Lyrics of Life (1909)/"Honor, Not Honors"

by Florence Earle Coates

For other versions of this work, see "Honor, not Honors".

"HONOR, NOT HONORS"

Hast thou for honor laid ambition down?
⁠⁠Honor, itself, shall be thy sure reward,
⁠⁠A guard more certain than a flaming sword,—
A crown—above a crown.

Since it is honor stays thy lofty quest,
⁠⁠Welcome the high defeat thy spirit dares!
⁠⁠Aye, wear it proudly as a victor wears
The star upon his breast!

Notes

1. Motto of Sir Richard Burton.