Classic Poem

Whatso of shadows Gettysburg had cast,
Now as Lee marked the bristling lines of war,
He stood beneath a sheen of victories.
There to the east was Fredericksburg. The sign
Of his red triumph filled his eyes with light.
And yonder, 'twixt Clark's Mount and Marye's Heights,
Was Chancellorsville whose memories thrilled his soul
With joyance and with sorrow as he gazed —
Joyance for triumph, sorrow for Stonewall's death.
Again he saw the ring of fire, and heard
" Remember Jackson! " borne in waves of cheer.
Close to the right appeared Mine Run where Meade,
When the May woods became November-hued,
Withdrew his troops, not daring to assault.
And there unto the south, behind him spread
The vales where Dahlgren's and Kilpatrick's Horse
Met his Gray Cavalry, — and chastisement
For their bold raidings up to Richmond's gates.
Thus in the midst of four great victories
Engirding with their stirring retrospects,
His spirit leaped within him, fierce desire
Clutched at his sword, winged hoofs of steed, and tongued
Silence with quick commandings for advance
At the first waving of his signal flag.