Page:The Fall of the Alamo.djvu/68

 And which our native country's mighty breath Since then has fanned into a conscious truth. Self-government—the capability To rule as well as to be ruled,—that is The only true and safe palladium That guarantees a stable permanence Of peace and freedom and prosperity. Self-government—that is the corner-stone On which alone a State can safely rest, From which it draws, as from a root of life. Strength to withstand misfortunes, storms and wars. Self-government—that is the magic wand Through which each one's peculiar gifts and powers Are instantly aroused and reared and turned Into a boon and benefit for all. Self-government—that is the fount of youth Through which each day a land is born anew, And shielded 'gainst the stagnant influence Of ruling classes and monopoly.— Hence when this new-awakened strife of passion Gives way before our reason's calmer sway, Let us select from every town and borough Such men as most deserve our confidence, To meet in council, to review our wants, And to propose their well-considered plans For our acceptance or rejection. So We shall avoid the cliffs of anarchy. And safely reach the haven of ordered state.