5
And surprising course of action,
Based on motives new and rare
(Being governed by a faction,
As they generally were).
Based on motives new and rare
(Being governed by a faction,
As they generally were).
In a little time the nation
Had a chance of saying whether
It and its administration
Seemed inclined to pull together:
And it spoke its mind with vigour:—
"Such disgraceful conduct must
Everlastingly disfigure
Future annals, and disgust
Evermore the candid student:
You have been unwise, imprudent,
Pusillanimous, unjust,
And neglectful of the glory
Appertaining to our name
Till this melancholy story
Put a period to our fame."
Had a chance of saying whether
It and its administration
Seemed inclined to pull together:
And it spoke its mind with vigour:—
"Such disgraceful conduct must
Everlastingly disfigure
Future annals, and disgust
Evermore the candid student:
You have been unwise, imprudent,
Pusillanimous, unjust,
And neglectful of the glory
Appertaining to our name
Till this melancholy story
Put a period to our fame."
So this faction, disappointed,
Lost the national good graces,
And their rivals were anointed,
And were set in the high places.
Lost the national good graces,
And their rivals were anointed,
And were set in the high places.
Pretty soon arose conditions
Most embarrassing and hard,
And the party politicians
Had to be upon their guard.
Most embarrassing and hard,
And the party politicians
Had to be upon their guard.
