ANTE BELLUM.
41
ANTE BELLUM.
[MARCH, 1861.]
[ON HEARING THAT THE AMERICAN FLAG WAS TO BE
HOISTED OVER THE WASHINGTON MONUMENT.]
Ay, throw our country's banner out! In triumph let it wave,That timid hearts no more may doubt Its power to shield and save.The laggard pulse will quicker move Its starry folds to seeO'er yonder shaft, that speaks our love For him who made us free.
Like eyes with sad reproachful gaze, Its stars will look on thoseWho falter 'neath their steady rays, Or, faithless, turn to foes.Its stripes, like tongues of living flame, As North and South they dart,Shall hiss with words of scorn and shame For every traitor heart.
Then fling it to the eager wind, Let its broad splendors flyO'er those who strive again to bind The severed Union tie!And should their arms too weak to save Th' imperilled land be found,O, let no alien symbol wave Above this sacred ground!
