The Time of St. George

Poemata XLI

Master of war, an object of fear
To enemies at the end of his spear
Champion of battles; leader of men
Roman among romans, undefied
Tribune and Count, his lord to defend
For such many men have vied 
  "Yet for this, St. George died;"

No man of peace, but courage great
Was needed for his time and state
Making peace with honors lost
Therefore had the emperor lied?
Could he nowise count the cost?
To this valor was applied
  "Yes for this, St. George died;"

The word of power 'gainst him stood
And 'gainst power what man could
But stand? And so decline to act
Refusal then his doom supplied
What terrors did this stand attract--?
"Such time has come again," I cried--
  "We go with him, St. George who died."