Page:The ascent of man by Blind, Mathilde.djvu/55


 * Dark with lowering fate,
 * At the massive gate
 * Of its kings it may

Stand and knock with tragic hand one day.


 * For the living tomb gives up its dead,

Bastilles yawn, and chains are rent asunder,
 * Little children now and hoary head,

Man and maiden, meet in joy and wonder;
 * Throng on radiant throng.
 * Brave and blithe and strong,
 * Gay with pine and palm,
 * Fill fair France with freedom's thunder-psalm.


 * Free and equal—rid of king and priest—

The rapt nation bids each neighbour nation
 * To partake the sacramental feast

And communion of the Federation:
 * And electrified
 * Masses, far and wide,