Compromise

It is well to fight and win—
If that may be;
It is well to fight and die therein—
For such go free;

It is ill to fight and find no grave
But a prison-cell;
To keep alive, yet live a slave—
Praise those who fell!

But worst of all are those who stand
With arms laid by,
Bannerless, helpless, no command,
No battle-cry.

They live to save unvalued breath,
With lowered eyes;
In place of victory, or death,—
A compromise!