Is freedom but a name to please the ear,
Spilled from the two-edged tongue of orators,
Who, for their hire, plead peace or rant for wars,
Whom gullibility delights to hear?

Is it the " presto " term of those who rule,
Who say they give, but with their hands behind them,
Whose very acts are fingered but to blind them
Who look with awe and play the part of fool?

No, it is a title from a sturdy age;
It is for one to cherish and defend;
It is for those whose nature will not bend;
It is for us our dearest heritage.

Then let whoever worthy is possess it:
Not having, we profane if we profess it.