A Huguenot

Mary Elizabeth Coleridge

Oh, a gallant set were they, As they charged on us that day, A thousand riding like one! Their trumpets crying, And their white plumes flying, And their sabres flashing in the sun.

Oh a sorry lot were we, As we stood beside the sea, Each man for himself as he stood! We were scattered and lonely- A little force only Of the good men fighting for the good.

But I never loved more On sea or on shore The ringing of my own true blade. Like lightening it quivered, And the hand helms shivered, As I sang, “None maketh me afraid!”