Classic Poem

" Albert, King of Belgium, hasten,
Open wide your country's gates.
Your fair land shall be our highway;
See, the mighty Prussian waits."
But the King and nation answered,
" Hark ye, Belgium's sons are free ,
And let God on high be witness,
Freemen, aye, we mean to be."

Refrain —

Hail to the Hero-Nation!
Hail to the Hero-King!
Albert, thy name we honour,
Belgium, thy praise we sing.

" Albert, King of Belgium, listen:
Precious gifts we will bestow,
Gifts of land and gifts of commerce,
Many costly favours show."
But the King and Nation answered,
" These are but the toys of earth;
Belgium's honour far excels them,
Her fair name is greater worth."
Hail, &c.

" Albert, King of Belgium, tremble!
Devastating blows will fall,
Prussian might will crush and cripple;
Block our path — you lose your all."
But the King and Nation answered,
" Take of lives and land your toll,
But when Prussian worst is ended,
Belgium still retains her soul ."
Hail. &c.