The rolling drum, the thrilling trumpet blare,
And silken banners float upon the air
Like bright ethereal drapery trailing there.
The noblest sons of Earth, of every clime,
Welcome you to their galaxy sublime;
And flowers, by maidens fairer still than they,
Are offered to your sacred shades to-day;
Roses and dittany—and lilies fair,
Mingle their breath upon the vernal air;
But sweeter than the fleeting gifts we bring