As to her heart her honored Guest she takes,—
The Town we love,—the Empress of the Lakes!
Nor ours alone the President to greet;—
The North, the South, the East, the West, here meet,—
Each Commonwealth contributing its share
Of honor due, beneath one banner fair:—
Brothers forevermore, from sea to sea,—
One country dear, one hope, one destiny!
Nor even here shall the wide welcome end;—
Beyond our bounds its ardour shall extend;