Hark to the rustle and the sweep,

Like sound of mighty wings unfurled,

And bearing down the sapphire steep

Heaven’s hosts to help the imperilled world!

Light in the North! Each bristling lance

Of steely sheen a promise bears;

And all the midnight where they glance

A rosy flush of morning wears!

Yon symbol of your Southern sky

Shall surely mean but grief and loss;