I saw the star of Bethlehem—
I heard the angels sing;
I saw the manger and the Christ—
The great and goodly king.
I saw the Cæsar in his Rome—
Who raised her towers on high;
She raised those towers aloof from earth,
She rose, and but to die.
Then passing in the flight of years
I saw Napoleon’s day;
I saw the time when he did rise,
And when he fell away.
I saw the hero, Washington,
Who for his country fought.
“I’ll free my country from her bonds,”
That was his only thought.
I’ve known more things than history—
And if I brought to light,
These things ’twould make the stoutest heart
To start aback with fright.
I’ve witnessed murders never seen
By any human eye;
I’ve seen the very best of men
By violence to die.
I’ve touched the knife that did the deed;
I’ve kissed the brow in vain;
No sign of life upon the face,
So dark and black with pain.
VIII.
I know of secrets never known
To any one but me.
I’ve seen when death had come at last
And set the captive free.
Then listen as I pass along
For aye and evermore,—
I sing my only song to you,
As I pass by your door.