The Fallen Brave.

From Cypress and from laurel boughs Are twined, in sorrow and in pride, The leaves that deck the mouldering brows Of those who for their country died: In sorrow, that the sable pall Enfolds the valiant and the brave; In pride that those who nobly fall Win garlands that adorn the grave. The onset--the pursuit--the roar Of victory o'er the routed foe-- Will startle from their rest no more The fallen brave of Mexico. To God alone such spirits yield! He took them in their strength and bloom, When gathering, on the tented field, The garlands woven for the tomb. The shrouded flag--the drooping spear-- The muffled drum--the solemn bell-- The funeral train--the dirge--the bier-- The mourners' sad and last farewell-- Are fading tributes to the worth Of those whose deeds this homage claim; But Time, who mingles them with earth Keeps green the garlands of their fame.