Mexico Missouri Message

THE VETERANS

Their battle flags have gathered dust,
Their bugles are no longer blown,
Their guns are covered deep with rust,
The youthful hopes they had are flown;

Neath many a mound their comrades lie,
Their heads are bent, their step is slow,
And e'en perchance you wonder why
They fought so madly long ago;

But, though the cannon has been stilled
And foolish prejudice has died,
His soul is small who is not thrilled
To see them marching side by side.

For worldwide peace we may appeal
And scorn the belted soldier's trade,
Or speak the deep contempt we feel
For mimic warriors on parade,

But these old men, whose heads are bowed,
Are worthy still of our applause;
Their valor still may make us proud,
Though Time has cleared away their cause.

Peace reigns, and shall through all the years,
Yet, mean at heart, his blood is cold
Who fails to thrill when he hears
The story of their youth retold.