Where the free man fights for freedom, And the strong man leads the strong. On the mailèd Norman riders Charged, in clattering multitude; But the Scots with steady frontage Like a bristling forest stood. Valiant Keith, the doughty marshal, Heavenward rose the Scottish slogan, Spreading show of sheets for banners, Which the fear-struck, far beholding, Galloped from the dwindling host. Forth and Bannock drank the red blood Of ten times ten thousand slain ; Who escaped, like chaff were drifted Where the west wind sweeps the plain. Edward's Edward, shorn of kingship, Fled the land and found the sea; From Dunbar a light skiff brought him Where his breathing might be free; Even as Xerxes, cowed and crestless, Fought and won is Freedom's battle; Scotland's Muse no more shall mourn; England no more toss her haughty Crest o'er glorious Bannockburn. 127 LUTHER. I WILL sing of Saxon LUTHER, With brave word of truth forth-thundered, Not for sway of sceptred Pontiffs, High-poised domes and painted porches, Not the great and not the mighty, Answered to His holy call. |