Classic Poem

Hail TO THE P EN ! the day is past,
When man is governed by the sword;
There is a principle abroad
Greater than bayonet or the cannon's blast.

Hail TO THE P EN ! the skillful Scribe
Wields it, a scepter, o'er the world;
From thrones of darkness it has hurled
The despot, spite of threatening and bribe.

Hail TO THE P EN ! perennial youth
And power be with the hand that wields,
Drawn from a Fount, divine that yields
Impartial Justice and unbiased Truth.

Hail TO THE P EN ! and hail to you,
Illustrious Friend, whose pen has taught
How light and truth may be inwrought,
And History writ that to all time is true.