Dirge OF Nelson

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Toll Nelson's knell! a soul more brave
  Ne'er triumphed on the green-sea wave!
  Sad o'er the hero's honoured grave,
  Toll Nelson's knell!

  The ball of Death unerring flew;
  His cheek has lost its ardent hue;
  He sinks, amid his gallant crew!
  Toll Nelson's knell!

  Yet lift, brave chief, thy dying eyes;
  Hark! loud huzzas around thee rise;
  Aloft the flag of conquest flies!
  The day is won!

  The day is won--peace to the brave!
  But whilst the joyous streamers wave,
  We'll think upon the victor's grave!
  Peace to the brave!

© William Lisle Bowles