This is truly a most gratifying meeting!
Nay, no need for you to blush, for I am not going to gush
There are plenty who'll indulge in fuss and flummery.
Heroes like to be admired, but you'll probably be tired
Of tall-talk ere this spring greenery shows summery.
"An illustrious pioneer," says the Belgian King. 'Tis clear
That at any rate you've earned that appellation.
True words tell, though tattlers twist 'em, and a "mighty fluvial system"
You have opened up no doubt to civilisation.
Spreading tracts of territory 'tis your undisputed glory