Faltered, evaded, lied!
And yet those eyes, so quick to blaze
And sear, were no less quick to bless;
For strength and courage, in great hearts,
Mate still with tenderness.
Honest, for honesty’s own sake—
Loyal, for so his soul was made—
With one swift glance he chose his ground,
And held it unafraid.
Keen to acquire, to spend, to give,