Battle of Wilson Greek and Death of Gen. Lyon. WAS on the first of August, The ditches were all filled With our country's bitter foes, He'd scoured the country far and wide, He'd robbed alike both friend and foe, On the morning of the ninth Lyon's mind with care was pressed; He studied well his chances, Full three to every one. With the stars and stripes afloating Beneath the azure blue, They marched in silence to the field, No muffled drum was beating, The faintest heart to cheer, But 'twas their country loudly called them To protect the west frontier. Lyon took the front, While Sigel took the rear; The time had come to try the brave, The loyal volunteer. 68 BATTLE OF WILSON CREEK. To fight for liberty, Our country and its laws, Or drink the dregs of treason, War's fearful blast they soon must share; The line was formed, the word was given, The deadly bullets filled the air, From Totten's Battery driven. Charge after charge that heroic band Like waves from off the solid strand, Where the battle raged the fiercest, At sight of him they would not fail. "His horse is shot!" cried out the aid;— The panting steed lay dying there, While groans and shrieks from wounded men In wild confusion filled the air. |