The royal one

Courage is the crown she always wears. Lightly, almost invisibly, she bears Her queenly virtue -- fortitude the rule She lives by. A nature calm and cool Yet steadfast in affection year by year. The small, strong face could not permit a tear. The white waves lie serene upon her brow As though she once had taken on a vow That no one ever should behold her weak: She would forbear, would turn a passive cheek. Wiry and thin -- short, as world-measures go, She is a royal one, from crown to toe. I shall hear always in my inmost mind Her measured voice, immeasurably kind.