William McKinley

TRUE to each trust and best when trusted most,—
For Country first, though facing peace or war,—
Making, in peace, its greatness greater still,
While yet in war his young but manly breast
     On many a blood-soaked, death-strewn battle-field
Was bared to shield a Nation’s heart from harm.
     This man of God, born fit to lead the way
And lift mankind to nobler, loftier heights,
     Alas! by Anarch’s poisoned fang lies slain!
And when he fell, lo, in remotest lands
     Were mingled tears and solemn, tolling bells
Proclaiming anguish equal to our own.
     That blameless life,—that apt, sagacious tongue,
Though hushed on earth forevermore, yet speak
     As with an angel’s trumpet and declare
The better life is lingering with us still.

September, 1901.