CEREMONY OF DEATH
... and the muffled drums beat mournful sounds
as slow marchers lock their knees
and the strain upon their legs and back
is masked so none can see
... and the tears of the so few mourners
create rainbows 'neath the trees
and soften the harsh mid morning light
as drum beats echo in the breeze
... and the cadence of the drums and feet
resound in the saddened hearts
of the mourning kith and kinfolk
who heard the drumbeat start
... and the bugler stands apart and plays
the Last Post - a call to sleep.
The strains of death's tune herald in
another hero's soul to keep
... and volleys, seven by three report
the passing of a hero's soul
to the fortress gates that none can storm
and where tales of peace are told
... and the mourners turn to one another
to seek solace for their pain;
and the reality of the one they loved
is reformed in honour's name