And the loud startling clash of spear and shield,
Sudden as earthquake's burst!—and, blent with these,
The last wild shriek of those whose doom is seal'd
In their full mirth!—all deepening on the breeze
And nearer yet the trumpet's blast is swelling,
Loud, shrill, and savage, drowning every cry!
And lo! the spoiler in the regal dwelling,
Death bursting on the halls of revelry!
Ere on their brows one fragile rose-leaf die,
The sword hath raged through joy's devoted train,
Ere one bright star be faded from the sky,
Red flames, like banners, wave from dome and fane,
Fall'n is the golden city! in the dust
Spoiled of her crown, dismantled of her state,
She that hath made the Strength of Towers her trust,
Weeps by her dead, supremely desolate!
She that beheld the nations at her gate,
Thronging in homage, shall be call'd no more
Lady of kingdoms!—Who shall mourn her fate?
Her guilt is full, her march of triumph o'er;—
