FROM dawn to dark they stood That long midsummer day, While fierce and fast The battle blast Swept rank on rank away. From dawn to dark they fought, With legions torn and cleft; And still the wide Black battle tide Poured deadlier on "Our Left." They closed each ghastly gap; They dressed each shattered rank; They knew -- how well -- That freedom fell With that exhausted flank. "Oh, for a thousand men Like these that melt away!" And down they came, With steel and flame, Four thousand to the fray! Right through the blackest cloud Their lightning path they cleft; And triumph came With deathless fame To our unconquered "Left." Ye of your sons secure, Ye of your dead bereft -- Honor the brave Who died to save Your all upon "Our Left." |