Classic Poem

Men take the name back to the lordly Vaux,
When sounded full and round, as in the time
And tongue of Chaucer. Now, to nobler chime
It rings in English history, as we know
Who read it there, by Martyr fire and flame;
And by the strange New Light that, later, came
And shone, pure Saint, and Friend of Peace, in thee;
But best, by Freedom's torch-light, in thy hand
Still held aloft, great Statesman, when the band
Of trembling patriots feared for liberty;
And thou, scion of Holland House, and heir
Of noble memories and an ancient line,
Dared say that Freedom stained with blood was fair,
And, desecrated, not the less divine!