THE NEW NORTH-WEST PASSAGE.
A Colloquy on the Canadian Shore.
Canada. "Westward the course of empire takes its way."
Britannia. The Bishop's famous line, dear, bears to-day Modified meaning; westward runs indeed The route of empire,—ours!
Canada.If I succeed In drawing hither Trade's unfaltering feet And yours, my triumph then will be complete.
Britannia. Across your continent from sea to sea All is our own, my child, and all is free. No jealous rivals spy around our path With watchfulness not far remote from wrath. The sea-ways are my own, free from of old To keels adventurous and bosoms bold. Now, from my western cliffs that front the deep To where the warm Pacific waters sweep Around Cathay and old Zipangu's shore, My course is clear. What can I wish for more? To your young enterprise the praise is due.
Canada. The praise, and profit, I would share with you. Canadian energy has felt the spur Of British capital; the flush and stir Of British patriot blood is in our heart; Still I am glad you think I've done my part.
Britannia. Bravely! Yon Arctic wastes no more need slay My gallant sons. Had Franklin seen this day He had not slept his last long lonely sleep Where the chill ice-pack lades the frozen deep. "It can be done; England should do it!" Yes, That is the thought which urges to success Our struggling sore-tried heroes. Waghorn knew Such inspiration. Many a palsied crew Painfully creeping through the Arctic night Have felt it fill their souls like fire and light. Well, it is done, by men of English strain, Though in such shape as they who strove in vain With Boreal cold and darkness never dreamed When o'er the Pole the pale aurora gleamed Perpetual challenge.
Canada.Here's your Empire route! A right of way whose value to compute Will tax the prophets.