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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


MARECHAL NIEL by THOMAS BAILEY ALDRICH

Poem Explanation Poet Analysis

First Line: BEFORE THOSE COUNTERSCARPS OF LACE
Last Line: IT WERE A VENTURE WORTH YOUR DARING!
Subject(s): NIEL, ADOLPHE (1802-1869);

BEFORE those counterscarps of lace,
Which offer such undreamed resistance,
I have so fallen into disgrace,
O Marshal, that I crave assistance.

In vain I send my Jacqueminot
Each day to speak her fair and tender;
With scornful lip the lovely foe
Each day refuses to surrender.

I cry you help, O flower of knights,
Upon my bended knee I sue it;
If any man can scale those heights,
You, Marshal, you're the man can do it!

To plant above that heart of steel
(In front of which I bend despairing)
Your golden ensign -- Marshal Niel,
It were a venture worth your daring!



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