Читать книгу Poems Teachers Ask For, Book Two - Various - Страница 43

Great were the hearts and strong the minds

Of those who framed in high debate

The immortal league of love that binds

Our fair, broad empire, State with State.

And deep the gladness of the hour

When, as the auspicious task was done,

In solemn trust the sword of power

Was given to Glory's Unspoiled Son.

That noble race is gone—the suns

Of fifty years have risen and set;—

But the bright links, those chosen ones,

So strongly forged, are brighter yet.

Wide—as our own free race increase—

Wide shall extend the elastic chain,

And bind in everlasting peace

State after State, a mighty train.