And Truth maintained its undisputed sway.
Right conquered might; and of this they were proud,
As they beheld all nations drawing near,—
Men from all lands, a vast, unnumbered crowd,
While in their eyes full many a sparkling tear
Trembled a while, then from its cell did start,
Witness to the deep joys of an o'erflowing heart.
There came up those who'd crouched beneath the lash,
Had bowed beneath the chains they scarce could bear,
Till Freedom's lightning on their minds did flash,
And roused them as a lion in his lair
Is roused when foes invade it, then, with strength
Near superhuman, one bold effort made
To break their cruel bondage, till at length
Beneath their feet they saw their fetters laid.
'T was then they lifted their freed hands on high,
And peans loud and long resounded through the sky.
Up, up they came, and still the bannered host
Far in the distance met my wondering eye;
On hill and dale, on all New England's coast,
White banners waved beneath a cloudless sky.
The aged sire leaned on his oaken staff,
Manhood stood up in all its strength and pride,
And youth came dancing with a joyous laugh,