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1813–1865

EPITAPH OF CONSTANTINE KANARIS

William Edmondstoune Aytoun

I am Constantine Kanaris: I, who lie beneath this stone, Twice into the air in thunder Have the Turkish galleys blown.

In my bed I died — a Christian, Hoping straight with Christ to be; Yet one earthly wish is buried Deep within the grave with me —

That upon the open ocean When the third Armada came, They and I had died together, Whirled aloft on wings of flame.

Yet‘ tis something that they've laid me In a land without a stain: Keep it thus, my God and Saviour, Till I rise from earth again!

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EPITAPH OF CONSTANTINE KANARIS · William Edmondstoune Aytoun · Poetry Cove