The Vigil

By London Punch

June 26, 1902, was the day set for the Coronation of Edward VII. of England, whose illness made necessary the postponement of the ceremony.

SILENT it stands, the shrine within whose walls

He was to give his kingly gage today;

And silent on our hearts the sorrow falls

Which only faith may stay.

Not for ourselves we mourn the moment’s loss,

Our pleasure darkened and our sun gone down;

All thoughts are turned to where he bears the cross

Who should have worn the crown.

So keep we vigil; so a Nation’s prayer

Humbly before the Eternal Heart we bring,

That of His grace and pity God may spare

And give us back our King!