IN MEMORIAM: FRANCIS LEDWIDGE (Killed in action, July 31, 1917)

Soldier and singer of Erin, What may I fashion for thee? What garland of words or of flowers? Singer of sunlight and showers, The wind on the lea; Of clouds, and the houses of Erin, Wee cabins, white on the plain, And bright with the colours of even, Beauty of earth and of heaven Outspread beyond Slane! Slane, where the Easter of Patrick Flamed on the night of the Gael, Guard both the honor and story Of him who has died for the glory That crowns Innisfail. Soldier of right and of freedom, I offer thee song and not tears. With Brian, and Red Hugh O’Donnell, The chiefs of Tyrone and Tryconnell, Live on through the years!