V.
When the earth Sang for joy to hail his birth, Over the hill-tops, faint and far, Glimmered the light of Freedom’s star. Only a poor, pale torch it seemed— Dimly from out the clouds it gleamed— Oft to the watcher’s eye ’twas lost Like a flame by fierce winds rudely tossed. Scarce could Earth Catch one ray when she hailed his birth!
VI.
But erelong His young voice, like a clarion strong, Rang through the wilderness far and free, Prophet and herald of good to be! Then with a shout the stalwart men Answered proudly from mount and glen, Till in the brave, new, western world Freedom’s banners were wide unfurled! And ere long The Century’s voice, like a clarion strong,
VII.
Cried, “O Earth, Pæans sing for a Nation’s birth! Shout hosannas, ye golden stars, Peering through yonder cloudy bars! Burn, O Sun, with a clearer beam! Shine, O Moon, with a softer gleam! Join, ye winds, in the choral strain! Swell, rolling seas, the glad refrain, While the Earth Pæans sings for a Nation’s birth!”
VIII.
Ah! he saw— This young prophet, with solemn awe— How, after weary pain and sin, Strivings without and foes within, Fruitless prayings and long suspense, And toil that bore no recompense— After peril and blood and tears, Honor and Peace should crown the years! This he saw While his heart thrilled with solemn awe.
IX.
His clear eyes, Gazing forward in glad surprise, Saw how our land at last should be Truly the home of the brave and free! Saw from the old world’s crowded streets, Pestilent cities, and close retreats, Forms gaunt and pallid with famine sore Flee in hot haste to our happy shore, Their sad eyes Widening ever in new surprise.