The dying sunset's slanting rays br Incarnadine the soldier's deed, br His sturdy countenance betrays br The bull-dog breed. br br Not his to shun the stubborn fight, br The struggle against cruel odds. br Alone, unaided 'tis a sight br For men and gods. br br And now his back is bowed and bent, br Now stooping, now erect he stands, br And now the red life blood is sprent br From both his hands. br br He takes his enemies on trust br As one who sees and yet is blind, br For every mutilating thrust br Comes from behind. br br 'Tis done ! The dying sun has gone, br But triumph fills the soldier's breast. br He's sewn his back brace button on br While fully dressed.