Page:A Selection of Original Songs, Scraps, Etc., by Ned Farmer (3rd ed.).djvu/65



in the distance the war-dogs are growling,
 * Dense clouds black as Erebus darken the air!

The vulture's wild scream to the wolf's dismal howling,
 * 'Mid cry of the Eagles bids Europe—!

Dear England! thy duty lies plainly before thee;
 * 'Tis due to thy children, as faithful as free—

'Tis due to the Queen, who so mildly reigns o'er thee,
 * To prepare for whatever the fates may decree.

Yet having prepared, may no sense of false honour
 * Induce thee to join in a cause not thine own;

But if any should dare to fix: insult upon her,
 * England's mode of returning an insult—is known!

No longer she heeds whatsoe'er it may cost her
 * (All feelings save honour at once set aside)—

What true son of her's, if that feeling were lost her,
 * Would look on her longer with love or with pride?

Collected and calm, as becomes a great nation,
 * Await the events that thou may'st not control;

In attitude peaceful maintain thy proud station.
 * While happily by thee the war-tide may roll;

But if, in defence of thy soil or thy freedom,
 * Rude war is forced on thee in spite of thy care.

Whoever thy foes, dearest England, ne'er heed 'em,
 * Thou hast but one duty, it is—!