THE SONG OF STRENGTH

We have washed our hands of the blood, we have turned at length

From the strait blind alleys of death to the way of peace;

Gladly we labour, singing the song of our strength,

The strength of man long-fettered that finds release:

The splendid body of man; O hand and eye

Working in trained accord! O flying feet!

The play of muscle in leg and shoulder and thigh,

Strong to endure or to strive, sublime, complete: