Died in the Field: A Poem

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DIED IN THE FIELD.

(Suggested on hearing of the death of a young missionary in the field.)

"Died in the field !" The news comes flashing o'er The wires, and sends a thrill of sorrow home. Died in the field, the missionary field! Away from home, perchance from wife, and child, From aged mother waiting that her eyes May yet behold his fair and smiling face. Ere they shall clcse in that long sleep of death.

Died in the field; died on the battle field! Nor ever wavered from his duty's call; But, at the Master's bidding, girded on The armor of the Lord; and marched in faith To the unselfish service of his God. Firm in the battle's din, he fearless stood; His loins girt 'bout with saving gospel truth; His breastplate was of shining righteousness; The shield of faith was on his strong left arm; The helmet of salvation, on his head; In his right hand, the keen, two-edged sword That cleaves the joints, the marrow penetrates Thus armed, he stood: a stranger to defeat, 'Though 'mid the foe he fell; fighting, he died!

Died in the field, God's glorious battle field! What blessed place to die! A spirit much beloved — He must have been, a soldier brave, To have such height of honor granted him. Then comrades, lift his body gently, lift, Bear it home upon his burnished shield. He seems no more, but He who called him hence The Captain and the Lord of battling hosts Will crown him victor,. and adorn his brow With laurels of the everlasting life. Nephi Anderson.