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 THE SONG OF DIEGO VALDEZ

God of Fair Beginnings

Hath prospered here my hand—

The cargoes of my lading,

And the keels of my command.

For out of many ventures

That sailed with hope as high,

My own have made the better trade,

And Admiral am I!

To me my King's much honour,

To me my people's love—

To me the pride of Princes

And power all pride above;

To me the shouting cities,

To me the mob's refrain:—

"Who knows not noble Valdez,

Hath never heard of Spain."