by J.A. Coupland.
Originally published in The Poet's Magazine (Leonard Lloyd) vol.2 #8 (Apr 1877).
Here upon this lofty summit; where alone the eagle soars,
Rests within his grave the hero, while beneath the ocean roars,
In the early dawn of morning, smiles the sunbeam on his tomb.
And at eve his soft rays linger, loathe to leave it in the gloom.
He was brave, this lonely cheftain; never knew his heart to fear,
In the van of battle ever did his voice the loudest cheer.
He was loved of iron soldiers, counted bravest of the brave;
When he fell they deemed it fittest that this height should be his grave.
Far above the trifling troubles that engage a coward world,
Here he sleepeth, and a banner o'er his tombstone waves unfurled,
Calm in life, in death not calmer, e'en the winds respect his corse,
As they pass it in a whisper, checking all their stormy force;
Thus alone the warrior lieth, like a valiant son of Mars,
And at night like angels watching shine the silver-gleammg stars.