Classic Poem

And over every other chivalry
There rose the reverence of the Union men —
No sound of trumpet more, no roll of drum,
No cheer, no whispered word, no glorying note,
But an awed stillness rather, and men's breaths
Holding as at the passing of the dead.

And when the news of the Surrender reached
The Council Chamber of the White House, where
The President was with his Cabinet
In solemn conference, — at Lincoln's word
All fell upon their knees and offered up
In silence and in tears their heartfelt thanks
Unto the Heavenly Father for the event.

And Lee, who quickly felt Love's highest tides
As one by one they slipped from azures far
Down holy sweeps of sweetness and of light,
Perceived the same compulsion and became,
Knowing not time nor space, participant
Of tears and silence and a sense of grace.