Edmund Clarence Stedman, ed. (1833–1908). A Victorian Anthology, 1837–1895. 1895.

Walter Savage Landor 1775–1864

On the Death of M. D’Ossoli and His Wife Margaret Fuller

Landor-W

OVER his millions Death has lawful power,

But over thee, brave D’Ossoli! none, none.

After a longer struggle, in a fight

Worthy of Italy, to youth restor’d,

Thou, far from home, art sunk beneath the surge

Of the Atlantic; on its shore; in reach

Of help; in trust of refuge; sunk with all

Precious on earth to thee … a child, a wife!

Proud as thou wert of her, America

Is prouder, showing to her sons how high

Swells woman’s courage in a virtuous breast.

She would not leave behind her those she lov’d:

Such solitary safety might become

Others; not her; not her who stood beside

The pallet of the wounded, when the worst

Of France and Perfidy assail’d the walls

Of unsuspicious Rome. Rest, glorious soul,

Renown’d for strength of genius, Margaret!

Rest with the twain too dear! My words are few,

And shortly none will hear my failing voice,

But the same language with more full appeal

Shall hail thee. Many are the sons of song

Whom thou hast heard upon thy native plains

Worthy to sing of thee: the hour is come;

Take we our seats and let the dirge begin.