We wished him back; we could not know
The self-same hour we missed him here
He led the line that broke the foe1.
Blood-red behind our guarded posts
Sank as of old and dying day;
The battle ceased; the mingled2 hosts
Weary and cheery went their way:
To-morrow well may bring, we said,
As fair a fight, as clear a sun.
Dear Lad, before the world was sped,
For evermore thy goal was won.