Classic Poem

June 28, 1776.

" I'm only a sergeant! " Jasper said,
" Not fit to go ahead
In the company of officers;
I'm only a sergeant! " he said,

When to him a commission was offered,
Giving lieutenant's rank
For the deed of bravery he had done, —
Not 'mid bayonet's clash and clank,

But 'mid a terrific shower of shot
And shell from the enemy's side;
He leaped o'er the bulwark and back again
And our flag securely tied

To a sponge staff that was lying near,
And hoisted it again
Courageously and bravely
In the self-same place it had been,

Ere from its lofty position,
Shattered by shot and shell,
Over the fort impregnable
Of palmetto logs it fell.

All honor to you, brave Jasper!
We love and cherish your name
For your act of patriotism
Which was not done for fame;

But just for love of your country,
With patriotism true,
You braved your life for her colors, —
All honor and praise to you!