And as the fitful dream of parting life

And as the fitful dream of parting life Thus came and went, there watched beside The dying soldier’s couch of pain and strife A gentle maid. In eager haste she tried, As oft would rise and ebb life’s surging tide, To check the pulse, to soothe the heart’s distress, To minister the potion that would hide Anguish and pain in deep forgetfulness;— Irene performed the while such task of tenderness.