And ever stabbed me with their venomed darts,

Till soul and body writhed in misery,

I strayed—a hunted mortal—sport of Fate.

Then, when 'twas worst, behold thy pictured face!

Calm, peaceful, resolute; thy comrades true

Around thee, "helmed and tall;" ah! then I knew

How angels strengthen us in time of need,

And from thy face drew solace for my smart.


REVISED PROOFS