In Memory Of My Friend Joyce Kilmer, Poet And Soldier

Written Armistice Day, November eleventh, 1918

I hear a thousand chimes, I hear ten thousand chimes, I hear a million chimes In Heaven. I see a thousand bells, I see ten thousand bells, I see a million bells In Heaven.

Listen, friends and companions. Through the deep heart, Sweetly they toll.

I hear the chimes Of tomorrow ring, The azure bells Of eternal love.... I see the chimes Of tomorrow swing: On unseen ropes They gleam above.

Rejoice, friends and companions. Through the deep heart Sweetly they toll.

They shake the sky They blaze and sing. They fill the air Like larks a-wing, Like storm-clouds Turned to blue-bell flowers. Like Spring gone mad, Like stars in showers.

Join the song, Friends and companions. Through the deep heart Sweetly they toll.

And some are near, And touch my hand, Small whispering blooms From Beulah Land. Giants afar Still touch the sky, Still give their giant Battle-cry.

Join hands, friends and companions. Through the deep heart Sweetly they toll.

And every bell Is voice and breath Of a spirit Who has conquered death, In this great war Has given all, Like Kilmer Heard the hero-call.

Join hands, Poets, Friends, Companions. Through the deep heart Sweetly they toll!