'... we cannot consecrate ... '

The cavalry master meanwhile came,
belated, to shoot the wounded horses.
These we cannot bury, for they are huge
dead, and stiff as spiders. The greater trouble
is with the men hired to care for decent
all remains. They rebel at limbs and hands
and with the horses have burned a barrowful
or two. Did not rebuke them.
It is hot. The task is great
and must go quickly.