22.05.2007, 21:23
Token Lights. A Contrast
Of old, when Greek and Trojan took the field,
Before a lance was thrown or goat-horn bended,
The god, who on some favourite chief attended
Lit up a sudden flame from helm and shield;
We need no palpable approach of fire,
No visual intimation to be made,
Nor do we with our natural eyes require
To test our Guardian-God's protecting aid;
>From holier heavens our token-lights descend
Upon our Christian weapons, zeal and love,
To embolden and support us to the end
Of that great war through which we daily move,
To raise our drooping hearts and give us sight
Of our great Master's presence in the fight.
Of old, when Greek and Trojan took the field,
Before a lance was thrown or goat-horn bended,
The god, who on some favourite chief attended
Lit up a sudden flame from helm and shield;
We need no palpable approach of fire,
No visual intimation to be made,
Nor do we with our natural eyes require
To test our Guardian-God's protecting aid;
>From holier heavens our token-lights descend
Upon our Christian weapons, zeal and love,
To embolden and support us to the end
Of that great war through which we daily move,
To raise our drooping hearts and give us sight
Of our great Master's presence in the fight.