Classic Poem

The empire of Napoleon passed away
E'en as the smoke and noise of battle spent
On empty air. What the great event
Of all his marches, glorious mêlee,
His pomp and pride of conquest, brave array
Of flouting banners over Europe sent
To scare the nations? Lo, his monument,
Lost Waterloo! destruction in a day!
Beware, ye powers despotic who presume
To awe mankind by force, who put your trust
In the strong squadron and the trumpet's blast!
The reign of violence to its own doom
Rushes amain; for history is just,
And holy Liberty shall win at last.