THE SOLDIER’S RETURN

Jump through the hedge, lass! Run down the lane! Here’s your soldier-laddie Come back again. Coming over the hill With the sunset at his back— Never be feared, lass, Though he look black; Coming through the meadow And leaping the watercourse— Never be feared, lass, Though his voice be hoarse; Belike he’s out of breath With walking from the town. He will speak better When the sun’s gone down.