it is well to fight and win—

if that may be;

it is well to fight and die therein—

for such go free;

it is ill to fight and find no grave

but a prison-cell;

to keep alive, yet live a slave—

praise those who fell!

22but worst of all are those who stand

with arms laid by,

bannerless, helpless, no command,

no battle-cry.

they live to save unvalued breath,

with lowered eyes;

in place of victory, or death,—

a compromise!