FIRST TO FALL.

New Zealand Illustrated Magazine, Volume 1, Issue 12, 1 September 1900, Page 939

FIRST TO FALL.

Like some goddess out of ancient story Stands she, gazing o'er the western main, Eyes that brightened at her children's glory, Dim with tears for those she'll seek in vain. Vanguard were they of her arms, nor other Sons had sallied from her sea-girt home Forth to battle since that island-mother Rose like Aphrodite from the foam. Bravely have they borne the maiden banner, Children worthy of their sires of yore, Quit them manlike in the same old manner, Mindful ever of the trust they bore.

Lightly rest her Spartan woe upon hor ; Songs and story shall enshrine their fame Long as, watching o'er their bed of honour, Stands the hill that bears her island name Where Bloemfontein guards the first in glory, Pilgrim feet shall fare by holy vow ; Slingersfontein, Rendsburg, live in story — Names barbaric, ever hallowed now; Sacred hero-light, through years unending Rest on Arundel's ensanguined plain ; Deathless memory paint Zealandia bending Sadly o'er the foremost of her slain. Maoandeb.