William McCarty, comp. The American National Song Book. 1842.
On the Death of Gen. MontgomeryWritten in England, shortly after that lamented event
D
And statues to the hero’s memory raise!
High on the splendid lists of deathless fame
Erect the patriotic soldier’s name!
No Greek, no Roman name shall brighter there
Effulge; not Wolfe’s, to grateful England dear:
One place to both was fatal; and it gave
Alike to each, his glory and his grave.
Late time shall doubt which more deserved applause,
Which fell the braver, in the nobler cause.
The generous poet’s tears take, mighty shade!
Who weeps for thee, who weeps for virtue dead.
“Tears shed for me!” (methinks the hero spake,)
“For me they’re vain, but for my country’s sake!”
Pardon, great spirit; I my error see,
For who but wishes to have bled like thee?