Ode To The Forlorn Hope (P1)

In shadows deep by the adjoining wall; the shallow breaths, the night birds' call. Along the cratered tree-lined rim, lightly tread the silent men. Of this forlorn troop of eighty-five, some few shared hopes they would survive. To these men with their shattered dreams, faint hope remained; a spark that gleams. Fresh from their loyal comrades torn, Their only hope, so dim, forlorn, was the enemy to delay; Or breach the wall and win the day. The heat and dust was hot and close, this, these volunteers had chosen. Dawn's false hope appeared out on the edge, as the forlorn moved to the fort-side ledge. Crouched in the sands, near the southwest gate; these hapless soldiers awaited their fate. Then, with their target very near, they rose as one. Their enemy, not very much surprised, faced the sun. In a soundless charge the forlorn advanced; with the rising sun, their luck enhanced.