AND his death came in December,
When our summer was aglow
Like a song that we remember,
Like a childs dream long ago,
And it brought Australia to him,
Her sweetest singer dead,
While in silence friends who knew him
Bowed their heads beside his bed.
Angel Death comes softly stealing
When the watchers eyes are dim,
And, when all has failed in healing
Wounded heart or helpless limb
With a whisper we may hear not
Till with Adsum we respond,
And a vision we shall fear not
Of the Peaceful Land beyond.
While Australians in their blindness
Fail to realize their loss,
Place the wreath of loving kindness
And raise the simple cross.
For he taught us to be brothers
And he taught us to be brave
And well banish pride and envy
With a hand-clasp by his grave.
