Page:England and Spain.pdf/8

From ancient days, when dwelt her savage race,
Her painted natives, foremost in the chase,
Free from all cares for luxury or gain,
Lords of the wood and monarchs of the plain;
To these Augustan days, when social arts
Refine and meliorate her manly hearts;
From doubtful Arthur—hero of romance,
King of the circled board, the spear, the lance—
To those whose recent trophies grace her shield,
The gallant victors of Vimeira's field;
Still have her warriors borne th' unfading crown
And made the British flag the ensign of renown.

    Spirit of Alfred! patriot soul sublime!
Thou morning-star of error's darkest time!
Prince of the Lion-heart! whose arm in fight,
On Syria's plains repell'd Saladin's might!
Edward! for bright heroic deeds revered,
By Cressy's fame to Britain still endear'd!
Triumphant Henry! thou, whose valour proud,
The lofty plume of crested Gallia bow'd!
Look down, look down, exalted shades! and view
Your Albion still to freedom's banner true!
Behold the land, ennobled by your fame,
Supreme in glory, and of spotless name:
And, as the pyramid indignant rears
Its awful head, and mocks the waste of years;
See her secure in pride of virtue tower,
While prostrate nations kiss the rod of power!