XX.

Soon were his comrades chos’n, and Nial first, His bosom-friend, companion oft in arms; Both of the Light Brigades, and both athirst For Glory! Nial led ’mid War’s alarms A file of Rifles. Danger still had charms For him transcendent; young, as woman fair, Slight-formed yet lion-brave--his vigour warms The veteran. Clothed his cheek with beauty rare, Yet none in all the host so actively would dare.