Classic Poem

A CHANT .

I ask not for his lineage,
I ask not for his name —
If manliness be in his heart,
He noble birth may claim.
I care not though of worldly wealth
But slender be his part,
If yes you answer, when I ask —
Hath he a true man's heart?

I ask not from what land he came,
Nor where his youth was nurs'd —
If pure the stream, it matters not
The spot from whence it burst.
The palace or the hovel,
Where first his life began,
I seek not of; but answer this —
Is he an honest man?

Nay, blush not now — what matters it
Where first he drew his breath?
A manger was the cradle-bed
Of Him of Nazareth!
Be nought, be any, every thing —
I care not what you be —
If yes you answer, when I ask —
Art thou pure, true, and free?