Sonett-Forum

TO WILLIAM LADD,
THE DISTINGUISHED ADVOCATE OF PEACE.

The conquerors of the earth have had their day —
Their fame lies weltering in a bloody shroud ;
As Crime and Desolation haste away,
So fade their glory and their triumphs proud.

Great advocate ! a fairer wreath is thine,
Base Envy cannot soil, nor Time destroy ;
Thou art enlisted, in a cause divine,
Which yet shall fill all earth and heaven with joy.

To calm the passions of a hostile world ;
To make content and happiness increase ;
In every clime to see that flag unfurled,
Long since uplifted by the Prince of Peace ;

This is thy soul's desire, thy being's aim,
No barriers can impede, no opposition tame.