Classic Poem

He has gone as a volunteer,
He has shouldered a knapsack and gun,
He has followed the flag, my dear,
He has gone to the front — our son!
He has taken his life in hand,
That beautiful life you gave, —
The flag of his native land
He would rescue, or die to save!
He marches, and firm is his tread,
His thoughts are as high as the stars,
A halo encircles his head,
A vision of glorious wars!
Your tears are lit through with the shine
Of a prideful and motherly joy;
Your soldier he is, wife, and mine,
This man-child God gave us, — our boy.