The Night Rider Poem by Charlotte Ballard

Watch for the one that comes in the night
Unbidden and unknown-
Spring up on barren ground,
He rides a charging steed.

On his side lies a guiltless sword,
Of flashing gold and tarnished fire.
Its bite is deep; its bite is cold
Onward Durendal, on.

Springing on a prancing steed
Enticing victims to their fall.
His fighting arm, mighty still,
Swings high to conquer all.

His face is black
With deeds of old.
Ready to fight and ready to fall
Losing never, he wanders on.

Beware of the fire
That burns in his heart
Beware of the dangers
That it means to be called.

His home is in the Lions's den,
Fearlessly walking the path of death.
His glaring eyes plant the seeds of sorrow;
His is the night ride, the bringer of death.

Beware of a stranger that comes in the night.
Beware for it could be he.