In Memoriam W. E. Forster

(Obiit, April 5, 1886.)

Oh honest, stalwart man whose earnest face Mirrored the soul within; whose every deed Made answer to thy word; who gav'st no heed To foolish babble or the lust of place.

Who, grieved to see thy country's hapless case For lack of knowledge, help'st to aid her need, Bestowing all she wished; whose civic creed Was not of party, but took in the race.

A year has passed since thou wert laid to rest, Yet is thy memory fragrant; thy bequest A work whose scope and grandeur none can gauge.

England some day, her daughter-lands apart No longer, will recall with pride of heart Who showedst the way to gain her heritage.