slew,

Such mercy I had shown to you!

Up Jether!—for thy kindred's sake,

Thy father's sword and spirit take;

Let Zebah and Zalmunna feel

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