The wind bore on

The leaden tramp of thousands. Clarion notes

Rang sharply on the ear at intervals;

And the low, mingled din of mighty hosts

Returning from the battle, pour'd from far,

Like the deep murmur of a restless sea.

They came, as earthly conquerors always come,

With blood and splendor, revelry and woe.

The stately horse treads proudly—he hath trod

The brow of death, as well. The chariot-wheels