Classic Poem

Far through the ages peered the poet's eye,
The future of America to learn:
Then with the poet's gift of prophecy,
He showed the glory that he could discern, —
That where our striped and starry symbol shone,
True peace and freedom evermore were known.

We thank thee, Rogers! we who bear to-day
The arms our nation's honor to defend;
Our country's natal star fades not away,
But with the world's day dawn for aye to blend;
And when Eternity's glad sun shall rise,
Still shall our banner gleam along the skies.

Onward! still on, O hosts of freedom, press!
The bending heavens await the final shock,
Heed not the notes of terror and distress:
Our country rests upon Salvation's rock.
Your leader owns Immanuel for his guide,
And victory is to Christian trust allied.

Assembled here, all nations now are blest:
They lend their strength our threatened land to save;
A few more strokes, then shall the patriot rest,
And then " shall drop the fetters from the slave; "
While angels sing anew their Bethlehem strain,
And men, rejoicing, join the glad refrain.