The day declined, night’s dusky mantle fell

The day declined, night’s dusky mantle fell, And evening’s hush lay lightly o’er the vale; Still watched Irene like hermit in his cell. The bright moon rose, and twilight ’gan to fail As the soft beams fell gently o’er the dale; And still she watched with fixed, inquiring view Upon the soldier’s face upturned and pale,— Alike his name, his lot, his fate, none knew, Save by the badge he wore,—the Northern coat of blue.