Lyrics of Life (1909)/"Honor, Not Honors"

by Florence Earle Coates

For other versions of this work, see "Honor, not Honors".

"HONOR, NOT HONORS"

Hast thou for honor laid ambition down?
Honor, itself, shall be thy sure reward,
A guard more certain than a flaming sword,—
A crown—above a crown.

Since it is honor stays thy lofty quest,
Welcome the high defeat thy spirit dares!
Aye, wear it proudly as a victor wears
The star upon his breast!

Notes

1. Motto of Sir Richard Burton.