XLII.
But not in England. And when Bonaparte
Would lay the British nation at his feet,
Her legions tore his mighty hosts apart,
And snatched the Conqueror from his lofty seat.
Then France's glory faded fast away,
Till not a nation owned her sovereign sway.
XLIII.
And thus have mighty nations ever perished,
Or lost the greater portion of their might,
When, as their sole upholder, they have cherished
The reeking sword, in disregard of right.
Then, England, take thou warning by their fate,
And keep thy Christian faith inviolate.
XLIV.
America's Republic stands alone.
But once for bloody glory did she raise
Her martial hand; and Canada was thrown
Into a state of war.[A] But all essays
To sever her allegiance from her King
Proved vain—her faith remained unfaltering.
XLV.
But once America unrighteously
Led forth her armies. Only to defend
Her people's honour and integrity
Has she, since then, allowed them to contend
In bitter warfare. And the peaceful arts
Engage more readily her people's hearts.