Page:Mexico by Joseph Wharton.djvu/22



Historic splendors have they of their own.

See the great Montezuma fill their throne.

Ruling, except small Tlaxcala, all the land

With the stern mastery of supreme command.

His foes subjected, and as vassals tied.

Empire and tribute his on every side,

From north to south, from coast to high plateau,

His will is law, his swift-foot runners go.

What though strange lords their race in bondage held

In after days! Were not those lords expelled?

Well may their past inspire a patriot glow

Of hope and faith for future Mexico.