Thomas Moore

May 28, 1780 - Feb 26, 1852

 

Peace And Glory

by Thomas Moore

Written at the commencement of the present war.

Where now is the smile that lighten'd
Every hero's couch of rest?
Where is now the hope that brightened
Honour's eye, and pity's breast?
Have we lost the wreath we braided,
For our weary warrior men?
Is the faithless olive faded,
Must the hay be pluck'd again?

Passing hour of sunny weather,
Lovely in your light awhile,
Peace and Glory, wed together,
Wander'd through the blessed isle;
And the eyes of Peace would glisten,
Dewy as a morning sun,
When the timid maid would listen
To the deeds her chief had done.

Is the hour of dalliance over?
Must the maiden's trembling feet
Waft her from her warlike lover
To the desert's still retreat?
Fare you well! with sighs we banish
Nymph so fair and guest so bright;
Yet the smile, with which you vanish,
Leaves behind a soothing light!

Soothing light! that long shall sparkle
O'er your warrior's sanguine way,
Through the field where horrors darkle,
Shedding Hope's consoling ray!
Long the smile his heart will cherish,
To its absent idol true,
While around him myriads perish,
Glory still will sigh for you!

Source:

The Poetical Works of Thomas Moore.
Copyright 1835
Philadelphia: J. Crissy, No. 4, Minor Street, and Desilver, Thomas, And Co., No. 247, Market Street