Oh, a gallant set were they, br As they charged on us that day, br A thousand riding like one! br Their trumpets crying, br And their white plumes flying, br And their sabres flashing in the sun. br br Oh a sorry lot were we, br As we stood beside the sea, br Each man for himself as he stood! br We were scattered and lonely- br A little force only br Of the good men fighting for the good. br br But I never loved more br On sea or on shore br The ringing of my own true blade.