Classic Poem

Under battle-flags stained and torn,
Lie gifts from loyal hearts and hands,
Eager to answer love's demands,
And labor even while they mourn.

There is no need to vaunt these wares,
Wrought by man, maid, widow, wife,
For those who ventured limb and life,
Followed by loving hopes and prayers.

Memories born of place and time,
Serve those who keep their holiday
In camp, or hospital, or fray,
Where rings for them no Christmas chime.

Surely there is no heart so cold,
It will not freely give its mite
To keep a noble charity alight,
Throughout the new year as the old.

Soon may we see a Union stand,
Strong in love, liberty and law;
See also in our costly war
God's sanitary for the land.