James and Mary Ford, eds. Every Day in the Year. 1902.
November 7The Gospel of Peace
By James Jeffrey Roche (18471908)
A
’Tis but another blot
On Freedom’s fustian flag, and gold
Will gild the unclean spot.
As Christians over-meek,
And wipe away the bloody stain,
And turn the other cheek.
Beside imperilled gold?
Is honor more than merchandise?
And cannot pride be sold?
Americans may die;
Our flag may droop in foul disgrace,
But “Peace!” be still our cry.
To nature, to resign
The counterfeit which Freedom wears
Upon her banner fine.
But keep the Stripes of gore
And craven White, to tell the wrong
A prudent nation bore.