Only a dying horse, pull off the gear

And slip the needless bit from frothing jaws.

Drag it aside there, leave the roadway clear,

The Battery thunders on with scarce a pause.

Prone by the shell-swept highway there it lies.

With quivering limbs as fast the life tide fails,

Dark films are closing o’er the faithful eyes,

That mutely plead for aid where none avails.

Onward the Battery rolls but one there speeds.

Heedless of comrade’s voice or bursting shell

Back to a wounded friend who lonely bleeds

Beside the stony highway where it fell.

Only a dying horse. He swiftly kneels.

Lifts the limp head and hears the shivering sigh,

Kisses his friend while down his cheek there steals

Sweet pity’s tear, "Goodbye, old man, Goodbye".

No honours wait him, medal, badge or star,

Though scarce could war a kindlier deed unfold.

He bears within his breast more previous far,

Beyond the gift of kings – a heart of gold.