‘ TIS MORNING NOW

By Gilbert Parker

‘ Tis morning now, and dreams and fears are gone,

And sleep has calmed the fever in my veins,

And I am strong to drink the cup that drains

The last drop through my lips, and make no moan.

Strength I have borrowed from the outward show

Of spiritual puissance thou dost wear.

Shall I not thy high domination share

Over the shock of feeling? Shall I grow

More fearful than the soldier, when between

The smoke of hostile cannon lies his way;

To carry far the colours of his queen,

While her bright eyes behold him in the fray?

Here do I smile between the warring hosts

Of sad farewells; and reek not what it costs.