  Once along the Roman road with measured, rhythmic stride Marched the Roman legionaries in their valiant pride. Men of petty towns and tribes, under Caesar’s hand, Welded into Empire then their people and their land. Now along that ancient road the silent motors run, Driven by every ancient race that lives beneath the sun. Swarming from their barren plains, wild barbarian hordes Wasted all the fruitful soil—then the Roman swords Leagued with Gallic pike and sling, held the red frontier, Saved the cradle of our folk, all that we hold dear. Now above the towers that rise where Rome’s great eagles flew, Circle dauntless aeroplanes to guard their folk anew. Gods who loved the sons of Mars found in field and wood Altars built with reverent care—saw the work was good. Simple, brave and generous, quick to speech and mirth; Loving all the pleasant ways of the kindly earth; [pg 262]Thus they built the stately walls that still unfallen stand. Guarding for their ancient faith the dear, unchanging land! Winds and waves and leaping flames all have served our race. Flint and bronze and steel had each their little day of grace. But the lightning fleets to-day along our singing wires, And the harnessed floods to-day are fuel for our fires. Armored through the clouds we glide on swift electric wings. Through the trenches of the hills a joyous giant sings. Light and Flame and Power and Steel are welded into one To serve the task set long ago,—when roads were first begun! THE END |
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