  Dimly was the magnitude of the vast result foreseen When England smote America on Lexington’s fair green. A just retaliation of the most unrighteous blow, The hand of the oppressor set the nation’s heart aglow. There was burning indignation, it swept the outraged land, The blood of murdered brothers grew too urgent to withstand. Responsive to the message men were quickened by the news, Confronting vital issues little need to stop and choose. The spirit of the people sympathized with those who bore The burden of the battle and the sword was sheathed no more. For how could those who suffered be content to bend the knee To tyranny? ’Twere “better far to die or to be free.” A noble deed is eloquent to noble deeds inspire, With broken ranks or columns massed we meet the foeman’s fire. ’Twere better far to perish than to linger here a slave, God favored independence in the leader, true, he gave. In that dread hour both sad and sweet which hallowed Bunker Hill, The bud of freedom flourished in an atmosphere of will, His being conquered sorrow in a sudden rush of hope. While valiantly contending for the long defended field, He felt Columbia’s future to her noble sons appealed. The effort was successful in the impulse many gained, To consecrate their powers to a cause so well maintained. As Prescott faltered step by step down yonder rugged slope, His being conquered sorrow in a sudden rush of hope. In place of troops and smoking spires a peaceful city stood; No foreign forces fettered her, she wrought for human good. The vessels raining shot and shell, gave way to ships of trade; No horde, with hostile purpose, dared the busy streets invade. A whisper of its presence would united wrath awake, Beware of idle sophistries, a nation’s life at stake. The nation’s life at stake, one word will rouse us from our rest, The patriot stands ready to submit to sternest test. What sacrifice is too severe when danger is at hand? The hero’s arm is strong to strike for home and native land. |
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