DRESS PARADE.

Waikato Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2122, 13 February 1886, Page 1 (Supplement)

DRESS PARADE.

Shakp shifting lines of loyal light The bayoncta nVish hrm file* alonar O'er health whoso patriot fires burn bright That muster near a thousand strong, With hands untrained to maitial deeds But quick to learn the soldier's trade, Her champions when their country needs, Staunch freeman »Und at Dress Parado. A shortened service, shiunken line, On soil fraternal blood has drenched, Flushed with the victor's gory wine, With patriot ardour still unquenched;— Another dawn brings battle-ctorm ! WeU knows ea<:h heart, all undismayed, Ther'after many a manly form No more shall stand at Dress Parade. The final happy victory won, Fresh garlanded with loyal thanks Stand a bronzed handful in thu mm, — Remnant of thrice-replenished ranks. For songs of |«ace and homo they change Familiar battle music, played Where death well knew the gamut's range,— And lost, glad, peace-crowned Dress Prade. A last,—till granted thoir release From life's hard marches, sharp alarms, Aud won thot,e fields where perfect peace Folds the war-weary in her arms. Commrades! when 'ueath the soothing sod, — Or soon or late,—we all aro laid, On shining sands, triumphant trod, We'll have a glorious Dress Parade !

—John S. Aitcheson.