Rudyard Kipling (1865–1936). Verse: 1885–1918. 1922.

“Together”

(ENGLAND AT WAR)

WHEN Horse and Rider each can trust the other everywhere,

It takes a fence and more than a fence to pound that happy pair;

For the one will do what the other demands, although he is beaten and blown,

And when it is done, they can live through a run that neither could face alone.

When Crew and Captain understand each other to the core,

It takes a gale and more than a gale to put their ship ashore;

For the one will do what the other commands, although they are chilled to the bone,

And both together can live through weather that neither could face alone.

When King and People understand each other past a doubt,

It takes a foe and more than a foe to knock that country out;

For the one will do what the other requires as soon as the need is shown,

And hand in hand they can make a stand which neither could make alone!

This wisdom had Elizabeth and all her subjects too,

For she was theirs and they were hers, as well the Spaniard knew;

For when his grim Armada came to conquer the Nation and Throne,

Why, back to back they met an attack that neither could face alone!

It is not wealth nor talk nor trade nor schools nor even the Vote,

Will save your land when the enemy’s hand is tightening round your throat.

But a King and a People who thoroughly trust each other in all that is done

Can sleep on their bed without any dread—for the world will leave ’em alone!