The cup of degradation and distress,
To lips of men with freedom’s flag unfurled—
Ye valiant mother-band who gladly gave,
The first fruits of your riven wombs to save,
The world from horrors darker than the grave,
Ye are the Brave, who in your Country’s need
Did sow the trenches with your precious seed—
The greatest gift of war, and valor’s noblest deed.
Carrie W. Clifford.