  Turn backward the close written pages, Close written with deeds breathing praise, A secret attracting the sages, The fruitful reward of our gaze. Yes, turn back the close written pages, in gratitude seeking the clue; Be thankful to find it and wonder to such a fair record review. Her history daily unfolding, Through life of the daughter, the son, From models the moments are molding The fame of our city is won. Her rapid development shows us, the Merrimack’s run to the sea Has not been more true to its mission than she to her promise will be. How patiently Labor has striven, Bespeaking the boon of success; The loom and the spindle once given Have proven as guerdons to bless. The fields boldly trodden by red men, in league with each meadow and hill, Where lingered the good Wannalancit, now answer to Industry’s will. While yet a mere village came duly Determined and far seeing men, So skillfully wrought they, so truly, The present was plain to them, then. They planned with a clear sighted vision, their eyes on futurity bent, Ambitious to build to their utmost, that none might have cause to lament. The hand-maiden Knowledge beside them Led Genius, twin-brother of Art; A blessing could not be denied them, Each steadfastly doing his part. The summons of Lincoln stood honored as soon as the summons was heard, And later when Cuba was calling how many went forth at the word. Adversity’s forces defying The County, the Country, the State On Lowell are wise in relying Till tempests of trouble abate. Rejoice in the marvellous brightness illuming the glorious past, Prosperity’s presence will grandly the scope of the future forecast. |
|
