BISMARCK'S BIRTHDAY;
Or, a Tardy Tribute.
["In the presence of this band I now come to hand my gift to your Serene Highness. I could find no better present than a sword, the noblest weapon of the Germans, a symbol of that weapon which your Highness, with my blessed grandfather, helped to forge, to sharpen, and also to wield—a symbol of that great building-time during which the mortar was blood and iron, a remedy which never fails."—The German Emperor, in presenting a Sword of Honour to Prince Bismarck, in celebration of his eightieth birthday.]
["The notice which you have been pleased to take of my labours, had it been early, had been kind; but it has been delayed till I am indifferent, and cannot enjoy it; till I am solitary, and cannot impart it; till I am known, and do not want it."—Doctor Johnson to the Earl of Chesterfield.]
Not the Dropped Pilot now![*] The circling years
Bring their revenges, and to-day he stands,
Age-bowed but firm, amidst the ringing cheers
Of the young Monarch's mailed Germanic bands;
And with proud patience takes, from lesser hands,
The proffered Symbol-sword!
Grim face, with years and labours scarred and scored,