But hark! that heavy sound breaks in once more,—
As if the clouds its echo would repeat,—
And nearer, clearer, deadlier than before.
Arm! arm! it is, it is the cannon’s opening roar!
“Ah! then, and there was hurrying to and fro,
And gathering tears, and tremblings of distress,
And cheeks all pale, which, but an hour ago,
Blushed at the praise of their own loveliness.
And there were sudden partings, such as press
The life from out young hearts, and choking sighs,