At Napoleon’s Tomb

The destiny of the world
Is a mystery unknown;
It is the force of character
That unlocks its heart.

It was the force that powered
Alexander’s mighty sword—
The sword that shattered all
That came in its way.

It was the force that launched
Tamburlaine’s conquering hordes—
The hordes that swept through
Rivers and hills and dales.

The call to prayer by men of God
In the battle front,
Through the power of character
Becomes the voice of God.

But the body’s valour
And the power of will,
After a moment’s pause,
Are swallowed up by the grave.

‘The vale of silence is
The final goal of our journey;
Raise a tumult, when alive,
Under the starlit dome.’.