We who have lost the battle
To you who have fought and won:
Give ye good cheer and greeting!
Stoutly and bravely done!
Reach us a hand in passing,
Comrades--and own the name!
Yours is the thrill and the laurel:
Ours is the smart and shame.
Though we were nothing skillful,
Pity us not nor scorn!
Send us a hail as hearty--
"Stoutly and bravely borne!"
Others may scorn or pity;
You who are soldiers know.
Where was the joy of your battle
Save in the grip with the foe?
Did we not stand to the conflict?
Did we not fairly fall?
Is it your crowns ye care for?
Nay, to have fought is all.
Humbled and sore we watch you,
Cheerful and bruised and lamed.
Take the applause of the conquered--
Conquered and unashamed!
--Alice Van Vliet.
He is brave whose tongue is silent
Of the trophies of his word.
He is great whose quiet bearing
Marks his greatness well assured.
--Edwin Arnold.