Thine empire sweet, is o’er the grand old earth;

And well thy soft hand printeth on each feature

The brightness of thine own Immortal birth!

Thou touchest with rich hues and scents the blossom;

With emerald lines thou pencilest each leaf;

Pearlest with dew the lonely flower-bells bosom,

And flingest thy glory o’er the golden sheaf.

Joy to thy presence, all-pervading spirit!

Well may we worship at thy magic shrine;

There is no gift that mortals may inherit