Jerked along in the woodland ride,

While Mosby’s clan their revery hide.

The Hospital Steward—even he—

Who on the sleeper kept his glance,

Was changed; late bright-black beard and eye

Looked now hearse-black; his heavy heart,

Like his fagged mare, no more could dance;

His grape was now a raisin dry:

’Tis Mosby’s homily—Man must die.

The amber sunset flushed the camp