Up with the flag!
Up, up, betimes, and proudly speak of it; A lordly thing to see on tower and crag, O'er which,—as eagles flit, Our memories hang superb! The foes we frown upon shall feel the curb Of our full sway; and they shall shamÉd be Who wrong, with sword or pen, The Code that keeps us free. For there's no sight, in summer or in spring, Like our great standard-pole, The cheers of Britons, bounden, heart and soul, To deeds of duty, dear to Englishmen; And he who serves it has a name to see On Victory's muster-roll; And he who loves it not, how vile is he! For 'tis the Land's delight,— Our ocean-wonder, blue and red and white; And white as foam that flashed at TrafalgÀr; The Land's delight! The badge and test of right, Girt with its glory like a guiding-star! |