Contents -BIBLIOGRAPHIC RECORD

William McCarty, comp. The American National Song Book. 1842.

The Death of the Brave

HOW glorious the death for our country to die,

When vanquish’d, when fallen are her foes;

On victory’s soft bosom the hero shall lie,

And sink in her arms to repose!

Though low in the dust his proud spirit expires,

The dust by his bleeding form press’d;

’Tis glory his soul’s last emotion that fires,

And beats the last throb of his breast.

Immortal shall bloom each bright wreath of his fame,

’Tis valour’s illustrious meed;

Lisping infants shall sigh as they murmur his name,

And learn for their country to bleed.

With tears shall fond beauty his ashes bedew,

And breathe a soft sigh o’er his breast;

Shall seek the first roses his grave to bestrew,

And guard the lone spot of his rest.

Hence, cowards! who wake not to Freedom’s loud call!

Hence! seek an inglorious grave!

Those only who dare for their country to fall—

Those only shall sleep with the brave!