Rudyard Kipling (1865–1936). Verse: 1885–1918. 1922.
General Joubert
1900
(Died, South African War, March 27, 1900)
(Died, South African War, March 27, 1900)
W
He had no part whose hands were clear of gain;
But subtle, strong, and stubborn, gave his life
To a lost cause, and knew the gift was vain.
Forged in strong fires, by equal war made one;
Telling old battles over without hate—
Not least his name shall pass from sire to son.
In the doomed city when we close the score;
Yet o’er his grave—his grave that holds a man—
Our deep-tongued guns shall answer his once more!