Classic Poem

Because you passed, and now are not, —
— Because, in some remoter day,
Your sacred dust from doubtful spot
— Was blown of ancient airs away, —
— Because you perished, — must men say
Your deeds were naught, and so profane
— Your lives with that cold burden? Nay,
The deeds you wrought are not in vain!

Though, it may be, above the plot
— That hid your once imperial clay,
No greener than o'er men forgot
— The unregarding grasses sway; —
— Though there no sweeter is the lay
From careless bird, — though you remain
— Without distinction of decay, —
The deeds you wrought are not in vain!

No. For while yet in tower or cot
— Your story stirs the pulses' play;
And men forget the sordid lot —
— The sordid care, of cities gray;
— While yet, beset in homelier fray,
They learn from you the lesson plain
— That Life may go, so Honor stay, —
The deeds you wrought are not in vain!

ENVOY

Heroes of old! I humbly lay
— The laurel on your graves again;
Whatever men have done, men may, —
— The deeds you wrought are not in vain!