THE YOUNGEST SON.

Otago Witness, Issue 2456, 10 April 1901, Page 57

THE YOUNGEST SON.

Ere yet the morning star had dawned Of Freedom's nobler day; When Empires, striving for the van, Shall feel the G-odwaxd sway That guides all kingly destinies Unto this rolling sphere (Which ever to tho sun's gieat heart In trembling draweth near}, There came a dieadful battle cry; Each nation was affield With hatred for my motherland Emblazoned on its shield. My brothers left their island home, i3re yet the fields were brown With bajrvest; and their sisters came From gully, mount, and town, To bid them tearful, glad farewell-; For they had hcari.«ad felt That love could name'iio fonder tryst Than, out upon the veldt ; That well-loved lips could speak no words More pleasing to the ear Than, answering awift at duty's call, A Eoldier'a ready, "Hera!" No Empire ever fell for tiuth! So armies fought and died Upoq. that field of 'vengeful strife Till peace was satisfied. Nor was it long ; though waiting seemed Eternity to those Who gave their all, that she might gam The prestige of her foes. And when the roll was called at night, Behold the sword and plum© Of those who fought for ages past, To give her breathing room. From lands and chme3 unknown of old The voice of answering came, As Freedom lifted up her voice To call the roll of fame. And 'mid the boldest of the host That answered there was one Who stood bolt upright at salute — The Empire's youngest con. — J. M. Dunedin, April, 1901.