Greensborough Patriot

February 5, 1863

Page 4

For the Patriot

THE SOLDIER’S DREAM

Far away from dear friends and home,

The soldier’s blanket spread—

Upon the damp and frozen ground

He makes his weary bed:

But, oh, how sweetly he slumbers

While he dreams of the past—

The loved season of life’s springtime

Which was too bright to last.

He dreamt he was a boy again,

And with his friends had met—

Among them was a dark eyed lass,

With hair as black as jet:

Her heart was light, and happiness

Shone on her face, so fair,

That those who with her oftimes met

Could find no sadness there!

He told her that his youthful breast

Had long been hers alone.

And that he wished to live for her,

And claim her as his own.

He softly held her tender hand—

Praised her beauteous charms—

And, as she blushing hung her head,

He clasped her in his arms.

And he awoke, and found, alas!

‘Twas but an idle dream.

Yet silent tears his eyes now shed—

It did so real seem;

Long years have passed since last they met,

And age has settled now

Upon each light and joyous heart,

And caused the sedate brow.

Though age has come and changes sad,

Have been this soldier’s lot;

And still that lass, with joyous laugh,

Has never been forgot;

And while the bleak winds of winter

Drive the cold rain and snow

Into the soldier’s frail cloth tent,

His heart doth homeward go,

In prayers for those who love him most;

And her whose eyes so bright

Comes in happy dreams to cheer him

Through the long and dreary night.

[Transcribed by Sharon Strout]